Chapter 7 – Preparation for the Practical Assessment (1)
In the sprawling hundred-pyeong mansion located in Hannam-dong, Seoul, towering walls reminiscent of a fortress surrounded the estate, with CCTV cameras operating 24 hours a day in every direction. Inside a private security post, special security guards dressed in black suits stood on constant alert.
This was one of the many separate residences owned by the Yoo Gamyeong family. The only permanent residents were Yoo Seolhyun and a few of the household staff.
"Hmm."
Sipping her tea in the vast room, Yoo Seolhyun momentarily reflected on the events that had taken place at the academy.
A month had already passed since she entered Union Academy.
During that time, many things had happened, but what piqued Yoo Seolhyun's interest the most was the relationship between Lee Siwoon and Jin Soyeon.
'It appears to be the first time Siwoon has taken an interest in a girl.'
Yoo Seolhyun and Lee Siwoon had known each other for a long time. Circumstances through their families had brought them together, and they could be called childhood friends.
Hence, Yoo Seolhyun couldn't help but be taken aback. Siwoon, who usually just looked after girls, was now actively approaching one.
It was so different from when they first met. Siwoon hardly spoke unless necessary.
His interactions were limited to few words, his face always impassive.
'Could he really be interested?'
Yoo Seolhyun had thought it was just a fleeting interest, but perhaps not.
A fleeting sense of incredulity stirred within her.
From her standpoint, it was incomprehensible. Jin Soyeon was just a girl from an ordinary family. She wasn't born with a distinguished lineage or exceptional abilities. While her grades seemed decent, that was all there was to it. Siwoon had no apparent reason to take interest. Not in her family, abilities, or talents.
'Could it be… her appearance?'
The only plausible reason was her beauty.
Even Yoo Seolhyun, who occasionally graced the social circles, had rarely seen a woman with such stunning looks.
Her skin, a contrast to her smooth, ebony-like hair, evoked admiration even from Yoo Seolhyun, who had seen many beauties grow up. And how about that perfectly curved figure and long legs? How could they not be attractive even to another woman?
But somehow, Siwoon wouldn't have been interested just for her looks.
After all, despite having seen many beautiful women from a young age, he had always remained unfazed.
So, why did Siwoon take a liking to Jin Soyeon? And right from the first day of the academy?
"...."
When had Yoo Seolhyun been able to have a proper conversation with him?
It took months of his indifferent short answers before they could somewhat freely exchange words, didn't it?
But with Jin Soyeon, from day one… No, no, that's not right.
She heard they attended the same middle school.
Then it must be true that Siwoon had been interested since middle school. Whatever happened between them at the time was unclear.
But wait, didn't Jin Soyeon have a boyfriend during her middle school years?
Lee Jinhyuk, a childhood friend.
Does that mean Siwoon harbored an unrequited love for a girl who was already taken?
For someone like Siwoon? "...."
Yoo Seolhyun flopped onto the plush bed.
Staring up at the ceiling briefly, she mulled over her thoughts and then let out a scoff. The more she thought about it, the worse she felt.
"Really, Siwoon…" Pride.
Yes, her pride was wounded.
From Yoo Seolhyun's perspective, Siwoon's behavior was quite displeasing.
He had never shown any romantic interest in her, and now he was head over heels for a girl from a common family?
…Wasn't this like being overshadowed by Jin Soyeon? It was quite humiliating.
Yoo Seolhyun, who lacked nothing in abilities, talents, family or looks, had been by his side for a long time, yet he had never really paid attention to her.
But for Jin Soyeon, he had such interest?
She remembered teasing Siwoon in their youth to no effect. But why Jin Soyeon?
It wasn't that Yoo Seolhyun liked Siwoon in a romantic way, but the idea of being one-sidedly defeated by Jin Soyeon was a considerable insult.
Especially since she had a boyfriend until recently. Ah, wait a minute.
'That's right, Jin Soyeon… she broke up on the first day of the academy, right?'
There was a bit of a commotion that day. A beauty like Jin Soyeon was now single.
Good news for several boys who had been smitten at first sight.
But with the emergence of Siwoon, eagerly awaiting an opportunity, most of the boys lost their resolve.
'A breakup… a breakup, huh…'
It seemed Lee Jinhyuk and Jin Soyeon had decided to just be friends.
As childhood friends, they managed to avoid any awkwardness.
They still maintained a close relationship.
As if the breakup had been nothing but a ruse. But really?
Could a man and woman who had been lovers for years become just friends without any lingering feelings?
Lee Jinhyuk, after all, kept stealing glances at Jin Soyeon.
And Jin Soyeon seemed somewhat bothered by Lee Jinhyuk.
'...Ah.'
A cryptic smile formed on Yoo Seolhyun's lips.
'What to do? A rather amusing thought has just occurred to me.'
What would Jin Soyeon's reaction be if Yoo Seolhyun approached Lee Jinhyuk?
Would she cut ties, considering they had broken up, or would she watch Yoo Seolhyun with disdain and jealousy? Or might she show an entirely unexpected reaction?
Yoo Seolhyun's anticipation grew at how Jin Soyeon would respond.
Hopefully, it would be even more interesting than what Yoo Seolhyun had imagined.
If it wasn't fun, she'd have to make it fun. 'I shouldn't be doing this…'
But it was inevitable.
Yoo Seolhyun had always been this way.
***
It seemed like over a month since I'd entered Union. "That's all for today."
The various drills we had undergone were challenging.
The more I trained, the more acutely I felt that I had no innate talent for heroism.
"Today's training is concluded."
At Hong Daye's words, the students smiled at each other in groups of threes and fours.
"Everyone, starting next Wednesday, we'll have a team performance evaluation."
"A team… performance evaluation?"
"Yes. Form teams. Heroes don't operate alone. Though there are some who act solo, most work in teams. It's beneficial to have comrades who can compensate for each other's weaknesses, in combat, evasion, survival, and so forth."
The students listened attentively to Hong Daye.
"Form teams of three within the class and submit them by Monday's assembly."
"Do we get to choose our team members ourselves?"
"Yes."
Hong Daye glanced at our faces before speaking again.
"I'll tell you in advance that this performance evaluation will assess tactics, strategy, combat, responsiveness, teamwork, role fulfillment, and many other aspects."
"...."
"Although it might seem advantageous to team up with students who have high grades, it could backfire due to each individual's exceptional abilities. You might also lose the chance to showcase your own."
"...."
"When selecting team members, it would be wise to consider combinations, synergy, and ability to perform specific roles. The type of test will be announced on the day."
Her words hinted not to thoughtlessly pick teammates based on combat prowess alone.
It would be best to build a team with a variety of skills in mind.
Of course, a team with Lee Siwoon, Kang Daehan, and Yoo Seolhyun would be formidable.
"Any more questions?"
Silence. The students were already contemplating who they would team up with.
"If there are no further questions, we'll conclude here. Dismissed."
"Yes!"
The students dispersed at her command.
While moving back to the classroom, they engaged in endless conversations about potential teammates and
upcoming practices.
"Hey, be on my team."
"No thanks? I'm going to team up with Hanseong."
"Wow, I wish I could team up with Siwoon. That'd be an easy win."
"Me too, me too. If I'm chosen, I'm confident I'll do well."
Everyone was eagerly trying to form teams. "Soyeon, wanna team up with me?"
"Well, I don't know…"
"Oh, come on, what do you say?" "Hehe, let me think about it."
Jin Soyeon seemed quite in demand.
Given her current capabilities, she would fit well on any team.
Her well-balanced skills could contribute significantly, and her beauty had made her popular among the boys.
"I've got gravity-based abilities. I'm sure I'll be helpful."
"As you know, I'm electric-based. I can respond to almost any situation…"
There was a buzz in the air.
Those many students were earnestly promoting themselves to team up with Siwoon.
But Siwoon, unfazed by their courtship, walked straight toward someone.
And that someone was none other than Jin Soyeon. "Soyeon."
"Hm? Oh, it's Siwoon. You're lucky; everyone seems to want to team up with you. Just pick whoever you want, right?"
"Wanna be on my team?" "Huh?"
Jin Soyeon blinked in surprise. "With you?"
"Yeah."
"Wouldn't someone else be better than me? Honestly, I'm not really at the level to team up with you."
"We've worked together a few times in middle school. I think cooperation is important, especially for a team performance evaluation."
"Oh, is that so? Well, I'd be grateful if you chose me." In the game, Siwoon never initiated the offer.
It was because I was there as Jin Soyeon's boyfriend. But now I was just an old childhood friend.
Siwoon no longer had any reservations. 'I'm glad. Siwoon made the offer first.' I nodded to myself.
This performance evaluation was crucial.
I wanted to advance to the finals with a strong force, and especially with Jin Soyeon.
The upcoming evaluation marked the beginning of the main storyline.
There was something I absolutely had to do in the finals. 'Alright, then I should… Huh?'
"Hello? Lee Jinhyuk."
Yoo Seolhyun approached me unexpectedly and started a conversation.
I tilted my head inwardly, puzzled.
I hadn't expected her to talk to me first.
"We're in the same class, but we hardly ever talk, right?" "Yeah. But why?"
"Oh, there's something I wanted to ask."
Yoo Seolhyun smiled faintly, her lips moving slightly. "Do you already have a team?"
"Not really."
She already knew the answer, surely.
After a month of training, she would know that I couldn't possibly compete with the other kids.
"If you don't have a team, would you like to join me?"
Chapter 8 – Preparation for the Practical Assessment (2) "What?"
I furrowed my brows at Yoo Seolhyun's sudden proposition. In the game, she had never once approached me first.
"Why with me?"
Yoo Seolhyun was ranked 7th at admission.
There would be countless students who'd want to team up with her.
She had been personally taught by Yoo Gamyeong, known as the Ghost of Invention, so her combat skills were on par with the male protagonists.
From a young age, she had been trained with expensive spirit elixirs and techniques, making her physical abilities far superior to the average student.
Excluding Lee Siwoon and Kang Daehan, she was arguably the strongest asset here.
"You don't want to?"
"It's not that I don't want to…"
Yoo Seolhyun chuckled and I quickly shook my head.
"There are plenty of better candidates than me."
"Sure, if we consider combat ability alone, there are better choices."
She nodded sagely, her expression relaxed.
"But right now, we don't know what the practical assessment will entail, right?"
I knew, of course.
I had seen it all too many times in the game.
"Teacher Hong Daye said to consider various situations when selecting team members. It doesn't seem like a good idea to focus solely on combat ability."
Yoo Seolhyun gazed at me intently with a sly smile.
"Weren't you quite excellent in tactical simulation against giant monsters and as an operator during middle school?"
"It wasn't bad," I admitted.
I had studied theory and written exams to the point of madness because I knew how much I lacked in innate heroic talent. I wanted to pass the Union Academy entrance exam with Jin Soyeon and become a great hero… until I recalled the memories of my past life, that is.
"Since we don't know what kind of events the evaluation will include, I wanted to have someone tactically outstanding on the team. Oh, and don't worry. We already have enough fighters."
"Hmpf."
Yoo Seolhyun smirked and gently patted the shoulder of the girl standing next to her.
The girl with the long, stick-straight twin tails glared at me with a sullen look.
She seemed to be putting up with me just for Yoo Seolhyun's sake.
"You're Sunari, right?" Sunari.
Ranked 17th among the new students.
Despite her small stature, reminiscent of a middle schooler, she was a martial fighter with extraordinary strength.
As one of Yoo Seolhyun's trusted followers, she had been active alongside her since childhood. Admiring (?) the beautiful and haughty Yoo Seolhyun, she took on the role of swatting away the pests that flocked around her.
'Sunari, huh…'
From Sunari's perspective, I must not be very appealing.
She fits the 'I love my sister~' character type often seen in subculture genres.
"Hmph. You actually know my name?"
"We've been in the same class for about a month."
With this level of power, competing with the teams of Lee Siwoon or Kang Daehan was conceivable.
Yoo Seolhyun and Sunari had enough skill to not be completely overshadowed by the male protagonists.
"Honestly, your combat ability isn't the most reliable, but since Nari and I are close-range dealers and tankers, we needed a supporter or a long-range dealer. You're decent with a bow, right?"
"You said your name was Lee Jinhyuk? You should consider yourself lucky to be able to form a team this strong with your abilities."
I scratched my chin at Yoo Seolhyun and Sunari's words. Despite her various claims, I knew it was all just for show. There really wasn't a convincing reason for her choice.
There were plenty of other students more capable and tactically helpful than I was.
So Yoo Seolhyun's approach must have some ulterior motive.
'Is it because of Soyeon after all?'
Lee Siwoon must have felt a peculiar annoyance and displeasure towards Jin Soyeon and Yoo Seolhyun due to their different attitudes.
Given Yoo Seolhyun's character, she wouldn't just sit back and watch. Being overshadowed by an ordinary girl from a
common background would have hurt her pride in so many ways.
'She always did this in the game.'
If Jin Soyeon and Lee Siwoon's meetings reached a certain threshold, one of the events that would trigger was Yoo Seolhyun's indirect seduction of Jin Soyeon's boyfriend, causing trouble.
Yoo Seolhyun's character was designed to create conflict by seducing her rival's boyfriend or making him think Yoo Seolhyun had feelings for him, leading to their breakup.
Playing the villainess to perfection, she had a rather cruel and petty personality.
'I didn't expect Yoo Seolhyun to make a move so soon.'
My gaze casually shifted towards Jin Soyeon and Lee Siwoon. They were engaged in conversation amidst the crowd.
'Is Siwoon being more proactive than he was in the game?'
In the game, since Jin Soyeon and I were dating, Siwoon hesitated to act boldly.
He often hesitated, caught up in jealousy, until he could no longer hold back.
That's why Yoo Seolhyun's direct confrontation with Jin Soyeon came much later.
But things were different now. 'Well, it's not a bad thing.'
Because I had intended to be on the same team as Yoo Seolhyun all along.
I had plenty of stories prepared to convince her.
"Okay, if you're both fine with it."
"Good choice," she said, her eyes glinting with a subtle tease.
Ah, Yoo Seolhyun was already starting.
Most men would crumble under such beauty flirting with them, but knowing Yoo Seolhyun's character, it did little to impress me.
"Oh, but there's one condition." "Hm?"
Yoo Seolhyun expressed her curiosity with a straightforward question.
"A condition?" "Yeah."
"Ha, what a joke."
At that moment, Sunari scoffed and yelled as if she was looking at someone trying to take her bundle after being saved from a river.
"Hey, Lee Jinhyuk. Are you in any position to be making conditions…?"
"Nari."
"Huh?"
"Could you keep it down?" "Uh, oh, okay."
With just one word from Yoo Seolhyun, Sunari deflated like a puppy caught in the rain.
Her once animated eyes drooped lifelessly, and her playful twin tails drooped like limp tails.
"Tell me your condition, what is it?"
With a mix of interest and curiosity, Yoo Seolhyun looked at me as I slowly began to speak.
"Within the scope of this practical assessment, follow my orders. That's all."
"Huh?"
Her eyes quirked up in intrigue.
"Well… I don't particularly want to do that." From her perspective, it must be absurd.
Pitying me enough to include me, and now I want to play captain?
Anyone normal would think 'Does this guy not grasp the situation?'
But Yoo Seolhyun, you're not like that, are you?
"You must have thought this through and prepared something to persuade me, right?"
"If you follow my orders, I promise our team will finish first… or at least second in this evaluation."
Honestly, it was possible to not finish first if luck wasn't on our side.
But I was fairly confident.
After all, I'm a veteran of this game. I already know how to win.
"You've got some nerve," laughed Yoo Seolhyun.
The situation was so unpredictable that it was preposterous for me to make such claims.
I would have reacted the same way in her shoes.
"It's interesting. The other teams won't be pushovers. You certainly have ambition."
She glanced at Lee Siwoon and Kang Daehan.
Even she couldn't be sure of beating those two in competition.
"Well, okay. Let's assume I agree to your terms… but what if…"
She quirked up a sardonic grin. "…the outcome isn't favorable?" "…"
"What if the results are poor? This is an important practical assessment, and I was taking it quite seriously."
You're not taking this practical assessment very seriously, are you?
If you really thought it was important, you wouldn't have picked me as a teammate to begin with. Just trying to show off.
"Shall we make a bet, then?" "A bet."
All the preceding conversation was just buildup to this.
The keyword 'bet' was extremely important to Yoo Seolhyun.
"If you agree to follow my orders and we don't win, I'll become your lackey for the duration of our Academy life. How about that?"
"Huh?"
Yoo Seolhyun's eyebrows danced with interest at the mention of lackey duties.
Ah, she was interested in such things.
I'm glad I memorized her character profile. "Sounds fun. You're that confident?" "Moderately?"
"You're taking it too lightly, aren't you?" "What are you talking about?"
"If you can't keep your promise… I'll make sure you do, by force if necessary."
Her eyes flickered briefly.
Should we fail, she would not let it go easily.
Bets were something Yoo Seolhyun took very seriously.
From a young age, Yoo Seolhyun had won and lost many things through bets with Yoo Gamyeong.
The old man never held back, and she had to accept the outcome of every bet.
As a result, the act of betting had become a creed and a value system for Yoo Seolhyun.
"Are you still okay with that?" "Fine. Let's do that."
If she refused to accept the result of the bet, she might even use her family's influence. That's how seriously Yoo Seolhyun regarded betting.
"Oh, by the way, you're not planning to lose the bet on purpose just to make me lose, are you?"
"Hehe, you say the funniest things. Naturally, I prioritize my grades over bets."
No, it's your curiosity that takes precedence.
But knowing Yoo Seolhyun, she wouldn't lose on purpose. She was too proud for that.
"Jinhyuk, were you here…?"
Jin Soyeon approached, giggling playfully, and then stopped in her tracks.
Her gaze met Yoo Seolhyun's. The two of them locked eyes. "Hi, Seolhyun."
"Hi."
They had spoken somewhat over the past month, but still seemed slightly uncomfortable.
Not surprising, given their first meeting hadn't gone well.
"That's an interesting combination. What were you two talking about?"
"I'm here too."
"Ah, right, Nari. Yeah, I remember."
"What? You're not saying you didn't see me because I'm short, are you?"
"Haha, no way. Oh, our Nari~ So cute~."
"Stop it, okay? Hey! Don't pinch my cheek! Are you insane?!"
As Jin Soyeon reached out to pinch Sunari's cheek, Sunari quickly stepped back.
She seemed genuinely disgusted, so Jin Soyeon cleared her throat and looked at me.
"Anyway. Jinhyuk, did you find a team?" "A team?"
"If you haven't, do you want to join me?" Jin Soyeon stood tall, hands on her hips.
"Who else would take care of you if not me? Hehe. You should really be grateful to me."
"Aren't you on the same team as Siwoon?"
"Right, but you see, I was talking with Siwoon about who else to include, and he said you'd be okay."
"Oh, really?"
"Of course, it's different for a top student. Not the same as being with someone at the bottom, right?"
"…It sounds like you're just reluctantly including me because of her."
Why is she so clueless?
Is it because she's the heroine of a reverse harem? "Anyway, if you don't have a team, let's team up." "No, it's okay."
"Stop playing hard to get. There's no need to feel so pressured. Siwoon said it's fine if…"
"I have a team."
"…Huh?"
Jin Soyeon blinked in surprise as I cut her off. "Huh? You have a team already?"
"That's how it turned out."
"But with whom? Who's your teammate?" "It's me."
With a slight smile, Yoo Seolhyun answered. "I decided to team up with Jinhyuk this time."
Chapter 9 – Preparation for the Practical Assessment (3) "Huh? What?"
Jin Soyeon blinked in confusion, looking back and forth between Yoo Seolhyun and me. Her expression was one of complete bafflement. It made sense; there was no apparent reason for Yoo Seolhyun to team up with me.
"So… is this a joke?"
She trailed off and then turned her head towards me, her lips parting hesitantly, eyes seeking an explanation.
"A joke? Why would you think that?"
Yoo Seolhyun responded with a pleasant smile, which only caused Jin Soyeon's lips to pout, as if something didn't sit right with her.
"But your grades are so good." "And?"
Yoo Seolhyun smiled wryly, encouraging her to go on.
"Jinhyuk's practical scores aren't good, and his training results are so-so. Why bother with him? Wouldn't you be better off with someone else?"
"Ah, perhaps."
Yoo Seolhyun glanced at me briefly, her lips curling into a faint smile, a hint of amusement in her eyes.
"But haven't I heard that no one could match his theory work since middle school?"
"Jinhyuk does have strengths in theory… needlessly." Hey, Jin Soyeon.
You sure have a lot to say, don't you?
"Our team's strength is sufficient with Nari and me, so we just needed someone for the brains. We don't know what kind of test it will be."
"Oh, is that so?"
Jin Soyeon nodded in acknowledgment but still watched Yoo Seolhyun with a slightly uneasy gaze. Yoo Seolhyun simply maintained her polite smile.
"But why did you want to team up with Jinhyuk, Soyeon?" "Uh, well…"
Jin Soyeon glanced at me sidelong, her lips moving silently for a moment.
"I just wanted to look after him. Have you seen him train? Who else would take him in their team?"
"You're being unusually harsh today, aren't you?"
I let out an exasperated sigh, to which Jin Soyeon responded with a smug smile, seemingly ready to dredge up the past.
"Ah~? Who was it that needed a lift during the practical exam? If it weren't for me, weren't you about to fail?"
"And you used to whine for help with written exams all the time."
"I, when did I?"
"Last time, you were almost crying all day asking for help because failing the written exam might mean no allowance."
"Ah, ah! I can't hear you!"
Jin Soyeon covered her ears and stamped her feet. Childish, really.
"Hehe."
Yoo Seolhyun watched our back-and-forth with an enigmatic smile.
"You two seem to get along well. I heard you broke up." "Well, that's…"
Jin Soyeon's words trailed off as she glanced at me. "Who initiated the breakup?"
"Why are you curious about that?"
"No bad intent. If that upset you, I apologize. Sorry."
Jin Soyeon's eyebrows fluttered, seemingly irked by the subtle provocation. Yoo Seolhyun's character, always so disagreeable.
"Oh. Is it already this late? I should be going then."
Suddenly, Yoo Seolhyun glanced at her watch and, as if she
had said all she wanted to, she gave us both a quick look and bid farewell.
"See you later. Jinhyuk, Soyeon."
With those words, Yoo Seolhyun left, followed by Sunari who had been quietly listening the whole time.
Jin Soyeon silently watched their retreating figures, then quickly turned to me.
"You seem pretty close with her?"
"Close? We've just spoken a few times, that's all." "Really?"
She muttered with an unmistakably surly tone.
"You looked quite friendly for just a few talks. Is there something more with her?"
"There's nothing."
"And Yoo Seolhyun, isn't she acting strange? Doing it on purpose?"
"What do you mean?" "Well, you know…"
Pretending not to catch on, I saw Jin Soyeon's face twist with frustration, and she let out a heavy sigh.
"Forget it… It's nothing."
Muttering to herself, Jin Soyeon grumbled, "Some people are just clueless." Who's clueless, I thought.
"You two don't seem to mesh well if you're talking behind each other's backs."
"I'm not gossiping, okay?"
Jin Soyeon shot me a sharp look.
"Then could it be jealousy? Oh, the trials of being popular." "Ha, what are you talking about?"
Jin Soyeon chuckled dismissively and brushed her hair back irritably.
"Jealousy, what jealousy."
"If you say it isn't so, then let's not overreact." "You're the one talking nonsense."
As she responded with a scowl, I thought to myself that she might be a bit more bothered by Yoo Seolhyun than I had initially thought.
"By the way, how are things with Siwoon lately?" "How would they be?"
"I've heard rumors that you two have been getting along well."
"What?"
Jin Soyeon bit her lower lip in a moment of hesitation. "Where did you hear such nonsense? That can't be right." "Really?"
"You don't believe those rumors, do you?"
Peering at me with a guarded expression, Jin Soyeon received a noncommittal shrug in response.
"Doesn't matter to me."
"Good. Let's leave it at that then."
With a glance that carried a mix of unreadable emotions, Jin Soyeon quickly gave a nod.
It seemed that we had become quite a bit closer than during middle school, but there was still a long way to go.
Alright. If that's the case, maybe I should give them a little more space to interact?
***
Jin Soyeon's dream was to become a hero.
This dream had persisted since her childhood and had never changed or wavered until now.
The events of that day had planted the seed of her dream to become a hero deep within her heart.
That day was a pivotal moment in Jin Soyeon's life, something she would never forget for as long as she lived.
With that dream in her heart, she had passed the Union Academy entrance exam alongside her childhood friend, Lee Jinhyuk.
To be honest, she had been quite worried that Jinhyuk might not pass the entrance exam, but he managed to get in, making her concerns seem needless…
… although he was admitted on a supplementary notice. But the important thing was that he got in, right?
She was sincerely happy about it.
Happy that she could attend Union Academy with him.
Given that it was the most prestigious hero training institution in Korea, school life would undoubtedly be tough, but she was thrilled to be one step closer to her dream with Jinhyuk by her side.
It seemed like nothing but good times would follow.
But then… "Let's break up."
An out-of-the-blue declaration from Jinhyuk.
"We're going to graduate from the academy soon. Shouldn't we experience a real relationship at least once?"
Although momentarily taken aback by Jinhyuk's playful suggestion, she soon found herself agreeing with him.
Even if they stopped pretending to be lovers, their relationship wouldn't change. She was certain of it.
After all, they had been childhood friends for over a decade.
They had gone cherry blossom viewing together in elementary school, held hands tightly while watching fireworks on summer nights, and even got scolded together for secretly drinking makgeolli at home. They had stayed up all night chatting countless times.
The bond they had built up over the years wouldn't change just because they stopped pretending to be lovers.
They had been together since they were very young, and they would continue to be together in the future.
If you wanted to put it humorously, Jin Soyeon and Lee Jinhyuk were almost like a quasi-family.
So it would be alright. This relationship wouldn't change. That's what she believed.
But…
"Jinhyuk, let's go to the snack bar~ I'll buy you a pastry." "I'm a bit busy. Siwoon seems free; why don't you ask him?" When had it started?
"Let's go eat. They're serving steak today!"
"Ah, I'm not feeling well today. I'm fine, so you go with the others."
Jinhyuk began to decline her invites.
"Why don't we play a game after the academy ends?"
"There's a lot of homework today. Let's do it next time, next time."
Lately, he seemed to reject her more often than not. In middle school, he used to join her all the time.
Was there something bothering him?
But that didn't seem to be the case. His tone and behavior were the same as always. He responded well when approached, and he took her jokes in stride – it didn't seem like he was upset or felt slighted.
So what was the reason?
While she was pondering this, the homeroom teacher announced it was time to select the team members for the practical assessment.
Team members, team members… Jin Soyeon smirked to herself.
If not her, then who would look after that guy? Jinhyuk was weak in practical assessments. He would surely be grateful if she offered to be his teammate.
Teaming up with Jinhyuk wouldn't be bad for Jin Soyeon either. They meshed well together after having spent so much time as friends. While individual abilities were important for the team performance assessment, wasn't teamwork the most crucial element?
With that thought, she approached him to make the offer.
But…
"I'm on the same team as you."
Yoo Seolhyun answered with a bright smile, a strange response indeed.
She couldn't understand why Yoo Seolhyun would choose to team up with Jinhyuk, but if Yoo Seolhyun was part of the team, it was unlikely they would fail the practical assessment. So for Jinhyuk, it might not have been a bad situation.
But after that day, the two of them seemed to converse more frequently.
She understood that the practical assessment was next week and there would be a lot to discuss among teammates. Still, there was something about Yoo Seolhyun's attitude that irked her.
It was hard to pinpoint, but it left an unsettling feeling.
Was it the subtle flirting? Or the casual touches? And Jinhyuk, for his part, just seemed to laugh it off.
"…"
As she reflected on these thoughts, she suddenly remembered that a new café had opened nearby, celebrating with a grand opening sale.
She decided to take Jinhyuk there this Saturday to indulge in some sweet cakes. Stress calls for sweet treats after all. If he refused today, she wouldn't hold back.
"There's a new café near the terminal, you know? They're doing discounts lately. Let's go together this Saturday."
"Oh, this Saturday? I don't think I can make it." "What now? Again?"
"Sorry, sorry. I have plans. And besides that, I'll be busy this week with the practical assessment. There's a lot of material I need to look up."
"Yeah, right."
He had time to mingle with Yoo Seolhyun for whatever reason.
"Sorry, anyway. See you next Monday." "Wait."
Jinhyuk dashed off as soon as the class ended.
Jin Soyeon bit her lower lip in displeasure as she watched him leave. What urgent matter did he have to run off like that? Did he dislike talking to her?
"Whatever."
Jin Soyeon snorted and visited the café alone.
She planned to relieve some stress by treating herself to some sweets.
Upon entering the café…
But… "Huh?"
She noticed a familiar sight in the corner of the café. "…Why are they here?"
It was none other than Lee Jinhyuk and Yoo Seolhyun.
Chapter 10 – Preparation for the Practical Assessment (4) On a Monday afternoon at Union Academy.
"This practical assessment will be a 'Capture the Flag' event."
As soon as all the teams were decided, Hong Daye began to explain the type of test they would have in an easy-to-follow manner.
"Split into two teams, the objective is to snatch the flag planted in the center and take it back to your own territory. The team that does so first, wins."
The students sat attentively, their ears perked up listening to Hong Daye. It was their first practical assessment, so concentration was inevitable. Internal grades were, after all, truly important.
"Given that the teams are composed of trios, each member's cooperation and strategy will be crucial. In essence, the goal isn't to knock down opponents; you just need to capture the flag."
If it were a simple duel, the stronger team would invariably win, but Capture the Flag was different.
Even the weakest team could claim victory with a well- thought-out strategy that bypasses the other team and
captures the flag.
Of course, that wouldn't be easy.
"The assessment will be conducted in a tournament style, with teams numbered from 1 to 16, each playing four matches."
There were 48 students in our class.
With three to a team, that divided us into 16 teams.
Naturally, this meant a round of 16, quarters, semis, and finals.
Four rounds in total.
"As it resembles a duel, advancing to the finals and winning would obviously be favorable for your internal grades.
However, even if you're eliminated early, the performance you show in the match will be considered in the grading. So don't be too discouraged if you're out first."
Even if a team were to face monstrous opponents like Lee Siwoon and Kang Daehan early on and lose, a good showing could still earn them decent grades.
"Now, let's proceed to announce the match-ups."
Hong Daye brought up the tournament bracket on the integrated PC whiteboard.
"The opponents will be chosen randomly…"
The students began to murmur as the teacher drew out the word "random," but I knew she wouldn't actually leave the match-ups to chance.
After all, I had witnessed this scene over and over again in the game.
"…would be boring, wouldn't it?"
Hong Daye looked over the crowd of students and lifted the corners of her mouth in a tease.
"I'll give the team leaders the chance to choose their numbers based on their entrance exam rankings."
"Based on rankings?" "What? Then that means?"
The students' attention abruptly focused in one direction.
Like a volley of arrows, numerous gazes were fixed upon one person.
Beyond their stares stood Lee Siwoon.
It was needless to say, but Siwoon was the top-ranked student at admission.
Even if the exact scores of other students were not known, everyone was aware of Siwoon's ranking.
"Then Lee Siwoon's team will choose first. Ah, but don't all come up—just the team leader."
"Yes."
As Lee Siwoon and his teammates started to stand, the teacher stopped them.
Jin Soyeon, looking slightly embarrassed, scratched her cheek and then patted Siwoon on the shoulder, urging him
to go ahead with a smile.
He silently looked back at Jin Soyeon before finally stepping forward towards the teacher's desk.
A slight tremor was visible on Siwoon's lips. Hmm…
Those two seem to have become quite close.
It was a good thing, but someone was bothering me. "…"
It was Yoo Seolhyun.
"Ah, Siwoon's just being nice and now she's at it again."
"Right, right. Jin Soyeon, that girl's been overstepping her bounds lately, hasn't she?"
"Look at her, chasing after another guy as soon as they break up. It's just disgraceful."
The students allied with Yoo Seolhyun kept up their chatter. As usual, they voiced their annoyance with Jin Soyeon.
They were like weathercocks.
Was it because the two had been getting along too well lately?
Jealousy and envy seemed to have erupted.
"Can you keep it down? You're giving me a headache."
"Oh, sorry, sorry. Ahaha. I was a bit loud, wasn't I?"
Yoo Seolhyun's quiet remark quickly silenced them. Those girls could hardly be considered her friends. They were mere conveniences, subordinates at best. And they seemed to be aware of their role.
"Good. I prefer it quiet."
She gave the girls a once-over before turning away.
The needless chatter had been giving her a headache, but now she was content with the silence.
Yoo Seolhyun, ignoring the sweating students, alternated her gaze between Jin Soyeon and Lee Siwoon.
The friendly sight of those two seemed to sit poorly with her. "Lee Siwoon, which number will you choose?"
"…"
In response to Hong Daye's question, Siwoon was silent. The bracket was blank.
It didn't matter where he chose.
Thus, Siwoon confidently selected number 1 from the range of 1 to 16. Not 2 or 3, but 1. It was a significant number. A manifestation of his confidence.
"Good. Lee Siwoon's team… is number 1. Next, Kang Daehan, come up."
Kang Daehan, who had been watching silently, stepped forward with a wry smile in his eyes. After a glance at Siwoon returning to his seat, he casually chose number 2.
Team 2.
Right next to team 1. Meaning…
They would face each other in the first match. "Kang Daehan, you're number 2, right?"
"Yes, number 2."
With a sly smirk, Kang Daehan glanced at Siwoon. Siwoon met his gaze.
The two locked eyes.
"I've wanted to face our top student." "…"
"I've heard so much about you. Maybe I can look forward to it."
"…"
The classroom buzzed with whispers.
A showdown between Siwoon and Daehan had long been a hot topic.
'Fortunately, it's unfolding like in the game.'
Kang Daehan's impulsive decision, fueled by a competitive spirit towards Siwoon.
A first match between the first and fifth rankers would surely be a spectacle for the students, but not so much for their teammates.
Obviously, this was not a move discussed with his team.
Therefore…
"Daehan, I mean, isn't it too much to face Siwoon right from the start?"
"What, you lack confidence? Even with me here?" "No, it's not that…"
His teammates were flustered.
Facing Siwoon's team from the start seemed daunting.
No matter how strong Daehan was, Siwoon was not an opponent to be taken lightly.
For them, the ideal path would be to face easier teams first before clashing in the finals.
But Daehan had thrown his hat into the ring without a second thought.
His teammates must have felt troubled in many ways.
No matter how powerful a team member was, acting on one's own can lead to complications.
But that wasn't our team.
"Next, Yoo Seolhyun, come forward."
"Okay."
As Yoo Seolhyun approached the podium, she passed by me, and I whispered quietly.
"Choose number 16." "Okay."
Seolhyun readily agreed to my request as she walked forward.
It was partly because we had agreed she would follow my orders regarding the practical assessment, but logically, it made sense to keep as much distance from dangerous teams as possible.
This was why I didn't choose Kang Daehan first.
His capricious nature made it difficult to control him properly.
On the other hand, Yoo Seolhyun was someone I could reasonably communicate with.
Moreover, now that I had invoked the keyword 'bet,' she would at least pretend to listen unless something significant
happened.
"I'll go with number 16."
"Alright. Yoo Seolhyun's team is number 16, and next is…"
One by one, the team leaders were called, and soon the bracket was complete.
Hong Daye began to address the students.
"Now, lastly, I'll tell you about the date of the exam. It will take place ten days from now at Training Hall Four."
Ten days.
That was quite some time.
Obviously, the exam date wasn't set so far out without reason.
It was deliberately chosen to give ample time to analyze the opposing teams and devise a corresponding strategy.
So that students focused on combat and those in supporting roles could thoroughly prepare.
"Prepare the best you can until the day of the exam. That's all for today. Dismissed."
It looks like the main storyline of the practical assessment will begin in ten days.
As part of the main story, I knew almost all the content and flow in great detail.
I had to leave a good impression on Yoo Seolhyun during this practical assessment.
That way, I would have a plausible 'reason' for the actions I needed to take later on.
I would need to show good performance to retrieve the dormant item when the dungeon raiding mishap occurred soon.
'The method to make a good impression on Yoo Seolhyun isn't hard…'
Seolhyun, half-jokingly, could be compared to the historical figure Cao Cao.
Not that she coveted other people's lovers like the infamous "wife-stealer" Cao Cao, but because she had a strong desire for talented individuals.
She wanted to stand out as a hero in her own right, rather than just as the third young lady of the Gaon Nuri Clan.
That's why she had been pulling in talented people to her side from Gaon Nuri or elsewhere for a long time.
Once she graduated, she likely planned to officially lead a hero team under the clan.
'To build rapport with Yoo Seolhyun, I just need to act like a worthy talent.'
And during this practical assessment, I could fully demonstrate my abilities.
Alone, it might be impossible, but fortunately, I have Yoo Seolhyun and Sunari.
'Plus, knowing Yoo Seolhyun's character settings, it should be fair enough.'
I was well-versed in Yoo Seolhyun's personality, hobbies, likes, dislikes, and so on, so approaching her wouldn't be difficult.
For starters, I could talk about a strategy related to the practical assessment and draw her out for a conversation.
Seolhyun would likely be interested in hearing things about Jin Soyeon through me.
She wouldn't say no to a cake at the café.
Seolhyun's character has a penchant for sweets, after all. Ah, but Jin Soyeon is slightly concerning.
She doesn't get along well with Yoo Seolhyun. She might dislike it if I approach Seolhyun.
Or maybe it's okay?
After all, she's been getting along well with Lee Siwoon lately.
If she's busy being sweet with Siwoon, she won't have time to worry about me. And wouldn't grumble about a conversation at the academy.
As long as she doesn't realize I've arranged a private meeting.
***
"…Jinhyuk, what are you doing here?" "?"
Huh?
Why is Jin Soyeon popping up here?
Chapter 11 – Preparation for the Practical Assessment (5)
The coming weekend, I sent messages to Yoo Seolhyun and Sunari saying I had something to discuss related to the practical assessment.
Sunari seemed slightly displeased to be called out during her precious weekend hours, but with Yoo Seolhyun's eager acceptance, she reluctantly agreed to make the appointment.
The meeting place was a newly opened café.
I planned to let Yoo Seolhyun taste the strawberry slice cake sold here, which would become her favorite snack in the future.
Ding-dong~.
With the sound of a short bell, a woman entered.
She swept back her lustrous, gold-dusted hair and scanned the café before spotting me.
Slipping a small handbag over her shoulder and letting the hem of her light long jacket flutter, she walked towards me with the click-clack of her heels echoing in my ears.
Dressed in casual clothes, she reminded me of a freshman college student.
The mature aura she emitted was something that couldn't be felt in the Academy's uniform. She walked gracefully towards me, like a model on a runway.
The men in the café sneakily glanced at her before getting scolded by their girlfriends for staring.
Yoo Seolhyun, noticing this, chuckled behind her hand.
She seemed to enjoy these reactions quite mischievously, like a true villainess.
"You came early?" "Not too long ago."
I nodded in response to Yoo Seolhyun's remark. "Aren't you going to say hi to me?"
At that moment, a familiar voice caught my attention. Oh, it's Sunari. She's here too.
Her small stature had made her less noticeable. "Sunari."
"Hmph."
With a petulant expression and her arms crossed, Sunari, with her pigtails, glared at me.
It seemed she had noticed my delayed reaction.
Her small stature was a complex issue, according to the story.
I decided not to mention it directly.
"Shall we order something first? Since it's my treat today, I'll buy you girls a slice of cake."
They chose Americano and an Espresso Double Shot. "Why Espresso? Even with cake, isn't that a bit much?" "What's it to you what I drink?"
Sunari snapped back as if her pride had been pricked. Why would she order something so bitter?
Yoo Seolhyun smirked at her reaction.
"Espresso does have a good fragrance. Right, Nari?"
"Uh, yes! Right, Jinhyuk just doesn't know any better because of his childish tastes?"
Right on cue, Sunari took a sip of her espresso, only to choke on it with a series of inarticulate sounds.
Yoo Seolhyun teasingly suggested, "Is it good? Want me to get you another?" leaving Sunari wide-eyed and hesitating.
She clearly didn't want more but seemed unable to refuse Seolhyun's offer.
I gave a wry smile and changed the subject to help her out. "Come on, everyone, take a look at this."
I took out several documents I had prepared for the practical assessment and laid them on the table.
"Hmm?"
Yoo Seolhyun quickly scanned through the paperwork.
"Our first opponents will be Han Dongwon, Oh Seongwoon, and Ko Mirae. You're aware, right?"
"Pfft. Nobodies."
Sunari scoffed with an air of arrogance befitting her 17th ranking.
"Nobodies? They were quite a big deal in their own right back in the day."
"Big deals or not, nobodies are nobodies." Well, that's one way to see it.
They are not even named NPCs.
Comparing them to characters like you and the villainess Yoo Seolhyun, they lack in many aspects – combat skills, strategic planning, and so on.
But this world isn't a game; it's reality.
Named NPCs or extras, protagonists or not, one can't afford to be complacent.
Indeed, you two are stronger than them, but it's not an 'overwhelming' strength.
At best, you're all still Academy students.
Depending on the opponent's approach, numerous variables can arise.
Moreover, our team includes me, hardly useful as a combatant.
"Everyone is above mid-tier. They use bows, swords, and spears, with an overall good balance. Supernatural abilities have been revealed, but Han Dongwon's powers might differ slightly. What you need to keep in mind is…"
I explained various things about the opposing team.
Their supernatural abilities, martial prowess, synergy, positions, and strategic plans.
How we should proceed and what we should focus on. "Interesting."
After some time had passed, Yoo Seolhyun, who had been listening quietly, lightly tapped her coffee cup and spoke.
"You've prepared more than I expected, haven't you?" She looked at me with a beaming smile.
"Are you not the top in theory? Listening to you, I get the vibe of a tactical advisor."
"In middle school, I was always the one who took on the operator role during team tactical evaluations."
Regretfully, lacking the talents of a hero, I had to take on a commanding role to score well in practical assessments.
In the past, I meticulously analyzed training and dueling videos, breaking down every frame to examine habits, compatibility, weaknesses, and specialties.
Now, recalling my past life memories and nearly all the settings from Romance Hero Academy, devising strategies was even easier.
Behind-the-scenes stories about various characters could be found in the official novels and fan-made comics.
"It's great you've analyzed so thoroughly, but it seems like wasted effort. Yoo Seolhyun and I should be more than enough without any tricks or gimmicks."
Sunari dismissed the efforts with a nonchalant expression. "For now, maybe. But who knows about later?"
The Han Dongwon team wasn't the issue.
This was merely a rehearsal to see how well the game's settings and my analyses would hold up in reality.
"And what about the next team after you beat Han Dongwon's? And the one after that?"
"What about them?"
"And eventually, what if we face Lee Siwoon or Kang Daehan's team in the finals?"
"…"
Sunari fell silent, seemingly unable to dismiss the male protagonists that lightly.
"And with a liability like me in the team. Pure combat would be even harder, right?"
"Well, there is that."
Hey. Why are you so easily agreeing that I'm a liability? … Though it's true.
"Throughout history, solid strategies have been key to overturning disadvantageous situations. If we face Lee Siwoon or Kang Daehan's team in the finals, we'll be underpowered. Let's prepare for that by syncing up and honing our tactical execution skills."
"You think we'll make it to the finals that easily?" Yoo Seolhyun added, and I nodded in affirmation.
"Of course. Didn't we make a bet? I said I'd at least be in the top one or two."
"Alright. I look forward to it."
"But you remember you have to follow my orders, right?"
"Ah, of course."
Yoo Seolhyun smiled lightly as she looked over the papers scattered across the table.
"I didn't expect much from you, but the research you brought today… and the explanation… maybe you're somewhat competent as an operator."
She neatly cut off a tiny piece of cake with a fork.
"Of course, we don't need empty theories. You better show us in practice that everything you've said can actually work. I'm starting to look forward to it."
She stabbed the piece and took a bite.
"So, let's go with what you want for the first match. I'll listen to you."
Then, she put down her fork.
It seemed she had finished her cake, a look of satisfaction on her face.
The delicious snack must have made her more receptive to my words.
"Do you girls have any questions or something you want to say?"
"Oh, wait, I need to use the bathroom…"
Sunari, who had been looking a bit pale, suddenly raised her hand.
Her face looked a tad ashen.
It seemed she might have a slight stomach upset. "That's why I said to go easy on the espresso."
"Sh, shut up! Uh, sorry Seolhyun, I'll be right back!"
Sunari shot me a glare before apologizing to Yoo Seolhyun and dashing off.
Now, it was just the two of us left.
Yoo Seolhyun stared directly at me, then opened the conversation with a slightly mischievous expression.
"Oh, by the way, how have you been?" "What do you mean?"
What's she getting at now?
"You and Jin Soyeon have been seen together quite a lot lately."
"So, what?"
"I was just thinking, isn't it a bit strange for an ex-girlfriend to start hanging around with another guy right after breaking up?"
I laughed inwardly at Yoo Seolhyun's words. Wouldn't it be better if they hung out even more? "What about you?"
"Hm?"
"Doesn't it bother you that Jin Soyeon is always around Lee Siwoon?"
"Why would it bother me?"
"I heard a rumor that you two were engaged." "What?"
Yoo Seolhyun's eyebrows twitched slightly. The engagement was supposed to be a secret. She must have been surprised that I knew. "Where did you hear that?"
"Who knows? I heard it through the grapevine."
"Really?"
"Yeah. And don't take it too hard. You and Siwoon come from big corporate families, and you've known each other since you were kids. It makes for juicy gossip. Kids love to connect love lines, you know."
"…"
Yoo Seolhyun looked at me, twisting a lock of her hair around her finger.
"Well… about that…"
Just as Yoo Seolhyun was about to continue. "…Jinhyuk, what are you doing here?"
"?!"
A familiar voice caught both our attention.
Yoo Seolhyun and I turned our heads without thinking, looking for the source of the voice.
"What are you doing here?" "I asked first."
Jin Soyeon was looking at us with a stern expression. "What are you two doing here?"
***
Jin Soyeon was incredulous.
How could these two be meeting at a café on the weekend?
Lee Jinhyuk, who had recently been too busy to spend time with her, was now seemingly enjoying a cozy coffee date with Yoo Seolhyun?
This was betrayal, betrayal! What about Jinhyuk?
He was too busy to go to the café with her when she asked.
He had said he was too busy during the weekend because of the practical assessment.
Was he too busy because he needed to meet with Yoo Seolhyun?
"Ahaha…♪"
Yoo Seolhyun suddenly lifted the corners of her mouth, a mischievous smile spreading across her face, as if she was enjoying the moment.
"Hi, Soyeon."
"Hi. But what were you doing with Jinhyuk?"
"I came out because Jinhyuk said he had something to tell me."
"Jinhyuk did?"
Jin Soyeon's gaze shifted to Jinhyuk, wondering what he would have to talk about with Yoo Seolhyun.
Something to say?
Why would Jinhyuk have something to discuss with Yoo Seolhyun in private?
If it had been a trivial matter, they would have talked at the Academy.
So what could they possibly have to meet about on a weekend?
Wait a minute.
Maybe…
– Actually, I've started liking someone else.
Why did Jinhyuk's words from a month ago come to mind?
"Yoo Seolhyun, don't make it sound weird. We're just getting together to talk about the practical assessment. Look at this."
Jinhyuk then took out a few documents he had stashed away and fluttered them in front of Jin Soyeon.
"And it's not like we met alone. We also got together with Sunari."
Then, pointing to an empty chair, Jinhyuk indicated that it was part of their meeting as well.
Indeed, an unfinished coffee cup and a plate were left on the table by the empty seat.
"So, don't be so pouty."
"I'm not pouting. And what do I have to pout about?"
"You were upset last time when I turned you down about coming here. Is that why?"
Jinhyuk shrugged as he spoke, and Jin Soyeon sighed internally.
He's great, but he's so clueless… Sigh.
"What's up, Jin Soyeon? When did you get here?" "Sunari."
Out of nowhere, Sunari returned from the restroom and acknowledged Jin Soyeon.
"Let's get going first, Nari. Let's go." "Ah, mm."
"Talk comfortably with your childhood friend. We'll be off then."
Yoo Seolhyun promptly picked up her coat and handbag and left the café, followed by Sunari who hastily finished the remaining cake and chased after her.
"…"
"…"
A silence descended between Jinhyuk and Jin Soyeon for a moment.
"…Then I'll be off too." "Sit down."
Jinhyuk, without much else to say, tried to leave, but Jin Soyeon sharply gestured for him to sit.
More like insisted.
"Can't you spare some time for me?" "I told you I'm busy."
"Hah."
Jin Soyeon let out a sneer. Busy?
Why is he always busy whenever he sees her? Is it just her he's too busy for?
"Hey, Lee Jinhyuk. Let's talk." "What?"
"Do you have a grudge against me or something? Why have you been acting like this lately?"
Jin Soyeon bit her lip slightly as she fixed Jinhyuk with a piercing gaze.
No matter how much she thought about it, she couldn't understand Jinhyuk's behavior.
He might be busy, but she couldn't shake the feeling that he was intentionally putting distance between them.
Did she do something to upset him? Or was there another reason?
"…Seriously."
Jin Soyeon scowled, and Jinhyuk chuckled bitterly.
His demeanor was like an uncle placating a tantrum- throwing niece.
…Which just irritated her more. Jinhyuk seemed so mature these days. "Soyeon."
"What, why."
With a calm smile, Jinhyuk drew out a substantial amount of A4 paper, densely filled with writing, from his bag.
It was much more than what he'd shown previously.
It likely related to the practical assessment… "You know I lack the talents of a hero." "That's not true."
"I've felt it myself. In middle school, I could manage without talent, but it's not the same at Union."
"…"
"I want to have fun too. Hang out with you, play games after school, and go out on weekends."
"…"
Jinhyuk smiled ruefully.
"But if I play when others are playing and only make an effort when they do, I won't be able to catch up with them. That's why I've been focusing so much on training and studying lately. I didn't want to get too distracted hanging out with you… I might have put some distance between us. I guess that was hard for you. Sorry."
"No, it's… whatever."
Jin Soyeon awkwardly scratched her cheek.
She had to admit, with Jinhyuk always around, it was hard to focus properly.
"And another thing." "Hmm?"
"We're broken up, right? If we keep hanging out, it doesn't look good."
"Uh?"
Jin Soyeon blinked in confusion. What was he talking about? "Why care about appearances?"
"I do care. You might get into a relationship later, and I don't want to cause any issues because of me."
"How many times do I have to tell you I'm not interested in dating?"
"Heh. You say that, but you seem to get along pretty well with Siwoon lately."
"…You've been ignoring me lately."
"What'd you say?"
"Wow, I said it under my breath, but did you really not hear me or are you pretending?"
He heard, just pretended not to. Jinhyuk smiled inwardly.
"Anyway. Since we're on the subject, I'll ask you again. Are you and Lee Siwoon really nothing?"
"What are you talking about? I told you before, didn't I? It's not like that."
"Come on, spill it. I've read a lot on relationships. I give great advice, you know?"
"There's nothing to say." What's with this guy, really? Why is he acting like this?
"Siwoon's really handsome, wealthy, and talented… What's he lacking?"
"What are you on about?"
"He seems interested in you. Want me to help?" "I said no. How many times do I have to tell you?" Something started boiling inside Jin Soyeon.
Jinhyuk's persistent attempt to link her with Siwoon was infuriating.
"Honestly, with someone like Siwoon…"
"Stop!" Bang!
Jin Soyeon slammed her hand hard on the table, startling Jinhyuk who immediately thought, 'Ah, I've overdone it again.'
"What about you? Are you interested in Yoo Seolhyun?" "Huh? Me? What are you talking about?"
Jinhyuk was taken aback by Jin Soyeon's sudden question.
"You asked to break up on the day of the Academy's entrance ceremony."
"Yeah, so?"
"You said you started liking someone else." "Did I?"
Jinhyuk looked like he was mentally questioning himself.
"Isn't Yoo Seolhyun the one you like?"
"What are you going on about? Me and Yoo Seolhyun, haha. That's ridiculous."
"Why do you keep tying me and Siwoon together?" "Whatever."
"I'm pissed off…"
"Sorry, okay? I'll treat you today to make it up. Let's cool off."
Jinhyuk rubbed his temples, then spoke up more kindly. "What do you want? Cake? Parfait? Coffee?"
"An Americano will do."
"Ah, just coffee is a bit disappointing. If you won't choose, I'll order for you."
With that, Jinhyuk picked out some items from the menu, and Jin Soyeon quietly reflected.
– It does bother me. You might want to date someone later, and it'd be troublesome if I was in the way.
That could apply to Jinhyuk as well.
What if Jinhyuk fell for Yoo Seolhyun at first sight on the day of the Academy's entrance ceremony and told Jin Soyeon to end their fake relationship to get closer to Yoo Seolhyun without complications?
What if he deliberately created distance after entering the Academy?
The reason he left Jin Soyeon out and joined Yoo Seolhyun's team for the practical assessment might be… maybe…?
'…'
As her thoughts reached that point… '…It's annoying.'
Jin Soyeon felt something squirming inside her, undefined and unsettling.
Chapter 12 – The Main Episode Practical Assessment Begins (1)
The day of the practical assessment had arrived. The students made their way to Training Hall Four.
After a ten-minute ride on the Academy's shuttle bus, a large dome-shaped auditorium came into view.
The auditorium was vast. Numerous lights were clustered all over the ceiling.
The seating looked like it could accommodate thousands, spanning across the first and second floors. As it was designed for multipurpose use, either as a gym or a training hall, it was fitted with various state-of-the-art facilities.
"Wow, it's huge."
"The facilities seem top-notch." "This is Union for you."
The students were in awe as they surveyed the training hall. I was quite impressed myself. This was a location I had only seen within the game. Fascinating.
"Alright, let's cut the unnecessary chatter."
Hong Daye's voice drew everyone's attention.
"In 25 minutes, we will begin the first assessment."
A few students swallowed nervously, visibly tense.
Of course, Yoo Seolhyun and Sunari were exceptions. Sunari even yawned profoundly, while Yoo Seolhyun appeared bored, half-listening.
'…Am I the only one on our team who's nervous?'
I smiled wryly to myself. Seeing their carefree demeanor slightly eased my tension.
If something went wrong in the first match, their abilities alone should be enough to cover for any mishaps. So, there's no need to be overly tense.
"Each team will wait at opposite ends of the training hall. As soon as the match starts, snatch the flag and plant it in your team's territory to win," Hong Daye instructed, pointing to the flag positioned at the center of the hall.
"Training gear provided by the Academy will be used, and there are no special restrictions on the use of supernatural abilities."
The Academy's gear was non-lethal, with safety measures in place.
"However, inflicting fatal injuries on opponents is prohibited. Keep in mind that if such a situation arises, the match will be stopped immediately, and you may be disqualified based on the supervisor's judgment."
If the training gear is used properly, it would be difficult to inflict a fatal injury unless done purposely.
"And even if you suffer a serious injury, the healing mage, Kang Yeona, our health instructor, will be on standby, so rest assured."
"Don't get hurt, kids, okay? I'd like a break," said the health instructor, a woman in her late twenties with a laid-back attitude, a beauty mark under her eye adding to her allure. While she genuinely cared for the students' wellbeing, her character was known for being rather lazy.
"Kang Yeona is a top healing mage in Korea."
"Hey, I've seen her healing in action during training. The ability is absolutely top-notch."
"Wow, she's gorgeous."
In the game, healers were exceedingly rare, especially those who could heal moderate or severe injuries.
"Alright, collect your combat armor from the equipment room and change. You have exactly 10 minutes."
Following her instructions, the students paired off towards the changing rooms.
I quickly began to change into the gear provided.
While I was changing, I saw Lee Siwoon out of the corner of
my eye. He too was changing, and his abs were no joke.
No wonder he's the male lead. Those six-pack abs really had a way with the ladies.
"Lee Siwoon."
I approached him casually.
"Your first match is against Kang Daehan. Are you confident?"
"Yeah."
Siwoon nodded with a nonchalant expression, as if it was a given.
"Confidence is key. Since it's come to this, make sure to impress Jin Soyeon."
"…"
I patted Siwoon on the shoulder before moving on. Personally, I hoped his team would be our final opponent.
Not because they were an easier target, but because Jin Soyeon was on Siwoon's team. She needed to experience the event that would take place in the finals firsthand. Given the many challenges ahead, it would serve as good training for her.
"You too."
"Huh?" "Good luck."
Siwoon's words brought a smirk to my face. Out of all the male leads, he was the most reasonable. By personality, I mean. He wasn't reckless like Kang Daehan.
"Sure."
I stepped out of the changing room and into the hustle of chatting students, discussing strategies for the upcoming matches.
"Hmm. It looks like everyone's here. Good. It's time. Team 1 and Team 2, step forward."
"Alright."
At Hong Daye's command, the members of the first and second teams held their heads high as they ascended to the training hall stage.
I watched Jin Soyeon, who was twiddling her hair nervously as she walked. It was her first match, so understandably, she felt some butterflies.
"Go Siwoon!"
"Kyaa! Lee Siwoon!"
"Show us what you've got, top student Siwoon!"
Wow. The female spectators roared their support. They sounded like fans at a sports event.
Hey, girls, those guys are your competition, you know. I stared at them for a moment before turning away.
Support, huh… Maybe I should give it a try. To ease Jin Soyeon's nerves a bit.
It wouldn't do if she got too tense and couldn't perform to her best, potentially leading to an early knockout. Ideally, Jin Soyeon's team should make it to the finals.
"Jin Soyeon, fighting!"
Jin Soyeon jolted, perhaps having heard my voice. Slowly, she turned her head to scan the stands and our eyes met.
She hesitated for a moment before lifting her hand to give me a small wave.
"Don't be so nervous! Just do like you always do, like usual." "I'm not nervous!"
Jin Soyeon managed a laugh, looking more like herself. "…"
Lee Siwoon glanced my way. Our eyes locked for a moment, his gaze unreadable.
…Wait a minute.
It was just a round of support, after all. Don't take it the wrong way.
"What's with him?"
"Isn't that Jin Soyeon's ex?"
"They say childhood friends, but they seem pretty close even after breaking up."
The murmurs of the girls were barely audible.
"But I heard Jin Soyeon dumped him just to get close to Siwoon."
"Really? Doesn't look like they're on bad terms, though."
They were speculating about my relationship with Jin Soyeon.
"Keep it down, will you?"
Hong Daye squashed the rising noise. "Are both teams ready?"
After alternating looks between teams 1 and 2, Hong Daye used a remote to encase the training hall in a protective barrier.
It was resistant to physical and magical attacks, durable enough to withstand any assault from a student's level.
Not just student attacks.
Even if it were Hong Daye herself, breaking through this barrier without proper equipment would take considerable time.
It was a safety measure to prevent any structural damage to the building or harm to the spectators, should supernatural abilities go awry.
…which was precisely the issue with this episode. "Then let's begin."
With those words from Hong Daye, the first practical assessment and the main storyline officially commenced.
Alright, the dice had already been cast. Might as well give it my all.
***
For a moment, utter silence enveloped the training hall.
Neither team rushed recklessly to snatch the flag, instead, each sneaking glances at their team leaders, Lee Siwoon and Kang Daehan.
"Snatching flags is so mundane…"
Suddenly, in a blur, Lee Siwoon swung his sword horizontally.
Whoosh! "Wow?" "What the…?"
"Is that… that move?"
A single strike. From a distance, he swung his sword, and a bluish magical slash surged forth as fast as a beam of light, striking Kang Daehan. Daehan, with beast-like reflexes, whirled his spear to deflect the magic-imbued slash.
"…Impressive."
It was the art of the Sword Qi Wounder. In-game, it was an exquisitely difficult feat that allowed a swordsman to harm others with sword energy alone, a skill boasting immense difficulty. Even among current heroes, only the top 10% could utilize it. Yet here was a student, freshly enrolled in the Academy, performing such a technique. Though the power seemed somewhat reduced.
"Wow, that's insane. Siwoon, you're amazing!"
"Top student class is really something else, huh?"
The students were astonished, which was understandable. This was a skill they might not even acquire as active heroes.
'This is the difference talent makes.' I couldn't help feeling a pang of envy.
"Sword Qi Wounder, huh. It's the first time I've seen it from a new student other than Baek Yoorin this year," Hong Daye murmured, seemingly taken aback.
"…He knows this won't reach me. Is it a provocation? Interesting. Looking all saintly."
Kang Daehan, far from demoralized, curled his lips into a wicked grin, intrigued by the challenge.
He realized Siwoon's mastery of the technique wasn't high, and it consumed too much magical energy to use frequently.
"Alright, let's have a go!"
Daehan lunged forward, followed by his team.
Siwoon stood his ground, sword ready, the only one capable of holding Daehan at bay.
Clang! Ting!
Sparks flew in their clash.
While these two dueled, the outcome rested on their teammates.
Siwoon's team had Jin Soyeon and Yuliya Troyanova; Daehan's included Kim Taeo and Park Soojin.
Aside from Jin Soyeon, all were top students within the top 100 ranks.
"Park Soojin, I'll handle Yuliya. You keep an eye on Jin Soyeon."
"Okay. I'll finish this quickly."
Confidence oozed from Park Soojin as she advanced on Jin Soyeon, her whip cracking through the air.
She was certain of victory in a one-on-one.
"Trying to snag a victory against Siwoon, of all people? In your dreams."
"…I won't argue with that."
Jin Soyeon parried the whip, responding calmly. With each strike, the whip's thwack echoed.
But she couldn't block every attack. Hits landed on her shoulder, thigh, arm.
Tiny droplets of blood appeared with each scrape. Nevertheless, Jin Soyeon focused on defense to the end.
"Hey, Park Soojin! How long are you going to take? Finish her off and help me out!"
"Shut up! She's damn persistent!"
Park Soojin grew more frantic at Kim Taeo's calls, clearly struggling. Maybe it was the pressure to land a decisive blow that made her body coil for a full-powered swing, intent on breaking through Jin Soyeon's defense.
However, at that moment… "What?!"
Jin Soyeon, who had been waiting for this, quickly pivoted on her foot. Park Soojin whipped out, but Jin Soyeon, already anticipating this, dodged by ducking. Then she thrust the hilt of her sword right into Park Soojin's solar plexus.
"Cough! Ugh…" Critical hit.
Staggering with the blow to her solar plexus, Park Soojin groaned, and Jin Soyeon, seizing the moment, delivered a fierce strike to her jaw.
Park Soojin was out cold, likely concussed. "Damn it! Park Soojin!"
"Oh my. Impressive, Soyeon." "Damn, let go of me!"
"Soyeon, I'll hold her. Go for the flag." "Got it!"
Jin Soyeon sprinted towards the flag at the center, swiftly pulling it from the ground.
Kim Taeo tried to intervene, but Yuliya's relentless onslaught left him overwhelmed.
So, with no further hindrance, Jin Soyeon planted the flag in her team's territory, concluding the match.
While Siwoon and Daehan's duel ended in a draw, it was the teamwork that tipped the scales.
"Is it over already? Team 1 wins."
At the instructor's announcement, Daehan's teammates, minus Daehan himself, looked forlorn, embarrassed by their defeat in the opening match. Daehan came down from the stage, muttering, "Cheh, boring. Let's settle this next time."
'Soyeon followed the strategy I suggested, focusing on defense and waiting for the right moment to strike back.'
I had advised her to bide her time against Park Soojin and counter when she overcommitted. I hadn't expected her to execute it so well. I guess protagonists will be protagonists.
"Whew…"
Wiping the sweat from her forehead, Jin Soyeon turned to me and smiled.
"I'll take the first win. Make sure you get to the finals. I'd like to see what you've got, Jinhyuk."
"Sure. I'll be waiting. I'll show you what I can do." I returned her playful challenge with a smile. "Team 3 and Team 4…"
"Teams 9 and 10…" "Teams 12 and 14…"
How much time had passed?
"Finally, Teams 15 and 16, step forward." It was finally my turn.