As it was, Vasco's gang was getting along quite well with Mori Jin and his group. Laughter and casual banter flowed between them as if they had always known each other. But while this light-hearted atmosphere unfolded, someone watched quietly from a distance—his sharp eyes analyzing every interaction.
That someone was Jace Park—Vasco's best friend, his self-proclaimed strategist, and, as most in their circle would say, the brains of the operation.
Jace's arms were crossed, his brow slightly furrowed as he kept a close eye on Mori. He had heard the rumors—stories about Mori being some kind of fight-hungry lunatic, a martial artist obsessed with testing his strength. At first, Jace had been wary, ready to step in at any sign of aggression.
But what he saw didn't match the stories at all.
Mori and his group weren't just peaceful—they were genuine. They treated Jiho, who was often overlooked by others, with respect and kindness. More than that, they included him in the conversation, laughing at his jokes and listening when he spoke. It wasn't for show either; they truly seemed to care.
Jace's expression softened. As the minutes ticked by, his suspicion faded, replaced by a quiet acceptance.
"They're alright," he thought. "More than alright, actually."
Later that evening, Zack Lee found himself trailing behind a few friends as they made their way to a local drinking spot. It wasn't really his scene, but the guys were in high spirits and had even invited Daniel along—something that surprised Zack.
Though he tried to act indifferent, Zack's thoughts were somewhere else. He kept thinking about Mori.
"Even if I'd been the one there instead of Mori," Zack wondered, "could I really have handled that situation? Could I even take that guy in a fight?"
He didn't have an answer.
Just as he was lost in thought, a loud voice broke the mood.
"Hey, brats! Pipe it down!"
Zack turned his head and spotted a group of older men. One of them had his arm draped around a woman who looked uncomfortable.
Some of Zack's friends started mouthing off in response—standard bravado, trading taunts and curses. All except Zack and Daniel, who remained quiet.
Zack stared ahead, expression unreadable.
Daniel hesitated, shifting on his feet before stepping closer.
"Hey, Zack…" Daniel began, his voice unsure but sincere. "I know we've had our differences, and maybe you don't like me—but I hope we can get along somehow."
Zack looked over at him, his face unreadable for a moment. Then, with a tired sigh, he nodded.
"Nah… don't stress, dude," he muttered. "I'm sorry too. I let my temper get the better of me sometimes."
Before Daniel could reply, a sudden thud cut through the air.
Everyone turned. Doo Lee had just been sucker punched—his tall frame dropping to the pavement with a groan.
Zack's eyes narrowed. He stood without a word, his presence suddenly heavy.
He walked forward, each step deliberate. The man who had thrown the punch sneered as Zack approached.
"What? You want some too? Take your friend and scram, kid."
Zack didn't respond right away. Instead, he glanced over his shoulder at Daniel.
"Hey Daniel," he said calmly. "Let me show you something."
With a swift and clean motion, Zack threw a textbook-perfect hook—his fist landing square on the man's jaw. The guy crumpled instantly, out cold before he hit the ground.
"That," Zack said coolly, turning back to Daniel, "is how you throw a proper hook."
(An please leave a comment it really helps me get motivated)