Chapter 2: The Face-Slapping Showdown
After settling into his extravagant new lifestyle as the overpowered villain protagonist, Woo Wang found himself attending a prestigious gala in the heart of Neo-Seoul. The grand ballroom was a spectacle of glitz and glamour, with chandeliers casting a golden glow over the elegantly dressed attendees.
Dressed in a tailored suit that seemed to radiate power, Woo mingled with the high society of the 25th century. He exchanged polite pleasantries with influential figures, his charismatic persona drawing attention from all corners of the room. Though he relished the attention, Woo couldn't shake the feeling that some individuals eyed him with a mix of jealousy and disdain.
As the night progressed, Woo found himself engaged in a conversation with a distinguished gentleman named Joon-ho Kim, a prominent figure in the political landscape. Joon-ho's smile was strained, and his eyes betrayed a hint of hostility. It seemed that not everyone was thrilled with Woo's sudden rise to prominence.
"So, Mr. Wang," Joon-ho began, his voice dripping with sarcasm, "I hear you're the newest addition to our illustrious society. A nobody turned somebody overnight, huh?"
Woo raised an eyebrow, his composure unwavering. "It's always a pleasure to be embraced by such esteemed company," he replied, his tone polite but laced with an undercurrent of mischief. "Though I must admit, the transition has been quite the whirlwind."
Joon-ho scoffed, unable to hide his irritation. "Don't think that a sudden surge in power will make you invincible, Mr. Wang. Some of us have worked tirelessly to earn our positions, while you simply stumble into yours. It's disgraceful."
Woo's lips curled into a sly smile. He had encountered his fair share of envious individuals in the web novels he had read, and now he was facing one in real life. The opportunity for a face-slapping showdown had presented itself, and Woo was more than ready to seize it.
"Mr. Kim," Woo said, his voice cool and composed, "I understand your frustrations, but allow me to clarify something. I may have found myself in this position unexpectedly, but that doesn't diminish the effort I will put into fulfilling my role. It seems that some people fear what they cannot control."
Joon-ho's face reddened with anger, his control slipping. "How dare you!" he spat, his voice filled with venom. "You think you can waltz in here, stealing the spotlight and belittling those who have worked hard? I won't stand for it!"
Woo's smile widened, a glint of mischief dancing in his eyes. "Oh, Mr. Kim, you misunderstand me. I have no desire to belittle anyone. But if you insist on challenging my place, I'm more than willing to demonstrate the consequences of underestimating an overpowered villain protagonist."
Before Joon-ho could respond, a hush fell over the ballroom, and all eyes turned to the source of the commotion. A stunning woman with an air of authority approached, her steps graceful and purposeful. It was none other than Ji-yeon, Woo's loyal assistant.
With a calm yet authoritative tone, Ji-yeon addressed the gathering. "Ladies and gentlemen, it seems we have witnessed a misunderstanding between Mr. Wang and Mr. Kim. Let us resolve this matter peacefully and continue enjoying the festivities."
But Joon-ho, consumed by rage, couldn't contain himself any longer. He raised his hand, ready to strike Woo in a fit of anger. However, before his palm could make contact, Woo's hand shot up and caught Joon-ho's wrist mid-air, halting the slap mere inches from Woo's face. The room erupted into gasps and murmurs as all eyes widened in astonishment.
A mischievous smile played on Woo's lips as he maintained his grip on Joon-ho's wrist, his gaze steady and unwavering. The once-confident Joon-ho was frozen in place, his face contorted with shock and humiliation.
"Now, now, Mr. Kim," Woo said, his voice dripping with amusement. "It seems you've forgotten your manners. It would be quite impolite to strike a guest at such a prestigious event, wouldn't you agree?"
The room buzzed with anticipation as everyone awaited Joon-ho's response. Ji-Yeon, standing by Woo's side, wore an enigmatic smile, her eyes sparkling with amusement. She had seen her fair share of face-slapping moments, and it seemed that Woo was about to deliver a memorable one.
Joon-ho's face flushed crimson with embarrassment, his anger now mixed with shame. He attempted to free his wrist from Woo's grip but found himself powerless against the newfound strength of the overpowered protagonist.
Woo leaned closer, his voice dropping to a low, authoritative whisper that sent shivers down Joon-ho's spine. "Consider this a lesson, Mr. Kim," he said. "In this world, power comes in many forms, and underestimating others can lead to one's downfall. I suggest you reflect on your actions and treat others with the respect they deserve."
With a flick of his wrist, Woo released Joon-ho, who stumbled back, his pride shattered. The room erupted into applause and cheers, recognizing the display of dominance and retribution. Woo's reputation as an overpowered villain protagonist was solidifying before their very eyes.
As the commotion died down, Woo straightened his suit, his charismatic smile returning. "Now, if you'll excuse me, there's a lovely lady I'd like to share a dance with," he announced, his voice carrying across the ballroom.
With a newfound air of confidence, Woo made his way toward a captivating woman who had been observing the entire scene. Her eyes twinkled with a mix of admiration and curiosity as he approached.
"Would you honour me with a dance?" Woo asked, extending his hand, his charm oozing from every pore.
The woman's lips curled into a playful smile as she placed her hand in his. "I believe I would," she replied, her voice laced with intrigue.
As they swayed to the rhythmic melodies filling the ballroom, Woo couldn't help but revel in the exhilaration of the moment. He had faced his first face-slapping encounter and emerged victorious, earning the respect of both admirers and detractors. The stage was set for his grand adventure as the overpowered villain protagonist, and Woo was determined to make every moment count.
Little did he know that his actions would have far-reaching consequences, setting in motion a chain of events that would test his wit, strength, and capacity for love. The journey had only just begun, and Woo Wang was ready to embrace the challenges and delights that lay ahead in this extraordinary world of 25th-century Korea.
And so, with the applause still echoing in his ears and a mysterious woman by his side, Woo Wang danced into a future filled with endless possibilities.