That day, the atmosphere at Haneul High School felt heavier than usual. Although the sky outside was clear, signaling an ordinary day, there was an invisible but palpable tension inside the school. Whispers among students echoed through the hallways, as if something significant was happening, yet no one dared to speak about it openly.
Joon-woo walked through the corridor calmly, trying to ignore the occasional glances directed at him. Since the incident a few days ago, he had sensed a shift around him. More eyes were on him, and more people seemed on edge. But for Joon-woo, this was nothing new. He was used to being the center of attention, both because of his family background and his fighting skills.
After the last class ended, Joon-woo packed his books and prepared to head to the library. At the classroom door, Ji-ho approached him. Ji-ho's expression was serious, far from his usual smile.
"Joon-woo, can we talk for a moment?" Ji-ho asked in a low voice.
Joon-woo glanced at him for a moment before nodding. "Sure, what's up?"
They both walked to the back garden of the school, a place usually quiet and seldom visited by other students. Ji-ho looked uneasy, occasionally glancing around to ensure they weren't being watched.
"There's something I need to discuss," Ji-ho said finally. "Do you remember what I mentioned about the gangs in Gangnam?"
Joon-woo nodded, his face remaining calm even though he knew this wasn't good news. "Yes, I remember. Has there been any development?"
Ji-ho swallowed, looking hesitant for a moment before continuing. "I've heard that some students at this school are involved more deeply than we thought. They've already started working for those gangs. And... there's news that they want to recruit more students, including us."
Joon-woo felt his heartbeat quicken slightly. Not out of fear, but because he realized the issue was getting closer to him. "Are you sure?" he asked, seeking confirmation.
"Yes," Ji-ho replied firmly. "I don't know exactly who, but I know they've set their sights on some students. You know what this means, right? They won't hesitate to use violence if necessary."
Joon-woo nodded slowly, understanding that this was no longer something he could ignore. "We need to be prepared. Don't let them catch us off guard."
Ji-ho nodded, looking more relieved now that he had shared his concerns. "I agree. I'll be more vigilant from now on."
After talking with Ji-ho, Joon-woo decided to head to the library. It was usually a place of tranquility for him, but today, his mind was too filled with worry. He tried to read, but the words on the pages couldn't penetrate his preoccupied mind.
Shortly after he sat down, So-yeon appeared from the bookshelves, carrying a few thick books. She smiled when she saw Joon-woo, then approached and sat down across from him. "Hey, Joon-woo. You look distracted. Is something bothering you?"
Joon-woo looked at So-yeon for a moment before sighing. Although he didn't want to involve So-yeon in this issue, he felt he couldn't keep it to himself any longer. "There are some issues... that have come up. But it's nothing for you to worry about."
So-yeon placed her books on the table and looked at Joon-woo seriously. "You know, you don't have to carry all the burden alone. I may not be able to do much, but I'm here to listen."
Joon-woo gave a faint smile, appreciating So-yeon's concern. "Thanks, So-yeon. It's just that this is something I need to handle myself. I don't want to involve others."
So-yeon looked at him with understanding. "I get it. But remember, you're not alone. If you need help, both I and Ji-ho are here for you."
Joon-woo nodded in response, feeling relieved that he could at least talk a bit about his problems, even if he didn't provide details. Although he knew this was a fight he had to face alone, he felt calmer knowing that there were people who cared about him.
The next day, the tension at school was even more palpable. Whispers about the Gangnam gangs became more distinct, and Joon-woo felt that the time was drawing near. He decided to prepare, not just mentally but physically. After school, he headed to his martial arts training place outside of school.
The training place, though small and simple, had become a space that provided him with strength and calm. Master Han, his coach, greeted Joon-woo with a slight smile. "You're here early today. Is something happening?"
Joon-woo nodded while wrapping the boxing gloves around his hands. "There are some issues I need to resolve. I need extra training."
Master Han observed Joon-woo with sharp eyes, as if he could see deeper than what Joon-woo was revealing. "Alright. Let's start with the basics. Focus on your technique, and don't let your emotions take over."
They began with basic drills, hitting and kicking with controlled power. But Joon-woo's mind kept wandering, thinking about the possible challenges he would face. He knew that soon, he might have to confront the gangs directly, and this was not just an ordinary fight.
As the training intensified, Joon-woo tried out some new techniques he had learned. However, in his effort to be stronger, he started making small mistakes unstable foot positioning, less accurate punches. Master Han, always attentive, quickly noticed these weaknesses.
"Joon-woo, focus," Master Han scolded. "Strength without proper technique will only make you vulnerable. If you can't maintain your balance, your opponent will exploit it."
Joon-woo nodded, trying to correct his stance and technique. But as he attempted the next punch, his sparring partner managed to block and strike him back with full force. The punch hit Joon-woo's abdomen, causing him to stagger backward, feeling a sharp pain spreading through his body.
Master Han paused the training momentarily, allowing Joon-woo to catch his breath and deal with the pain. "See? This is what I'm talking about. You're strong, Joon-woo, but if you lose focus, you could be defeated. Don't let yourself be carried away by emotions."
Joon-woo regulated his breathing, feeling the throbbing pain in his stomach. Yet, he didn't let the pain stop him. "I understand, Master Han. I just... have been thinking too much."
Master Han patted Joon-woo on the shoulder with understanding. "You have a lot of potential, but you need to learn to control it. Don't let what's happening out there affect your performance here. Here, you need to be completely focused."
Joon-woo nodded, grateful for the advice. Even though his stomach still hurt, he continued the training with greater focus. He knew that in the upcoming fight, he couldn't let small mistakes ruin everything. Every move, every decision, had to be precise.
When the training ended, Joon-woo felt more prepared despite being exhausted. He left the training facility with a sore body but a calmer mind. He knew he had made progress, but there was still much to learn and face.
That night, when Joon-woo returned to his apartment, he reflected on everything that had happened. The upcoming fight was not something he could avoid, and he had to be ready to face whatever came his way. But he also knew he was not alone he had Ji-ho, So-yeon, and Master Han supporting him.