### Arc 3: The Rise of the Rival
#### Chapter 11: **A Dance with Shadows**
The gala hall of the Sapphire Crest Hotel was illuminated with dazzling chandeliers, and the air buzzed with the mingling of Seoul's elite. Tonight's charity event was hosted by none other than Noah himself, under the guise of philanthropy. It was yet another power move to solidify his public image and a veiled jab at Jae-min, who had been invited as a "special guest."
Jae-min stepped through the grand entrance, his presence immediately drawing attention. Dressed in a sleek black tuxedo, he exuded an air of confidence that turned heads. At his side was Ji-ah, wearing an elegant crimson gown that hugged her figure perfectly.
"I still don't get why we're here," Ji-ah muttered under her breath, scanning the room for threats.
"Public relations," Jae-min replied smoothly. "If I didn't show up, it would look like I'm afraid of Noah. Besides," his lips curled into a sly grin, "this is the perfect stage to send him a message."
---
Across the room, Noah watched Jae-min's entrance with narrowed eyes. His irritation was barely masked as he turned to his secretary, whispering, "Ensure tonight's announcement overshadows anything he tries."
Noah's companion for the evening, a stunning woman named Soo-min, leaned closer. "Don't underestimate him. He thrives in the spotlight."
---
The night progressed with formalities—polite conversation, toasts, and speeches. Noah took to the stage halfway through the event, his smile plastered on like a mask.
"Ladies and gentlemen, thank you for joining us tonight to support such a noble cause," Noah began. His speech was calculated, laced with veiled remarks aimed at Jae-min, implying irresponsibility and lack of transparency in the business world.
Jae-min listened calmly, his expression unreadable. Ji-ah, however, looked ready to throw her champagne glass.
"Relax," Jae-min whispered. "He's digging his own grave."
---
After the speech, the dance floor opened, and the elite couples began swirling under the chandeliers. Ji-ah reluctantly took Jae-min's hand as he led her to the floor.
"You owe me for this," she muttered, stepping in line with him.
As they danced, Jae-min's gaze scanned the room. His system interface, visible only to him, highlighted key figures in the crowd. Elyra's voice chimed in through his earpiece.
"Target located. Back corner near the exit. That's Noah's mole in your company."
Jae-min's eyes flicked briefly to the indicated corner, where a man in an ill-fitting suit was nervously nursing a drink.
"Got it," Jae-min murmured.
---
The dance ended, and Jae-min excused himself, leaving Ji-ah to handle the socialites. As he made his way toward the back, he intercepted the mole, who froze upon seeing him.
"Mr. Han," Jae-min said smoothly, his voice low but commanding. "Enjoying the evening?"
The man stammered, his hand trembling as he set down his drink. "M-Mr. Jae-min, I… I didn't expect to see you here."
"Clearly," Jae-min replied, stepping closer. His gaze was sharp, pinning the man in place. "Let's take this somewhere private, shall we?"
---
In a secluded corner of the hotel, Jae-min cornered the man, his tone turning icy. "You've been leaking my company's data to Noah. Why?"
"I had no choice!" the man blurted, panic etched on his face. "He threatened my family. He… he paid me, too, but I didn't want to—"
"Enough excuses," Jae-min interrupted. His patience was thin, but his mind worked quickly.
Elyra's voice buzzed in his ear. "He's telling the truth. Noah's using blackmail. We could use this."
Jae-min stepped back, his expression softening slightly. "You're going to help me expose Noah. If you do, I'll ensure your family is safe, and your involvement will stay hidden."
The man hesitated but eventually nodded, tears of relief forming in his eyes.
---
Back in the main hall, Noah noticed Jae-min's absence and smirked. He turned to Soo-min. "Prepare for the announcement. This is my stage tonight."
However, Jae-min returned just as Noah took the stage for his grand reveal. With a slight nod to Ji-ah, who had discreetly connected to the venue's AV system, Jae-min gave the signal.
As Noah began speaking, the massive screen behind him suddenly flickered. His smile faltered as text appeared: **"Truth Revealed: The Dark Secrets of Noah's Empire."**
Gasps filled the hall as a series of documents, audio recordings, and videos played, exposing Noah's illegal dealings, blackmail, and corruption.
Noah's face turned pale as the crowd erupted in whispers and shock. Soo-min quickly tried to cut the feed, but it was too late. Jae-min stood at the edge of the room, his expression calm as chaos unfolded.
---
Later that night, Ji-ah clinked her glass against Jae-min's. "You really know how to steal a show."
Jae-min smirked. "The truth always wins, Ji-ah. Noah wanted a stage, so I gave him one."
As the city lights sparkled outside, Jae-min knew this was just the beginning of his war with Noah. But tonight, he had taken a decisive step forward.