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Favoured By Thunder

Summary:

AU where Kayden and Seo Jiwoo meet way earlier than the actual timeline. Where Jiwoo is just a little girl in Kayden's eyes no matter how much Jiwoo grows up or becomes strong (O you heard it right Seo Jiwoo is a girl, why just for fun in plot).

First time writing a fic.

Also english is not my main language so sorry for grammatical errors in advance.

Chapter 1

Notes:

(See the end of the chapter for notes.)

Chapter Text

For the first time in life Kayden felt like respecting someone, especially the single parents. Never in a million years did he think that he would ever need to take care of a baby, why? Because he was an Awakener who does not care about other things at all. His life goal was to simply challenge strong opponents and train to get more stronger to challenge even stronger opponents. 

 

But here he is taking care of a baby.

 

First two weeks were most difficult since he did not have any prior experience with taking care of kids let alone a baby. In his opinion it was completely a disaster and somehow he managed to adjust his life with this new addition in his life.

 

It all happened a few months ago. As usual Kayden was challenged by some random awaken and Kayden killed his opponent in the duel which was pretty much normal in an awakener's life. Where getting killed or being heavily injured was pretty much normal. 

 

But soon Kayden was ambushed by an organization who were here to avenge death for their member as for Kayden this situation was in his favour since he was still itching to have battle and Kayden despite being ambushed became the final winner where everyone else were killed. 

 

To Kayden's surprise, a sudden blast of energy took him off guard and he got injured. One of the awakeners was still alive (barely alive) and used his last moment to create a powerful blast to kill Kayden. Kayden, who defeated his enemies, was recovering his energy and didn't notice there was still someone alive and got injured in the energy blast. The injury itself was not major but the blood loose was making it dangerous as time was passing. He himself never thought to make such a rookie mistake.

 

That left Kayden no choice but to postpone his plan for the next battle and recover in the meantime. 

 

While Kayden was recovering in shelter he noticed some awakener presence. He could not recognize this energy signature ‘must be someone new, but who?’. Rather than thinking, he decided to check it himself to find out if it was ‘an enemy or just some random awakeners’. 

 

To Kayden's surprise they were some random rookie awakeners fighting in daylight without concealing their presence. What kind of idiots they were, seeing they did not care about hiding their presence by using spatial isolation. It was  common to hide their presence from non-awakener people.

 

Even if they were not capable of making spatial isolation, those idiots should fight somewhere less crowded ‘well this area comes in this category since at that time period of day this whole neighborhood is almost empty’ but still there could be some common people. 

 

Kayden may be a battle junkie but he never involves normal people in fights and never tries to make unnecessary casualties. 

 

Kayden decided to leave this matter to the local awakener organization since any awakener in the vicinity could feel those idiots' energy on rampage. This whole area turned into crumpled and rubble. He could hear some screams from different directions.

 

“HELP”

 

“?”

 

“Help... SAVE US” “wa..aah”

 

“???”

 

“Someone please save us”

 

Kayden could hear some muffle screams from the rubble. Kayden being an awakener his senses were good including hearing and he heard some muffle scream and cry of a kid.

 

After searching in rubble for some time he found a woman and a child. The woman saved the little kid from rubble by covering the kid with her own body. But her own condition was worse. She was covered in blood smearing some on the kid as well her eyes were heavy like any moment they would be close.

 

she muttered her last word with tears in her eyes before collapsing away which was “save my child” Kayden took the child without any thought. “bye Seo Jiwoo” the woman mumbled in such a low voice no one could hear normally, but Kayden heard it. After saying her last word she collapses and before Kayden could do anything he notices other awakener energy signatures coming rapidly to their location and those idiots are still fighting without any care. 

 

Kayden decides to leave with the kid without anyone noticing him.

 

Kayden was back to his hideout and the first thing he did was to check child health. After making sure the child was not injured just sleeping, maybe from exhaustion, Kayden finally released his breath in relief. He himself did not know he was holding breath unconsciously.

 


 

At first Kayden decided to leave the child to some orphan house or social child service but for some reason his heart could not agree. Kayden had never liked kids neither he had any experience in taking care of them and his situation made it even worse for raising a kid. 

 

Kayden has many enemies and it will only increase as time goes. He is constantly moving in search of a stronger opponent to challenge. He could not think of himself other than training or fighting. ‘Seo Jiwoo what should i do with you’ Kayden broke from deep thoughts when the baby suddenly cried.

 

“WAAAH……WAAAAA”

 

Jiwoo's face was a little red and skin was a little hot like fever. Kayden thought something was wrong with Jiwoo. 

 

Not wanting to take any risk on child health he ran to the nearest clinic after putting on a cap and mask. After checkup nothing was serious, just mild fever from the stress? doctor reassuring him. Baby was calm now.

 

“What an adorable child, what's her name?” said a nurse. “Seo Jiwoo,” Kayden replied. 

 

“Such a lovely name” 

 

“Where is the mother?” There was no malice in her question, just pure curiosity.

 

“She passed away”

 

The nurse felt sad for the man and child for their loss. “Would you like to know how to take care of a baby?” And she began to explain how to take care of a kid without waiting for a reply and Kayden listened carefully. 

 

After buying necessities for the baby Kayden made the decision to keep it. If Kayden past self heard him he probably thinks he has lost his mind.

 

His situation is already dangerous for him alone and now keeping the baby could only be trouble and there was risk to their lives. Having weakness only made him more easier target. A rational decision would be to leave the child at an orphan house or any adoption service where her life would be more safe but for some reason Kayden did not like the idea.

 

What did he not like? the child could have a normal life away from him or it was own selfishness that he was not ready for separation.

 

“Haaaa..” 

 

Not even a day was complete how I could become attached. But seeing the baby sleeping carefully in his arms, reminded him of his childhood, which was completely opposite. He himself was an orphan and after becoming an awakener he lost the little support and love he got from the orphan house. 

 

He never cared about any type of bond be it friendship or familial, he was enjoying his life as an awakener and was strong enough to support himself in any way. But seeing the child smiling at him innocently and when she laughed while her tiny cubby hand grabbed his finger something raw awakened in him.

 

He made the decision to keep the baby, it was completely reckless. Still he was determined to do it but some things had to be taken care of like her existence would be hidden from the world and they would need new identities for both of them and some minor change in his living arrangement.

 

Kayden also needed to train even harder to become stronger even more quickly, both their lives are on stack and he will also train kid when she would be at an appropriate age. Don’t get him wrong, the world is like that. 

 

If you are not strong enough you would only lose things be it rights, freedom, money and even your own life.

 

In a few days Kayden completed the paperwork now they are ‘SEO FAMILY’ his daughter's name is ‘Seo Jiwoo’ still the same name to honor her real mother whom he don’t even know and his new identity is ‘Seo Kelvin’ half korean which is true.

 

And now Kayden is leaving this country for their next destination.

Notes:

hello this is my first time writing an fic and this story is just some random idea hope you like it.
also if you have any suggestion please leave them in comment box suggestions are always welcome.
Do not re-post this work
<( ⸝⸝•̀ - •́⸝⸝)>

Chapter 2

Notes:

This chapter has a different phase of the infancy of Seo Jiwoo. Order would also be random.

(age from three-months to a year).

⸜(。˃ ᵕ ˂ )⸝♡

(See the end of the chapter for more notes.)

Chapter Text

For the first time in life Kayden felt like respecting someone, especially the single parents. Never in a million years did he think that he would ever need to take care of a baby, why? Because he was an Awakener who does not care about other things at all. His life goal was to simply challenge strong opponents and train to get more stronger to challenge even stronger opponents. 

 

But here he is taking care of his daughter ‘Seo Jiwoo’.

 

It's been a few months they are living in a new country with new identities Kayden finally adjusting to his new routine. First few days were the most exhausting, Jiwoo is a sweet child but a baby is still a baby who needs constant care all the time. And for some reason babies are more active at night like why? Even though Kayden could go a few days without sleep at all, never in his life have been exhausted like this and had extreme lack of sleep in the first two weeks. 

 

Kayden's eyes were weary, with dark circles due to lack of sleep. There were nights when her cries would echo through the apartment, and he’d pace back and forth, cradling her until she finally drifted off to sleep. 

 

Yet, every time seeing his daughter would melt away all exhaustion when She looked up at him with her big trusting doe eyes and let out a happy squeal, her version of a laugh.

 

In a few months Kayden's life completely took a whole new turn. Becoming a dad and raising a child had been anything but easy. Whenever she looked up at him and let out a happy squeal Kayden would feel something warm in his chest and would have a soft smile without him noticing but it did not escape child eyes and she in return his smile with her own smile.

 


 

Today was particularly special. Jiwoo had started attempting to crawl a few weeks ago, and Kayden could see her determination growing every day. He placed a plush bunny a few feet away from her. 

 

“Come on, Jiwoo. You can do it” 

 

He encouraged softly, clapping his hands. She looked at the bunny, then at him, as if weighing her options. 

 

She shifted onto her hands and knees, rocking back and forth for a moment. Kayden held his breath, silently cheering her on. 

 

With a grunt of effort, she moved one hand forward, then the other. Her knees shuffled clumsily behind her, and in a matter of seconds, she reached the bunny.

 

“You did it!” 

 

Kayden exclaimed, scooping her up and twirling her around. Jiwoo giggled, clutching the bunny in her tiny hands, her joy mirrored in her father’s face. 

 

As the days passed, Kayden noticed more milestones unfolding before his eyes. Making his days more special. 

 

Challenging and defeating a strong opponent used to be his only moment where he was happy and felt like an accomplishment or would feel excited (battle manic LOL) but now everything Jiwoo achieves becomes a new reason for happiness too, no matter how small. 

 

Whether it was her first belly laugh or the way she now reached for him with outstretched arms when she wanted to be held, every moment was a reminder of how far they had come together.

 

One evening, while he was folding laundry, he saw Jiwoo pulling herself up on the edge of the couch. Her chubby legs wobbled like jelly, but she stood there, triumphant and proud. 

 

“Whoa, look at you” 

 

Kayden said, dropping the shirt in his hands. He crouched beside her, ready to catch her if she fell.

 

Jiwoo’s grip on the couch tightened as she took a tentative step sideways. Her little legs quivered, and she plopped back down on her diapered bottom with a surprised expression. Kayden chuckled, clapping his hands. 

 

“Almost there, superstar. You’ve got this.”

 

With new determination and with spark in her doe eyes she stood again with all her might. Legs quivering and took a few more steps before plopping again and looking at Kayden with teary eyes. Kayden just laughs at the moment. Taking his daughter in his arms.

 


 

Kayden, currently in the nursery, sat cross-legged on the floor, surrounded by an array of soft toys, and colorful baby books. Kayden was training his force control while his daughter was sleeping peacefully in her crib, her soft and stable breath was only noise in the silence of dead night. Kayden noticed in the last few days Jiwoo is crying more and eating less. She also needs more attention or she would cry. Is Jiwoo sick or is she feeling uncomfortable? 

 

Only after checking with the doctor Kayden found out she was teething, making her gums sore and painful. 

 

He watched as Jiwoo brought the teether to her mouth, her gums working determinedly. 

 

“Those teeth giving you trouble, huh, munchkin?” 

 

He said, while brushing a wisp of her light cream hair out of her face.

 

“We’re doing okay, kiddo” 

 

He murmured, placing a kiss on her forehead. And in the quiet of their little apartment.

 


 

The morning sunlight filtered through the thin curtains of the apartment, bathing the small living room in a warm glow. Kayden, who fell asleep on the sofa with his daughter in his arms, didn't move.

 

She was asleep on him while her left cheek was squished on his muscle. Drool escaping from her tiny mouth. Seeing his adorable daughter in such a cute manner as the first thing in morning would instantly improve Kayden's mood. And seeing her after three days only made him indulge in the moment more.

 


 

The warm spring sun cast a golden glow over the city as Kayden adjusted the stroller’s canopy, shielding his four-month-old daughter, Jiwoo, from the gentle rays. 

 

He glanced at his reflection in the shop window, chuckling softly at his appearance. His usually dark blue hair was hidden beneath a ‘Light cream’ wig, perfectly matching Jiwoo’s fine, wispy locks. His eyes were also the same as Jiwoo ‘Amber’ using contact lens and finally a mask to cover half of his face.

 

Whenever Kayden goes outside he uses this disguise so other Awakeners would not recognise him even after seeing him. Kayden has been in this disguise the moment he shifts in this neighborhood. Except for his daughter no one is aware of his actual appearance.

 

“Alright, munchkin” 

 

He said, bending down to where Jiwoo lay gurgling in her stroller. 

 

“Dad’s in incognito mode”

 

Their first stop was the small corner shop where Kayden planned to grab a few essentials. Inside, the cashier, an elderly woman with a kind face, looked up and smiled. 

 

“Well, don’t you two look adorable!” 

 

she said, leaning over the counter to wave at Jiwoo.

 

Jiwoo’s eyes widened, captivated by the cashier’s jingling bracelet. She kicked her little legs in excitement, drawing a laugh from both Kayden and the woman.

 

“She’s a heart-stealer, that one,” Kayden said, handing over a few items.

 

“Takes after her mom.”

 

“And her dad, no doubt,” the woman replied warmly, ringing up the goods.

 

With their shopping done, Kayden pushed the stroller toward the park, a large green space filled with families, joggers, and picnicking couples. The soft hum of life surrounded them, and Kayden found a shaded spot beneath a sprawling oak tree. He laid out a small blanket and gently lifted little Jiwoo from the stroller.

 

“Here we go, little adventurer” 

 

He said, settling her on the blanket. Jiwoo’s eyes darted around, taking in the dappled sunlight filtering through the leaves, the laughter of children, and the distant sound of a fountain.

 

It wasn’t long before a curious visitor arrived. A sleek black-and-white cat, likely a local park dweller, padded over, its tail held high. Kayden watched as the cat sniffed cautiously at the edge of the blanket before sitting down, its green eyes fixed on Jiwoo.

 

“Looks like you’ve made a friend,” Kayden said, amused.

 

Jiwoo let out an excited squeal, her tiny hands reaching for the cat. The feline, surprisingly patient, leaned forward, allowing Jiwoo’s fingers to brush its fur. Her touch was clumsy but gentle, and the cat responded with a soft purr.

 

“Easy there, kiddo,” Kayden said, laughing as he watched the interaction. 

 

“Not every cat is this nice.”

 

The sight of his daughter giggling, her face alight with pure joy, filled Kayden’s heart. He reached for his phone, capturing the moment as Jiwoo’s hand lightly patted the cat’s back. The cat, seemingly enjoying the attention, curled up beside her on the blanket, its eyes half-closed in contentment.

 

As the afternoon wore on, Kayden and Jiwoo explored more of the park, stopping to admire flowers and watch ducks waddling by the pond. Jiwoo’s eyes grew heavy, her little body relaxing against Kayden’s chest as he carried her back to the stroller.

 

“I’d call that a successful outing,” 

 

he murmured, tucking her into the stroller and adjusting her blanket. The light cream wig and mask were a little askew by now, but he couldn’t care less. The day had been perfect.

 

With the sun beginning to set, they headed home, Kayden humming a soft tune as Jiwoo dozed peacefully. He couldn’t wait to tell her about this day when she was older—her first big adventure.

 


 

Kayden sat cross-legged on the living room floor, his seven-month-old daughter, Jiwoo, perched securely in front of him. She was propped up by a cushy pillow, her tiny feet kicking excitedly as she stared at her father. Her wide eyes sparkled, and her drooling grin seemed to dare him to keep entertaining her.

 

Jiwoo, for her part, had been making new noises all day, little coos and babbles that Kayden swore were starting to sound like words. As she gurgled, she suddenly let out a sound that caught Ethan’s attention.

 

“Daaa,” Jiwoo said, her lips pursing as if trying to figure out what came next.

 

Kayden’s heart leapt. “Yes! That’s it! Daaaad,” he said, his voice full of encouragement. 

 

“Come on, munchkin, you can do it. Say Dad.”

 

Jiwoo tilted her head, her little brow furrowing as she concentrated. “Daaa…” she tried again. Kayden leaned closer, grinning with anticipation.

 

“Daaa…mn!” Jiwoo declared with sudden clarity, her voice triumphant.

 

Kayden froze. “No way,” he muttered, blinking rapidly. “Did she just say… damn?”

 

Jiwoo beamed, clearly proud of her accomplishment, while Kayden groaned, running a hand over his face. “Oh no, no, no,” he said, laughing despite himself. 

 

“I knew I’d regret cursing in front of you. Of all the words, that’s the one you pick for your first?”

 

Jiwoo giggled, seemingly amused by her father’s reaction. Kayden shook his head, his laugh growing louder. 

 

“Alright, kiddo. Let’s fix this. We’re not stopping until your next word is ‘Dad.’ Got it?”

 

He took a deep breath, determined. “Okay, here we go. Say it with me: Daaaad. Come on, Jiwoo. Daaaad.”

 

Jiwoo’s eyes sparkled as she watched him, her little mouth working to imitate the sound. “Daaa…” she started again, pausing dramatically.

 

Kayden held his breath, leaning in.

 

“Dad!” she finally said, her voice bright and confident.

 

“Yes!” Jiwoo shouted, throwing his hands in the air like he’d just won a championship. “You did it! That’s my girl!”

 

Scooping her up, he spun her around gently, both of them laughing. “Your second word, and it’s a winner. Forget that first one. We’re just going to pretend it didn’t happen.”

 

Jiwoo babbled happily, her tiny hands grabbing at his face. Kayden kissed her chubby cheek, shaking his head with a grin. ‘Alright, no more swearing around you. Lesson learned. Clean language from here on out. Deal?’

Notes:

After reading this chapter you guys must have feel like Kayden is being out of character but it's not, i promise he is still our battle manic, sly mastermind, handsome face, lazy ass, hardworking, genius Kayden break (this was not an insult, just my way of praising him).
(˶˃ ᵕ ˂˶)
Now why he behaving like that, the answer is simple even in original story Kayden and Seo Jiwoo have more than mentor-student relationship like an actual parent-child relationship, where Kayden become an father figure to Jiwoo and guide him in awaken world like normal parents prepare their child for actual world, That's what i thought.

As for age gap between Kayden and Seo Jiwoo i want your opinion.
in original story (according to google) Seo jiwoo is 16 or 17 where Kayden and Kartine are between 30 -35 year old even if they look like 25 so i decided option :
A. 18 year age gap
B. 17 year age gap

The choice is yours (use comment section and time limit is week after that answer will be finalized)
ദ്ദി(˵ •̀ ᴗ - ˵ ) ✧

Chapter 3

Notes:

(See the end of the chapter for notes.)

Chapter Text

The gym bag sat by the door, packed and ready. Kayden stood in the living room, bouncing his one-year-old daughter, Jiwoo, on his hip. 

 

“Alright, munchkin, you’re about to meet someone new” 

 

He said, his tone both playful and nervous. Jiwoo tilted her head at him, her wide, curious eyes locked on his face. Her chubby fingers reached for his nose, a favorite target of hers.

 

The doorbell rang, and Kayden exhaled deeply. 

 

“Here goes nothing.” 

 

He shifted Jiwoo to his other arm and opened the door.

 

Standing there was the nanny whom he hired for Jiwoo, taking care of her in his absence for the next few days. She was in her early thirties, with warm brown eyes and a friendly smile. Her name was Clara, and she held a colorful tote bag brimming with toys and books.

 

“Hi, Mr. Kelvin. You must be Jiwoo” 

 

Clara said, crouching slightly to Jiwoo’s level. 

 

“I’ve heard so much about you.”

 

Jiwoo's response was immediate: she buried her face in Kayden’s chest, peeking out occasionally like a shy kitten.

 

“Oh, she’s a little wary of new people” 

 

Kayden explained, rubbing Jiwoo’s back. 

 

“Don’t take it personally.”

 

“That’s perfectly normal,” Clara said, her tone reassuring. She reached into her bag and pulled out a small, plush dinosaur. 

 

“Would you like to meet Dino Dan?”

 

Jiwoo peeked out again, her eyes fixating on the toy. Clara wiggled it playfully, making a soft roaring sound. Slowly, Jiwoo extended a hand and grabbed the dinosaur’s tail, her tiny fingers testing its softness.

 

“That’s a good start,” Kayden said with a laugh. 

 

“She’s usually not this quick to warm up.”

 

Clara grinned. “It’s all about the right introduction.”

 

Kayden set Jiwoo down on the carpeted floor, where she sat clutching the dinosaur. Clara joined her, sitting cross-legged and pulling out a book with bold, colorful illustrations. 

 

“Do you want to read a story about Dino Dan’s adventures?”

 

Jiwoo looked up at Kayden, as if seeking approval. He crouched down beside her. 

 

“It’s okay, kiddo. Clara’s here to take care of you while I’m gone. She’ll read you all the stories you want.”

 

Jiwoo’s gaze shifted back to Clara, her expression a mix of curiosity and caution. Clara began reading, her animated voice bringing the story to life. As the tale unfolded, Jiwoo scooted closer, eventually climbing into Clara’s lap with the dinosaur still in hand.

 

Kayden watched the scene with a mix of relief and amusement. 

 

“Well, that’s faster progress than I expected.”

 

Clara looked up from the book, her smile warm. 

 

“She’s a sweetheart. I think we’ll get along just fine.”

 

“I’m counting on it,” Kayden said, standing up

 

“I’ve got an emergency at work, so I’ll be gone for a few days. But I’ll call every night to check in.”

 

Jiwoo, now fully engrossed in the story, barely noticed as Kayden moved toward the door. He hesitated, turning back for one last look. 

 

“Be good for Clara, munchkin. Daddy’s going to bring back lots of choco.”

 

At the word “choco,” Jiwoo looked up, her tiny mouth forming an “oh.” She reached out a hand, as if to say “Don’t go.”

 

Kayden’s heart twisted, but Clara stepped in seamlessly. “Let’s draw a picture of the Daddy while he’s gone. That way, he can see it when he comes back.”

 

Jiwoo’s hand lowered, and she nodded solemnly, as though this was a very serious mission.

 

Kayden chuckled. “Thanks, Clara. You’re a lifesaver.”

 

As the door closed behind him, Kayden felt a pang of guilt mixed with pride. He knew leaving wasn’t easy, but seeing Jiwoo already bonding with Clara made it just a little bit easier. For now, his focus was on the fight ahead—and coming home to his little girl with stories of his own adventures.

 


 

The air was thick with tension, the kind that prickled the skin and set every nerve alight. The wide, desolate arena was a battlefield of cracked concrete and scattered debris, illuminated by the stark, cold glow of floodlights. In the center stood Kayden, his dark blue hair turning silver catching the light, his sharp, dark blue eyes fixed on his opponent turning its colour into vibrant blue —a hulking man known as Helvar, a notorious awakener whose sheer strength had toppled countless foes.

 

Kayden’s reputation was still building, but whispers of his skill had begun to spread like wildfire. This fight, like so many before. 

 

(A/N: This was another stepping stone in solidifying his name in the awakened world.)

 

Helvar grinned, his teeth bared like a predator. “You’ve got guts showing up here, Kayden. They say you’re fast, but speed won’t save you when I get my hands on you.”

 

Kayden smirked, his stance relaxed but radiating confidence. “You talk too much. Let’s see if you can back it up.”

 

Helvar roared, the ground beneath him shattering as he charged forward, his massive frame blurring with the force of his movement. His fist, the size of a boulder, swung toward Kayden with devastating power.

 

But Kayden was faster.

 

With a sharp crackle of energy, he disappeared from Helvar’s line of sight, reappearing a split second later behind him. A brilliant arc of electricity danced across his fingers as he struck out, aiming for the pressure points along Helvar’s spine. The impact sent a shockwave rippling through the arena, forcing the spectators to shield their eyes.

 

Helvar grunted in pain but spun around with surprising agility, his elbow lashing out in a sweeping arc. Kayden ducked, the blow missing him by a hair, and retaliated with a sharp kick to Helvar’s knee. The giant stumbled, his balance faltering for just a moment, but his resilience was undeniable.

 

“Not bad” 

 

Helvar growled, wiping a trickle of blood from the corner of his mouth. 

 

“But you’re still just a mosquito buzzing around. Let’s see how you handle this.”

 

With a deafening roar, Helvar slammed his fists into the ground. The earth groaned in protest, and jagged spikes of rock shot up, tearing through the arena in a chaotic surge. Kayden leapt into the air, a streak of lightning against the dark sky, narrowly avoiding the onslaught. He hovered for a moment, electricity crackling around him like a living storm.

 

“Nice trick,” Kayden said, his voice echoing with the hum of power. “But it’s not enough.”

 

He raised his hand, and the air grew charged, the scent of ozone thick and sharp. A massive bolt of lightning coalesced above him, its light blinding. With a flick of his wrist, Kayden hurled it toward Helvar. The bolt struck with an ear-splitting crack, enveloping the giant in a torrent of energy.

 

When the light faded, Helvar was on one knee, his body smoking, his breath ragged. Yet, he wasn’t done. With sheer willpower, he rose to his feet, his eyes blazing with determination.

 

“You’ve got some nerve, kid,” he said, his voice strained but defiant. “But I’m not going down that easy.”

 

Kayden landed softly, his expression calm but his eyes alight with a predatory gleam. 

 

“Good. I’d be disappointed if you did.”

 

Helvar charged again, his movements slower but still formidable. This time, Kayden didn’t dodge. He met the attack head-on, their fists colliding with a thunderous impact that shook the arena. Sparks flew as Kayden’s electricity clashed with Helvar’s raw power, the energy between them creating a blinding spectacle.

 

With a final surge of power, Kayden twisted, his hand enveloped in a concentrated burst of lightning. He struck Helvar square in the chest, the force sending the giant crashing to the ground. The arena fell silent, save for the hum of residual energy and Kayden’s steady breathing.

 

Helvar groaned, unable to rise. 

 

“Damn…” he muttered, a grudging respect in his voice.

 

Kayden stood over him, his posture relaxed but commanding. 

 

“Stay down,” he said, his voice low and firm. “You’re done.”

 

As the crowd erupted into cheers, Kayden turned and walked away, his fame rising with each step. He didn’t need to look back to know the fight had cemented his place among the strongest. But for him, it wasn’t about the applause. It was about the thrill of the fight, the test of his skill, and the unrelenting drive to be the best.

 

And tonight, he had proven once again that he was a force to be reckoned with.

 


 

After returning home from his so-called emergency work AKA his duel with the awakener baste.. Havel. Kayden made a grand entry with choco for Jiwoo and his baby girl eyes are sparkling like stars. 

 

Next few days were spent peacefully. While little Jiwoo was bored at home and wanted some fun, Kayden was busy, the last few days with special work (AKA training). Thus taking her little dino into the living room as Jiwoo toddled around, began to exploring her little kingdom.

 

The phone, lying on the coffee table, began to buzz. Kayden, who had training in the basement, wasn’t around to pick it up. Jiwoo’s big, curious eyes fixed on the vibrating device. She had seen her daddy use it a few times and even taught about her since she was smart according to her daddy.

 

She waddled over, stretching her tiny hand to grab it. After a few determined attempts, she finally managed to swipe the screen and answer.

 

“Eh-oh?” Jiwoo chirped into the phone, clutching it tightly.

 

There was a moment of silence before a cheerful voice responded. “Uh, hello? This is Ravi from FastTrack Delivery. Can I confirm I’m speaking with… Mr. Kelvin?”

 

“Daaaa!” Jiwoo replied confidently, her baby babble spilling into the line. (Translation: "Dad!")

 

Ravi chuckled on the other end. “Oh, I see. Well, hello there! Are you Mr. Kelvin’s assistant?”

 

Jiwoo clapped her tiny hands, clearly enjoying the conversation. “Yeshhh!” she exclaimed.

 

“Wow, it’s an honor to speak to you,” Ravi said, playing along. 

 

“Can you let me know if your dad is available? I just need to confirm something about your delivery.”

 

“Ba-ba-na!” Jiwoo declared. ("Banana!")

 

“Bananas, huh? Well, I’ll make sure that’s noted in the special instructions. Anything else?”

 

“Bluuu dooo!” Jiwoo babbled, nodding earnestly. ("Blue door!")

 

Meanwhile, Kayden quietly walked into the room, freezing when he saw Jiwoo holding the phone. At first, he panicked, but as he caught snippets of her enthusiastic chatter, he couldn’t help but grin. He quickly pulled out his other phone and began recording the scene, careful not to make a sound.

 

“Miss Jiwoo, you’re doing an amazing job,” Ravi continued. 

 

“Can I ask what your favorite toy is? I might add a note for the delivery driver to include something extra fun.”

 

Jiwoo paused, then raised her stuffed cat triumphantly. “Mowww!” she said. ("Meow!")

 

Ravi laughed. “Got it! A cat toy it is. You’re really running this operation, aren’t you?”

 

Jiwoo beamed, clearly pleased with herself. She suddenly noticed Kayden standing nearby, recording her with his phone. 

 

“Da-da!” she exclaimed, pointing at him.

 

Ravi heard her and laughed. “Oh, is that Dad? Hi there, Mr. Kelvin! You’ve got a great assistant here.”

 

Kayden finally stepped in, taking the phone from Jiwoo while still laughing. “Hi, Ravi. Sorry about that. My daughter decided to handle the call for me.”

 

“No need to apologize,” Ravi said. “She’s an excellent communicator! You’ve got a future BOSS on your hands.”

 

Kayden glanced at Jiwoo, who was now poking at the phone screen, still very proud of herself. 

 

“Yeah, she’s something else,” he said warmly. 

 

“Thanks for being a good sport.”

 

“Anytime,” Ravi replied. “Tell Miss Jiwoo it was a pleasure doing business with her.”

 

Kayden ended the call and scooped Jiwoo into his arms. “You little troublemaker,” he teased, kissing her on the forehead. 

 

“Taking calls for me now? Maybe I should put you on the payroll.”

 

Jiwoo giggled, grabbing his nose and declaring, “Mowww!”

 

“Yeah, yeah, I know,” Kayden said, laughing as he set her down. “Let’s go get your banana, you little businesswoman.”  

 


 

The morning sun streamed through the curtains, casting a golden glow across the living room. Kayden stood in the middle of the space, surveying the chaotic yet cheerful scene. Brightly colored balloons floated against the ceiling, and a handmade banner (made by Clara) that read “Happy 1st Birthday, Jiwoo!” was draped across the wall. The room was a whirlwind of colors, but it was perfect.

 

Jiwoo, now one year old, was perched in her high chair, her wide eyes darting between the decorations and the little cake sitting on the table before her. The cake was a modest, single-tier confection covered in pastel frosting and topped with a candle in the shape of a “1.”

 

Jiwoo's eyes were shining even if did not know what a birthday celebration means. She was happy and excited by everything going around.

 

“Alright, Jiwoo,” Kayden said with a grin as he adjusted his party hat. “It’s your big day. Ready to make some memories?”

 

Jiwoo’s response was a gleeful squeal as she smacked her hands on the tray of her high chair. Kayden chuckled, leaning over to light the candle.

 

“Okay, munchkin, time to make a wish. Well, I guess I’ll make it for you since you’re still figuring out this whole word thing.” He closed his eyes dramatically. “I wish for Jiwoo to always be as happy and healthy as she is today.”

 

Jiwoo babbled in agreement, or so Kayden liked to think. He blew out the candle and gave her a round of applause, which she eagerly mimicked by clapping her tiny hands together.

 

Next came the cake. Kayden carefully cut a small slice, placing it on a plate in front of Jiwoo. She poked at it curiously before grabbing a handful and smashing it between her fingers. A chunk ended up in her mouth, and her delighted expression was priceless.

 

“Is that good, sweetheart?” Kayden asked, laughing. Jiwoo responded by smearing frosting on her cheek, making him laugh even harder.

 

Once the cake chaos was cleaned up, it was time for presents. Kayden brought out a wrapped box and placed it on the floor. Jiwoo crawled over, her little fingers tugging at the paper with enthusiasm. Inside was a stuffed orange cat with brown stripes that looked suspiciously like Kayden in little Jiwoo eyes, complete with lightning bolt patches on its sides.

 

(A/N: It’s casein Nitrate reference LOL, with little minor change )

 

“What do you think?” Kayden asked, holding it up. Jiwoo grabbed the toy and hugged it tightly, burying her face in its soft fur.

 

“Yeah, I thought you’d like that,” he said softly, his heart swelling.

 

The rest of the day was filled with activities Clara had planned just for them. They built a fort out of cushions in the living room, crawled through it together, and played an enthusiastic game of peekaboo that had Jiwoo shrieking with laughter. In the afternoon, Kayden set up a small bubble machine on the balcony. Jiwoo’s face lit up as she watched the bubbles float around, her chubby hands reaching out to pop them.

 

“Got it!” Kayden cheered as she managed to swat one. “You’re a natural, Jiwoo.”

 

As the day wound down, Kayden carried Jiwoo to the rocking chair in her nursery. She was snug in her pajamas, her stuffed cat tucked under one arm. Kayden rocked her gently, humming a lullaby as her eyes began to droop.

 

“Happy birthday, my little miracle,” he whispered, kissing her forehead. “Here’s to many more adventures together.”

 

Jiwoo let out a contented sigh, her tiny hand resting against his chest as she drifted off to sleep. And in that quiet moment, Kayden couldn’t imagine a greater gift than being her dad.

 


 

The cozy glow of the living room bathed the room as Clara and Jiwoo sat together on a soft rug. Jiwoo clutched her favorite stuffed cat in one hand, her wide eyes glued to Clara, who was dramatically recounting the story of The Lion King.

 

“And then,” Clara said, leaning closer to Jiwoo, “the mighty lion roared across the savannah, claiming his kingdom!” 

 

She threw her head back and let out a loud, exaggerated roar. “Roooaaarrrr!”

 

Jiwoo’s eyes grew impossibly wider, her tiny hands covering her mouth in awe. Inspired, she put down her stuffed toy, puffed out her little chest, and attempted her own version. 

 

“Raaaarrr!” 

 

she squeaked, her baby voice high-pitched and impossibly cute.

 

Clara burst out laughing, clutching her stomach. “Oh no, Jiwoo, that’s too adorable!” she said, curling up on the floor as though overcome by Jiwoo’s cuteness.

 

Jiwoo paused, tilting her head. Misunderstanding Clara’s reaction, she nodded seriously. “Scawee,” she declared with a firm nod. ("Scary.") Clearly, she believed her roar had terrified Clara. A newfound confidence sparked in her eyes.

 

Jiwoo toddled off, her little feet padding determinedly to find her next target. Her father, Kayden, was sprawled on the couch, engrossed in a book. He looked up just as Jiwoo approached, her face set in what she probably thought was a fierce expression.

 

“Raaarrrr!” Jiwoo squeaked again, lifting her arms and attempting her most ferocious lion gesture.

 

Kayden blinked, startled. Then, as the realization of her intention dawned on him, his stern expression melted. He clutched his chest, staggering back in mock defeat. 

 

“Oh no! The terrifying lion has got me!” he said dramatically, dropping onto the couch and then sliding to the floor.

 

Jiwoo watched him fall with wide eyes, her tiny jaw dropping. She toddled closer, patting his cheek with her chubby hand. 

 

“No scawee,” she reassured him proudly. ("Not scary.")

 

Kayden cracked an eye open and bit back a laugh. 

 

“Oh, Jiwoo, you’re the most ferocious lion I’ve ever seen,” he said, his voice brimming with affection.

 

Jiwoo nodded solemnly, clearly taking his words to heart. She turned back to Clara, who had recovered from her fit of laughter and was now sitting up.

 

“Rawr,” Jiwoo said again, pointing to herself with a little grin. ("Roar.")

 

“Yes, my little cub,” Clara said, smiling. “You’re the scariest lion in the whole pride.”

 

Jiwoo puffed out her chest again, her pride practically radiating from her tiny form. As she toddled off to resume her playtime, both Clara and Kayden exchanged a look and burst out laughing, their hearts utterly stolen by the cutest ‘scary’ lion they’d ever seen.

Notes:

How it was the cute doss of Little Jiwoo (˶ᵔ ᵕ ᵔ˶)

I have exams next month but i am more interested in writing this story, i don't know why. technically this story has been in my mind for few months but i only got motivated when exam are near. Is this some kind of witchcraft LOL.
(ᵕ—ᴗ—)

About Halver he is an Awakener famous in awaken society. In original story we only know Kayden is strong and famous when Jiwoo meet him, but here Kayden meet Jiwoo way to earlier. Where Kayden fame is still rising and building and Halver was just one of Awaken Kayden has challenged in past.
Tell me how did you liked fight scene, since i am thinking of adding them in further chapters so if you have any suggestion and addition tell me in comment box below.

Chapter 4

Notes:

(See the end of the chapter for notes.)

Chapter Text

The early morning sun barely peeked over the horizon when Kayden woke with a start, his alarm blaring beside him. Today he had an important task, preparing Jiwoo for her kindergarten. With determination, he got out of bed, stretched, and headed to her room.

 

“Good morning, sunshine” 

 

He said softly as he gently shook Jiwoo awake. She stirred, her amber eyes blinking open sleepiness still present. Jiwoo cutely pouts, demanding more sleep. 

 

“Let's get you ready for school” Kayden said while teasing her.

 

That got Jiwoo in immediate action with excitement. “School day!” she exclaimed, throwing her tiny arms in the air.

 

Kayden smiled, knowing this was going to be a challenge. But he prepared for it.

 

The first hurdle came during breakfast. Jiwoo couldn’t sit still, fidgeting in her seat as she gobbled up her food. 

 

“Slow down, munchkin. We don’t want crumbs in your hair before school” 

 

Kayden warned, already picturing the chaos. He knew Jiwoo was sweet and obedient compared to others in her peers but a toddler in the end would make a mess. Not like Kayden, mind it that much but today was different. Jiwoo would be going to kindergarten everyday which added new schedule in their life.

 

Once they were done, it was time to get her ready. Kayden carefully brushed her light cream-colored hair, styling it into two neat buns. Jiwoo giggled every time the brush tickled her scalp. 

 

“Hold still, Jiwoo,” Kayden said firmly as she kept twisting to look at her reflection.

 

Next came her outfit—a pastel yellow dress with a white collar. Kayden held it up. “Alright, arms up!” he instructed. Jiwoo obeyed, only to immediately dart off before he could finish straightening the hem.

 

(A/N: google it for dress image ) 

 

“Catch me, Daddy!” 

 

she squealed, running around the couch with half the dress still bunched up.

 

“Jiwoo, come back! We’re on a schedule here!” 

 

Kayden groaned, chasing her around the living room. Finally, he caught her and managed to get the dress on properly. She twirled in place, inspecting herself. “Pretty?” she asked.

 

“Very much,” Kayden assured her, though he was already sweating.

 

Just as he was about to put on her shiny white Mary Janes, Jiwoo ran off again. 

 

“Jiwoo! Shoes first, then you can play!” 

 

Kayden called after her. She poked her head around the corner and giggled, eventually coming back after what felt like an eternity.

 

Once the shoes were on and her mint-green backpack was strapped securely, Kayden collapsed on the couch. Jiwoo, however, was still full of energy, running to the mirror and admiring herself. 

 

“I’m ready!” she announced proudly.

 

Kayden took a moment to watch her, smiling at her pure joy. 

 

“You sure are, kiddo” 

 

He said under his breath, grabbing his phone to snap a picture. Jiwoo noticed and struck a pose, grinning from ear to ear.

 

Despite the chaos, Kayden wouldn’t trade this morning for anything. Watching Jiwoo’s excitement made all the running around worth it. “Alright, Jiwoo,” he said, standing up and grabbing her hand. 

 

“Let’s go show the world just how amazing you are.”

 


 

Kayden and Jiwoo were walking side by side. The morning sun casts gentle rays on their face, Their light cream hair shine, giving an afterglow to them. Passerby taking a peek at the father and daughter duo.

 

Kayden holding Jiwoo's hand gently yet firmly in his hold. So Jiwoo would not dart away whenever she saw a stray animal. On her walk to kindergarten Jiwoo would jump once in a while and excitedly wave at passersby, whenever someone was making the same gesture. 

 

After a fifteen minute walk they reach kindergarten. The place was crowded by parents and children likewise. 

 

The kindergarten entrance was buzzing with activity. Parents stood in small groups, chatting nervously while their children clung to their legs or bounced with excitement. Teachers and staff, dressed in bright uniforms with cheerful smiles, greeted the newcomers with balloons, stickers, and a warm 

 

“Welcome to your first day!”

 

Kayden held Jiwoo’s tiny hand as they walked toward the colorful gate decorated with cartoon animals and the words “Happy First Day of Kindergarten!” Jiwoo had been bubbling with excitement all morning, but as they got closer, her steps slowed, and she squeezed Kayden’s hand tighter.

 

“You okay, Jiwoo?” 

 

Kayden asked, crouching to meet her amber-colored doe eyes. She didn’t respond immediately, glancing at the sea of unfamiliar faces. The chatter of other children and the sight of bustling parents suddenly made her small world feel very big.

 

Jiwoo’s grip on Kayden’s hand became vice-like. 

 

“D-Daddy,” she whispered, her voice barely audible. “I don’t know them.”

 

Kayden’s heart ached at her fear, but he gave her a reassuring smile. 

 

“It’s okay, sweetheart. Everyone here is new, just like you. You’ll make friends in no time.”

 

Jiwoo shook her head, her light cream-colored hair swaying in its twin buns. 

 

“No... I stay with you” 

 

She said, her voice quivering. She pressed herself into his leg, burying her face into his jeans.

 

Kayden sighed softly, kneeling to her level again. He gently tucked a stray wisp of hair behind her ear. 

 

“Listen, Jiwoo. I know it’s scary to try something new, but you’re the bravest kid I know. And look,” 

 

He gestured toward a teacher holding out a basket of stickers nearby. 

 

“They’ve got some really cool stuff in there, and I bet they can’t wait to meet you.”

 

Jiwoo peeked out cautiously, her wide eyes scanning the scene. 

 

“What if they don’t like me?” she asked, her voice breaking slightly.

 

“Oh, munchkin,” Kayden said, pulling her into a hug. 

 

“You’re amazing, and anyone would be lucky to have you as a friend. Plus,” he added, lowering his voice conspiratorially. 

 

“If you need me, I’m just a phone call away. And you’ve got your little lion keychain for extra bravery, remember?”

 

Jiwoo nodded, her fingers brushing the tiny stuffed lion attached to her backpack. It had been her comfort object for weeks now.

 

A teacher approached them with a kind smile. 

 

“Good morning! You must be Seo Jiwoo. We’re so excited to have you here,” she said, kneeling down and offering Jiwoo a sticker shaped like a sun. Jiwoo hesitated but eventually reached out to take it, her small fingers trembling.

 

“Can Daddy stay?” Jiwoo asked, her voice soft.

 

Kayden chuckled lightly. 

 

“Not for long, kiddo. But I’ll be right outside if you need me. And when I come back, you can tell me all about your adventures, okay?”

 

Jiwoo looked at him, searching his face for reassurance. Finally, she gave a small nod. Kayden stood up and gave her one last hug, squeezing her tightly. 

 

“I’m so proud of you,” he whispered.

 

As Jiwoo hesitantly stepped toward the teacher, she glanced back at her daddy one last time. 

 

“Promise you come back?” she asked.

 

“Promise,” Kayden said with a smile, crossing his heart.

 

Jiwoo took a deep breath, clutching the strap of her mint-green backpack as she walked through the gate. Kelvin stayed rooted to the spot, watching as his little girl was led to join a group of children. She turned back once, waving at him with a shy but determined smile.

 

Kayden waved back, his heart swelling with pride and a bit of bittersweetness. 

 

“You’ve got this, Jiwoo” 

 

He murmured to himself as he walked back toward the road, knowing his little cub was taking her first steps into a bigger world.

 


 

Kayden stood just outside the kindergarten gates, his sharp eyes scanning the groups of children running out to meet their parents. His expression softened the moment he spotted Jiwoo’s twin buns bouncing through the crowd. Her light cream-colored hair shimmered in the afternoon sun, and her amber-colored eyes lit up the moment she saw him.

 

“Daddy!” 

 

Jiwoo squealed, dropping the hand of the teacher who had been guiding her and darting straight toward him.

 

Kayden crouched, opening his arms just in time for Jiwoo to barrel into him. She wrapped her tiny arms around his neck, giggling uncontrollably. 

 

“You came back!” 

 

She declared as if she’d ever doubted it.

 

“Of course, I did, munchkin. How could I not?” Kayden said, scooping her up effortlessly and settling her on his hip.

 

Jiwoo immediately began to chatter, her words tumbling out in an excited stream as Kayden began the walk home. 

 

“Daddy, guess what? We made handprints with paint! Mine was the best because I added glitter—like, so much glitter!” 

 

She threw her hands up in dramatic emphasis, nearly smacking Kayden in the face.

 

“Glitter, huh?” Kayden asked, raising a brow. 

 

“I’m guessing your teacher loved that.”

 

“She said I was very... uh... creative!” 

 

Jiwoo said proudly, tilting her head as if she were trying to remember the exact words.

 

Kayden smirked, imagining the chaos his little whirlwind had likely caused. 

 

“Sounds about right,” he said, adjusting her in his arms as they passed a park.

 

“And Daddy, there was this game! We had to hop on shapes, and I was so fast. Like this” 

 

Jiwoo wiggled and made hopping motions, forcing Kayden to stop and hold her tighter to keep her from tumbling out of his grasp.

 

“Okay, okay, Speedy!” Kayden laughed. “I’ll take your word for it.”

 

Jiwoo’s face grew even more animated as she leaned closer, her voice dropping to a conspiratorial whisper. 

 

“There was a boy, Max. He said lions are scary, but I told him they’re the coolest ‘cause they’re like—ROAR!” 

 

She made a surprisingly fierce growl for someone her size, complete with claw gestures.

 

Kayden couldn’t help but laugh, shaking his head. 

 

“That’s my girl. Show ‘em who’s boss.”

 

She grinned, clearly basking in his approval. Then her tone softened as she added, “And we got Storytime. The teacher read about a bunny who lost her mama but found her again. It made me a little sad, but it was okay ‘cause she was happy at the end.”

 

Kayden kissed her forehead, his heart melting at her honesty. 

 

“I’m glad you liked the story, Jiwoo. But you know you never have to worry about losing me, right? I’ll always come back for you.”

 

Jiwoo nodded seriously, her little hand reaching up to rest on his cheek. 

 

“I know, Daddy.”

 

They continued their walk, Jiwoo occasionally interrupting herself with bursts of excitement whenever she spotted something interesting, a bird hopping on a fence, a dog wagging its tail, or even a shiny pebble on the sidewalk.

 

By the time they reached home, Jiwoo was still chattering, her energy seemingly endless despite the long day. Kayden finally set her down, watching as she ran inside to show her lion keychain and a glittery handprint art she had brought home.

 

“Daddy, today was the best!” 

 

Jiwoo declared, spinning in circles before collapsing into giggles on the floor. Kayden crouched next to her, brushing her hair out of her face and smiling. 

 

“I’m glad, Jiwoo. You made it through your first day, and you crushed it.”

 

Jiwoo beamed, throwing her arms around his neck again. 

 

“Thank you for coming back, Daddy.”

 

“Always, munchkin,” Kayden whispered, holding her tight. “Always.”

 

As much he was happy for Jiwoo's new steps toward the world. Kayden was worried what he would do if someone found his secret. His enemy has been increasing as fame started to rise. 

 

The Awaken world is a lot crueler than it looks, killing people is the most basic thing while exploiting someone's weakness is considered normal. Even after knowing all of this Kayden made Jiwoo part of her life hence its his responsibility to make sure Jiwoo is safe. 

 

Kayden started to think it should be appropriate to teach Jiwoo some self defence and some martial arts. 

 


  

It was a sunny afternoon, and Kayden was in the living room, flipping through some old photo albums of Jiwoo’s. A soft smile played on his lips as he admired how much his little girl had grown in just a few months. Kindergarten was doing wonders for her. She’d made friends, learned new things, and always came home with stories that lit up his day.

 

The door creaked open, and Jiwoo bounced in, her twin buns slightly askew and her cheeks pink from running around. She held a small bouquet of slightly wilted daisies in her tiny hands, her face glowing with pride.

 

“Daddy!” Jiwoo called out, running straight to Kayden.

 

“Hey, munchkin! What’ve you got there?” 

 

Kayden asked, setting the album aside and crouching to her level.

 

“Flowers!” she exclaimed, holding them out to him. “They’re for you!”

 

Kayden’s heart melted as he took the flowers, inspecting the uneven stems and the occasional missing petal. 

 

“For me? Jiwoo, these are beautiful! Thank you, sweetheart.”

 

Jiwoo clapped her hands together, her amber eyes twinkling. 

 

“A boy gave them to me at school, but I told him, ‘My daddy’s my favorite! I’m giving these to him!’”

 

Kayden froze. His smile wavered, and his grip on the daisies tightened slightly. “A... boy?” he asked, keeping his tone light while internally waging war.

 

“Uh-huh!” 

 

Jiwoo nodded, oblivious to the storm brewing in her father’s mind. 

 

“He said he likes my hair ‘cause it’s shiny. And he likes my lion roar. Isn’t that funny?” She giggled, clearly thinking nothing of it.

 

Kayden plastered on a smile, though his jaw clenched. ‘ Some little brat thinks he can win over my daughter with flowers?’ he thought. ‘ Not on my watch.’

 

But Jiwoo’s innocent joy snapped him out of his spiraling thoughts. She was so proud of her decision to give the flowers to him instead, her bright face radiating pure love. He couldn’t ruin that.

 

“You know what, Jiwoo?” Kayden said, sitting her on his lap. “These are the best flowers I’ve ever gotten.”

 

“Really?” she beamed, her tiny hands clapping.

 

“Really,” Kayden said, ruffling her hair. 

 

“But, uh, next time, if someone gives you flowers, maybe you should just keep them for yourself, okay? Daddy has enough flowers.”

 

Jiwoo tilted her head, her lips pursed in thought. 

 

“Okay, Daddy! But why? You don’t like them?”

 

“No, no, I love them,” Kayden said quickly, holding them up like a prized possession. 

 

“But you’re the one who deserves all the pretty things. And flowers are a great way to practice your lion roar on bees!”

 

Jiwoo gasped, her eyes going wide. “You think so?”

 

“Absolutely,” Kayden said, keeping his expression serious. “Flowers attract bees, and bees respect lions. If you roar at them, they’ll know who’s boss.”

 

Jiwoo puffed out her chest. “I’ll protect the flowers, Daddy! ROAR!”

 

Kayden burst out laughing, scooping her up and spinning her around. 

 

“That’s my brave cub!”

 

For the rest of the evening, Kayden let the incident slide, resolving to channel his overprotective energy into teaching Jiwoo how to defend herself one day, just in case. He had no doubt his little lion cub could handle anything, but a little self-defense training couldn’t hurt, especially if more “brats” came around with flowers in the future.

 

And Jiwoo? She happily placed the flowers in a cup of water, practicing her “scary” lion roars at them, completely unaware of the internal crisis she’d sparked in her dad.

 


 

It was a bright and sunny weekend, the kind of day perfect for playing games. Jiwoo had been ecstatic when her dad, Kelvin (AKA-Kayden), gave her special permission to play outside with her friends. Her cheeks were rosy from excitement as she joined the neighborhood kids in a game of catch with a brightly colored ball.

 

They played near the park, giggling and chasing the ball as it bounced unpredictably across the grassy field. Jiwoo, with her natural energy and charm, was right in the middle of the fun.

 

As one of her friends tossed the ball high, Jiwoo’s eyes wandered toward the street nearby. Her smile faltered as she noticed something small and furry, a kitten, padding nervously onto the road. Jiwoo’s heart sank.

 

Before she could call out, the roar of a motorcycle echoed in the distance, getting louder by the second. The kitten froze, its tiny body trembling, oblivious to the danger speeding toward it.

 

Without thinking, Jiwoo dropped the ball and sprinted toward the road. Her friends shouted after her, but she didn’t hear them. All she could see was the kitten, its wide eyes filled with fear.

 

And then, something strange happened.

 

One moment, Jiwoo was running, her heart pounding. The next, she wasn’t sure how, but she was suddenly on the other side of the road, crouched down with the kitten clutched tightly in her arms. The motorcycle zoomed past, missing both of them by inches.

 

She blinked, disoriented, and looked down at the kitten, which meowed softly and nuzzled against her chest. Relief flooded her. 

 

“You’re okay,” she whispered, stroking its soft fur.

 

But the silence around her felt heavy.

 

Jiwoo looked up and saw her friends standing frozen across the street, their faces pale with shock. One of them finally broke the silence.

 

“How… how did you do that?”

 

“You were over here, and then… you just vanished!” another said, pointing at her with trembling fingers.

 

Jiwoo stood up, still holding the kitten, her confusion mirroring theirs. 

 

“I… I don’t know. I just wanted to save it…”

 

But the expressions on their faces shifted, no longer just shocked but something colder—fearful.

 

“You’re weird,” one of them muttered.

 

“You’re not normal,” another added, backing away.

 

“No… I’m just me!” Jiwoo insisted, tears welling up in her amber eyes. “I was just trying to help…”

 

“You’re a monster,” someone whispered, the words hitting her like a slap.

 

The world seemed to blur as Jiwoo’s chest tightened. She looked down at the kitten, who mewed innocently, unaware of the turmoil around them.

 

Tears streaming down her cheeks, Jiwoo turned and ran, clutching the kitten as if it was her only anchor. She didn’t stop until she reached the familiar safety of her home.

 

Kayden who was meditating on the floor (training with force control) when the door burst open, and Jiwoo stumbled in, sobbing uncontrollably.

 

“Jiwoo!” he exclaimed, rushing over. He crouched down and gently took her by the shoulders. 

 

“What happened? Are you hurt?”

 

She couldn’t speak, her words lost in hiccupping cries. All she could do was cling to him, the kitten squirming slightly in her grasp.

 

Kelvin held her tightly, his brows furrowing as he tried to piece together what had happened. 

 

“It’s okay, Jiwoo. Whatever it is, we’ll figure it out,” he murmured, his voice steady and reassuring.

 

But deep down, he knew something had changed.

 


 

The cheerful hum of the kindergarten playground was dimmed by whispers and sidelong glances. Jiwoo stood alone by the swings, clutching the straps of her small backpack. Normally, she would be playing tag with her friends or sharing stories with them. But today was different. The rumors had spread like wildfire. 

 

“She’s weird,” some kids whispered. “She’s not normal.” Others were less kind, muttering, “She’s a monster.”

 

Jiwoo didn’t understand why saving a kitten made her so different in their eyes. She didn’t mean to be strange; she was just… Jiwoo. But now, even the kids she used to laugh with wouldn’t come near her.

 

“Hey!” a boy’s voice called sharply. Jiwoo looked up to see one of the bigger kids stomping toward her. His face was scrunched in a mix of anger and fear. 

 

“Stay away from us, you freak!”

 

“I-I didn’t do anything,” Jiwoo stammered, her voice trembling.

 

“Yes, you did! You’re not like us,” he said, shoving her backward.

 

Jiwoo’s small frame toppled over, her knees scraping against the rough ground. Pain shot through her legs, but the ache in her chest was worse. She sat there, frozen, as a small crowd of kids gathered, their whispers swirling around her.

 

“Leave her alone!” 

 

The teacher’s voice rang out, cutting through the commotion. She hurried over, her face a mixture of concern and sternness. The other kids scattered like leaves in the wind, leaving Jiwoo on the ground, her tiny hands trembling.

 

“Jiwoo, are you alright?” the teacher asked gently, crouching down to her level.

 

Jiwoo didn’t respond. She stared at her scraped knees, tears pooling in her wide amber eyes. The teacher helped her up, noticing her silence and the way she hugged herself as if trying to disappear.

 

“I think we should call your dad,” the teacher said softly, leading Jiwoo back inside.

 

When Kayden arrived, his usually calm demeanor cracked the moment he saw his daughter sitting in the nurse’s office. Her face was pale, her little body curled into the chair as if she wanted to vanish.

 

“Jiwoo,” he called, his voice low and gentle.

 

She looked up, and the moment her eyes met his, the dam broke. Jiwoo burst into tears, her tiny shoulders shaking as she cried. 

 

“Daddy!” she sobbed, running to him.

 

Kayden knelt and caught her in his arms, holding her close. “Shh, it’s okay, sweetheart. I’m here now,” he whispered, his heart breaking as her tears soaked into his shirt.

 

“I-I didn’t mean to be scary,” she hiccupped, her small hands clutching his jacket.

 

“You’re not scary” 

 

Kayden said firmly, pulling back to look into her tear-streaked face. 

 

“You’re the bravest, kindest girl I know. Don’t let anyone make you feel otherwise.”

 

The teacher stepped forward, explaining the situation, but Kayden barely heard her. His focus was on Jiwoo, who clung to him like he was her lifeline.

 

When they got home, Kayden gently cleaned her scraped knees, his hands steady despite the anger simmering inside him. 

 

“You don’t have to be scared, Jiwoo,” he said softly, brushing her hair back. 

 

“People don’t always understand things right away, but that doesn’t mean you’re wrong or bad.”

 

Jiwoo nodded, sniffling. “Will they ever stop saying those things?”

 

“They will,” Kayden assured her, pressing a gentle kiss to her forehead. 

 

“Because I’ll make sure the world sees how amazing you are.”

 

As Jiwoo leaned into his arms, her tears finally slowing, Kayden silently decided to properly explain things to her. When Jiwoo returned home crying the other day Kayden found out Jiwoo was awakened and her life would change if someone found out so he just told she was special and should not use her power in the presence of others. 

 

But after seeing her crying like that he changed his mind. He rubs his hand in circular motion trying to sooth her.

 

“Dad, I'm weird?” Jiwoo said in a muffle voice. “They said i’m monster”

 

“No, sweetheart, you are not weird but special” Kayden said with firmness in his voice.

 

Kayden then explains to Jiwoo about Awaken people and their hidden society. Little by little after hearing from Kayden, Jiwoo's heart got calm.

 

“Daddy”

 

“Hmm”

 

“C..can i see it,” Jiwoo looked at Kayden with hopeful eyes.

Kayden pulls his one hand forward toward Jiwoo while maintaining some distance and making sparks from electricity. Jiwoo got mesmerized by it forgetting everything else. 

 

She look at dad and with smile Jiwoo said, “That's the most beautiful thing i have seen” 

 

( Even after growing up Kayden lightning was her favorites, hence whenever someone ask her question what's most beautiful thing it would be ‘lightning Thunder’ especially the one her dad make, which made some people confused )

Notes:

I hope no one forgot about Kayden fake identity Seo Kelvin.

What happened with Seo Jiwoo in real story also happened in this AU but this time Kayden was there to help her. that does not mean Jiwoo mother never help her more like she did not want her child in danger. while Kayden think rather than hiding power Jiwoo should learn to use them so at least could she protect her. both of them want to help jiwoo in their own way.

 

Spoiler- ( ˶°ㅁ°) !!
Seo Jiwoo's mom is alive, she did not died. rest of the information is secret see that directly in future chapter. i can upload that chapter anytime since it will not effect the current flow of chapters but i only write it half so wait for it to complete.

Chapter 5

Notes:

(See the end of the chapter for notes.)

Chapter Text

Kayden was done with packing after zipping the last suitcase shut.

 

The house, once filled with laughter and memories, now stood quiet and bare. The walls, stripped of their decorations, seemed to echo with the remnants of their life here.

 

Kayden exhaled, running a hand through his hair. “Well, that’s the last of it,” he muttered, more to himself than anyone else.

 

Kayden's blood boils just from the memories remembering what happened a few days ago. Jiwoo was getting hung up on being Awaken and learning to hide her power. She just got a hang of her power but one day Jiwoo used her power unconsciously to save a puppy who almost got crushed by a pot. 

 

That incident got in the eyes of a local awakened organization and now they are searching for my little Jiwoo as a potential recruit. But Kayden knew things were not that simple, Those fu**ers. They had to move before they could find Jiwoo. 

 

Jiwoo sat cross-legged on the floor, her amber eyes scanning the now-empty space. She clutched her favorite stuffed toy, a little cat Kayden had given her on her first birthday. Though her lips curled in a faint smile, her fingers tightened around the toy’s soft fur.

 

“You okay, sweetheart?” Kayden asked, crouching down to her level.

 

Jiwoo nodded slowly, her expression thoughtful. “Daddy,” she began, her voice small, “why do we have to go? This house… it’s special.”

 

Kayden’s heart clenched. He reached out, brushing a strand of light cream hair from her face. “I know, Jiwoo. This place has been our home for a long time. But sometimes, to grow and do new things, we have to move on. We’ll make new memories, together.”

 

Jiwoo stared at him for a moment before nodding again, this time with more conviction. “Okay, Daddy,” she said softly. “If you say it’s the right thing, then I trust you.”

 

Kayden pulled her into a hug, holding her close. “You’re so brave, my little lion cub,” he whispered. 

 

“I promise, wherever we go, it’ll always feel like home as long as we’re together.”

 

After a moment, Jiwoo pulled back, wiping her eyes before any tears could fall. 

 

“But I’m going to miss Clara,” she admitted, glancing toward the kitchen, where the nanny was cleaning up.

 

“Why don’t you go say goodbye to her?” Kayden suggested gently.

 

Jiwoo nodded and padded over to Clara, who turned at the sound of her approach. “Miss Clara,” Jiwoo began, her voice wavering slightly, “thank you for everything. I’ll miss you a lot.”

 

Clara knelt down, wrapping Jiwoo in a warm hug. “Oh, Jiwoo, I’ll miss you too,” she said, her voice thick with emotion. 

 

“You’re such a special girl, and I’m so proud of you. Don’t ever stop being the kind and brave little person you are, okay?”

 

Jiwoo nodded against her shoulder, squeezing tightly. 

 

“I won’t. And I’ll write you letters!”

 

Clara chuckled, pulling back to look into Jiwoo’s teary eyes. 

 

“I’d love that. And I’ll write back, I promise.”

 

Kayden, watching from the doorway, without any emotion. They were just moving, it was just the end of a chapter, but also the beginning of something new in their lives. And seeing the love and support he had received from Jiwoo made him more determined than ever to create a bright future for them.

 

As they stepped outside for the last time, Jiwoo turned to look at the house one final time. “Goodbye, house,” she said quietly, waving her little hand.

 

Kayden took her hand in his, giving it a reassuring squeeze. “Ready?”

 

Jiwoo looked up at him, her amber eyes shimmering with determination. “Ready, Daddy.”

 

Together, they walked toward their new beginning, carrying with them the love and memories that would always keep them strong.

 


 

Kayden and Jiwoo left their previous country to settle in a new one, erasing all their previous trace. Jiwoo was sad after finding she could never see Clara again but understood after listening to her Dad's explanation.

 

She also understood the importance of being an Awaken (not really), she needed to hide her power or bad people would take her away from her dad.

 

Kayden on the other hand was making a new plan and schedule regarding their living arrangement and their training regime. It was not necessary to train a kid that early but Jiwoo needed to learn how to control her power.

 

Kayden did not want to let fate repeat its misfortune to her daughter where she would be scared of meeting people, just because someone may see her using her ability.

 

Kayden at first was worried about how Jiwoo would react and how she would settle in new environment. Kayden was used to traveling in one location after another but not Jiwoo. 

 

To Kayden's surprise Jiwoo settled pretty easily, maybe she left on a bad note that’s why? 

 

It was also good that Jiwoo know English, even if that is the only language she knew. Kayden made a mental note teaching Jiwoo more languages since it would not be the last time they would move.

 

Kayden bought a cottage house at the outskirts of town where no one would bother them. They also had enough space for all the activities, Jiwoo had no need to hide her ability. He also needed to buy training equipment suitable for her little cub. 

 

“Daddy look, a squirrel”

 

Kayden's train of thought broke when he saw Jiwoo looking at a little animal with sparkles in her eye’s and giggling whenever she saw something new, seeing his baby innocence only made Kayden even more protective of her. 

 

Only in a few days, Jiwoo had grown more curious about their new home. On their walk to the nearby market, she held Kayden’s hand tightly but pointed out every interesting thing she saw, a flower blooming in a crack on the sidewalk, a cat lounging in a neighbor’s yard, and a flock of birds flying overhead.

 

“Daddy, do you think the birds live here, too?” she asked.

 

“I think so,” Kayden replied, smiling. “Looks like we’re all settling in together.”

 


 

Few years have passed and Kayden's fame and strength have both increased rapidly. These days some lunatics even try to follow Kayden, some wishing to be his disciple while some try to be his follower, some want him to join their group, everyone's eyes filled with greed and Kayden is getting sick of dealing with people like them. 

 

They offered him wealth, power, blah blah blah, but he did not desire anything, he just wanted to challenge some strong awaken who could provide challenge to Kayden.

 

In all the dilemmas his only salvation is Jiwoo, she is the best in Kayden's opinion. His lovely daughter is kind, pure and without any greed, she is like a fresh breath of air. But Kayden is also worried about her, Jiwoo always puts others' well-being before her, if someone uses her goodwill for their own greed? That is something Kayden will never tolerate. 

 

Few years ago Kayden began to teach Jiwoo various skills and Jiwoo was a hardworking child learning everything and training hard without any complaint. Even when the training regime got harder, she didn’t complain. Only pout sometimes adorably. 

 

She wants to stand beside her father without being a burden and Kayden never thought of her as a burden but to remove guilt from Jiwoo's side he decides to increase her training. 

 

To his surprise Jiwoo resembles Kayden a lot especially when she spar with him. The excitement, thrill and most of all her battle sense.

 

But in the end Jiwoo is still a child who needs their parents protection and support. Which Kayden will gladly provide.

 

Kayden stood with arms crossed, his sharp gaze fixed on the young girl standing before him. Her hair fluttered with every movement, and her amber eyes burned with determination.

 

“Your stance is sloppy, Jiwoo,” Kayden barked, pointing to her feet. “Spread them evenly. If you can’t even stand properly, you’ll fall with a single shove.”

 

Jiwoo immediately adjusted, glancing nervously at him for approval.

 

“Better,” Kayden muttered. “But don’t look at me for confirmation. The battlefield won’t give you compliments. Again!”

 

The girl tightened her fists, taking a deep breath before launching into a series of punches and kicks, to dummy targets. While Kayden moved around her like a hawk, correcting her form with sharp taps and stern words.

 

“Faster! Your opponent won’t wait for you to think” he demanded, stepping back to test her reaction.

 

Jiwoo lunged, her small fist aimed squarely at the target torso. He dodged effortlessly, his movements as fluid as water. “Too slow,” he remarked. 

 

“I could see that punch from a mile away. Again!”

 

The cycle repeated over and over, each drill more intense than the last. Sweat dripped from Jiwoo’s forehead as her breathing grew heavier, but she didn’t stop. Her unwavering determination brought a faint, almost invisible smile to Kayden’s lips.

 

After an hour, Jiwoo finally stumbled, nearly collapsing to her knees. Without a word, Kayden handed her a towel and a bottle of water, his strict demeanor softening ever so slightly.

 

“Good work,” he said gruffly. 

 

“You’re improving, but don’t get complacent. We’re only scratching the surface of your potential.”

 

Jiwoo looked up at him, her cheeks flushed but her expression glowing with pride. 

 

“Yes sir, I’ll do better tomorrow!”

 

Kayden raised an eyebrow. “You’d better. Or all this yelling is just a waste of time.”

 

As they walked back to the small hut that served as their training base, Kayden’s demeanor shifted completely. His shoulders relaxed, and his stern expression melted into something almost playful. He plopped down onto a wooden bench and gestured for Jiwoo to sit beside him.

 

“You know,” he said, his tone now casual, “if you keep throwing punches like that, you’ll scare off every bully in town.”

 

Jiwoo giggled, taking a big gulp of her water. 

 

“Really? I’ll be the strongest, just like you!”

 

Kayden snorted, leaning back with a smirk. 

 

“Yeah, yeah. Just don’t let it get to your head, kid.”

 

For the next few minutes, he listened to Jiwoo excitedly recount her school stories, asking her questions here and there in an uncharacteristically gentle tone. When she began mimicking his training instructions with exaggerated seriousness, he couldn’t hold back his laughter.

 

“Okay, okay, that’s enough for today,” he said, ruffling his lovely daughter's hair.

 

“You’re lucky I’m such a patient teacher.”

 

Jiwoo grinned, leaning her head against his arm and Kayden gently ran his fingers through her soft hair, patting her head with a tenderness that spoke volumes of his affection.

 

“You may be strict but not scary, dad. Not to me.”

 

Kayden chuckled, closing his eyes and resting his head back against the wall.

 

“Don’t get used to it, cub. Tomorrow, it’s back to business.”

 

But for now, the training ground was silent, save for the faint chirping of crickets, as the father and daughter duo shared a peaceful moment together.

 


 

The evening air was thick and Seo Jiwoo hummed softly as she fed stray cats, dried fish and pet food. The cats gather around Jiwoo like usual and purr once in a while rubbing their body in affection, Jiwoo pet’s the tiny creatures offering them comfort in her own small way. Every day, she visited the alleyways, the parks, wherever the cats gathered, and today was no different.  

 

Jiwoo moved toward her next destination to feed other strays, but something felt off. 

 

A faint sound, a soft groan, echoed from the shadowed depths of the alley. Jiwoo froze, her heart skipping a beat. She had been so focused on the cats that she hadn't noticed the figure hidden in the darkness.

 

Curiosity tugged at her, and despite the unease crawling down her spine, she crept toward the source of the sound.

 

As she approached, her breath caught in her throat.

 

A man lay slumped against the cold, wet pavement. His clothes were torn and bloodied, staining the concrete beneath him. His face pale, almost ghostly, was battered and bruised, with cuts streaming blood down his cheeks. His body looked like it had been through a lot, with deep, gaping wounds that bled freely. His breathing was shallow, and though his eyes were half-open, they lacked any real focus.

 

Jiwoo's heart clenched. She couldn’t just leave him like this. No one would find him in time, and if they did, it might be too late. She crouched down cautiously beside him, her small hands trembling.

 

His injuries... 

 

There were too many. He was barely conscious, but Jiwoo could feel something more than just his pain. The man was struggling, trying to hold on, drawing from something... some energy. It was faint but unmistakable, there was energy circulation in his body! 

 

He was also an Awakener. She could feel the flicker of power within him, but it was unstable, like a dying flame. He was trying to recover, but his injuries were too severe, and she could feel his life slipping away with each shallow breath.

 

Jiwoo swallowed her fear, pushing it down. This man, he couldn’t die like this. He might be a stranger, but no one deserved to suffer alone, especially not in such a way.

 

Her father wasn’t here, and the hospital was out of the question. She knew that the man was Awaken , like her, and even if she could take him there, the hospital couldn’t treat him the way he needed. They would never be able to handle someone like him.

 

‘Think, Jiwoo. Think!’ she scolded herself mentally.

 

She couldn’t move him. He was much too big for her to handle, his body was twice her size, and his wounds were severe. She couldn’t risk making them worse by trying to drag him somewhere. The only option was to help him right here, in this dark, quiet alley.

 

But how?

 

Her eyes darted around, and then it hit her, the first aid kit. She could run back to her house, grab it, and come back before he did anything foolish. Before he even had a chance to try and fight her off.

 

She looked down at the man, his eyes barely open. His body became tense, noticing Jiwoo here.

 

“I’m not going to hurt you,” Jiwoo whispered softly, her voice barely above a whisper, as though speaking too loud might startle him. 

 

“Please, just hold on. I’ll help you.”

 

She saw the faintest flicker of recognition in his hazy gaze, and for a moment, she thought he might protest. But instead, he just groaned and closed his eyes, as if trusting her for a brief moment, even in his broken state.

 

Jiwoo’s heart raced as she dashed off into the darkness, her small feet making quick work of the alleyway. She had to hurry. The man’s life depended on it.

 

When she finally returned, the first aid kit clutched tightly in her hands, Jiwoo found him just as she left him, his blood still flowing freely, his breathing shallow. 

 

She quickly knelt beside him, her hands shaking as she set the kit down and opened it. The man tried to move, but when his eyes met hers again, he hesitated. There was something in his gaze, something that made her heart beat faster, but she couldn’t place it.

 

“You’re safe here,” Jiwoo said firmly, more to reassure herself than him. 

 

“I promise. Let me help you.”

 

He seemed to read the sincerity in her eyes because, though he flinched, he didn’t resist further. Slowly, Jiwoo began working on his wounds, her small fingers carefully cleaning the cuts, applying the bandages, and trying to stop the bleeding. 

 

It wasn’t much, but it was all she could do at the moment.

 

She worked quickly but gently, her mind focused on saving him, on doing what she could. She didn’t know who he was, but that didn’t matter right now. He needed her, and she couldn’t abandon him, not when there was still a chance to save him.

 


 

The world blurred and dimmed at the edges, threatening to pull Him into a darkness he might not return from. His breaths came shallow and labored, each one scraping against the hollow ache in his chest. Blood dripped from his many wounds, pooling on the cold, damp pavement beneath him. Every inch of his body screamed in agony, deep gashes from blades, bruises that throbbed, and older scars that had been reopened by cruel force.

 

He pressed his trembling hand against a particularly deep wound on his side, the faint flicker of his power sparking to life beneath his palm. It was weak, too weak. His energy was draining faster than he could muster it, his body fighting to heal while exhaustion pulled him closer to unconsciousness.

 

‘Not here. Not yet’  

 

He thought, his resolve wavering. He couldn’t die yet. He wouldn’t.

 

Amyeong had tucked himself deep into the shadows, far from prying eyes, relying on the alley’s obscurity to shield him while he struggled to recover. 

 

But even as he fought to remain unseen, he was acutely aware of how vulnerable he was. If anyone found him, he’d be helpless, a wounded animal at the mercy of whoever approached. 

 

And then he heard it.

 

Small footsteps, light and cautious, growing closer. His heart sank. Through his hazy consciousness, he barely made out a figure approaching. 

 

His instincts screamed at him to fight, to push himself upright and prepare for an attack, but his body betrayed him. He was too weak.

 

A voice broke through the fog in his mind, soft, gentle, and strangely calm. It wasn’t the voice of an attacker or someone full of malice. There was no threat laced in its tone. Just... kindness. The words were muffled in his haze, but their intent was clear. They didn’t mean to harm him.

 

Still, Amyeong couldn’t let his guard down. 

 

A trap, maybe?’  

 

His vision wavered as the figure came closer. His eyes caught a faint outline, a child. Small, fragile. 

 

A trick? Why would a child be here?’

 

And then, in that brief moment when their eyes met, something shifted. His blurry gaze focused just long enough to take in the face before him. It wasn’t just a child, it was... her? 

 

What! She can’t be here, no that’s not possible, could it be... someone else.

 

His breath hitched, and his heart clenched painfully. The resemblance was uncanny. The shape of her face, the softness in her expression, the kindness in her eyes, they all reminded him of the one person who had once saved him. 

 

The one who had pulled him from his darkest days and shown him a world he thought he’d never see. His savior, the woman who had become like a mother to him.

 

It couldn’t be her, of course. She was at a different corner of the world. Must be an illusion.

 

But in his weakened state, with his body on the brink of collapse, his mind clung to the hope that it was more than just a hallucination born from his desperation to survive.

 

The child’s voice broke through again, and he blinked, struggling to focus. She said something, words he couldn’t quite piece together, but her tone reassured him. She was leaving? No. No, she was coming back. He didn’t know whether to believe it or not, but she vanished as quickly as she’d appeared. He was alone again, the pain returning to the forefront of his mind.

 

Time blurred. Seconds, minutes, He couldn’t tell. And then she returned.

 

The sound of her footsteps snapped him from the edge of unconsciousness, and this time, he didn’t resist as she knelt beside him, more like he didn’t have the energy to resist. 

 

She set down a first aid kit, her small hands moving with surprising confidence as she cleaned his wounds. Her touch was careful but firm, the sting of antiseptic biting into his skin, but he didn’t flinch.

 

He watched her through half-lidded eyes, trying to make sense of this strange situation. Why was she helping him? What did she want?

 

Her focus was unwavering as she patched up his injuries. He could feel the warmth of her hands as she worked, her actions devoid of hesitation. When she finished, she leaned back slightly, her voice breaking the silence again. She spoke softly, her words carrying an unexpected sense of comfort in this cold, desolate place.

 

She was trying to talk to him. To fill the emptiness of the alley with something other than his labored breaths and the drip of blood on concrete. Was it pity? Did she feel sorry for him?

 

Amyeong didn’t know how to respond. He didn’t trust strangers, he couldn’t. No matter how harmless they appeared, he had learned long ago that appearances meant nothing. 

 

And yet, he didn’t stop her. He didn’t tell her to leave. Perhaps it was because he had no energy to resist, or maybe... maybe it was because, for the first time in a long while, he didn’t feel so alone.

 

When she finally stood to leave, she hesitated, glancing back at him.

 

“It’s getting late,” she said softly. 

 

“You’ll be okay. Your secret is safe with me.”

 

Her words hung in the air as she disappeared into the night, leaving Amyeong alone once more. But this time, the darkness didn’t feel quite so heavy.

 


 

Amyeong’s eyes fluttered open, and for the first time in what felt like an eternity, his mind felt clearer. The haze of pain and exhaustion had lifted slightly, though his body still throbbed with a dull ache.

 

He inhaled slowly, the metallic scent of blood still lingering in the air, mixed with the faint earthy smell of the damp alley.

 

The sky above was dark, the stars barely visible through the thin veil of clouds. He estimated it had only been a few hours since he had lost consciousness. 

 

His wounds, hastily patched up, were no longer bleeding as heavily, and though the stinging antiseptic burned against his skin, it was a welcome reminder that he was still alive.

 

The child. The memory of her face flashed in his mind, a soft, calm voice, small hands that worked with surprising precision, and the uncanny resemblance that had stirred something deep within him. 

 

‘Did he find it? or not .’ 

 

For a fleeting moment, he had questioned whether she was real or a figment of his wounded mind. But the faint traces of bandages on his skin confirmed her presence. She had been real. And she had saved him.

 

But now was not the time to dwell on it.

 

He shifted slightly, testing his strength. Pain flared through his muscles, sharp and insistent, but it was manageable. His energy was returning, slowly but surely. Still, he was far from healed, his major injuries are healed due to his self-recovery ability. 

 

And he knew staying in one place too long was a risk he couldn’t afford to take. If someone else found him here, it could mean the end.

 

Amyeong braced himself against the wall and pushed, His body still aches in pain. His arms trembled as he forced himself to stand, leaning heavily on the brick for support. His legs felt like lead, weak and unsteady beneath him, but they held. Barely.

 

He took a moment to remove his trace, scanning his surroundings. The alley was dark and narrow, with only the faintest glimmers of moonlight filtering through cracks and openings above. It was a decent hiding spot for someone on the brink of death, but now that he was semi-conscious, it felt exposed. Vulnerable. He needed somewhere quieter, deeper in the shadows, where no one would think to look for him.

 

The first step was the hardest. Pain shot through his side, and he gritted his teeth, forcing his body to obey. Each step after that was a struggle, but he pushed forward, his determination outweighing the agony. 

 

He kept his movements slow, careful not to strain his wounds further. Every now and then, he glanced over his shoulder, his sharp instincts kicking in despite his weakened state. The streets were silent, empty. But he didn’t trust the silence.

 

After several painstaking minutes, he found another alleyway—darker, narrower, and shielded from view by the overgrown vines hanging from the buildings above. 

 

It was deeper than the first, with old crates and abandoned debris scattered about, providing some semblance of cover. He scanned it quickly, his gaze sharp despite the fatigue weighing on him. It would do.

 

Amyeong collapsed against the wall, sliding down until he was seated on the cold ground. His body screamed in protest, but he ignored it, focusing instead on his breathing. Inhale. Exhale. Steady. Controlled.

 

He leaned his head back against the wall, letting his eyes drift closed for a moment. He couldn’t afford to let his guard down completely, but his body craved rest, and his mind was desperate to process everything that had happened.

 

The girl’s face came to him again, unbidden. Her voice, her touch, the unwavering determination in her eyes. He didn’t know who she was or why she had helped him, but there was something about her, something familiar. 

 

It tugged at a memory buried deep within him, something he couldn’t quite grasp.

 

For now, though, it didn’t matter. He was alive, and he had bought himself more time. Time to heal, to figure out his next move.

 

As the night stretched on, Amyeong allowed himself a rare moment of vulnerability. His guard never dropped completely, but for the first time in a long while, he felt a faint glimmer of hope. Not for himself, necessarily, but for the small, determined child who had risked herself to save him.

 

And with that thought, he allowed his battered body a brief respite, his senses always on edge, ready for the next threat.

 


 

The moment Jiwoo stepped through the door of her small, quiet home, the weight of the evening crashed down on her. 

 

Her legs felt like jelly, trembling as she locked the door behind her. The faint hum of the fridge and the distant rustle of trees outside were the only sounds, but they did nothing to calm her racing heart.

 

She stumbled into the living room, dropping the empty first aid kit onto the floor with a thud. Her hands shook violently as she stared at the faint smears of blood on her fingers. 

 

The sight sent a shiver down her spine. She could still feel the warmth of the man’s blood, the sticky texture as she had tried to clean his wounds. 

 

Her stomach churned, and she pressed a hand to her mouth, trying to steady her breathing.

 

Jiwoo sank to her knees, curling in on herself as a wave of fear washed over her. She had never seen so much blood before, so much pain etched into a person’s body. It wasn’t just the injuries, it was the scars on his face, old and new, that told a story of endless suffering. 

 

Her father had spoken of the Awaken society before, warning her that it was a world far more ruthless than the one she lived in. Killing, he had said, was normal for them, a part of survival.

 

But hearing about it was nothing like seeing it. Seeing someone so close to death, barely hanging on, had shaken her to her core.

 

She wrapped her arms tightly around her knees, rocking slightly as she tried to process the whirlwind of emotions. She had been terrified. Her hands had trembled the entire time she was patching him up, and her mind had screamed at her to run, to leave him there and forget she’d ever found him. But she couldn’t. 

 

The thought of walking away, of leaving someone to die, was unbearable. She had done what she could. It wasn’t much, but it was enough to keep him alive, for now.

 

A new fear gnawed at her, though, one she hadn’t let herself think about until now. What if he came back? What if he found her? She didn’t know who he was, but she knew enough. 

 

He was an Awaken, someone dangerous. If he thought she was a threat, would he silence her? The idea sent a chill through her, and her breathing quickened again.

 

“But he didn’t look like he wanted to hurt me,” she whispered to herself, her voice shaky. 

 

She clung to that thought, replaying the look in his eyes. He had been wary, yes, but there hadn’t been malice. He had let her help him. He hadn’t tried to push her away.

 

Her chest tightened as she thought of the possibility that he might still see her as a loose end. She clenched her fists, her nails digging into her palms.

 

Would it matter if he came for me? she wondered. I still wouldn’t regret it.’

 

She let out a shaky breath, trying to calm her racing thoughts. Helping him had been the right thing to do, even if it scared her. Even if it puts her in danger. She wasn’t sure if she could face someone in that condition again, but tonight, she had done what she believed was right.

 

Jiwoo leaned her head against the wall, closing her eyes as tears silently spilled down her cheeks. 

 

The night replayed in her mind like a loop she couldn’t escape, but beneath the fear and panic, there was a flicker of something else, a quiet determination.

 

“I saved him,” she whispered to herself, her voice barely audible. 

 

“That’s what matters.”

 

Her body felt heavy, and exhaustion finally overtook her. Curled up on the floor, Jiwoo drifted into a restless sleep, her heart still pounding, her thoughts still swirling with uncertainty. But even as fear lingered in the corners of her mind, she couldn’t bring herself to regret the choice she had made.

Notes:

Well my cuties how was the chapter. ( ˶ˆᗜˆ˵ )

From now the update will be on every Monday and we have the result of the vote, Kayden and Seo Jiwoo will have 18 year age gape.

Chapter Text

Jiwoo froze, Her eyes went wide, her mouth falling open as a sharp gasp slipped out, freezing her in place in both fear and in surprise. She never knew her dad was a cat.

 

A FUCKING CAT!!!

 

More like he transformed into one but how? Jiwoo knew anything is possible with awaken power but this is something she could never think of.

 

From what Kayden explains he tried it as a joke, but never expected it to actually work. does that mean she could also turn into a fluff ball ‘That would be awesome’ she thought.

 

She saw her dad in fluffy cuddly form settled perfectly on the sofa and she wanted to give him an intense cuddle session but was she allowed. Would it be rude to touch him without his permission? 

 

But suddenly, her mood darkened. Why had her dad hidden such important news from her. 

 

Kayden on the other hand saw Jiwoo's internal crises. Various expressions pass onto her face in mere moments. And he could not blame her either, like it’s not every day where someone turned into a cat.

 

Kayden snapped her out of thought. “Jiwoo it’s not a big deal”

 

“Not a big deal! Dad, you never told me about you changing your body into a different life form” 

 

“FOR HOW LONG YOU WERE GONNA HIDE THIS FACT”. She shouted, her voice trembling “do you… had no faith in me” 

 

Tears formed in her eyes as the weight of realization hit her, Kayden had been hiding this for weeks. She had only discovered it by sheer chance. She understood that everyone has their secrets, but her dad had always promised to share everything with her, especially when it came to his health. So why had he kept this from her? Did Kayden not trust her? Did he think she couldn’t handle the truth? A knot tightened in her chest, a mix of sadness and frustration swirling inside her. Was this his lack of faith in her, or was it her own failure to notice sooner? The thought stung, leaving her feeling helpless and inadequate.

 

Kayden stayed silent for a few moments before speaking.

 

“It was embarrassing,” Kayden mumbled.

 

“???” 

 

The room was quiet and Jiwoo looked at Kayden incredulously. Kayden changed into his human form and sat across from her, the man who always seemed larger-than-life now looked… smaller. He scratched the back of his neck awkwardly, his usual confidence nowhere to be found.

 

"Alright, alright," Kayden sighed, slumping back in his chair. "I’ll tell you why I hid it."

 

Jiwoo raised an eyebrow, clearly unimpressed. "This better be good."

 

Kayden glanced at her, then away, his expression unusually sheepish. "It’s... complicated," he started, then paused. "No. Actually, it’s just embarrassing."

 

Jiwoo tilted her head, curiosity replacing some of her frustration. 

 

"Embarrassing? Why?"

 

He let out a heavy sigh, running a hand through his hair before gesturing vaguely with the other. "You’ve seen what I look like in my cat form, right?"

 

"Yeah," Jiwoo said slowly. "Big, cuddly sweet orange cat."

 

“Exactly! Wait what?” Kayden knew how ridiculous his cat form was.

 

(A/N: Not really, we agree with Jiwoo you are a cute and chubby cat making you adorable and perfect for cuddling.)

 

Kayden groaned, throwing his hands up. "I look like some… overfed house pet that spends its days lounging in the sun and eating snacks. People on the street, they point at me, Jiwoo! They laugh! They call me Garfield! "

 

Jiwoo clamped a hand over her mouth, but the corners of her lips betrayed her as they curled upward. "They... call you Garfield?" she mumbled, her voice muffled.

 

"Yes!" 

 

Kayden exclaimed, dramatically slumping forward with his head in his hands. 

 

"Do you know how many times I’ve been chased by kids yelling ‘Here, kitty, kitty’? Or how many old ladies have tried to pick me up and squish my face like I’m some plush toy?"

 

Jiwoo couldn’t hold it in anymore. She burst out laughing, doubling over as tears pricked the corners of her eyes. 

 

"Oh my gosh, Dad! That’s…" She wheezed. "That’s so funny!"

 

Kayden frowned, crossing his arms. "I’m glad my suffering is so entertaining for you."

 

Jiwoo wiped at her eyes, still giggling. "I’m sorry! I didn’t mean to laugh okay, maybe a little but you have to admit, it’s kind of… cute?"

 

Kayden groaned, dragging a hand down his face. 

 

"Cute! Great. Just the image I want my daughter to have of me."

 

"But why hide it from me?" Jiwoo asked, her laughter fading as she leaned forward. 

 

"You know I’d never think less of you."

 

Kayden looked at her, his expression softening. "Because, kid, you’ve always looked up to me. Like I’m this… cool, unbeatable guy. You see me with stars in your eyes, and I didn’t want to ruin that image. I didn’t want you to see me as…" He hesitated, gesturing vaguely. "a fat, clumsy orange cat."

 

Jiwoo blinked, her heart squeezing a little. "Dad, you’re still the coolest person I know. Whether you’re saving the day or getting called Garfield, you’re still you and what’s the problem with Garfield, he is adorable."

 

Kayden stared at her for a moment, then let out a low chuckle. "You’re too good for me, you know that?"

 

"Obviously," Jiwoo teased, grinning.

 

Kayden reached over and ruffled her hair, earning a playful swat in return. 

 

"Alright, no more secrets. Promise."

 

"Promise" 

 

Jiwoo said, smiling softly. "But... I still think Garfield’s a pretty fitting nickname."

 

"Don’t push your luck, kid," Kayden muttered, though a small smile tugged at his lips.

 


 

(A/N: I would like to share this scene just in honour of Jiwoo beauty since I never explained her features properly, not like i know how to write it, still i tried. So here it is, a cute dose of our angelic Jiwoo. ‘Rawrrr’ )

 

The mall was bustling with activity as Kayden and Jiwoo walked side by side. The father-daughter attract attention wherever they go. 

 

Kayden, tall and strikingly handsome, exuded an aura of quiet confidence. His usual black hair hidden by light cream hair (a wig) framed his sharp features perfectly, and his piercing amber eyes (also fake) gave him an edge that drew admiration from every passerby. 

 

Jiwoo, on the other hand, looked like a sweet angel beside him, her presence radiating innocence and charm.

 

Jiwoo’s light cream hair fell in soft waves just past her shoulders, a natural shine catching the light as she moved. Her doe-like amber eyes glimmered with curiosity, framed by thick lashes, her gaze innocent yet captivating. Her clear porcelain skin had a soft pink hue to her cheeks, making her look like she’d walked straight out of a fairytale. Despite being in her early teens, her delicate features already hinted at the breathtaking beauty she was destined to become.

 

Her outfit matched her sweet demeanor, a pastel pink dress with a lace-trimmed collar, its soft fabric flowing gently around her knees. White sneakers with tiny floral details completed the look, while a small crossbody bag shaped like a cat hung at her side. Her hair was half-up in a cute style, with a small blue ribbon holding it in place.

 

As they strolled through the mall, Kayden’s attention shifted, his gaze flicking toward the young men who couldn't seem to take their eyes off his daughter. 

 

Who are these brats staring at?’ He thought. 

 

His brow furrowed, his hand subtly tightening on the shopping bag he carried. It wasn’t the first time today, and it wouldn't be the last. He wanted to glare at every boy in the vicinity.

 

Meanwhile, Jiwoo, oblivious to her father’s growing tension, was content in her own world. She turned her head toward him and gave him a bright smile. 

 

“Dad, look everyone’s staring because of you. You’re so handsome, after all.” 

 

She smiled innocently, tilting her head as if the idea of someone staring at her seemed silly.

 

Kayden scoffed but quickly softened his expression, “Don’t be ridiculous.” 

 

But deep down, his jaw clenched as he noticed another boy not-so-subtly glance at Jiwoo. ‘These little punks better keep their eyes in their heads. I don’t care if she’s cute, they need to learn respect.’

 

Jiwoo, still unaware of her father’s internal turmoil, thought to herself, ‘ Dad must really hate all this attention. I bet he’s feeling uncomfortable because people are staring at him. He probably just wants to shop in peace.’ 

 

As they moved through the crowd, the truth was that people were staring at both of them, the strikingly handsome father and the angelic daughter, a duo impossible to ignore.

 

Kayden kept a careful watch on Jiwoo as she browsed through a rack of dresses, occasionally glancing around to ensure that no one was getting too close. He wasn’t sure why, but every time a boy walked by and shot a glance at his daughter, his protective instincts kicked in. He couldn’t help but fume internally.

 

‘I swear, if one of them comes within a five-foot radius of her, I’ll…’ He clenched his fist. 

 

‘Why is she so oblivious to all this? Look at her. She’s a magnet for trouble. That innocent smile, those big eyes, ugh, she’s growing up too fast! I need to buy her a cloak or something. Maybe a giant hat to hide her face. Or better yet, we’re moving to the mountains.’

Jiwoo turned around with a soft giggle, holding up a dress. 

 

“What do you think, Dad?”

 

Kayden barely glanced at it before gruffly replying, “It’s fine.” 

 

His mind was elsewhere. ‘ Why do girls have to grow up so fast? She was just a kid yesterday, and now… now these flies are buzzing around her. I need to teach her self-defense. No, scratch that, she’s already strong. Maybe I’ll teach her to be more intimidating, no that will make more cute. Or better yet, I’ll be her shadow for the rest of her life.

 

As they moved through the mall, Jiwoo was all smiles, happy to be spending the day with her dad. 

 

They stopped by a café, and Jiwoo insisted on getting ice cream, claiming it was a much-needed treat after their shopping excursion. Kayden sat across from her, watching as she happily dug into her dessert, looking so carefree and sweet.

 

“Dad, try this,” Jiwoo said, holding out a spoonful toward him.

 

Kayden raised an eyebrow and shrugged, “I don’t eat sugary stuff.” 

 

(A/N: Nope he like sweet stuff)

 

“Just one bite!” 

 

she insisted, leaning forward with the spoon. With a sigh, Kayden relented, leaning in to take a small taste. Jiwoo grinned triumphantly.

 

“It’s good, right?” she asked eagerly.

 

Kayden gave a small, unamused shrug, “It’s okay.”

 

“Admit it, you liked it,” Jiwoo teased, clearly enjoying the moment.

 

“Don’t push your luck, kid,” Kayden replied, though his tone was soft. Watching her smile, he felt a rare moment of peace. ‘ This is what matters. Her happiness. These moments.

 

As they finished their ice cream and left the café, Jiwoo looped her arm through his. 

 

“Thanks for today, Dad. It was fun.”

 

Kayden glanced down at her, his overprotective thoughts momentarily fading as he took in the sight of his daughter, growing up but still needing him. 

 

“Anytime, kiddo. Anytime.”

 


 

The moon hung high in the sky, casting a silvery glow over the empty street as Jiwoo sat on the edge of a low wall, her cap pulled low and her sunflower print mask hiding the lower part of her face. Her chest still rose and fell heavily from the adrenaline, her knuckles faintly bruised from the fight. Nearby, the man she had beaten lay sprawled on the ground, unconscious, his face a mess of swelling and blood. She couldn't bring herself to kill him, though she knew it was risky leaving him alive.

 

Her thoughts were a whirlwind as she tried to process what had just happened.

 

For years, Jiwoo had lived a normal life, separating herself from the world of the Awakened. Her father, Kayden, had been clear from the start, no one could know about her. 

 

The Awakened world was dangerous, full of envy, ambition, and betrayal. To them, she wasn’t just a kid; she was a potential target, a tool, or a challenge to overcome. And now, by some cruel twist of fate, the secret they had worked so hard to protect was out.

 

It started with a man, an Awakened, weak one! 

 

(A/N: It's not him being weak one, it's our Jiwoo is stronger) 

 

Who had harbored a grudge against Kayden. He’d stumbled across her by sheer accident, recognizing the faint energy signature she used thinking no one was in vicinity. One reminiscent of her father’s overwhelming power. 

 

Jiwoo had been forced to fight, and though she was unscathed, the effort had left her shaken.

 

The sound of soft footsteps broke through her spiraling thoughts, followed by a familiar voice.

 

"Not bad," Kayden said, his feline form padding silently up to her. His sharp eyes flicked to the unconscious man, then back to Jiwoo. 

 

"You handled yourself well."

 

"Dad…" Jiwoo breathed, relief washing over her. She sank to her knees, her hands trembling. "I didn’t mean for this to happen. I…"

 

Kayden hopped onto the wall beside her, his tail flicking lazily as he interrupted. 

 

"Stop. Don’t do that. This was bound to happen eventually."

 

"But I messed up," Jiwoo said, her voice cracking. "I let one of them escape. He’s going to tell everyone about me. I’ve put us in danger."

 

Kayden tilted his head, his golden eyes narrowing. 

 

"First of all, you didn’t mess up. You made the right call by not chasing after the other guy. You’re still alive, and that’s what matters. Second, you’re not the one who put us in danger. That idiot chose to pick a fight he couldn’t win."

 

He leapt down from the wall and approached the unconscious man, his voice growing colder. 

 

"And this one? Leaving him alive would be a mistake."

 

Jiwoo tensed as Kayden raised a paw, his claws gleaming faintly in the moonlight. With a swift, precise movement, he delivered a final blow, the man’s body going still. 

 

Jiwoo did not turn her head away, she watched, biting her lip as guilt churned in her stomach.

 

Kayden sighed, his tone softening as he returned to her side. 

 

"Listen, kid. The Awakened world isn’t fair, and it’s not kind. If you give your enemies a chance, they’ll take it and use it against you. You did what you had to do tonight, and I’m proud of you for it."

 

Jiwoo looked up at him, her eyes glistening. "Proud? But I…"

 

"You defended yourself," Kayden said firmly. 

 

"You didn’t kill without reason. You kept your identity hidden. That’s all I could’ve asked for. You’re strong, Jiwoo, stronger than most of the fools who’ll come after us. Don’t let this shake you."

 

“Still be on guard, not all of them would be fool”

 

She nodded slowly, her father’s words settling over her like a protective shield. But deep down, she couldn’t ignore the weight of what had changed. Her existence was no longer a secret.

 

The Awakened world now knew Kayden had a student, and rumors were bound to spread like wildfire. They’d say she defeated a far older, more experienced opponent while still in her early teens. Some would envy her, some would fear her, and others would target her for their own gain.

 

Kayden’s voice cut through her thoughts again, calm but resolute. 

 

"From now on, we’ll be even more careful. No one will know who you really are, and anyone who tries to come for you will have to go through me first."

 

Jiwoo managed a small smile, her heart steadying. "Thanks, Dad."

 

He gave her a rare, warm look, his tail flicking against her arm. 

 

"Get used to this, kid. You’re not just my daughter… you’re my legacy. And no one messes with my legacy."

 

With that, they left the scene, their figures disappearing into the night. The fight was over, but Jiwoo knew this was only the beginning of a much larger battle.

 


 

The atmosphere in the dimly lit room was tense yet charged with purpose. Kayden, still in his feline form, sat atop the kitchen table, his golden eyes fixed on Jiwoo, who leaned forward in her chair, listening intently. Despite the unusual setting, their discussion was anything but ordinary, it was about survival, strategy, and staying ahead of the growing threat looming over them.

 

"We can't afford any more slip-ups," Kayden began, his tone sharp but not unkind. 

 

"Your existence being discovered was an accident, but accidents like this won’t stop here. People will start looking for you now, actively, and we need to be ready."

 

Jiwoo nodded, the gravity of his words sinking in. 

 

"What do you have in mind, Dad?"

 

"First, we’re giving you a shadow identity," he said, his tail flicking behind him. "The Awakened world doesn’t know Jiwoo and they don’t need to. They’ll know you by a different name, a nickname."

 

Jiwoo tilted her head, intrigued. "A nickname?"

 

"Something simple, effective, and intimidating enough to keep idiots at bay," 

 

Kayden replied, smirking slightly. 

 

"You’re not just a kid anymore. You’re a fighter, and you need a name that reflects that."

 

After a moment of thought, Jiwoo suggested hesitantly, "What about... Blitzclaw?"

 

Kayden wanted to say something, wanted to protest, that name was… little cute and there was nothing intimidating about it, but said nothing after seeing his daughter's expression.

 

Kayden blinked, his whiskers twitching. "Not bad. Has a nice ring to it. Blitzclaw it is."

 

Jiwoo smiled, her nerves easing a bit. "So, what’s next?" Kayden’s expression turned serious again. 

 

"Next, we make sure you’re prepared. That means learning how to hide your traces after a fight. I’ll teach you how to erase energy signatures, cover your tracks, and stay invisible to those who’ll be hunting you."

 

"Got it," Jiwoo said, her voice firm.

 

"And," he added, "you’ll need a suit. One that hides your identity completely and can withstand battles without tearing apart."

 

Jiwoo raised an eyebrow. "A suit? Like a superhero?"

 

Kayden chuckled dryly. "Call it whatever you want, but it’s essential. I’ve already contacted someone to start working on it. It’ll be made of a special material… lightweight, durable, and responsive to your energy. When you infuse it with your power, it’ll become even more resistant, protecting you against Awakened attacks and keeping it from falling apart mid-fight. The last thing we need is someone recognizing you because your clothes couldn’t handle a punch."

 

Jiwoo’s eyes widened in amazement. "That sounds… incredible. How long will it take to make?"

 

"A few weeks," Kayden said. "In the meantime, you’ll train. No more holding back, no more hesitation. If you’re going to survive in this world, you need to be ready for anything and be prepared to kill if necessary, holding back will only make you an easy target."

 

Jiwoo nodded, her resolve hardening. "I understand. I won’t let you down, Dad."

 

Kayden hopped off the table, landing gracefully on the floor. 

 

"Good. Because the only way we get through this is together. You’re my legacy, Jiwoo, and I won’t let anyone take that away from us."

 

The room fell silent as father and daughter shared a determined look, the bond between them stronger than ever. They were preparing for a future filled with challenges, but they would face it head-on, side by side.

Chapter 7

Notes:

(See the end of the chapter for notes.)

Chapter Text

Kayden, the enigmatic and undefeated force among awakeners, has taken on a disciple!

 

The news spread like wildfire across the awakened community, whispered in underground arenas, bustling training grounds, and covert meeting spots. Kayden, the untouchable powerhouse, had taken on a student. 

 

For years, he had operated alone, carving his name into the annals of awakeners as a solitary figure who needed no allies and left no survivors. The idea of him training someone else felt… unreal. Almost like an illusion.

 

The news itself could be a lie for most part, but there was hesitation in people's minds, what if it’s true?

 

In a dimly lit café frequented by some awakeners, a group gathered around a small table, their expressions a mix of disbelief and intrigue.

 

“No way. Kayden? A teacher! That man doesn’t even know the meaning of teamwork,” scoffed an awakener, a tall, muscular awakener known for his brash nature. He slammed his coffee cup down for emphasis. 

 

“He doesn’t even like people. Why would he bother training some brat?”

 

Sitting across from him, another awakener, a sharp-eyed woman with an air of calm authority, smirked. 

 

“Maybe the world’s ending, and we didn’t get the memo. Or…” She leaned back, folding her arms. “The kid must be something special if Kayden thought they were worth his time.”

 

Alexei snorted, “Or they’re a charity case. That guy has been untouchable for years. Maybe he’s bored and wants to play mentor.”

 

A younger awakener at the table, who had barely spoken so far, finally chimed in. “Do you think it’s true, though? Like, really true?” His voice was tinged with both awe and skepticism. 

 

“I mean, imagine being trained by Kayden.” ‘You'd become unstoppable.’ The last part remains unspoken still others could hear in their mind like their brain completing the sentence itself.

 

The man shrugged. “If it’s true, the kid better watch their back. Anyone associated with Kayden is bound to have a target on their head.”

 


 

Meanwhile, in a sleek corporate office far removed from the chaotic training arenas, a man in a tailored suit stared at the report in his hand. His fingers tapped rhythmically against his desk as his sharp, calculating mind processed the implications.

 

“A disciple, huh?” he murmured, his voice low and contemplative. “This changes things.”

 

“Should we investigate further, sir?” asked his assistant, standing nearby with a tablet in hand.

 

The man nodded. 

 

“Of course. If Kayden is training someone, it means he sees potential. And if he sees potential, we need to know exactly what this ‘student’ is capable of. Find out everything you can about them. Their age, background, abilities, everything.”

 

“Yes, sir.”

 


 

In a remote training ground, a group of mid-tier awakeners had just heard the news.

 

“This has to be fake,” said Marco, a wiry man with a perpetually nervous energy. He paced back and forth, his hands gesturing wildly. 

 

“Kayden doesn’t do students . He’s a solo act, always has been!”

 

One of the others, a stoic woman leaning against a wall, raised an eyebrow. 

 

“Why are you so worked up about it? It’s not like you’d ever stand a chance against him or his disciple.”

 

Marco stopped pacing, pointing an accusatory finger at her. 

 

“That’s not the point, Maya! If Kayden’s training someone, it means there’s going to be another freak like him running around. You really want two K aydens out there?!”

 

Maya shrugged, her calm demeanor unshaken. 

 

“If they’re strong, they’ll survive. If they’re not, they won’t. Simple as that.”

 


 

Even among Kayden’s peers, those rare few who could claim to know him on some level, the news sparked a variety of reactions.

 

“Kayden? With a disciple?” one of them muttered, swirling a glass of wine as they sat in a dimly lit lounge. They chuckled softly, almost in disbelief. 

 

“He barely tolerates his own company. Whoever this kid is, they must have nerves of steel.”

 

Another, a grizzled veteran with scars criss crossing his face, grunted. 

 

“Or they’re a fool who doesn’t know what they’ve signed up for. Kayden’s training methods are bound to be... unconventional.”

 

The first one smirked. “Unconventional is putting it lightly. Still, it makes you wonder, doesn’t it? Who is this kid, and what’s so special about them that Kayden decided they were worth his time?”

 


 

Some of Kayden's self proclaimed followers and those who wanted to be associated with, be it disciple or subordinate, anything as long they learn from Kayden or have his backing, are taking this news with bitterness.

 

Why that kid, why were they not chosen? What did they lack compared to a mere child? What so special about that child.

 

The hatred filled their vision and heart, their only desire to kill that child. Some wanted to prove they were better, some were just being petty, some were curious.

 

Among those was also Dark, a famous assassin who is rising in popularity since he killed many awakens, who are pretty strong in the awakened world.

 

What Dark was not aware of is that the kid is his savior and also the missing child of his other savior, and he will become a good older brother to our Jiwoo.

 


 

Back at the heart of the buzz, whispers continued to swirl. Some spoke of jealousy, why hadn’t they been chosen? Others speculated about the disciple’s abilities, imagining a young prodigy who could rival the most seasoned awakeners. A few saw an opportunity, plotting ways to use this mysterious student as leverage against Kayden himself.

 

And yet, for all the noise, one thing was certain, the awakening world was watching, waiting, and bracing itself for the storm that was sure to follow Kayden and his enigmatic disciple.

 


 

Jiwoo’s eyes sparkled with excitement as she unboxed the long-awaited suit. It was sleek, lightweight, and black with subtle silver patterns resembling lightning streaks, the perfect balance between form and function. The fabric shimmered faintly under the light, and she could channel the energy coursing through it as she infused a bit of her power.

 

Seo Jiwoo slipped on the suit, the material hugging her frame comfortably. It was flexible, breathable, and moved with her like a second skin. She twirled in front of the mirror, unable to suppress a grin.

 

Suit description : The suit hugged the contours of her form, providing complete mobility for any movement. Its base was almost liquid black, with subtle metallic accents along the arms, chest, and legs, catching just enough light to hint at its high-tech origins.

 

The hood, seamlessly integrated with the suit, cloaked her head entirely, leaving no trace of hair visible. The mask, sculpted and feline in design, covered her face entirely, with intricate patterns resembling the sleekness of a predator’s fur etched subtly across its surface. Narrow slits for the eyes revealed faintly glowing lenses, adding an air of mystery and menace.

 

On her back, a compact utility pack was affixed securely, its design streamlined to avoid hindrance. It carried essential tools and emergency gear, ensuring she was always prepared for unexpected challenges. Reinforced gloves and boots completed the outfit, their textured surfaces hinting at advanced grip and protection.

 

The suit exuded an aura of quiet authority, practical, formidable, and undeniably cool. It was a look that demanded respect, though it carried a hint of misunderstood danger, much like its wearer.

 

“It’s... perfect,” Jiwoo breathed, running her fingers over the smooth material.

 

“Glad you like it,” Kayden said, lounging in his cat form on the couch. He was watching her with a soft expression, one of quiet pride.

 

Kayden chuckled. “You look like you’re about to announce a superhero debut.”

 

Jiwoo turned to him, striking a mock heroic pose. “Blitzclaw, reporting for duty!”

 

Kayden snorted. “Don’t get cocky. You’ll have to earn that name every time you wear it.”

 

“I know,” Jiwoo said, her grin softening. 

 

“But this suit makes me feel... ready, you know? Like I can take on anything.”

 

“Good,” Kayden replied, his tone more serious now. 

 

“Because people will come for you, Jiwoo. This world doesn’t give you room to breathe when you’re strong, especially if you’re my student.”

 

Jiwoo nodded. “I’m ready, Dad.”

 


 

(Time skip…)

 

From Jiwoo’s perspective, the past two years had been a whirlwind of challenges and battles. At first, she was underestimated, dismissed by most opponents as a child playing dress-up in the awakeners’ world.

 

“She’s just a kid,” they would scoff. “No way she can stand against real awakeners.”

 

And in some ways, they were right. Jiwoo was inexperienced when it came to real fights. Her battles with Kayden had been tough, but fighting her father, someone who held back just enough to teach her, was nothing like facing strangers who would use every dirty trick to win.

 

But Jiwoo learned quickly.

 

Her first battles were messy, full of scrapes and close calls. Minor injuries were a given, but there were moments when she walked away with broken ribs, deep cuts, and bruises that painted her body for weeks. Kayden never coddled her, but he was always there, ensuring she healed properly and learned from her mistakes.

 

“Pain is a teacher,” he would say, his eyes serious. “But don’t let it rule you. Learn, adapt, and grow stronger.”

 

And she did.

 

Each fight honed her skills and instincts. Her opponents were often stronger, older, and more experienced, but Jiwoo refused to give up. She used every ounce of her power, strategy, and determination to emerge victorious. Her reputation as "Blitzclaw" grew with every win.

 

People started whispering about her.

 

“Who is she?”

“Kayden’s disciple? No wonder she’s so strong.”

“She’s just a kid. How is she beating people twice her age?”

 

Jiwoo’s victories were not without cost. She bore the scars, both physical and emotional, of her journey. But she also carried the pride of knowing she had earned her place.

 

Jiwoo’s battles were not the only lessons she learned. Kayden often took her with him to his own fights, letting her observe firsthand how a true master fought. Those battles were on an entirely different level. 

 

Watching her father take on some of the strongest awakeners in the world was awe inspiring. He was a force of nature, a storm that could not be contained. Most of all the beauty of the lightning that her father produced was always breathtaking.

 

“Watch closely,” Kayden would say before a fight. “You’re not just here to learn how to fight but to learn how to think.”

 

Jiwoo absorbed everything, the way he read his opponents, manipulated the battlefield, and used his overwhelming power with precision. These lessons were invaluable, shaping her growth as an awakener.

 

Most of Jiwoo’s opponents walked away with bruised egos and broken bones, but there were a few exceptions. A handful of battles left her with no choice but to kill. These moments weighed heavily on her, but she understood the necessity.

 

“Sometimes, sparing them means putting more people at risk,” Kayden had told her after her first kill. “You did what you had to do.”

 

Those instances were rare, but they served as a grim reminder of the world she lived in.

 

Despite her growing fame, Jiwoo remained a mystery. No one knew her real name, age, or face. Only her gender which was pretty much obvious. Blitzclaw was a shadow, a figure clad in black and silver, her identity hidden behind a mask.

 

Her connection to Kayden only fueled curiosity. Like how they met or how she became Kayden's disciple. 

 

Some admired her strength, wondering what it was like to learn under the strongest independent awakener. Others resented her, believing they were more deserving of Kayden’s mentorship.

 

But no one could deny her skill.

 

Kayden’s annihilation of Astra had only added to their notoriety. With Astra gone, other top 10 took care of remaining people, since they were after Astra’s wealth, authority and most importantly his legacy which could be a power up for grabs.

 

Jiwoo and Kayden stayed out of the chaos, focusing on her growth, but she couldn’t escape the ripple effects.

 

One of Astra’s top-ranked followers had escaped Kayden’s wrath and now lingered in the shadows, a dangerous enemy waiting for an opportunity. Jiwoo knew she needed to be ready for whatever came next.

 

But for now, as she stood beside her father, watching the world they had shaken together, Jiwoo felt a spark of pride.

 

They were Blitzclaw and Kayden break, the crazy duo that had turned the awakener world upside down.

 


 

Jiwoo was at the airport, it was bustling with the hum of chatter, the beep of boarding announcements, and the occasional squeal of luggage wheels. 

 

Jiwoo stood in line, her passport clutched in one hand and a sleek black suitcase in the other. Beside her, perched on top of another suitcase, was her father, in his feline form. 

 

He stretched lazily, his feline eyes scanning the crowd with disinterest, while Jiwoo rolled her eyes.

 

“You know, you could’ve at least pretended to fit into a carrier,” she muttered under her breath, adjusting her hoodie.

 

“And waste my dignity?” Kayden drawled telepathically, his tail flicking nonchalantly. 

 

“Absolutely not. Besides, I’m not going into cargo like some common pet.”

 

“Then why not travel like normal person, ugh… nevermind”

 

Jiwoo sighed. “People are staring. Again.”

 

“Let them. They’re staring because you’re ridiculously good looking, not because of me,” Kayden retorted smugly.

 

Jiwoo's face flushed a deep shade of red, her embarrassment evident. She might be a formidable fighter, but when it came to her father's relentless teasing, she was utterly defenseless.

 

Kayden, watching his daughter’s adorably flustered reaction, struggled to contain his laughter. His lips quivered into a smirk, his golden eyes glinting with amusement. 

 

"Strong in battle, but hopeless against a little banter," he mused to himself

 

Jiwoo who heard it just decided to ignore it completely.

 

As they moved closer to the luggage check, Jiwoo’s thoughts wandered. This was her first time in Korea, ironic, given that she was Korean by birth. 

 

Her father had dragged her all over the globe for his so-called “adventures,” which mostly involved him picking fights with strong awakeners and her acting as his reluctant tag-along/cleanup crew. 

 

She’d grown up speaking multiple languages, adapting to different cultures, and constantly moving. But now, finally, they are settling down.

 

At least for a while.

 

Jiwoo was excited but also nervous. She hadn’t been to a proper school in years, having been homeschooled while her father took on challengers or hunted down troublemakers. 

 

She was strong… strong enough to declare she is Kayden disciple, proudly. She is already in the top 100 awakeners worldwide, despite being just a teenager, which broke the record, but high school was a different battlefield altogether.

 

When they finally finished with their luggage and exited the terminal, Jiwoo stretched and looked around. “So, this is Korea,” she said, taking in the crisp air and bustling cityscape beyond the airport.

 

“It hasn’t changed much,” Kayden said, hopping off the suitcase and walking beside her. 

 

“Not that I cared much the first time I was here.”

 

Jiwoo snorted. “You’re such a patriot.”

 

He flicked his tail. “I’m practical. Anyway, let’s get to the house. I don’t feel like sleeping in some cheap hotel tonight.”

 


 

The ride to their new house was quiet but comfortable. Jiwoo stared out the window, her mind bouncing between excitement and apprehension about starting high school.

 

“You’ve been unusually quiet,” Kayden said, sitting in her lap as if he weren’t a grown man disguised as a cat. 

 

“What’s on your mind?”

 

“Just… high school, I guess,” Jiwoo admitted, scratching her ears absentmindedly.

 

“You’ve fought people ten times your age and crushed them. High school should be nothing,” he said with a yawn.

 

“Yeah, but those fights were straightforward. Hit them hard, win, move on,” she said. 

 

“This is different. Making friends, fitting in… I’ve never really done that before. What if they think I’m weird?”

 

Kayden huffed. “You are weird. But so is everyone else. You’ll be fine.”

 

Jiwoo shot him a deadpan look. “Thanks for the pep talk, Dad.”

 

“Anytime,” he replied, unapologetic.

 

When they arrived at their new house, a cozy two-story home tucked away in a quiet neighborhood, Jiwoo felt a mix of relief and excitement. She carried her bags inside, with Kayden trailing behind her, inspecting the place like a cat would.

 

“This’ll do,” Kayden said, jumping onto the couch and stretching out like he owned the place.

 

Jiwoo dropped her bags and looked around, a smile tugging at her lips. “It’s nice. Feels… normal.”

 

Kayden smirked. “Enjoy it while it lasts. Knowing us, it won’t stay normal for long.”

 

Jiwoo laughed. “Yeah, probably. But for now, I’m going to enjoy being a double agent. normal teenager by day, mysterious awakener by… well, whenever I need to be.”

 

Kayden chuckled. “Just don’t blow your cover, ‘Blitzclaw.’”

 

“Only if you don’t blow yours, Mr. Kelvin,’” she shot back, grinning.

 

Kayden groaned. “You’re getting too cheeky, kid.”

 

Jiwoo just laughed, already feeling a little less nervous about the new chapter ahead.

Notes:

how did you like the story so far, our story is going into its second phase where things started in the original story.

About the suit I got inspiration from two sources.

The first one is from a manhua called ‘Pure Villain’ you must have heard it if not just google it. In this story the main female character built her suit to hide her identity but looked like a villain, she looked cool to me and the story itself is hilarious (in a funny sense). LOL.

Another is from black ‘Black Panther’ movie, the hero costume is cool and has feline features as well as. So I just combined these two ideas.

I will post an image if I find something closer to the image I had in my mind on ‘Pinterest’ or anywhere else. (⸝⸝> ᴗ•⸝⸝)

Chapter 8

Notes:

(See the end of the chapter for notes.)

Chapter Text

The morning sunlight streamed through the classroom windows, casting a warm glow on the neatly arranged desks. Students chatted casually, their conversations filling the air with a lively buzz, when the door slid open. The teacher walked in, silencing the class with a light tap on the desk.

 

“Settle down, everyone,” he said, adjusting his glasses. 

 

“We have two new transfer students joining us this semester. Unfortunately, one of them, Wooin, will be joining us later due to some matters to attend to. But for now, let me introduce Seo Jiwoo.”

 

At the mention of her name, Jiwoo entered the classroom. Her heart raced as all eyes turned toward her, but she kept her expression calm and collected.

 

Jiwoo took a small step forward and bowed politely, her cream-colored hair swaying slightly as she straightened up. Her amber eyes scanned the class briefly, trying not to linger on anyone too long. 

 

“Hello, everyone,” she began, her voice steady yet soft. “My name is Seo Jiwoo, but please feel free to call me Jiwoo. I’ve spent my whole life living abroad, so this is my first time in Korea. I look forward to studying with you all and making good memories.” She smiled warmly, her expression lighting up the room.

 

A brief silence followed her introduction, but it wasn’t awkward, it was the kind of pause that came from everyone trying to process what they just saw and heard.

 

Her introduction was brief but impactful. Whispers buzzed around the classroom.

 

“She’s so pretty,” one girl murmured to her friend.

“From another country? That’s so cool!” another chimed in.

 

“She has such a calm voice,” another added, leaning closer to get a better look.

 

“She looks like a doll,” another whispered in awe.

 

Meanwhile, the boys were stunned into silence, their gazes fixed on her in awe. Jiwoo’s beauty wasn’t just captivating, it was disarming. Her light cream hair and striking amber eyes gave her an almost ethereal appearance, while her polite demeanor made her seem approachable.

 

The boys were less discreet. A few of them stared openly, their mouths slightly agape. 

 

“Did she say she lived abroad? That’s so cool,” one muttered, nudging his friend.

 

After her introduction, Jiwoo took her seat, the teacher began the lesson, and the class proceeded as usual. Or at least, it seemed that way. Jiwoo couldn’t help but notice the occasional glances cast her way. She sighed inwardly, hoping to blend in soon enough.

 

When the bell rang to signal the end of class, Jiwoo barely had time to collect her thoughts before a group of girls swarmed around her desk, their faces alight with curiosity.

 

“Jiwoo, what was it like living in other countries?”

 

“Do you have foreign friends?”

 

“What’s your favorite food here so far?”

 

“Is it true schools abroad don’t have uniforms?”

 

The questions came fast and relentlessly, and Jiwoo struggled to keep up. Her polite demeanor never wavered, though her responses grew more hesitant. 

 

“Uh, well, living abroad was interesting… Every place has its charm. And yes, I made some friends overseas…”

 

Nearby, a group of boys leaned against their desks, pretending to be uninterested but clearly eavesdropping. 

 

“She’s so out of everyone’s league,” one muttered under his breath, his friend elbowing him in agreement.

 

Jiwoo, overhearing the comment, felt her face flush deeply. She bit the inside of her cheek, trying to wash the color away, but one of the girls noticed and leaned closer with a curious smile.

 

“Jiwoo, are you blushing? Did something happen?”

 

Jiwoo shook her head quickly, a nervous laugh escaping her lips. “Oh, no, it’s nothing. Just… a little warm in here, that’s all.” She waved her hand as if brushing off the thought, but the pink tint on her cheeks betrayed her.

 

They all thought she was a shy type which made her more adorable in everyone's opinion.

 

The girls exchanged amused glances but didn’t press further, much to Jiwoo’s relief. As the conversation resumed, she found herself relaxing again, answering their questions and sharing small tidbits about her life abroad.

 

Despite the overwhelming start, Jiwoo couldn’t help but feel a sense of warmth. Maybe, just maybe, starting high school here wouldn’t be so bad after all.

 


 

The soft hum of chatter filled the classroom as Jiwoo took her usual seat near the window. A few days had passed since the start of school, and Jiwoo was still adjusting to the rhythm of a ‘normal’ student life. 

 

It felt strange and wonderful at the same time. For someone who had spent years traveling and being homeschooled, the structured routine of classes, the casual talks between classmates, and the faint buzz of lunchtime excitement were all new experiences.

 

It was a blessing she hadn’t realized she needed.

 

Still, Jiwoo couldn’t shake the sense of awkwardness that lingered. Most of the other students had their own friend groups, formed long before she arrived. They weren’t unkind, far from it. 

 

Many of them had been friendly, welcoming even, but there was an unspoken barrier that kept Jiwoo from truly blending in. She felt like a guest in their tightly-knit circles, and joining in their conversations felt… intrusive.

 

That’s when she met the other transfer student, Wooin. In some sense he was just like her.

 

He was quiet, almost unnervingly so. While Jiwoo had exchanged pleasantries with her classmates and even had a few brief chats with the more talkative ones, Wooin kept to himself. He sat at his desk, always neat and composed, and spoke only when addressed directly by the teacher. 

 

Despite this, Jiwoo could tell he wasn’t unfriendly. His demeanor was more reserved than cold, and his calm aura intrigued her.

 

Today, as the bell rang for lunch, Jiwoo mustered her courage once again. She approached his desk, a friendly smile on her face. “Hey, Wooin,” she greeted lightly, placing her hands on the back of the chair next to his.

 

He looked up, his dark eyes meeting hers briefly before he gave a small nod. “Hello.”

 

Encouraged, Jiwoo slid into the seat. “I thought I’d eat lunch here today,” she said, opening her lunchbox. 

 

“I’ve been trying out different dishes from the cafeteria, but I wanted something homemade today. Do you usually bring lunch or buy it?”

 

Wooin glanced at the neatly wrapped sandwich on his desk. “Bring it,” he replied curtly before turning his attention back to his food.

 

Jiwoo blinked at the abrupt end of the conversation but refused to be discouraged. “That’s smart! Sometimes the cafeteria lines are so long. Do you like cooking? Or does someone else make it for you?”

 

Wooin paused mid-bite, considering her question. “I'll make it,” he said simply.

 

“That’s impressive!” Jiwoo said, her voice bright. “I’ve tried cooking a few times, but I think I’m better at eating than making food.” She laughed softly, hoping to coax a reaction from him.

 

Wooin merely nodded, his expression unreadable.

 

The conversation, as usual, felt one-sided, but Jiwoo wasn’t ready to give up. She understood how it felt to be the new kid, and she didn’t want either of them to go through it alone. Besides, there was something about Wooin’s quiet presence that made her want to reach out, even if he didn’t seem to reciprocate just yet.

 

“You know,” Jiwoo started again, resting her chin on her hand, “it’s kind of funny that we’re both transfer students and don’t know anyone here. I guess that makes us… partners in crime?”

 

Wooin’s lips twitched slightly, an almost imperceptible movement but Jiwoo caught it.

 

Encouraged, she smiled wider. “See? That wasn’t so hard. You do smile.”

 

Wooin didn’t respond, but he didn’t retreat either, which Jiwoo took as a small victory.

 

As lunch ended and the classroom began to fill again, Jiwoo returned to her desk. Though their interaction was brief and stilted, she felt hopeful. Building a friendship with Wooin might take time, but Jiwoo was determined.

 

‘Everyone needs at least one friend even if it’s just a quiet one.’ she thought to herself. 

 


 

The students meandered between classes, their chatter creating a lively hum. Perched atop a sturdy oak tree near the edge of the school grounds, an orange cat lay leisurely sprawled on a branch. His sharp eyes betrayed the nonchalant act as they scanned the scene below with laser focus.

 

Kayden.

 

For the past few days, the mighty and infamous awakened had found a peculiar hobby, watching over Jiwoo as she attended school. 

 

(A/N: That’s straight up stalking bro, LOL)

 

Of course, he didn’t tell her. She would undoubtedly throw a fit if she knew her dad/mentor/cat was snooping on her like a nosy parent. But for Kayden, this wasn’t snooping. It was reconnaissance.

 

At least, that’s what he told himself.

 

Jiwoo’s bright smile, her ease in interacting with classmates, and the way she seemed to enjoy this new chapter of her life eased something in his heart. For years, he’d watched her grow into the formidable fighter she was today, but seeing her as a regular kid, well, as regular as she could be, felt like a small victory. She deserved this normalcy.

 

But then, his mood took a sharp turn.

 

A group of boys, huddled near the basketball court, caught his attention. They weren’t doing anything outright wrong, just talking and stealing glances toward a certain someone.

 

His someone.

 

Kayden’s eyes narrowed dangerously as he tuned in to their chatter.

 

“She’s so pretty. Did you see her smile this morning?” one of the boys whispered.

 

“Yeah, totally. Do you think she’s single?” another chimed in, elbowing his friend.

 

“What do you think her type is? I bet she likes the cool, silent type.”

 

“Dude you stood no chance”

 

“Shut up” The kids continue their banter. 

 

Kayden’s fur bristled as his tail swished behind him, the branch trembling slightly under the weight of his building fury. ‘ How dare they? ’ These little brats had no business ogling his daughter like that!

 

Her type? ’ Kayden thought, his claws unsheathing instinctively. 

 

I’ll show you her type. It’s the type that can throw you across the courtyard with a flick of her wrist, you punks.

 

He imagined stomping down there, still in his cat form, and scratching some sense into them. Better yet, maybe transforming into his human form just long enough to scare the living daylights out of them. The mental image almost made him chuckle, almost.

 

“Brats these days,” he muttered under his breath.

 

Kayden forced himself to calm down, though his tail continued its agitated swishing. 

 

No need to blow my cover, ’ He reminded himself. He was here for Jiwoo, not to traumatize her classmates.

 

Shifting his focus, his gaze softened as it landed on Jiwoo. She was sitting at a picnic table, her lunch spread neatly in front of her as she chatted with a few of her classmates. Kayden could tell she was still trying to find her footing socially. 

 

Then there was Wooin.

 

Kayden had noticed Jiwoo’s efforts to befriend the quiet boy, and he couldn’t decide if he was amused or exasperated. Watching her try to draw the boy out of his shell was like watching someone try to coax a rock into having a conversation. Still, Jiwoo’s determination was admirable.

 

“She’s too soft sometimes,” Kayden muttered, shaking his head. “But I guess that’s part of what makes her… Jiwoo.”

 

It wasn’t that he disliked Wooin. The kid seemed harmless enough, and his reserved nature meant he wasn’t likely to cause trouble. Still, Kayden’s overprotective instincts flared whenever Jiwoo seemed to go out of her way to connect with someone.

 

“You’d better not cross the line, kid,” Kayden murmured under his breath, his sharp eyes flicking to Wooin’s calm expression. “Or I’ll make you regret it.”

 

For now, though, Kayden would stay in the background, watching, observing, and ensuring that Jiwoo’s life, both normal and awakened, remained as smooth as possible. After all, that was his job as her dad.

 

And if any of these little punks stepped out of line well, they’d have to deal with the wrath of a very protective orange cat.

 


 

Kayden lounged on the couch, eyes half-closed, the soft hum of the television in the background. The quiet evening was interrupted only by the occasional pitter-patter of paws on the floor. Three cats roamed the living room like they owned the place.

 

These strays had started coming to the house for food a few weeks ago, but now, they’d practically moved in. Jiwoo had unofficially adopted them, feeding them daily and even giving them names: Mochi, Dandelion, and Shadow.

 

Mochi was sprawled on the armrest of the couch, tail lazily flicking. Dandelion napped on a cushion nearby, while Shadow prowled the kitchen, nosing around for crumbs.

 

But his attention was somewhere else. His ears perked up at every faint sound outside, expecting to hear the door open.

 

Jiwoo was running late.

 

Normally, he wouldn’t think much of it. After all, his daughter was more than capable of handling herself. But tonight, his mind churned with restless thoughts.

 

What’s taking her so long? he wondered.

 

He rolled onto his side, glaring at the clock. “She should’ve been back twenty minutes ago.”

 

Kayden’s overactive imagination began painting scenarios he didn’t want to consider. ‘Had she encountered another awakened?’ Or ‘Gotten involved in something dangerous?’ Or ‘maybe she decided to feed stray cats beyond her usual spots?’ 

 

That wouldn’t be entirely out of character for Jiwoo, but still…

 

He let out a low growl, sitting up abruptly. “If she doesn’t show up in the next five minutes, I’m going out there myself,” he muttered.

 

Just as he was about to leap off the couch, the front door clicked. Kayden froze, his sharp ears catching the sound of the lock turning.

 

The door opened, and Jiwoo stepped inside, her hair slightly disheveled, her cheeks flushed from the cool evening air, and in her arms was some type of bundle. The fur was striking through it.

 

Kayden’s eyes narrowed. “What... is that?”

 

“A cat,” Jiwoo replied. 

 

Before he could say more, Jiwoo cut him off with a sheepish smile. “Wait, Dad! Let me explain first!”

 

She set the injured cat gently on a cushion she’d grabbed from the couch and turned to face him, her hands raised defensively. “It’s a long story, but I couldn’t just leave it there.”

 

Kayden crossed his arms, leaning against the back of the couch with an expectant look. “I’m listening.”

 


 

Jiwoo had just finished feeding her usual group of strays and decided to visit a few new spots. With extra food in her bag, she wandered into a quieter part of the neighborhood.

 

As she entered a quiet alleyway, she froze mid-step.

 

A massive figure loomed in the shadows, its eyes gleaming like blood red. It was unmistakably a feline, but far larger than any normal cat. It was the size of a tiger, 

 

Its claws scratch against the pavement and destroy it.

 

Jiwoo’s breath caught in her throat. A ‘cat monster!’

 

She couldn’t leave it roaming free. A creature like this could easily harm someone. But using her awakened powers here, in an open alley, was risky. Someone might see her.

 

I need to lure it somewhere secluded.

 

She carefully stepped back, making just enough noise to catch the creature’s attention. Its ears perked up, and its glowing eyes locked onto her. Jiwoo bolted, leading the beast away in some dark alley.

 

There, she turned to face it.

 

The fight was easy. She didn’t unleash her full strength or damage the surroundings.

 

The monster was quick, its massive claws slicing through the air with deadly precision. Jiwoo ducked and dodged, her heart pounding as she looked for an opening.

 

Finally, with a well-timed strike, she managed to knock the creature down. As it hit the ground, it began to shrink, its monstrous form dissolving into a regular sized cat, battered and unconscious. Jiwoo stared at it in disbelief.

 

“Well, that’s new,” she muttered, picking up the injured feline.

 


 

“And that’s how I ended up bringing it home,” Jiwoo finished, rubbing the back of her neck sheepishly.

 

Kayden stared at her, his expression unreadable. For a long moment, there was silence. Then, he let out a sigh, pinching the bridge of his nose.

 

“You fought a monster. Alone. Without telling me.”

 

“I couldn’t exactly call you in the middle of it, Dad!” Jiwoo protested, slightly pouting. “And besides, I handled it just fine.”

 

Kayden’s sharp gaze softened slightly as he glanced at the injured cat. “You’ve got a soft spot for strays, don’t you?”

 

Jiwoo smiled, crouching to stroke the cat’s fur gently. “It’s not just that. I couldn’t leave it there knowing it might’ve been hurt because of me.”

 

Kayden grumbled something under his breath but didn’t argue further. “Fine. But next time, you let me know. Got it?”

 

“Got it.”

 

Kayden narrowed his eyes at the new addition as Jiwoo set the injured cat on the coffee table. Mochi, Dandelion, and Shadow all gathered around, sniffing curiously at the newcomer.

 

“What are you planning to do with it?” Kayden asked, his voice laced with suspicion.

 

Jiwoo didn’t answer immediately. She fetched a first-aid kit and some water, then crouched beside the table. Gently, she placed her hands over the cat and began channeling her energy. A soft glow enveloped her palms as she directed her power toward the cat’s injuries, treating the worse injuries.

 

Kayden watched in silence, his gaze sharp but unreadable.

 

After a few minutes, Jiwoo sighed and reached for the first-aid kit to clean and bandage the remaining wounds. “It’ll be okay now,” she said softly, stroking the cat’s head.

 

Kayden leaned back, crossing his arms. “You do realize that thing isn’t normal, right?”

 

Jiwoo nodded. “I figured as much. It turned into a normal cat after I subdued it. But before that, it was huge, like a tiger. And it was strong.”

 

Kayden’s expression darkened. “That’s not natural. Someone must’ve tampered with it, probably tried to forcefully awaken it.”

 

Jiwoo looked up, her brow furrowed. “That’s taboo in the awakened world, isn’t it? No one’s supposed to experiment on that.”

 

“Exactly,” Kayden said grimly. 

 

“Which means whoever’s behind this is playing with fire. And now that you have this thing, they might come looking for it or for us. This cat is living evidence of their crimes.”

 

Jiwoo’s hand froze mid-pat as she absorbed his words. “You think they’ll try to track it down?”

 

“They’d be stupid not to,” Kayden replied. “Since you saved it, you decide what to do with it.”

 

Jiwoo suddenly tensed. “I will protect it, Dad”

 

“Okay” Kayden replied. “And don’t worry. If anyone comes sniffing around, I’ll deal with them.”

 

Jiwoo gave him a small smile. “Thanks, Dad.”

 

Kayden huffed, his tone softening. “Just be careful, Jiwoo. You’ve got a habit of picking up strays, some day, one of them might bite back.”

 

Jiwoo laughed lightly, glancing at the injured cat, which was now sleeping peacefully. 

 

“This one’s not going anywhere. It’s part of the family now.”

 

Kayden groaned but didn’t argue. Watching Jiwoo care for the cat with such tenderness, he couldn’t help but feel a surge of pride, and a touch of exasperation. His daughter had the softest heart in the world, and it seemed even strays couldn’t resist her charm.

 

(A/N: after that same thing happened just like the original story, till Wooin asked for the cat, asking Jiwoo where did she find it and Jiwoo took the cat to check if Wooin is actually the owner. I’m not writing this out in detail since it’s the same and honestly, I’m too lazy to rewrite it.)

 


 

Wooin's eyes widened slightly when he saw Jiwoo returning with the gray cat secured carefully in her hands. His master’s description of the tracker had prepared him for someone dangerous, but Jiwoo didn’t seem like a tracker. If she truly was the tracker, she wouldn’t have brought the cat back so easily. Perhaps she had stumbled into this mess by sheer coincidence.

 

Jiwoo broke the silence, her voice gentle but steady, "Wooin, is this your cat?"

 

Wooin’s eyes flickered to the cat, and he nodded. "Yes."

 

The cat, however, reacted violently. It hissed and bared its sharp fangs, wriggling in Jiwoo's hold as if trying to escape. Its hostility toward Wooin was unmistakable. Jiwoo instinctively cradled the cat closer, shielding its trembling body as she took a cautious step back.

 

Wooin’s tone turned cold. "Give me the cat."

 

Jiwoo shook her head, her grip tightening protectively. "No. It’s terrified of you. I’m not handing it over until I understand what’s going on."

 

Wooin’s stoic expression hardened. "You don’t know what you’re getting involved in. Keeping that cat will only put you in danger. For your own good, hand it over and forget everything you’ve seen."

 

Jiwoo’s amber eyes narrowed. "I can’t do that."

 

With a swift, precise movement, Wooin struck the back of her neck, knocking her to the ground. The cat cried out as Wooin scooped it up, ignoring its frantic struggle.

 

Jiwoo’s vision blurred as she pushed herself up, her head throbbing. By the time she stood, Wooin had already vanished. Her initial instinct was to chase him down and fight, but something made her pause.

 

She thought back to the look in Wooin’s eyes. His face had been as blank as ever, but his eyes betrayed him, there was reluctance, a deep frustration, and even guilt. He wasn’t doing this because he wanted to, was he being forced?

 

Jiwoo exhaled sharply, her decision made. "Fine," she muttered under her breath, brushing the dust off her hands. 

 

"You’re not the only one who can do things your way, Wooin," she muttered

 

It didn’t take long for Jiwoo to track Wooin undetected. She was the Blitzclaw, after all, and trailing someone like Wooin was hardly a challenge. Her heightened senses and exceptional speed allowed her to stay hidden as she followed him to an old, decrepit clinic.

 

Through the cracked window, Jiwoo spotted Wooin handing the cat over to a man, a tall figure with a casual air but eyes that glinted with malice. This is the same man she saw before.

 

Jiwoo entered inside, through the window, surprising both of them.

 

Dr. Delen gave a mock sigh, shaking his head. "Wooin, Wooin, Wooin… You let someone follow you? Sloppy work."

 

Wooin’s head lowered slightly. "She’s not the tracker. It’s just a coincidence."

 

Dr. Delen’s demeanor shifted, irritation flashing across his face. "Does it matter if she’s the tracker or not? She’s seen too much. She has to die."

 

Jiwoo stepped out of the shadows, her voice calm but laced with steel. "So, it’s just the two of you?"

 

Dr. Delen’s eyes narrowed. "Bold, aren’t you?"

 

Jiwoo’s amber eyes darkened with anger. "You’re behind this whole mess. Experimenting on awakened power is a taboo in the ‘Awakened world’. And forcing your own student into this? Don’t you have any shame?"

 

Dr. Delen’s smirk returned, but this time it was mocking. "You’re awfully self-righteous for someone who just barged in without understanding the situation."

 

Wooin, standing beside his master, froze. He had never seen Jiwoo like this before. Her usual politeness and calm demeanor were gone, replaced by a fiery determination.

 

"Shame? Don’t make me laugh," Dr. Delen sneered. "This is about progress. Evolution. You wouldn’t understand."

 

Jiwoo’s patience snapped. "Progress? You call this monstrosity progress?" Her voice was cold, and her amber eyes glinted with fury.

 

Dr. Delen’s expression darkened. "Enough talk. You’re nothing more than a pest."

 

Jiwoo’s expression was cold and unforgiving. "You don’t deserve a lecture."

 

Those words only added more fuel in Dr. Delen fury. He tried to attack Jiwoo, but Jiwoo evaded that easily.

 

“Doing such sloppy work, I can’t even expect professionalism from you.” Jiwoo said in a mocking tone.

 

Without waiting for Delen to make a move, Jiwoo activated her spatial separation technique. Which surprised both Wooin and his master. She moved so fast that it seemed as though she vanished and reappeared in an instant.

 

(A/N: Spatial separation could only be done by strong Awakeners, there is no way someone in her peers could do it except her, she is already a ranker. )

 

In less than a second, she reappeared behind Dr. Delen, striking with precision. The force of her attack sent him crashing into the wall, unconscious before he hit the ground.

 

The room was a mess. Sparks of electric energy lingered in the air, the aftermath of her attacks leaving scorch marks on the walls and floor. Despite holding back her full power, the destruction was evident.

 


 

Jiwoo stood amidst the wreckage, her electric energy still crackling faintly in the air. Dr. Delen lay unconscious, slumped against the wall like a broken doll. The silence was deafening, save for the faint buzz of the remaining energy dissipating.

 

Wooin was frozen in place, his wide eyes fixed on his defeated master. He couldn’t believe what had just happened. 

 

His master might not have been a world ranked Awakened, but he was formidable, a figure Wooin had always considered untouchable. And yet, Jiwoo had taken him down in an instant, without so much as giving him a chance to fight back.

 

Breaking out of his stupor, Wooin stepped in front of his master, spreading his arms slightly in a defensive stance. His hands trembled, but his expression remained stoic.

 

Jiwoo blinked at him, momentarily confused. Then her voice softened. "Wooin... are you okay?"

 

Her words caught him off guard. His eyes flickered with confusion, unsure how to respond. Seeing his hesitation, Jiwoo continued.

 

"It must’ve been hard," she said gently, her gaze unwavering. "Supporting your master all this time, doing things you knew were wrong. But you must have your reasons."

 

Wooin’s shoulders stiffened. He opened his mouth as if to speak but quickly shut it again. His lips pressed into a thin line, his gaze dropping to the ground.

 

Jiwoo’s tone grew even gentler. "I know it was you who left the injured cats and money at the vet’s door. You didn’t want to hurt it any more than it already was. You’re not a bad person, Wooin."

 

His head snapped up, his eyes wide with astonishment. How could she have known?

 

After a moment of stunned silence, he finally spoke, his voice barely above a whisper. "My master… he’s not a bad guy. He… he has his reasons."

 

Before Jiwoo could respond, a familiar voice rang out, sharp and commanding. "Enough reasons to break a taboo?"

 

Both Jiwoo and Wooin turned toward the source of the voice. Kayden, in his human form, stepped into the room, his presence dominating the space instantly. His black eyes gleamed with irritation, though his tone carried a weight of authority.

 

"If the other Awakened find out about these experiments," Kayden continued, his gaze locking onto fallen man, "they’ll kill both of you without any hesitation."

 

Dr. Delen groaned softly, stirring from his unconscious state. His blurry eyes opened, and his gaze settled on Kayden. Recognition flashed across his face, followed by a flicker of fear.

 

"You… " he rasped, struggling to sit up.

 

Kayden ignored him and turned to Jiwoo. "We’re done here. Take the cat."

 

Jiwoo nodded, holding the unconscious cat securely in her arms.

 

Kayden glanced at Dr. Delen, his tone ice-cold. "This is your only warning. Stop the experiments and forget about us."

 

Dr. Delen, now fully conscious, nodded weakly. He might not have seen Kayden and Blitzclaw before, but he had heard enough about them to know they weren’t opponents he could afford to antagonize.

 

With that, Kayden and Jiwoo exited the clinic, dispelling the spatial isolation as they left.

 


 

Dr. Delen stirred weakly, his head pounding and his body trembling from the impact of Jiwoo’s attack.

 

“Blitzclaw… and Kayden Break,” He muttered their names.

 

Though he had never encountered them personally, their reputation and the sheer power he had just witnessed left no room for doubt. Jiwoo’s electric abilities and Kayden’s sudden appearance confirmed everything.

 

Dr. Delen’s expression twisted into one of dread, Wooin was helping him to sit. 

 

In a hoarse voice, he commanded, “Wooin, listen to me. You will forget everything you saw today. Never speak of this, never even think of it again. Do you understand me?”

 

Wooin, though confused, nodded solemnly. “Yes, Master.” His voice was steady, but his mind raced with unanswered questions.

 

Dr. Delen groaned as he forced himself upright. “Help me. We’re leaving. Pack everything. We’re moving again.”

 

Without hesitation, Wooin obeyed, gathering their belongings with swift precision. Despite his master’s strange orders, he focused on following them without question. He moved quickly through the small clinic, collecting papers, equipment, and personal items.

 

Suddenly, Dr. Delen’s demeanor shifted. His breathing grew ragged, and his eyes glinted with fury. “You!” he roared, turning on Wooin. Before Wooin could react, his master lashed out, striking him hard.

 

“Traitor!” Dr. Delen spat venomously. “This is all your fault! You must have led them here! You…”

 

“Master, what are you talking about? I didn’t…” Wooin stammered, trying to explain. His confusion and panic were evident, but Dr. Delen’s rage showed no signs of abating.

 

The sound of footsteps interrupted them as the door burst open. Uniformed agents flooded the clinic, their movements precise. They surrounded Dr. Delen, subduing him in moments despite his feeble attempts to resist.

 

“You traitor,” Dr. Delen stated coldly.

 

Wooin froze, his eyes darting between his master and the agents. He barely had time to react before one of them approached him.

 

Dr. Delen’s face contorted with fury. "You… you’re the reason they’re here! It's all your fault"

 

“You’re coming with us, too,” the agent said, though their tone was less accusatory toward Wooin.

 

Silently, he followed the agents as they escorted him and his master out of the clinic. His mind swirled with uncertainty and fear for what lay ahead.

Notes:

This story is divided into three phases-
First, it is about Jiwoo's life before coming korea. (which is already finish)

Second part is about Jiwoo's friend's squad being completed and some event from the main story happened, but with little change.

Third, is about Jiwoo academy life where everyone had a crush on her (except for her squad), also Jiwoo being oblivious to their feelings make it hilarious, since her friend used it to tease/annoy them a lot.

Spoiler- Jiwoo’s identity as ‘BlitzClaw’ will also be a bust. (๑>؂•̀๑)

Chapter Text

It had been a few days since Jiwoo last saw Wooin, and she couldn’t shake the feeling that something was wrong. 

 

After that day, he seemed distant, and now he wasn’t even showing up for school. Jiwoo couldn’t help but feel guilty, had she done something to upset him? Maybe he was in danger or angry with her for what happened with his master. After all, he had been so loyal to him. Jiwoo couldn’t bear the thought of losing her only friend over a misunderstanding, so after classes finished, she set out to find him.

 

As she walked through the school grounds, she spotted a familiar figure in the distance. It was Wooin, but he wasn’t alone. He was surrounded by three older boys. 

 

The notorious troublemakers of the school, always picking on students they considered weaker. Jiwoo’s stomach twisted. Wooin wasn’t even trying to defend himself, his posture slumped, his eyes avoiding theirs. Jiwoo realized it wasn’t because he didn’t care.

 

Wooin on the other hand didn’t care much what happened to him, he was scared of making things worse, scared of causing trouble for his master.

 

Her heart clenched in frustration. She couldn’t stand bullies, people who picked on others to make themselves feel strong. They made her blood boil. And now, they were targeting Wooin, who she could tell wasn’t in a position to fight back.

 

“Hey!” 

 

Jiwoo called out, striding toward them with a confidence that surprised even herself. The boys turned, their angry glares melting into confusion when they saw her… her quiet, angelic demeanor and the way she carried herself with an air of determination.

 

“Who the hell are you?” one of them sneered, his voice full of menace.

 

Jiwoo didn’t flinch. “Teacher’s looking for him,” she said, nodding toward Wooin. “You all should get to class, too, before you get in more trouble than you can handle.”

 

For a moment, the bullies stood frozen, their eyes glued to her, their faces flushing with embarrassment. The change in their demeanor was almost instant. 

 

They had clearly been expecting someone less intimidating to come to Wooin’s aid, but Jiwoo wasn’t just some helpless bystander. 

 

Without giving them a chance to argue, Jiwoo grabbed Wooin’s hand, pulling him away from the bullies. The boys didn’t dare follow, maybe it was because of the fear that had already started to settle in their minds, or maybe it was because they just didn’t want to risk their pride any further.

 

Once they were far enough away, Jiwoo slowed her pace and turned to Wooin. She hesitated for a moment, unsure of how to approach him, but then the words came rushing out.

 

“I’m sorry,” she said quietly, her voice gentle yet earnest. “For the other day… I didn’t mean to make things harder for you.”

 

Wooin froze, a look of confusion crossing his face. “Why are you apologizing?” he asked, his tone uneasy. 

 

“You didn’t do anything wrong. What you did was right. I should be the one apologizing.”

 

Jiwoo blinked in surprise. “What? No, it’s not your fault. I hurt your master… you must be angry with me.”

 

“I’m not angry,” Wooin said quickly, shaking his head. 

 

“I just… I didn’t want you to get involved. But you did the right thing, and I didn’t know how to deal with that. I wasn’t sure how to handle everything after what happened. I’m… sorry for avoiding you. I didn’t want to make things harder for you.”

 

There was a long pause as Jiwoo took in his words. Slowly, it all started to make sense. The guilt in his voice, the distance, he wasn’t avoiding her because he hated her. He was avoiding her because he felt responsible for what happened with his master and didn’t want her caught in the middle of the chaos.

 

“I get it now,” Jiwoo said softly, her expression gentle. “You don’t need to apologize. You were just trying to protect me. But I want to help you, Wooin. I want us to be friends. No matter what.”

 

Wooin’s face softened. He was still unsure, but the warmth in Jiwoo’s voice was enough to make him relax just a little. “You really want to be friends with me? After everything?”

 

Jiwoo nodded, offering him a reassuring smile. “Of course. I’ve already made up my mind.”

 

After a long moment of silence, Wooin finally let out a breath he hadn’t realized he was holding. “Okay… I guess we can try.”

 

Jiwoo smiled, and for the first time in what felt like forever, Wooin managed to smile back. Their awkward tension seemed to ease as they stood there, the heavy weight of misunderstanding lifted from their shoulders.

 

“Well,” Jiwoo said, breaking the silence, “since we’re friends now, what do you say we go feed some stray cats? I know a few that hang around outside the school.”

 

Wooin’s eyes lit up a little at the mention of the cats. It was a small but real smile, one of the first genuine smiles Jiwoo had seen from him.

 

“Yeah, let’s do that,” he said, finally letting go of the lingering doubts.

 

Together, they walked toward the exit, the shadows of their past misunderstandings slowly fading as a new, simple friendship began to bloom.

 


 

The classroom was quiet as Jiwoo sat at her desk, waiting for the bell to ring. Her phone in her hand, and she absentmindedly scrolling through her gallery. 

 

A picture of her cats, curled up contentedly in a sunbeam, appeared on the screen. She couldn’t help but smile. The picture reminded her of a simpler time, It was a comfort, a little slice of normalcy in her otherwise chaotic life.

 

As she was scrolling through her phone, the door to the classroom swung open. Jiwoo didn’t expect much of it at first, assuming it was some late student. But the three familiar figures that entered made her freeze for a moment.

 

It was the bullies from yesterday.

 

The three troublemakers, who had once been harassing Wooin, looked around the room with sneaky grins plastered on their faces. They were no longer interested in Wooin but in someone else now. They were looking for Jiwoo.

 

One of them, the tallest with a stupidly confident smirk, scanned the room, his eyes lighting up when he spotted her sitting near the window.

 

“There she is,” he said, nudging the others. “The girl from yesterday. Our angel.”

 

The other two chuckled, clearly charmed by her and oblivious to their own rudeness. They swaggered toward her desk, their steps confident, like they owned the place.

 

Jiwoo’s gaze flickered toward the door, but no one made a move to stop them. Everyone else in the class was too intimidated to get involved, some even glancing over at Jiwoo with a mix of curiosity and fear. No one wanted to get on the bad side of these guys.

 

One of the boys, the one with a more obnoxious grin, leaned down toward Jiwoo's desk, his face just inches from hers. “Hey, pretty girl,” he said, his voice dripping with insincerity. “You’re even more beautiful up close.”

 

Jiwoo’s discomfort spiked, but she forced herself to stay composed. She wasn’t going to let them intimidate her. “What do you want?” she asked, her voice firm but calm.

 

He chuckled, clearly enjoying the power dynamic. “Just wanted to say, you were, like, really impressive yesterday. No one ever really stands up to us.”

 

“Yeah,” another one chimed in. “You're a pretty strong girl for such a cute face.”

 

They were crowding her personal space now, blocking the aisle and cornering her against the desk. Jiwoo leaned back in her chair, her patience thinning. She had no intention of letting them ruin her day or her mood.

 

“I don’t have time for you,” Jiwoo said bluntly. “Go back to your pathetic little circle of friends and leave me alone.”

 

The bully in front of her scoffed, his grin widening into something more malicious. “Oh, so you think you’re too good for us now? You’re cute, but not that cute. You know, you’re probably just trying to act tough, but you’re gonna end up isolated if you keep that attitude.”

 

Jiwoo didn’t flinch. “You think I care what people like you think?” Her voice dropped to an icy calmness, her eyes narrowing. “You’re just pathetic. Pick on someone your own size.”

 

They didn’t like that response. The tallest boy clenched his fists, frustration clear in his posture. “You should be careful, princess. You’ve got a choice. You can be one of us or get left behind. We could make your life miserable here if you keep this up.”

 

Jiwoo’s lips curled into a deadpan smirk. “You can try.”

 

Before she could even blink, one of the boys lunged forward, grabbing her wrist with a tight grip. “You think you can talk back to us like that?” he growled, his hand squeezing hard, trying to intimidate her.

 

Jiwoo felt the anger bubble up inside of her, her frustration with these pathetic bullies reaching a boiling point. In an instant, she snapped into action. She jerked her wrist free from his grip, her movements sharp and precise.

 

In one smooth motion, Jiwoo planted her palm in the boy’s chest, shoving him back, sending him stumbling into his friends. She didn’t stop there. As the others recovered, she swiftly kicked one of them in the knee, hearing the satisfying crack of his knee giving way. He yelped in pain and collapsed to the floor.

 

The third boy, the one who had grabbed her wrist, looked at her with wide eyes, now realizing he had underestimated her. But it was too late. Jiwoo was already one step ahead. She grabbed him by the collar and shoved him backward, sending him flying into his friends. They all fell to the floor in a heap, groaning in pain and confusion.

 

Jiwoo stood there for a moment, chest heaving with frustration, glaring down at the trio of bullies who were now struggling to pick themselves up.

 

“I warned you,” she muttered under her breath, her anger slowly subsiding as she wiped her hands on her skirt. “Don’t mess with me again.”

 

Kayden, who was observing everything, was proud of his daughter. But his blood still boiled with anger, ‘those punks, how dare they…’

 

Just as she turned away, the door to the classroom burst open. The teacher walked in, eyes widening at the sight of the three boys on the ground. They were groaning and clutching their legs, clearly in pain.

 

“What happened here?” the teacher demanded, looking between Jiwoo and the bullies.

 

The boys tried to sit up, but they winced in pain. One of them, the one who had been in the front, stammered, “Uh… we... We were just talking to Jiwoo. She… she just attacked us for no reason…”

 

The teacher raised an eyebrow. “Really? Is that what happened?” He turned his attention to Jiwoo. “What’s your side of the story?”

 

Jiwoo stood tall, unfazed by their accusations. “They were harassing me. I warned them to back off. They didn’t listen.”

 

The teacher frowned, clearly not convinced by the boys’ lies. “You three are going to the nurse’s office. Now. I’ll be notifying the principal about this behavior.”

 

The boys didn’t argue, clearly too embarrassed and hurt to do so. They begrudgingly got to their feet and limped out of the room, leaving Jiwoo and the teacher behind.

 

Jiwoo sighed and sat back down, her anger still simmering beneath the surface but fading as she realized she had just made it through one of the most irritating moments of her life.

 

The teacher looked at her for a moment before shaking his head. “Good job standing up for yourself,” he muttered, though his voice had softened.

 

Jiwoo simply nodded, grateful the issue had been resolved without more fuss.

 

As the teacher began his lesson, Jiwoo felt a sense of pride swelling in her chest. She wasn’t afraid of these bullies. She wasn’t afraid of anyone. And she would never back down again.

 

Wooin arrived late to class that day, and when Jiwoo filled him in on what happened, a rare flicker of anger crossed his usually calm face. 

 

He couldn’t stand the thought of his friend being harassed, and the intensity of his emotions was clear. That afternoon, after school, he tracked down the boys and without a second thought, he beat the shit out of them, showing no concern for the consequences. 

 

The boys, utterly humiliated, couldn’t even bring themselves to speak as they stumbled away, nursing their bruises in silence.

 


 

The bruised and battered trio sat huddled together, nursing their wounds, when Jisuk found them. His sharp eyes scanned their sorry state, and irritation flared within him. "What happened to you three? Who did this?" he demanded, arms crossed and voice tinged with annoyance.

 

At first, the boys avoided his gaze, too ashamed to admit the truth. They muttered excuses about not wanting to talk about it. But Jisuk’s patience was wearing thin, and he pressed again, his tone growing colder. 

 

"Don’t test me. Spill it."

 

Cornered, they finally relented. "It was… Seo Jiwoo… and that quiet kid, Wooin."

 

Jisuk blinked, momentarily taken aback. "Seo Jiwoo? Who’s that?"

 

The trio exchanged awkward looks before clarifying. "You know, the new transfer student. The one in Class 2-B."

 

Jisuk frowned. The name was unfamiliar, but the real kicker was when he learned that Seo Jiwoo was a ‘ girl .’ His surprise turned to disbelief. 

 

" She did this to you? All three of you?"

 

The boys hesitated but nodded reluctantly. They couldn’t exactly lie now that the rumor had spread like wildfire through the school.

 

Annoyed and intrigued, Jisuk set off to find this mysterious girl. He was bored so decided to find her, but he did not know that his friends harassed Jiwoo.

 

When he finally spotted Jiwoo, she was seated on the rooftop, enjoying the cool breeze after lunch. Her calm demeanor didn’t match the image of someone who could take down three bullies.

 

"Hey, you’re Seo Jiwoo, right?" Jisuk called out as he approached her.

 

Jiwoo turned her head, raising an eyebrow at the unfamiliar boy. "Yes. And you are?"

 

"Jisuk," he said curtly, standing a few feet away. "I heard you and that Wooin guy roughed up my friends. Where is he? I’ve got something to discuss with him."

 

Jiwoo’s expression remained calm, but there was a hint of steel in her voice. "I don’t know where Wooin is. And even if I did, I wouldn’t tell you."

 

Jisuk’s eyes narrowed. "So you’re covering for him now? Figures." His tone turned mocking. 

 

"You really think sticking up for him will get you anywhere? You should just step aside before you get caught up in things you can’t handle."

 

Jiwoo’s patience was wearing thin, these days everyone is testing her patience and somehow she couldn’t take it anymore, she decided to end the things for one for all. 

 

She stood, her eyes locked with his. "Your friends were harassing me, and Wooin had nothing to do with it. If you’ve got a problem, take it up with me."

 

Jisuk let out a short laugh, crossing his arms. "You? Don’t flatter yourself. I don’t pick on weaklings."

 

That did it. Jiwoo’s calm façade cracked, and her eyes narrowed. She was done being underestimated. 

 

"Weak, am I? How about I prove you wrong? Let’s settle this in a proper duel, Yoo Jisuk of Shinawa."

 

Jisuk’s smirk faltered for a moment, clearly taken aback. " You’re awakened? " he asked incredulously. But his surprise quickly turned to amusement. 

 

"You’ve got some nerve. Challenging me? Fine, if you’re so eager to lose, I’ll humor you."

 

Without wasting time, Jiwoo and Jisuk headed to the Shinawa Duel Hall to register their official match.

 

When Inhyuk Goo, who was overseeing the registrations that day, saw Jiwoo’s name appear alongside Jisuk’s, he was immediately concerned. He knew Jisuk’s reputation as a troublemaker and was worried Jiwoo might be biting off more than she could chew. He approached Jiwoo before the match, his tone gentle but firm.

 

"Seo Jiwoo, are you sure about this? You don’t have to do this. Jisuk’s a seasoned fighter, and I’d hate to see you get hurt over something avoidable."

 

But Jiwoo’s resolve was unshakable. "Thank you for worrying, Inhyuk-ssi, but I need to do this. People like him need to learn that they can’t walk over others just because they think they’re stronger."

 

Inhyuk sighed, recognizing the determination in her eyes. "Alright," he relented, though he still felt uneasy. 

 

"Just be careful."

 

Jiwoo nodded. "I will."

 


 

The sparring match between Jiwoo and Jisuk was scheduled for three days later, giving Jiwoo just enough time to prepare. Though she was already much stronger than Jisuk, her strength was a double-edged sword. Her moves were too overwhelming for someone like him to handle, and the last thing she wanted was to attract unnecessary attention. Not to mention, she had to hide the fact that she was ‘ Blitzclaw ’ , a name feared in the awakened world. As Jiwoo, she was supposed to be an ordinary girl, immature and inexperienced.

 

But there was one glaring flaw in her plan, Blitzclaw was known in the awakened world, not Jiwoo. She had created a separation between her two identities, but this duel threatened to unravel it. That realization hit her hard one evening during training.

 

"Kayden…" Jiwoo hesitated, wiping the sweat from her brow. 

 

"I think I really messed up. If I fight like myself… like Blitzclaw, it’ll be obvious. But if I hold back too much, I won’t be able to win convincingly. What do I do?"

 

Kayden, lounging on a nearby bench, raised an eyebrow. "What’s done is done. You can’t change the fact that you’re in this duel. So stop worrying about what might happen and focus on what you can do now."

 

His calm confidence helped soothe Jiwoo’s nerves. He always had a way of cutting through her worries with straightforward advice.

 

"But what if they figure out who I am?" she asked, her voice tinged with anxiety.

 

Kayden shrugged. "Then we adjust. Look, the only way to handle this is to keep Blitzclaw and Jiwoo separate. Act like an immature kid who’s just learning the ropes when you’re Jiwoo. Save the real power for later, when you’re strong enough to stand at the top. By then, no one will be able to question your strength, or your identity."

 

Jiwoo nodded, determination returning to her eyes. 

 

"You’re right. I’ll focus on controlling my power and making sure I don’t slip up. This match doesn’t matter, my real goal is to get strong enough to stand beside my father."

 

Kayden smirked. "Now that’s more like it. Let’s get back to training."

 


 

Over the next few days, Jiwoo focused on refining her control. She practiced pulling her punches, mimicking the movements of a less-experienced fighter, and keeping her Blitzclaw instincts in check. It wasn’t easy, but her resolve kept her going.

 

When she told Wooin about the duel, he immediately insisted on coming along. 

 

"I’m not letting you face Jisuk alone," he said firmly. "I’ll be there to support you… and maybe enjoy watching him get beaten up."

 

Jiwoo smiled at his rare show of humor. "Thanks, Wooin. It means a lot."

 


 

Meanwhile, in another part of Shinhwa, Inhyuk Goo, the assistant to Shinhwa's leader, was reviewing Seo Jiwoo’s registration file. Ever since she’d challenged Jisuk, something about her had nagged at him. 

 

She didn’t seem like an ordinary awakened, and her calm demeanor during the duel request only fueled his curiosity.

 

“I’ll do a quick background check,” he muttered, pulling up her records. To his surprise, there was nothing out of the ordinary. No significant family connections, no incidents tied to her name, and nothing suspicious in her history, except for one detail.

 

“She lived abroad and never been to Korea before” he noted aloud, his brows furrowing. “But there’s no indication of where she awakened. Strange…”

 

Little did he know, Kayden had already anticipated this and meticulously erased any trails that could lead back to Blitzclaw. 

 

Inhyuk, though curious, couldn’t find anything to suggest Jiwoo was more than what she appeared, a young, newly awakened girl with a determined spirit.

 


 

As the day of the duel approached, Jiwoo felt more at ease. She wasn’t worried about Jisuk or the match itself. Her focus remained on her training and her ultimate goal, to one day stand alongside her father as an equal. Everything else, including the duel, was just a stepping stone.

 

When Wooin met her before the match, he gave her a small, supportive smile. "Let’s go. Jisuk’s not going to know what hit him."

 

Jiwoo chuckled. "Don’t worry. I’ll make it quick."

 

And with that, they headed toward the Shinawa Duel Hall, ready for whatever came next.

 


 

The Shinawa building loomed over them, its sleek, modern architecture reflecting the afternoon sunlight. Jiwoo walked through the entrance with Wooin at her side and her father in his cat form settled in her arms. Kayden’s sharp eyes scanned the surroundings with mild amusement, clearly here for the drama rather than any real concern.

 

“Remember, Jiwoo,” Kayden said telepathically, his voice laced with sarcasm. “This isn’t about proving anything to him. Just enjoy beating him up for wasting your time.”

 

Jiwoo rolled her eyes but couldn’t suppress a small grin. Wooin, on the other hand, remained silent, his usual calm demeanor masking the anticipation he felt.

 

As they entered the duel hall, a few gasps rippled through the crowd. Students who had come to watch the match murmured among themselves, and Jiwoo could feel the weight of their stares. 

 

At the center of the hall, Jisuk stood with his arms crossed, his signature smirk firmly in place. He took one look at Jiwoo’s calm and confident stride and scoffed.

 

“She’s either too arrogant for her own good or completely clueless about how the real world works,” he muttered under his breath.

 

His sister, Jiyoung Yoo, leader of Shinhwa, was seated nearby, an eyebrow raised in mild curiosity. She wasn’t usually one to watch student duels, but the rumors about this particular match had piqued her interest. Inhyuk Goo stood beside her, clipboard in hand, ready to officiate.

 

Jiyoung leaned toward Inhyuk and asked, “Is this the girl who challenged him? Seo Jiwoo?”

 

“Yes, ma’am,” Inhyuk replied. “She seems… confident.”

 

Jiyoung said. “Let’s see if she can back it up.”

 

Jiwoo and Jisuk stepped into the arena, standing a few meters apart as Inhyuk called for the match to begin.

 

“You can back out now,” Jisuk said with a smirk, cracking his knuckles. “I don’t pick on weaklings, but if you insist… ”

 

“Save it,” Jiwoo interrupted, her tone even. “Let’s just get this over with.”

 

Inhyuk’s whistle echoed through the hall, signaling the start of the duel. Both fighters began cautiously, using only a fraction of their power. Jisuk tested her with quick jabs of wind manipulation, but Jiwoo weaved through them effortlessly, closing the distance between them with ease.

 

“You’re holding back,” Jiwoo said, her tone calm but firm. “If this is all you’ve got, it’s not even worth my time.”

 

Jisuk frowned, her words striking a nerve. “I don’t need my full power to handle someone like you,” he shot back.

 

Jiwoo smirked. “Is that why you’re already bruised?”

 

Her taunt worked. Jisuk’s eyes narrowed as he increased the intensity of his attacks, sending powerful gusts of wind her way. Jiwoo didn’t flinch, darting through the onslaught and landing a swift kick to his side. The impact sent him stumbling, his confidence visibly shaken.

 

“You’re pathetic,” Jiwoo said, deliberately mimicking Kayden’s mocking tone. “If this is your full strength, I overestimated you.”

 

Jisuk gritted his teeth. “You want my full power? Fine!”

 

With a roar, he unleashed a torrent of wind, the sheer force of it sending debris flying across the arena. The crowd gasped as the air pressure intensified, and even Jiyoung sat up straighter in her seat.

 

Jiwoo stood her ground, her hair whipping around her face as she waited for the perfect moment. When Jisuk lunged at her with his enhanced speed, she sidestepped effortlessly, grabbing his arm and using his momentum against him. With a well-placed strike, she sent him crashing to the ground.

 

“Is that it?” Jiwoo asked, her voice calm but cutting.

 

Jisuk growled, pushing himself back to his feet. “I’m not done yet!”

 

He unleashed another wave of wind, aiming to overwhelm her, but Jiwoo dashed through it with ease. Closing the gap between them, she delivered a flurry of rapid punches, each one precise and controlled. Jisuk tried to counter, but her movements were too fluid, too fast.

 

Realizing he had no chance in close combat, he retreated, preparing one final attack. Channeling all his energy, he created a massive whirlwind, its force causing the audience to shield their faces.

 

Jiwoo smirked. “Finally taking this seriously? Too bad it’s too late.”

 

Before Jisuk could fully launch his attack, Jiwoo darted through the vortex, her fist glowing faintly with controlled energy. With one decisive punch, she struck his chest, disrupting his concentration and knocking him out cold.

 

The arena fell silent as Jisuk collapsed, unconscious. Jiwoo stood over him, her expression unreadable.

 


 

The whistle blew, signaling the end of the match. Inhyuk hurried over to check on Jisuk, while the audience erupted into murmurs.

 

“She beat him that easily?”

 

“Who is she?”

 

Jiyoung Yoo stood, her eyes narrowing as she studied Jiwoo. “Interesting,” she murmured, her curiosity deepening.

 

Meanwhile, Jiwoo walked off the arena, Wooin joined her with a small smile.

 

“Nice work,” he said.

 

Jiwoo shrugged. “It wasn’t much. Let’s go feed the cats.”

 

In her arms, Kayden yawned, clearly unimpressed. “Not bad, but you’re still rough around the edges. Let’s step it up in training tomorrow.”

 

Jiwoo rolled her eyes but couldn’t suppress a smile. This was just the beginning, and she was ready for whatever came next.

 


 

Jiwoo and Wooin walked out of the arena together, the tension from the match slowly dissipating. Jiwoo looked calm as ever, but there was a hint of satisfaction in her eyes.

 

“You were amazing,” Wooin said quietly, his tone genuinely, impressed.

 

Jiwoo glanced at him and grinned. “Thanks. He wasn’t as tough as I thought he’d be, though. All talk, no bite.”

 

Kayden, still perched in her arms, let out a low snicker. “You’re finally learning. The stronger you are, the more idiots will underestimate you. Makes the beatdown all the more satisfying.”

 

Jiwoo chuckled and looked at Wooin. “Well, I couldn’t have done it without my cheer squad.”

 

Wooin raised an eyebrow. “Cheer squad?”

 

“Yeah, you,” Jiwoo teased, nudging him lightly with her elbow.

 

For a moment, Wooin hesitated, unsure how to respond. But then Jiwoo raised her fist, a playful smile on her face. “Come on, Wooin. Don’t leave me hanging.”

 

Wooin blinked, then smiled faintly and lifted his fist to meet hers. Their fists bumped lightly, and Jiwoo’s grin widened.

 

“That’s what I’m talking about!” Jiwoo said, her energy contagious.

 

Kayden, watching the exchange, snickered. 

 

Telepathically he said. “Look at you two, acting like a couple of scrappy underdogs. What’s next, a secret handshake?”

 

Jiwoo shot him a mock glare. “Don’t be jealous, old man. We’re just cooler than you.”

 

Kayden narrowed his eyes but smirked. “Cooler? Keep telling yourself that, kid.”

 

As the three of them exited the Shinawa building, the tension of the day melted into a comfortable camaraderie. Jiwoo and Wooin were more than friends, they were a team. And with Kayden snickering from his perch, it was clear that this unlikely trio was only just getting started.

 

(A/N: We got new member of Jiwoo's protection squad Yoo Jisuk, LOL)

Chapter Text

Jisuk lay on the hospital bed, propped up with a few pillows, his ribs still aching. He wasn’t used to being on the receiving end of a fight, let alone losing so spectacularly. He stared at the ceiling, replaying the match in his head. A knock at the door interrupted his thoughts.

 

"Come in," Jisuk called, his voice gruff.

 

The door opened, and Seo Jiwoo stepped in, followed by her ever present cat companion, Kayden, walking lazily beside her. Jisuk frowned at the sight, expecting smugness or gloating, but Jiwoo's expression was calm and sincere.

 

"What, here to rub it in?" Jisuk asked with a raised eyebrow, his tone half joking, half defensive.

 

Jiwoo shook her head. "Nope, just here to see how you're doing. Broken ribs aren't fun." 

 

Her voice was light and devoid of mockery, her big, sincere eyes making him feel oddly disarmed.

 

Jisuk blinked, surprised. “That’s it?”

 

“That’s it,” Jiwoo said simply, setting a small bag of snacks and a drink on the side table. 

 

“Anyway, you look like you need rest, so I won’t stay long.” She turned to leave but paused at the door.

 

She glanced back, her tone growing serious. "One thing, though. The guys you call friends? They’re not what you think they are.”

 

Jisuk’s brows furrowed. "I know they're bullies. Don’t worry, I keep tabs on them. They don’t act out of line."

 

Jiwoo hesitated before replying, "You keep tabs, but you don’t see everything. They’re using your name, Jisuk, collecting money, harassing kids. It’s not just bullying. It's worse."

 

Her words hung in the air, heavy with implication.

 

Jisuk stiffened. "That’s ridiculous. They wouldn’t…"

 

Jiwoo shrugged. “You don’t have to believe me. Just... look closer. See for yourself.” She gave him one last look, then left with Kayden, her warning lingering in the room like an unspoken challenge.

 


 

Back at school, Jisuk returned a few days later, his ribs mostly healed. He kept his distance from his so-called friends, opting instead to watch from afar. But a part of him wishes to believe everything Jiwoo said to be a lie or joke.

 

It didn’t take long.

 

During lunch, he overheard them talking near the lockers. "Did you get the cash from those freshmen yet?" one of them whispered to the other.

 

“Yeah, told them it’s for Jisuk’s ‘protection.’ Suckers handed it over without a fight.”

 

Another snickered. "Man, we’ve got it good. As long as Jisuk’s around, nobody dares to mess with us."

 

Jisuk’s stomach twisted. Jiwoo was right. These weren’t friends, they were lackeys, parasites feeding off his reputation.

 


 

Jisuk didn’t have to act. Seo Jiwoo did it for him.

 

In the hallway after classes, Jiwoo intercepted the trio, her presence drawing attention from curious students nearby.

 

“Stop using Jisuk’s name to threaten people,” she said firmly, her voice carrying across the corridor.

 

The trio stiffened. “What are you talking about?” one of them said nervously, trying to maintain their composure.

 

“You know what I’m talking about,” Jiwoo replied, her tone steady. 

 

“Collecting money, harassing kids, acting like you're untouchable because of him. It’s wrong, and it could get him in trouble. You’re not friends, you’re liabilities.”

 

The boys squirmed under her gaze, muttering weak excuses. “We were just joking… It’s not a big deal…

 

“Joking?” Jiwoo repeated, her voice laced with disbelief. “You think it’s funny to hurt people? If you’re his friend, act like one. Stop dragging his name through the mud.”

 

From a distance, Jisuk watched the scene unfold. For once, he felt… something he couldn’t quite place. Gratitude? Relief? It was strange seeing someone defend him, not his reputation, not his power, but him as a person.

 


 

Later, Jisuk approached Jiwoo as she stood by the school gates, with Wooin.

 

“Hey,” he called out. Jiwoo turned to face him, her smile easy and warm.

 

“Hey, feeling better?” she asked.

 

“Yeah,” Jisuk said, scratching the back of his neck. “Thanks… for what you said to those guys.”

 

Jiwoo tilted her head, confused. “It wasn’t a big deal. They were out of line.”

 

Jisuk smirked faintly. “Maybe. But… thanks anyway.”

 

Jiwoo grinned. “No problem. Now, don’t let them off easy, okay?”

 

Jisuk chuckled. “I won’t.”

 

As Jiwoo waved and walked off with Wooin, Jisuk found himself smiling, a genuine, unguarded smile he hadn’t worn in years. Maybe making new friends wasn’t so bad after all.

 


 

The trio sat on the steps of a small alley behind their school, surrounded by an entourage of stray cats. Jiwoo crouched down, gently petting a fluffy orange tabby that purred loudly.

 

“Why do they always come to you first?” Jisuk asked, holding a piece of bread that no cat seemed interested in.

 

“Because I’m nice,” Jiwoo said with a cheeky grin, scratching the cat’s ears.

 

Wooin, sitting cross-legged on the ground, tossed some scraps to a calico cat. “Maybe if you weren’t scowling, they wouldn’t think you’re about to eat them,” he added with a rare smirk.

 

“Ha, ha,” Jisuk replied dryly. He glared at a particularly chubby cat staring at him. “Hey, you want this or not?”

 

The cat meowed loudly, snatched the bread, and waddled away, earning laughter from Jiwoo and Wooin.

 


 

During lunch, they commandeered their usual spot, on the rooftop of the school building. Jiwoo pulled out a massive lunch box filled with snacks, while Jisuk fished out a soda from his bag.

 

“Wooin, you’re like a machine,” Jisuk said, watching Wooin eat with precision. 

 

“Do you even enjoy food?”

 

“I do,” Wooin replied calmly, munching on a rice ball.

 

Jiwoo grinned and tossed a chip at Jisuk. “Maybe if you stopped complaining, you’d finish your food faster.”

 

Jisuk caught the chip mid-air. “Oh, it’s war now,” he declared, tossing it back. It hit Jiwoo’s forehead, and she gasped dramatically.

 

“That’s it!” she yelled, grabbing her water bottle and threatening to spray him. Wooin sighed but didn’t move, clearly used to their antics.

 


 

The trio found themselves in a brightly lit arcade, the sounds of beeping machines and cheering kids filling the air.

 

“Alright, ball-throwing competition,” Jisuk announced, pointing to a game where players hurled balls at a stack of bottles. “Winner gets bragging rights.”

 

Jiwoo cracked her knuckles. “Prepare to lose.”

 

Wooin stood silently, observing.

 

Jisuk went first, managing to knock down two stacks with an impressive throw. Jiwoo followed, knocking over all three with surprising force.

 

“Woah, Jiwoo!” Jisuk exclaimed. “Are you even human?”

 

“Just skilled,” she said smugly.

 

Wooin, however, casually stepped up and knocked over every stack on the first throw, earning a high score.

 

“...You were holding back?” Jisuk asked, dumbfounded.

 

Wooin shrugged. “It’s just a game.”

 


 

At the mall, they wandered the snack aisle, each holding a basket full of junk food.

 

“Do we need three bags of chips?” Jisuk asked, eyeing Jiwoo’s basket.

 

“Yes,” Jiwoo replied firmly. “One for each of us.”

 

“You’re just going to eat them all yourself,” Jisuk accused.

 

“Maybe.”

 

Wooin added a pack of cookies to his basket. “Let’s just pay before this turns into an argument.”

 

At the counter, the trio pooled their money, only to realize they were short.

 

Jisuk groaned. “Who bought the fancy imported chocolate?”

 

Jiwoo sheepishly raised her hand. “It’s… for science?”

 

They ended up putting back one of the chocolate bars, much to Jiwoo’s dramatic protests.

 


 

The haunted house was dimly lit, with eerie music playing in the background. The trio entered, Jisuk leading confidently while Jiwoo and Wooin followed closely.

 

A zombie stumbled out from a dark corner, groaning loudly.

 

“Is that supposed to scare me?” Jiwoo asked, unimpressed.

 

The zombie froze mid, groaned, clearly unsure how to respond.

 

Another ghost popped out, screeching. Jisuk tilted his head. “Your makeup is uneven. Did you do this yourself?”

 

The ghost faltered, muttering, “Uh, no… the makeup team did it.”

 

“Maybe ask for a refund,” Wooin added, deadpan.

 

By the time they reached the end, the actors were visibly flustered. The trio had critiqued everything, from their outfits to their acting, and even suggested “scarier” lines.

 

“Congratulations,” the manager said, glaring at them as they exited. “You’re banned from every haunted house we own.”

 

“Worth it,” Jiwoo said, laughing.

 


 

As the day ended, the three sat on a park bench, eating ice cream and watching the sunset.

 

“Today was fun,” Jiwoo said, licking her cone.

 

“Yeah,” Jisuk admitted, smiling slightly.

 

Wooin nodded silently, a faint smile on his face.

 

Though they were an unlikely trio, they had found a rhythm, a bond forged in laughter, chaos, and mutual respect.

 

Jiwoo’s home was alive with the playful chaos of cats as she and Jisuk entertained them. Jisuk, swatting away the persistent paw of a brown tabby clawing at his sleeve, grumbled under his breath.

 

“This one’s got it out for me,” he muttered.

 

Jiwoo giggled, her soft, angelic features lighting up. “Maybe it just likes you.”

 

“I doubt that,” Jisuk replied, rolling his eyes.

 

Suddenly, his phone buzzed. He answered it with an annoyed, “What?”

 

“He went home like three hours ago,” Jisuk said, his brow furrowing as he listened. The call ended abruptly, leaving him scowling at his phone.

 

“What happened?” Jiwoo asked, worries creeping into her voice.

 

“Union’s looking for Wooin. Like I’m his nanny or something,” Jisuk said with a huff.

 

But Jiwoo’s expression darkened. “That’s strange. Why would they call you? Something must’ve happened.”

 

Jisuk shrugged. “He’s probably ignoring their calls.”

 

Jiwoo stood up, her resolve firm. “We should check on him, just in case.”

 

“You’re serious?” Jisuk asked incredulously.

 

Relieved, Jiwoo scooped up Kayden, who let out a disgruntled meow.

 

“Why are you bringing the cat?” Jisuk asked, raising an eyebrow.

 

“Uh… it can track Wooin’s scent!” Jiwoo stammered, her cheeks flushing slightly.

 

Jisuk sighed. “Fine. Let’s go. But if he’s fine, you owe me for this.”

 


 

The two arrived at the address Wooin had once mentioned, The place looked abandoned.

 

“Is this seriously where Wooin lives?” Jisuk asked, staring at the empty place in disbelief.

 

Jiwoo hesitated before nodding. “That’s the address he gave me.”

 

Jisuk muttered something under his breath but followed Jiwoo inside.

 

The interior was as desolate as the exterior. Jiwoo and Jisuk exchanged uneasy glances as they walked deeper into the clinic, their footsteps echoing.

 

Finally, they found a small room with minimal furnishings, an old mattress on the floor, a single chair with a desk, and a small pile of books. It was the only sign someone had been staying there.

 

Jisuk’s eyes widened. “This… this is where he’s been living? Are you kidding me?”

 

Before Jiwoo could respond, two Union agents stepped into the room. Both wore serious expressions.

 

“What are you two doing here?” one of them asked sharply.

 

Jiwoo quickly replied, “We were worried about Wooin. He hasn’t been answering his phone for hours.”

 

The agents exchanged a look before one of them said, “We’ll handle it from here. You two should head home.”

 

Reluctantly, Jiwoo and Jisuk left the room as the agents began their search.

 


 

As the agents disappeared inside, Jiwoo turned to Jisuk, determination blazing in her doe eyes. “I’m not going home until I find Wooin. He must be in trouble.”

 

Jisuk crossed his arms, exasperated. “You’re too stubborn for your own good, you know that?”

 

“Are you coming with me or not?” Jiwoo challenged, clutching Kayden tighter.

 

Jisuk sighed heavily. “Fine, But don’t blame me if this gets messy”

 

Kayden, nestled in Jiwoo’s arms, let out an annoyed meow, his sharp eyes glinting as if saying, ‘ This is going to be a long night .’

 

With renewed resolve, Jiwoo and Jisuk set off, determined to find their missing friend.

 

After searching they found blood splatter on the ground which was also damaged.

 


 

After following a cat who was sniffing, leading them, they came upon the Klein Brothers outside an abandoned warehouse. One of the brothers had Wooin slung over his shoulder, unconscious and restrained. They were heading toward a car.

 

“We have to do something,” Jiwoo said.

 

“Nope, doing something is dangerous, we should wait for help. I already informed my sister, she should be here soon.”

 

“But they are leaving and they would be gone before someone can even come”

 

Jisuk raised his hand, summoning a gust of wind that slammed into the vehicle, crumpling its front and destroying its engine.

 

“Here” Jisuk said with a smirk.

 

This surprised the Klein brothers and they looked in Jisuk and Jiwoo's direction, saw some kid found them somehow, but who were these brats.

 

Jiwoo and Kayden give Jisuk an incredulous look.

 

“What the hell, you’re the one saying we are in a hurry!”

 

The Klein Brothers’ expressions darkened as they prepared for a fight.

 

“Jiwoo, grab Wooin and run!” Jisuk said low enough to be heard by Jiwoo only.

 

Jiwoo hesitated, not liking the idea to leave Jisuk by himself.

 

“Go!” Jisuk ordered.

 

Reluctantly, Jiwoo dashed forward with her speed, grabbing Wooin and holding him securely in her arms. She sprinted away as one of the brothers turned to pursue her.

 

“Not so fast!” the younger brother growled, breaking off to chase Jiwoo.

 

Meanwhile, the older brother stayed behind to deal with Jisuk.

 


 

Jisuk faced the older Klein Brother, trying to buy time. But the man’s overwhelming power soon began to push him back.

 

“Is this all you’ve got?” the older brother taunted, sending a powerful strike Jisuk barely managed to dodge.

 

Just as Jisuk braced himself for another attack, Kayden, still in his feline form, leapt into action. With a small burst of electricity, he shocked the man, knocking him out cold.

 

“What the!” Jisuk exclaimed, staring at the orange cat.

 

“That jerk is gonna wake up soon, I only used a portion of my powers, But don’t worry your sister is on her way. I can feel her energy closing in.”

 

Jisuk was shocked and couldn’t believe what he was seeing.

 

Kayden glanced at him, his voice low and threatening. “Don’t you dare to blab about this. If you do, you are dead understood, kid.”

 

Seeing Jisuk was not answering made Kayden irritate and he slapped him “Answer me, brat”

 

“Y- Yes” 

 

Jisuk’s eyes widened, Before he could process it further, the fat cat darted off, heading in Jiwoo’s direction. 

 

“F***, What did I just witness? Have all those punches made me go delusional!”

 


 

Jiwoo sprinted down the darkened alley with Wooin in her arms, her sharp senses picking up the sound of rapid footsteps behind them. 

 

The younger Klein brother had chosen to chase her, leaving Jisuk to deal with his older sibling. Wooin stirred weakly in her arms, his eyelids fluttering as he regained consciousness.

 

“Wooin, you okay?” Jiwoo asked, her voice urgent but soft.

 

Wooin groaned, his expression tightening as he noticed the handcuffs restraining his wrists. “These… they’re suppressing my powers,” he rasped, his voice still faint. “The key should be… in jacket pocket.”

 

Jiwoo’s eyes lit up with determination. She placed Wooin gently and worked on removing restrictions on Wooin. 

 

Wooin frowned, shaking his head. “No, Jiwoo, leave me, help Ji… ”

 

“Wooin,” she interrupted, giving him a confident grin. “You know I can handle this. I just need you ready to back me up once we get those cuffs off.”

 

Wooin hesitated but eventually nodded.  

 


 

The younger Klein brother emerged into the clearing, his expression twisted with annoyance. “You brats are really testing my patience,” he sneered, conjuring a swirling ball of fire in his palm.

 

The man hurled the fireball toward her with a shout. Jiwoo’s body blurred, her speed easily outmatching the blazing projectile. She sidestepped the attack, darting forward to close the distance between them.

 

“Not bad,” the man admitted, smirking as he raised both hands to summon a barrage of smaller firebombs. “Let’s see how fast you really are.”

 

Before he could launch his attack, Wooin blasted his face, a groan echoed through the air, forcing him to leap back. He shot a glare at Wooin, who had his hand raised, his telekinetic power disrupting the man’s focus.

 

“Annoying little punk!” the Klein brother snapped, shifting his focus toward Wooin.

 

“Not happening!” Jiwoo’s voice cut through the air as she surged forward. Her fist connected with the man’s jaw, sending him stumbling back.

 

He growled, flames sparking around him as he attempted to gather energy for another strike. But Wooin’s telekinesis interfered once more, making his movements jerky and imprecise. “Stay down!” Jiwoo shouted, delivering a powerful roundhouse kick to his midsection.

 

The Klein brother crumpled to the ground unconscious due to the aftermath of electric shock. Jiwoo stood over him, her breath steady, though her stance remained vigilant.

 


 

Jiwoo turned to Wooin, her expression softening. “You okay?”

 

Wooin nodded, brushing off his jacket. “Hmm, Thanks.”

 

Jiwoo smiled, a glimmer of relief in her eyes. “We’re a team. Let’s make sure Jisuk is okay and finish this.”

 

Wooin agreed, and with Jiwoo leading the way, they began moving back toward the sound of distant chaos, ready to regroup with their ally.

 

(A/N: after that ordeal was the same, same event like the original story, so I'm not writing again.)

Chapter 11

Notes:

I just noticed the reason Lee Subin met Seo Jiwoo and others was because of Wooin, and the reason he was offered to join the Union was because he fought Jisuk, but that had not happened in this story.
So let's assume for some reason Wooin and Jisuk fought in sparring and Park Seongha of Union was there, he saw Wooin talent and afterward the same thing happened as in the main storyline.

Chapter Text

Lee Subin strode confidently onto the school grounds, her sharp eyes scanning the area. She wasn’t particularly interested in the chaos of high school life but had a clear purpose, finding Wooin, who had consistently ignored Park Seongha's invitations to join the Union.

 

She approached a group of boys loitering near the gate. Unfortunately for her, they were none other than the bullies Jiwoo had put in their place earlier.

 

“Excuse me,” Subin said, her tone calm but authoritative. “Do you know where I can find someone named Wooin?”

 

The boys exchanged annoyed glances, their pride still smarting from the beating they’d received from Jiwoo and Wooin.

 

“Why should we tell you anything?” one of them sneered.

 

Subin sighed, clearly unimpressed. “Because I’m asking nicely. For now.”

 

Another boy scoffed. “Who even are you? Just leave.”

 

Subin’s eyes narrowed. “Bad move.”

 

Before they could react, Subin stepped forward, swiftly grabbing one of the boys by his collar and pinning him against the wall. 

 

“I’ll ask again. Where is Wooin?”

 

The others panicked and tried to intervene, but Subin took them down effortlessly, leaving them groaning on the ground.

 


 

Jiwoo, Wooin, and Jisuk strolled out of the school building together, laughing about some joke Jiwoo had just cracked. They stopped short when they saw Jisuk’s former lackeys sprawled on the ground, clearly beaten.

 

Jisuk raised an eyebrow. “What, did you guys trip over your egos again?”

 

“Not now, Jisuk!” one of them groaned.

 

Subin turned toward the trio, her gaze landing on Jisuk. “Oh, it’s you,” she said, her tone dismissive. “Figures.”

 

Jisuk smirked, crossing his arms. “And what’s that supposed to mean? You cause trouble everywhere you go, or is it just here?”

 

“I wouldn’t need to if people actually answered questions without being morons,” Subin shot back. She pointed at him. “And you, where’s Wooin?”

 

Jisuk’s expression didn’t change as he casually replied, “Never heard of him.”

 

Subin rolled her eyes. “Yeah, sure. Like I’m going to believe you.”

 

“Believe whatever you want, princess,” Jisuk said with a mocking grin. “Now, if you’ll excuse us, we’ve got better things to do.”

 

He turned and walked away with Jiwoo and Wooin in tow.

 


 

The trio reached their usual spot behind the school, where a group of stray cats eagerly waited for their daily snacks. Jiwoo handed out bits of bread and scraps, grinning as the cats meowed happily.

 

Jiwoo glanced at Wooin. “So, any idea why she’s looking for you?”

 

“No clue,” Wooin replied calmly, scratching behind one cat’s ear. “I haven’t done anything to get her attention.”

 

“Maybe she’s just bored,” Jisuk suggested, leaning against the wall. “Not everyone has a life as exciting as ours.”

 

Jiwoo laughed. “Right. Feeding cats and dodging random Union people is peak excitement.”

 

They began brainstorming plans for the afternoon, debating between visiting the arcade or trying out a new snack shop they had heard about.

 


 

The trio were feeding cats after school. Just as they were about to leave, Lee Subin appeared again, looking both annoyed and triumphant.

 

“You lied,” she said, pointing directly at Jisuk.

 

Jisuk groaned. “And you came all the way back here just to say that? Get a hobby.”

 

Subin ignored his comment and turned her attention to Wooin, pointing at him. “That’s him. That’s Wooin, isn’t it?”

 

The trio froze. Jiwoo glanced at Wooin, who seemed more amused than surprised, while Jisuk rolled his eyes dramatically.

 

“Congratulations, Sherlock,” Jisuk said sarcastically. “You figured it out. Want a medal?”

 

Subin glared at him. “I’d prefer it if you stopped wasting my time.”

 

“And I’d prefer if you stopped stalking us,” Jisuk shot back.

 

Subin huffed and turned to Wooin. “You’ve been ignoring the Union’s invitations. Why?”

 

Wooin met her gaze calmly. “I don’t reject the invitation, I just need more time to think about.”

 

Subin opened her mouth to argue, but Jiwoo stepped in.

 

“Hey, maybe take a hint?” Jiwoo said with a cheerful smile that didn’t quite reach her eyes.

 

Subin glared at her, sizing her up. “You’re really annoying, you know that?”

 

“Thanks,” Jiwoo replied, still smiling.

 

Subin sighed, realizing she wasn’t going to get anywhere today. She turned to Wooin one last time. 

 

“Think about it. The Union doesn’t wait forever.”

 

As she walked away, Jiwoo nudged Wooin playfully. “Looks like you’ve got a fan.”

 

Wooin shook his head. “Not interested.”

 

Jisuk snorted. “At least she didn’t beat us up like those guys.”

 

The trio burst into laughter, their plans for the day back on track as they left the drama behind, at least for now.

 


 

It was a calm afternoon, and Jiwoo and Wooin were in their usual spot feeding the stray cats. Jiwoo giggled as one particularly bold kitten tried climbing up her leg, while Wooin silently divided food into neat portions for each cat.

 

Out of nowhere, a familiar voice interrupted their peace.

 

“Do you two always hang out with cats, or is today special?”

 

Jiwoo looked up, startled, to see Subin standing there, arms crossed, her sharp gaze fixed on Wooin.

 

“Subin? Again?” Jiwoo asked, tilting her head.

 

Subin ignored her and walked closer, her attention focused solely on Wooin. “I’m here to talk to you, Wooin.”

 

Wooin sighed. “What is it this time?”

 

Subin gestured vaguely toward him. “You’re wasting time. The Union is one of the biggest organizations in Korea. An unaffiliated awakened like you should consider yourself lucky to get an invitation, especially one directly offered by Park Seongha.”

 

Jiwoo’s playful smile faded. “Why does everyone keep acting like being unaffiliated is some crime? He’s fine where he is.”

 

Subin turned to Jiwoo with a raised eyebrow. “You’re speaking like someone who doesn’t understand how the awakened world works. For someone in Wooin’s position, being in a group like the Union isn’t just beneficial, it’s essential for protection.”

 

“I don’t need anyone’s protection,” Wooin said calmly, his tone firm.

 

Subin smirked. “Is that what your ‘master’ would think? I doubt they’d want you wandering around without a safety net. One mistake and you could end up…”

 

“That’s enough,” Wooin interrupted, his calm demeanor showing a crack of irritation.

 

Jiwoo stepped forward, clearly annoyed. “Dragging his mentor into this? That’s low, even for you.”

 

Subin didn’t back down. “I’m just being realistic. Wooin needs to think carefully about this. The Union doesn’t extend offers like this to just anyone.”

 

“I need time,” Wooin said curtly.

 

Subin nodded but added with a smug grin, “Just don’t forget who made the offer. Park Seongha personally backing you is a rare opportunity. You don’t want to regret this.”

 

The air grew tense as the conversation edged closer to an argument. Subin, seeing she wasn’t getting through, leaned back. 

 

“You don’t seem to realize how lucky you are.”

 

Before Wooin could respond, another voice chimed in from behind them.

 

“Subin making trouble again? Shocking.”

 

The trio turned to see Jisuk leaning casually against a tree, his phone in hand. The smug grin on his face immediately irritated Subin.

 

“What are you doing here?” she asked, narrowing her eyes.

 

“Me? Just enjoying the drama. Oh, and by the way…” He waved his phone slightly. “Did you hear, Mr. Park, Subin is causing trouble again.”

 

Subin’s eyes widened slightly before she glared at him. “Why are you such a brat?”

 

“You make it too easy,” Jisuk replied with a shrug.

 

“Stop wasting his time!” Subin snapped, her composure breaking as she tried to snatch the phone from Jisuk.

 

“Not my fault you talk too much,” Jisuk said, holding the phone just out of her reach. “Seriously, how many times are you going to harass him?”

 

Their bickering escalated, resembling two squabbling children. Jiwoo and Wooin exchanged exasperated looks, silently agreeing to ignore them.

 


 

Eventually, Subin stopped, realizing she was losing ground to Jisuk’s taunts. She turned back to Wooin, her determination reignited.

 

“Fine. If you’re so confident, let’s settle this. I’ll test you myself. If you’re really deserving of the Union’s offer, prove it to me.”

 

Wooin met her gaze without hesitation. “Fine. I’ll take your test.”

 

“Good,” Subin said with a smirk. “Let’s see if you’re as strong as they think you are.”

 

As Subin walked off, Jiwoo sighed. “She really can’t leave things alone, can she?”

 

Jisuk pocketed his phone, still grinning. “Nah, but at least she’s entertaining.”

 

Wooin looked thoughtful for a moment before shrugging. “Guess I’ll just have to prove her wrong.”

 

Jiwoo patted him on the back. “You’ve got this. And hey, at least we’ll get a good show out of it.”

 

The trio returned to feeding the cats, already brainstorming how to turn Subin’s challenge into another adventure.

 

(A/N: the battle scene between Wooin and Subin is same as original story)

Chapter 12

Notes:

(See the end of the chapter for notes.)

Chapter Text

The days after Subin’s test against Wooin had settled into a new normal. Subin had quickly become a regular part of their routine, and their hangouts grew livelier. Their favorite place to gather? Jiwoo’s house.

 

Jiwoo’s home was cozy, with just enough space for their antics.

 

After school, the four of them now fed stray cats together, with Subin taking her time to learn the names Jiwoo had given each feline. From there, they would often head to Jiwoo’s house, which had become their unofficial hangout spot. 

 

Her cozy home was perfect for their gatherings, whether it was gaming, watching movies, or simply teasing each other 

 

Days were filled with laughter, feeding stray cats, outings to arcades or malls, and, of course, the relentless banter between Subin and Jisuk. Their sharp remarks were a daily source of entertainment, with Jiwoo and Wooin often stepping in to cool things down when the teasing got too intense.

 

Even Kayden found their antics amusing, though he’d grumble about the noise when only Jiwoo was around. “They’re like a pack of noisy brats,” he’d mutter. 

 

But Jiwoo knew better, he kept a sharp eye on her and her friends, his protective instincts ever present.

 

On rare occasions, the group went their separate ways for a day to focus on their own tasks. Today was one such day. Jiwoo saw it as the perfect opportunity to do something she hadn’t done in a while, spend quality time with her dad.

 


 

Jiwoo sat nervously in Jiyoung Yoo's office, her fingers lightly stroking Kayden’s fur as the orange tabby lounged on her lap. Kayden, in his feline form, appeared unbothered, though his tail flicked lazily now and then, betraying his attention to the conversation. 

 

Across the sleek, minimalist desk sat Jiyoung Yoo, her poised demeanor radiating authority, while Inhyuk Goo stood nearby, his calm and professional aura complementing hers.

 

"Seo Jiwoo," Inhyuk began, his voice measured, "thank you for coming. We wanted to discuss something that could be a significant opportunity for you." He glanced at Jiyoung, who gave him a nod to continue. 

 

"Korea recently opened its own Awakened Academy. It's a specialized institution aimed at nurturing and developing young Awakened individuals' talents, preparing them for the responsibilities and challenges they may face."

 

Jiwoo blinked, her hand pausing mid stroke on Kayden's fur. 

 

"Korean Awakened Academy?" she repeated softly, her wide eyes reflecting her curiosity.

 

Jiyoung leaned forward slightly, her gaze soft but resolute. "The academy is in its initial stages, still in a testing phase. Each group is allowed to send a limited number of students, as this is a pilot program. However," she added with emphasis, "each organization can also nominate one unaffiliated student to attend. And I would like to extend that invitation to you, Jiwoo."

 

Jiwoo's heart skipped a beat. The unexpected offer left her momentarily speechless. 

 

"Me? But… wouldn't that take away an opportunity from someone in your group?" she asked hesitantly, her brow furrowing with concern.

 

Both Jiyoung and Inhyuk exchanged glances, clearly surprised by her selfless question. Kayden huffed, his tail flicking in irritation at her doubt.

 

Jiyoung's expression softened further. "No, Jiwoo," she assured gently. 

 

"You wouldn't be taking anyone's place. The unaffiliated student position is separate from the slots allocated to group members. It's meant to provide an opportunity for individuals like you, talented, unaffiliated Awakened who may otherwise go unnoticed. This spot is yours if you choose to accept it. There's no need to worry."

 

Inhyuk nodded in agreement. "You don't have to give us an answer immediately. Take your time to think it over. Discuss it with your guardian as well," he said, remembering Jiwoo's father Seo Kelvin (referencing Kayden's alias). 

 

"The decision is yours, but we ask that you keep this information confidential for now."

 

Jiwoo glanced down at Kayden, whose golden eyes met hers briefly before he yawned dramatically, as though bored by the formality. But she could tell he was listening intently.

 

"I’ll think about it," Jiwoo said earnestly, bowing her head slightly. "Thank you for considering me for such an incredible opportunity."

 

Jiyoung smiled faintly. "You're welcome, Jiwoo. Whatever decision you make, know that I truly believe in your potential."

 


 

Later that evening, Jiwoo sat on her bed, Kayden perched at her side in his usual feline form. The warm glow of the bedside lamp cast a soft light over the room. Jiwoo stared at the ceiling, her thoughts racing.

 

"Dad," she said finally, turning to look at him. "What do you think I should do? Should I go to the academy?"

 

Kayden glanced at her, his golden eyes narrowing slightly. "Tch, why are you asking me? You already know the answer."

 

"I-I do?" Jiwoo asked, startled.

 

"Yes," Kayden said with a flick of his tail. 

 

"Do what you want, kid. If you think the academy is worth it, go. If not, don’t. Either way, I'll support whatever decision you make. You’ve got me as your teacher, so you’re already ahead of those brats. But if you want to see what the academy has to offer, I won’t stop you."

 

Jiwoo smiled at his blunt, matter of fact tone. His confidence in her always made her feel stronger. 

 

"Thanks, Dad. I’ll think about it a bit more, but it helps to know you’re okay with whatever I choose."

 

Kayden stretched lazily before curling up again. "Just don’t forget who got your back," he muttered with a smirk.

 

Jiwoo chuckled softly, her resolve growing. Whatever she decided, she knew she wasn’t alone.

 


 

Jiwoo’s house was alive with chatter and laughter as her friends gathered. It was late afternoon, everyone was present. 

 

Wooin sat cross legged on the floor, focused on dangling a cat toy in front of Jiwoo’s playful cats. They pounced and batted at it with boundless energy, except for the newest addition, who sat warily in the corner, observing.

 

Kayden, in his feline form, lay sprawled near Jiwoo on the couch, his eyes closed as if the chaos around him didn’t exist. Jiwoo gently scratched behind his ears, earning a faint twitch of his tail.

 

“I’m just saying, if you can’t keep up, don’t blame me,” Jisuk teased, smirking at Subin’s irritation.

 

“Keep up? With you? Please,” Subin shot back, flipping her hair dramatically. “I’d leave you in the dust before you even blinked.

 

Jiwoo laughed softly from her spot, Kayden napping in his feline form, entirely unbothered by the noise around him.

 

After a brief lull in the conversation, Subin broke the silence, her tone casual but tinged with excitement. “So, what’s everyone doing this summer vacation?”

 

Jisuk raised an eyebrow, leaning forward slightly. “Why? Got something special to brag about?”

 

Ignoring him, Subin grinned. “Yeah, I’ll be at the newly opened Korean  Awakened Academy. As Union representative, of course.”

 

Her announcement drew surprised glances from the others.

 

Jiwoo blinked, recalling her recent conversation with Jiyoung Yoo. 

 

“The Korean Awakened Academy” she echoed.

 

Subin nodded eagerly. “Yep. It’s supposed to be an amazing place for training, networking, and a chance to meet Awakened from other top organizations of Korea. The Union’s investing heavily in it.”

 

Jiwoo hesitated, then spoke shyly. “Um... I actually got an offer too. From Shinhwa. They want me to go as an unaffiliated student.”

 

Wooin chimed in as well, looking thoughtful. “The Union offered me the same offer.”

 

Jisuk leaned back, smirking. “I also have a spot in Shinhwa, naturally. But I’m not going. It's too much of a hassle.”

 

Subin rolled her eyes. “Oh, please. You’re just scared we’ll outshine you.”

 

“What?! Scared?!” Jisuk snapped, glaring at her. “You wish. I could crush you all if I wanted to.”

 

Jiwoo giggled, her cheeks pink. “I’m going,” she said softly. 

 

“I want to see what it’s like. Plus, I already got permission from my mentor.” 

 

She glanced down at Kayden, whose tail flicked lazily at the mention of “permission.”

 

Wooin nodded. “If you’re all going, I’ll go too. I just need to inform my master.”

 

Jisuk frowned, glancing between his friends. “Wait. So all of you are going?”

 

Jiwoo noticed his expression and couldn’t help but tease him. “It would be boring without you, Jisuk,” she said with a warm smile.

 

Subin, never one to miss an opportunity, chimed in. “Yeah, you’d miss out on all the fun. And let’s be honest, you’re not that busy anyway.”

 

Jisuk groaned, clearly torn between his pride and the thought of being left out. 

 

“Fine! I’ll come. What am I, your nanny or something?!”

 

His outburst earned a burst of laughter from everyone.

 

Jiwoo’s heart felt lighter as she looked around at her friends. “Then it’s settled. We’re all going together.”

 

Kayden cracked one eye open from his spot, his gaze unimpressed. “Tch. This is going to be a headache,” he muttered, but no one seemed to notice.

 

The room filled with renewed laughter and excitement as they discussed their upcoming plans. Whatever awaited them at the academy, they knew they would face it together.

 


 

In a modestly decorated meeting room, two teenagers sat on opposite sides of a table, their fidgeting betraying a mix of nervousness and excitement. Today was important, the day they would meet the rest of the members attending the Korean Awakened Academy from their group. 

 

“I wonder what the academy’s going to be like,” said Choi Boyoung, her fingers drumming on the table. Her hair was pulled back in a neat ponytail, and her sharp brown eyes were filled with curiosity. 

 

“What should we bring? Are they going to test us right away?”

 

Lee Jaehyuk adjusted his glasses nervously, his lean frame shifting in his chair. 

 

“I have no idea, but I’m sure they’ll expect a lot. Representing our groups… It's a lot of pressure.” He hesitated, glancing toward the door. “And we’re supposed to meet her today. You know, the one who beat Yoo Jisuk.”

 

Boyoung’s eyes widened slightly. “You mean Seo Jiwoo? I heard she’s crazy strong. To think she’s just a rookie… I wonder what she’s like.”

 

Their conversation was cut short as the door creaked open. Both turned to see two figures entering the room.

 

Jiwoo stepped in first, her presence immediately drawing their attention. Her long, shiny light cream hair flowed gracefully down her back, and her doe like amber eyes sparkled with warmth and innocence. She wore a simple outfit, but her natural beauty left Boyoung and Jaehyuk momentarily stunned.

 

Behind her, Jisuk entered with his usual confident swagger, his sharp features set in a bored expression. He gave a slight nod to the room before plopping into the nearest chair, completely ignoring the two teens staring at him.

 

Boyoung quickly composed herself, standing and offering a polite bow. “Hi! I’m Choi Boyoung. It’s nice to meet you.”

 

Jiwoo returned the bow with a warm smile, her soft voice carrying a soothing gentleness. 

 

“Hello, I’m Seo Jiwoo. It’s nice to meet you too, Boyoung.”

 

Jaehyuk, caught off guard by Jiwoo’s radiant smile, stumbled over his words as he introduced himself. “Ah, I-I’m Lee Jaehyuk. Nice to meet you.”

 

Jiwoo’s polite nod only deepened his blush, but before he could embarrass himself further, Boyoung nudged him, her expression curious but composed.

 

Their attention turned briefly to Jisuk, who had yet to say a word. Both Boyoung and Jaehyuk stared at him, clearly expecting an introduction. Jisuk, however, leaned back in his chair with a dismissive wave. 

 

“Yeah, yeah. You know who I am. Let’s skip the formalities.”

 

The two teens exchanged awkward glances, unsure how to respond, but Jiwoo’s quiet giggle broke the tension.

 

“Don’t be shy Jisuk,” she teased him.

 

Moments later, the door opened again, and Inhyuk Goo entered, carrying a folder in one hand. His sharp eyes scanned the room before landing on the fat orange cat curled comfortably in Jiwoo’s arms.

 

“Ah,” Inhyuk said, his tone softening immediately. He reached into his pocket and pulled out a small treat. “Here, little one.”

 

Jiwoo blinked as Kayden, still in his feline disguise, opened one eye lazily, snatched the treat with a huff, and resumed his nap.

 

Boyoung and Jaehyuk didn’t even blink at Inhyuk’s gesture. Everyone knew he was a well known cat lover.

 

Inhyuk cleared his throat, straightening his posture as he addressed the group. 

 

“Welcome, everyone. I know you’re all excited and maybe a little nervous, but today is just a simple briefing. We’ll go over the rules and expectations for the academy and answer any questions you might have.”

 

His tone was calm and reassuring as he began the meeting, carefully explaining the academy’s purpose, the unique opportunities it offered, and the importance of teamwork among the students.

 

During the explanation, Jiwoo raised her hand. “Um, I have a question,” she said hesitantly.

 

Inhyuk nodded, gesturing for her to continue.

 

“Can I bring my cat to the academy?” she asked, glancing at Kayden, who continued to feign disinterest.

 

Inhyuk chuckled, clearly not expecting the question. “Actually, yes. Students are allowed to bring pets or equipment, especially if it’s related to their abilities. Some students specialize in animal control or have unique bonds with their pets, so bringing them is perfectly fine, even if they’re just normal pets.”

 

Jiwoo smiled, relieved. “Thank you.”

 

The rest of the meeting proceeded smoothly, with Inhyuk doing his best to keep the atmosphere light and ensure the teens felt at ease. As the session ended, excitement replaced the earlier nervousness, and all four students began to look forward to the journey ahead.

 


 

Jiwoo’s cozy living room buzzed with laughter and chatter as the group made the most of their last night before heading to the Korean Awakened Academy. With snacks piled on the table and her cats lounging nearby, the night had already been a perfect blend of chaos and fun.

 

Jisuk and Subin start fighting like little kids, strangling each other, pulling  hair, and finally Jiwoo and Wooin separating them and suggesting other activities to distract them.

 

Let's do  karaoke. Subin grabbed the microphone first, belting out an energetic pop song with surprising confidence. Jiwoo clapped along, her eyes sparkling with joy, while Jisuk covered his ears dramatically.

 

“Who let her sing?!” Jisuk groaned.

 

“Don’t be jealous of my talent!” Subin shot back, sticking her tongue out.

 

After rounds of console games and some questionable karaoke performances, Subin suddenly slapped a deck of cards onto the table. 

 

“Alright, time for a real game. Let’s see who’s got the brains here.”

 

“What are we playing?” Jiwoo asked curiously as she helped gather the cards.

 

Subin smirked. “Something simple, Crazy Eights. Even Jisuk can keep up with that.”

 

“Excuse me?!” Jisuk shot her an offended look as he grabbed a handful of chips. 

 

“I’m a genius. I’ll crush all of you in this.”

 

“Yeah, keep dreaming.” Subin shuffled the cards with unnecessary flair, clearly enjoying Jisuk’s irritation.

 

Jiwoo and Wooin exchanged amused glances. This was going to be entertaining.

 

The game started off calmly enough, with Jiwoo quietly strategizing, Wooin focusing intently on his cards, and Subin relentlessly taunting Jisuk.

 

“Skip,” Subin said with a mischievous grin, placing her card down.

 

“Stop targeting me!” Jisuk groaned, glaring at her.

 

“Don’t flatter yourself. I’m just playing smart,” Subin retorted, flipping her hair dramatically.

 

Jiwoo giggled, while Wooin gave a faint smile. “You’re both taking this too seriously,” Jiwoo teased.

 

“Quiet, Jiwoo. This is war,” Jisuk declared, slapping a wild card onto the table. “Change to blue.”

 

Subin scowled. “You did that just to mess with me!”

 

“Of course, I did. What’s the point of playing otherwise?” Jisuk smirked, leaning back confidently.

 

Subin narrowed her eyes and played another card, pointing at him accusingly. “You’re cheating somehow, I just know it.”

 

“Cheating? You’re just mad because you’re losing!” Jisuk shot back.

 

The banter escalated when Subin reached for the pile to draw a card, and Jisuk reached at the same time. Their hands collided, knocking the deck over.

 

“Are you serious right now?!” Subin exclaimed, glaring at him.

 

“Hey, you’re the one hogging all the cards!” Jisuk fired back, sitting up straight as if ready to defend himself.

 

Their bickering grew louder, turning into a full-blown (albeit ridiculous) argument over who was at fault for the toppled deck.

 

Jiwoo couldn’t hold back her laughter any longer. “Guys, calm down!” she said between giggles.

 

Wooin, trying his best to suppress a smile, leaned forward and started gathering the cards. “This game isn’t supposed to be this intense,” he said, his voice soft but tinged with amusement.

 

Jiwoo stood up and placed a hand on Subin’s shoulder while also lightly flicking Jisuk on the forehead. “Enough, you two. You’re scaring the cats!” she teased.

 

Subin crossed her arms with a pout, while Jisuk leaned back with a huff. “Fine. But only because Jiwoo asked,” Subin said, glaring at Jisuk one last time.

 

“Yeah, yeah, let’s just finish this so I can prove I’m better,” Jisuk grumbled.

 

As the game resumed, Jiwoo and Wooin exchanged a knowing glance, both enjoying the chaos their friends brought to the group.

 

“Somehow, I think this night is going to be hard to top,” Wooin said quietly.

 

Jiwoo nodded with a smile. “Yeah, but I wouldn’t have it any other way.”

Notes:

You must be wondering, why didn't someone break into the Seo Jiwoo house, in my story. Well Jiwoo has beaten Jisuk in a public match so others in Shinhwa knew there was a rookie, talented one. So when Jiyoung Yoo brought the topic of offering unaffiliated seat, to our Jiwoo, there was protest from some members but it died down when they learned she was the same rookie who defeated Yoo Jisuk, so all protest died and no one opposed it.
But they had their own malice intentions, unlike Jiyoung Yoo and Inhyuk Goo and some members who offered positions with genuine intention to help her. The remaining people were greedy and wanted to bring Seo Jiwoo, a talented rookie to their group. Like they wanted to scout her, in the act of helping and showing off how much Shinhwa has to offer.
Well they don’t know that Jiwoo has no intention of joining any group, LOL.
Like every big group has its own faction but leader orders are final so even if those people are still opposed, Jiyoung Yoo would have offered a position to Jiwoo and things would have gone in the same way as the original story.
I love big sister energy of Jiyoung Yoo.
ദ്ദി(˵ •̀ ᴗ - ˵ ) ✧
Also, it's the final of the second phase, which means, we are finally going to have, romantic comedy in the story. Hell Yeah… third phase.

Chapter Text

Seo Jiwoo carefully adjusted the academy uniform in front of the mirror in her dorm room. The outfit, while simple and practical, was surprisingly comfortable. She smoothed out the fabric with a smile, turning to glance at Kayden, who was sprawled lazily on the bed in his feline form.

 

“You’re really going through with this, huh?” he murmured, stretching his paws.

 

“I think it’ll be fun,” Jiwoo said, smoothing the fabric of her uniform. 

 

“Besides, Mr. Inhyuk promised someone would take care of the cats back home, so there’s nothing to worry about.”

 

“I’m glad you agreed to come with me,” Jiwoo said softly. “I’d feel nervous without you, dad.”

 

Kayden opened one eye, his tail flicking. 

 

“Tch. Don’t get too sentimental. I’m only here because you asked for it,” he huffed, though the faint twitch of his whiskers betrayed his amusement.

 

Suddenly, a loud, relentless banging echoed from the door, jolting Kayden upright.

 

“What now?” he grumbled, ears twitching in irritation.

 

Jiwoo hurried to the door and opened it cautiously. Standing before her were two boys. The first was tall and broad-shouldered, with a scowl on his face. Beside him stood a much smaller boy who looked timid and nervous, practically hiding behind the bigger one.

 

The taller boy’s bravado evaporated the instant his eyes landed on Jiwoo. He froze, his jaw slightly ajar, as though he’d seen an ethereal being descend from the heavens. The smaller boy gawked as well, though his reaction was more of a startled mouse than a mesmerized statue.

 

“Uh… can I help you?” Jiwoo asked politely, tilting her head.

 

The taller boy blinked, snapping himself out of his stupor, and cleared his throat, masking his earlier reaction with a brusque tone. 

 

“Yeah. Name’s Jeongsu Lee. I have been assigned to the same floor as you”

 

Jiwoo smiled softly. “Oh, I see… I’m Jiwoo Seo. Nice to meet you.”

 

Jeongsu fumbled for words but quickly masked it with a demanding tone. “What’s your ability?”

 

Jiwoo blinked, taken aback. “Excuse me?”

 

“You heard me,” Hyunsoo said, crossing his arms. “If you’re unaffiliated, you’ll need people to watch your back. But I need to know what you can do first. So? Spill it.”

 

Before Jiwoo could respond, Wooin’s voice rang out from behind her. “What’s wrong with you? Barging in and demanding someone’s power like that? That’s just plain rude.”

 

Jeongsu turned, his gaze narrowing at Wooin.

 

“And who are you to tell me what’s rude? Huh, small fry?”

 

“It’s common courtesy among the awakened, but clearly, you missed that lesson,” Wooin said, his tone sharp. 

 

The two boys locked eyes, tension crackling in the air.

 

“Why don’t you mind your own business?” Jeongsu growled, stepping closer to Wooin.

 

“Why don’t you grow some manners?” Wooin retorted, unfazed.

 

As their argument escalated, Jiwoo stepped between them, raising her hands. 

 

“Okay, that’s enough! Both of you!”

 

Jeongsu huffed but looked back at Jiwoo. “Fine. But it’s a valid question. If we’re supposed to look out for each other, we need to know what we’re working with.”

 

Jiwoo frowned but answered calmly, “I appreciate your concern, but I’m not comfortable sharing my ability with someone I’ve just met.”

 

Jeongsu ’s jaw tightened. “You think you’re better than us or something?”

 

The smaller boy tried to intervene. “Jeongsu , maybe we should… ”

 

“Stay out of this!” Hyunsoo snapped, making the timid boy flinch and retreat further into his shell.

 

Jiwoo’s expression darkened, her voice firm. “Don’t talk to him like that. Just because you're a little stronger doesn’t mean you get to push people around.”

 

Jeongsu completely lost his composure, activated his awakened ability and increased his strength for the punch but Jiwoo was fast, the moment she sensed him gathering energy, she decided to strike first and kicked him in mid-section. 

 

Jeongsu clutching his stomach in pain and groaning, the timid kid was surprised that Seo Jiwoo beat Jeongsu, without any power. 

 

Jeongsu opened his mouth to retort, but another voice cut him off.

 

“Oi. What’s all this noise about?”

 

Everyone turned to see Jisuk Yoo strolling down the hallway, his hands in his pockets and an annoyed look on his face.

 

“Nobody,” said Wooin.

 

Jeongsu, pissed by Wooin's behaviour, decides to target the new kid, his initial bravado returning. “And who are you supposed to be?”

 

Jisuk smirked. “The guy who’s going to put you in your place.”

 

Jeongsu sneered. “Big talk. Let’s see you back it up.”

 

Jisuk’s grin widened dangerously. “Gladly.” 

 

Before Jeongsu could react, a gust of wind slammed into him, sending him skidding back against the wall. His intimidating demeanor shattered as he looked up at Jisuk in shock.

 

“Jisuk don’t use power in the academy, it's against the academy regulation using power without permission” Jiwoo scolds Jisuk lightly.

 

“But he pissed me first, he even tried to use his power”

 

“Y-Yoo Jisuk?” he stammered.

 

“Bingo,” Jisuk said smugly. “Now, get lost before I decide to teach you a real lesson.”

 

Jeongsu scrambled to his feet, bowing repeatedly. “I-I’m sorry! I didn’t realize…”

 

“Don’t apologize to me. Apologize to Jiwoo and Wooin,” Jisuk snapped.

 

Jeongsu bowed again to Jiwoo and Wooin before grabbing other kid and fleeing down the hall.

 

The previous tension gone and Subin also join then, “Gosh, its f**king far” all of them join in Jiwoo room like usual gathering and spend the rest of day there.

 


 

Jiwoo’s excitement was palpable as she and Wooin walked together toward their first class. The hallways were wide and sleek. Ahead of them was the large indoor training hall, its high ceilings and expansive layout resembling a professional sports arena. The space was clearly designed for combat training and physical education.

 

Jiwoo glanced at Wooin, her eyes sparkling with a mix of nerves and anticipation. 

 

“It’s finally starting. Aren’t you curious about what they’ll make us do?”

 

Wooin’s usual calm demeanor remained unchanged as he glanced ahead. “Curious? Maybe. But I’m more interested in how we’ll compare to the others.”

 

Jiwoo chuckled softly, used to his cool-headed responses.

 

As they entered the hall, the faint hum of conversation stopped almost immediately. Whispers began to ripple through the gathered students, their tones hushed but unmistakably critical.

 

“Look, it’s those two from yesterday.”

“They didn’t even share their powers. What’s up with that?”

“They must be hiding something. Maybe their powers are weak.”

“They’re probably trying to look mysterious because they’re scared.”

 

Jiwoo tried her best to ignore the murmurs, her expression neutral. Wooin, on the other hand, didn’t seem to register the negativity at all.

 

They Stood beside other students, standing quietly as the instructor entered. Instructor Jang was a tall, lean man with sharp eyes that seemed to see straight through the students. His authoritative presence silenced the whispers instantly.

 

“Welcome to your first training session,” he began, his voice echoing through the hall. 

 

“I’m Giwook Jang, your instructor at the academy, and I’ll be overseeing your education. Here, you won’t need books or notes. Everything you learn will be hands-on, designed to make you stronger and more skilled. You’ll be pushed to your limits, and then some.”

 

“Also, Don’t think of yourself as special… since you guys are at the very bottom of the pyramid in awakened world.”

 

His gaze swept across the room, “But before we begin, I want to know who I’m working with. Each of you will introduce yourselves and describe your power. Let’s start.”

 

One by one, the students introduced themselves. The air was thick with a mix of confidence, nervousness, and pride as they showcased their abilities. Elemental powers, strength enhancements, and even a few rarer abilities were mentioned.

 

When it was Jiwoo’s turn, she stepped forward, her graceful movements catching everyone’s attention. “My name is Seo Jiwoo. I'm unaffiliated, and I look forward to learning here with everyone.”

 

The room was silent, her warm, clear voice cutting through the tension. But when she stopped there, without mentioning her power, the silence turned into murmurs again.

 

“Again? She’s not saying it?”

“Why even bother coming here if you’re going to hide it?”

 

Instructor Jang frowned. “Miss Jiwoo, everyone here has shared their power. It’s important for teamwork and understanding. Why are you withholding this information?”

 

Seo Jiwoo stood her ground, her voice steady. “I was taught not to reveal my power. Because knowing someone’s power can give them an advantage over you, and it’s a personal choice.”

 

The instructor regarded her for a moment, clearly testing her resolve. “Is that so? And what if I insist?”

 

“I’m sorry, sir,” Jiwoo said with quiet determination. “I still can’t share it.”

 

The instructor sighed but nodded. “Fair enough. However, you still disobeyed instructions. To reinforce the importance of discipline, you’ll run 20 laps here, right now.”

 

Jiwoo nodded without complaint and started to run.

 

Next, Wooin stepped forward. “My name is Wooin, unaffiliated, and I also can’t share my power.”  and he joined Jiwoo in running.

 

The instructor raised an eyebrow but seemed more amused than annoyed. “I see.”

 

The murmurs grew louder, students exchanging skeptical looks and muttering insults under their breath.

 

“Beginner’s luck won’t save them here.”

“Bet they can’t even last a lap.”

 

After punishment, Instructor Jang clapped his hands sharply, silencing the room. “Enough. Next, we’ll move on to sparring. Pair up. I want to see what you’re capable of.”

 

The first match was between Jeongsu and Wooin. Jeongsu grinned smugly as he stepped forward, cracking his knuckles.

 

“Well, well,” Jeongsu said, his voice dripping with mockery. “Looks like I get to show everyone what I’m really made of. Ready to get crushed, quiet boy?”

 

Wooin didn’t respond, his expression calm as ever.

 

“Begin!” the instructor called.

 

Jeongsu charged immediately, his fists glowing faintly with power. But before he could get close, Wooin’s eyes glinted, and an invisible force slammed into Jeongsu, sending him skidding across the floor.

 

The room erupted in gasps.

 

“What was that?”

“He didn’t even move!”

 

Jeongsu growled, scrambling to his feet. “You got lucky!” He rushed again, this time with more caution, but Wooin’s telekinetic control was impeccable. Each of Jeongsu’s attacks was repelled effortlessly, and with one final push, Wooin sent him crashing to the ground.

 

The instructor raised an eyebrow, clearly impressed. “Wooin wins. Good control, good awareness. Well done.”

 

Next, it was Jiwoo’s turn. Her opponent was, once again, Jeongsu, who was desperate to regain his pride.

 

Jiwoo gave him a polite smile as she stepped forward. “Let’s have a good match.”

 

Jeongsu sneered. “You’re going down, princess.”

 

Jeongsu charged forward, but Jiwoo moved like water… fluid and effortless. She dodged his attacks with minimal movement, her precision unnerving. Each time she struck back, it was with pinpoint accuracy, targeting his weak points without using much force.

 

To the untrained eye, it looked almost casual, but Instructor Kang watched with growing admiration. Her skill wasn’t just natural talent, it was the result of intense training and discipline.

 

Within moments, Jeongsu was on the ground once more, groaning in frustration. Jiwoo extended a hand to help him up, her expression kind.

 

“Good match,” she said softly.

 

The instructor nodded, his gaze lingering on Seo Jiwoo and Wooin. “Not bad. Not bad at all.”

 

One by one everyone spar with each other trying to show off their power. By the end of the session, it was clear to the instructor that these two unaffiliated students weren’t to be underestimated.

 


 

The other students filed out of the training hall, their conversations buzzing with excitement and curiosity about the day’s events. Jiwoo and Wooin were leaving, when Instructor Jang’s firm voice called out to them.

 

“Seo Jiwoo, Wooin. Stay back for a moment.”

 

The pair exchanged a glance, Wooin raising an eyebrow and Jiwoo tilting her head in slight confusion. They stepped forward as the hall emptied, leaving them alone with the tall, imposing instructor.

 

Once the doors shut, Jang crossed his arms, his sharp gaze sweeping over them. “Your sparring today was…interesting. But I know you’re holding back.”

 

Jiwoo and Wooin stiffened slightly, though neither spoke.

 

“I need to see what you’re truly capable of. No limits, no hiding,” Jang continued. 

 

“Consider this an extension of today’s evaluation. I’ll spar with each of you myself.”

 

Wooin’s expression remained neutral, but Jiwoo’s concern showed in the slight furrow of her brows. “Instructor, is that really necessary?”

 

“It is,” Jang said firmly. “If I’m going to teach you, I need to know your capacity. Wooin, you’re up first.”

 

Wooin stepped forward, his posture relaxed but his eyes focused. He raised a hand, and the air around him seemed to ripple as his telekinesis activated. With a flick of his wrist, a forceful blast shot toward Jang, who stood unmoving.

 

The blast hit him squarely, but the instructor barely flinched. “Not bad. But that won’t do.”

 

Wooin’s eyes narrowed slightly, and he increased the intensity. The force of his attacks grew stronger, the air humming with energy as invisible waves struck Jang. The instructor dodged some and absorbed others, his movements precise.

 

As Wooin unleashed a larger burst, Jang nodded in approval. “You’re skilled, but I can tell you’re still holding back. Push harder.”

 

Wooin frowned, reluctant to go further. “If I do, you might not stay standing.”

 

Jang smirked, raising his arms in challenge. “Try me.”

 

With a sharp breath, Wooin unleashed a barrage of telekinetic blasts, each one more powerful than the last. Jang managed to hold his ground, though he was visibly exerting effort to keep up.

 

Finally, Wooin lowered his hand, his calm demeanor unchanged. “That’s enough,” Jang said, breathing heavily. “Impressive control and range. You’ve got serious potential.”

 

He turned to Jiwoo, gesturing for her to step forward. “Your turn.”

 

Jiwoo hesitated for a moment before nodding and stepping into position. She adjusted her stance, her amber eyes focused.

 

When the spar began, Jiwoo utilized her super speed, darting around the instructor with rapid movements. To the untrained eye, she was a blur, her agility and precision making her difficult to pin down. She landed light punches and kicks, each one calculated and measured.

 

But Jang wasn’t satisfied. “You’re fast, but I can feel you’re holding back too. Show me what you’ve got.”

 

Jiwoo hesitated, glancing at Wooin briefly before replying. “If I use my full power, I could hurt you.”

 

Jang’s tone was firm. “That’s a risk I’ll take. Go all out.”

 

Reluctantly, Jiwoo pushed herself harder. Her speed increased significantly, and she began striking with more force. Even then, she was careful not to unleash her full potential.

 

But Jang could sense it. “Still holding back,” he said, his voice edged with frustration. “Stop worrying about me and fight like you mean it!”

 

Jiwoo clenched her fists, torn between his order and her instinct to protect others. Finally, she decided to push just a bit further, letting more of her strength show.

 

With a single punch, infused with her power and emitting crackling electricity, Jiwoo struck instructor Jang. The impact was devastating. The floor beneath them, designed to withstand awakened powers, cracked and buckled. Jang was sent flying across the hall, slamming into the reinforced wall with a loud crash.

 

The wall cracked, and the instructor slumped to the ground, coughing as he tried to catch his breath. His sturdy body, known for enduring heavy impacts, was visibly shaken. His uniform was torn, and burn marks from the electrical discharge marred his arms.

 

Jiwoo’s eyes widened in horror, and she rushed to him. “Instructor Jang! I’m so sorry! Are you okay?”

 

Jang raised a hand to stop her, his voice strained but firm. “I’m fine.”

 

“You don’t look fine,” Wooin said, his tone neutral but with a hint of concern.

 

Jang managed a weak chuckle. “Don’t worry about me. I’ve taken worse.” 

 

He straightened slowly, wincing as he moved. “But…Jiwoo, that was incredible. Your strength, your precision, it’s a wonder you’re still unaffiliated. There’s no one who could match you fairly.”

 

Jiwoo’s cheeks flushed with embarrassment. “I didn’t mean to…”

 

“Stop apologizing,” Jang interrupted, his tone softening. “You’ve got power that most can only dream of. But you’re right to hold back. If you went all out, you’d be a danger to anyone who faced you.”

 

He turned to both of them, his gaze serious. “You two are far beyond the others in this academy. But that means the expectations for you will be higher. Be ready for that.”

 

Jiwoo and Wooin nodded, their expressions solemn.

 

“Now, go,” Jang said, waving them off. “I’ll take care of things here. And don’t mention this to anyone.”

 

Jiwoo hesitated but nodded. “Thank you, Instructor Jang. I’ll do my best to control my power.”

 

As they left the hall, Wooin glanced at Jiwoo. “You went easy on him, didn’t you?”

 

Jiwoo sighed. “Of course. If I hadn’t, he might not be standing right now.”

 

Wooin smirked faintly. “Remind me not to get on your bad side.”

 

Jiwoo giggled softly, the tension easing as they walked down the corridor together.

 

The moment Jiwoo and Wooin exit the training hall instructor Jang collapses and finally gives in to pain. His evaluation of Wooin was the same as top four rookies but  for Jiwoo, it was a lot higher, higher than every student and he felt it would be a waste to not nurture someone like her.  

 

Afterward when he reported it to the principal, the principal was shocked… utterly shocked, he asked his assistance to find everything about Jiwoo.

 

At the same time Jiwoo was explaining her day to Kayden, everything included and Kayden listened to his ‘cub’ rambling, “I am worried for instructor Jang, what if is injured more than he looked.” Jiwoo said with concern laced in her tone.

 

“He should be fine, his body is a lot more sturdy than it looks and also he asked for it himself,” Kayden reassured Jiwoo with a smug look.

 


 

The days at the academy followed a grueling routine. Physical training sessions dominated the schedule, with Instructor Jang pushing the students to their limits. Jiwoo and Wooin went through each drill without complaint, their focus unwavering.

 

But it was clear not everyone shared their mindset.

 

In one of the lunch sessions, a group of students sat on the sidelines, grumbling as they half heartedly complained about everything.

 

“This is ridiculous,” one of them, a tall boy, muttered loud enough for everyone to hear. 

 

“Why do unaffiliated students like us have to suffer while the affiliated ones get special treatment?”

 

“They’re probably training specialized for their awaken power while we’re out here breaking our backs,” another added bitterly.

 

Jiwoo paused and glanced at them, her amber eyes calm but firm. 

 

“Physical training is important. Without a strong body, your awakened skills won’t reach their full potential. Instructor Jang isn’t doing this to punish us, he’s preparing us.”

 

Lee Jihye scoffed, crossing her arms. “Easy for you to say, Seo Jiwoo. You and Wooin are already cozying up to the big names. You’ve got Yoo Jisuk from Shinhwa and Lee Subin from Union on your side. You’re probably guaranteed a spot with one of them.”

 

Wooin narrowed his eyes but said nothing, leaving Jiwoo to handle the situation.

 

“That’s not true,” Jiwoo said firmly. “I have no intention of joining any group. I’m here to train and become stronger, just like everyone else.”

 

Her earnestness only seemed to irritate the others further.

 

“Yeah, right,” Jihye sneered. “You’re just pretending to be humble. We all know how this works. People like you always end up on top, and the rest of us get left behind.”

 

Another boy chimed in, “Stop acting like you’re different.”

 

The taunts stung, but Jiwoo didn’t let it show. She exchanged a glance with Wooin, who gave her a small nod of support.

 

“I’m not pretending,” Jiwoo said softly but with conviction. “Believe what you want, but I’m here to train, not to compete with anyone.”

 

The group dismissed her words with rolled eyes and muttered comments, leaving Jiwoo and Wooin more isolated than ever.

 


 

Despite the cold shoulders and whispered judgments, Jiwoo remained undeterred. After the day’s training sessions ended, when the academy grew quiet, she slipped out of her dorm room, Kayden lounging lazily in feline form.

 

“Going again?” Kayden asked without lifting his head.

 

Jiwoo nodded, a small smile playing on her lips. “I have to. There’s so much I need to improve.”

 

“Don’t overdo it,” Kayden muttered before curling back into his nap.

 

At the academy she trains her physical strength while at night she trains her awakened power.

 

Jiwoo quietly made her way to the beach, her favorite training spot. The academy was located on a sprawling island, and the secluded shores provided the perfect place for her to train without being seen.

 

The moon cast a silver glow, She practiced her super-speed, dashing across the sand so quickly that her footprints blurred into a single line. Then, she focused on precision strikes, punching and kicking the air with measured force.

 

Occasionally, she glanced toward the forest nearby, where she set up makeshift targets out of tree trunks. With her speed and strength, she tested her ability to strike the targets at different angles, ensuring she could attack efficiently from any position.

 

Sweat dripped down her forehead, but Jiwoo didn’t stop. The sound of the waves crashing against the shore and the rustling of leaves became a soothing background to her relentless efforts.

 

This secret training wasn’t just about improving her skills, it was her escape, her sanctuary. Away from the judgmental stares and harsh words, she could focus entirely on becoming stronger.

 

After hours of pushing herself, Jiwoo finally sat down on the sand, gazing at the ocean. Her chest rose and fell with deep breaths as she watched the moonlight dance on the waves.

 

One thought echoed in her mind, ‘I’ll prove them wrong. Not with words, but with actions.’

 

The next morning, Wooin approached her, his expression unreadable as always. “You went to the beach again, didn’t you?” he asked, handing her a water bottle.

 

Jiwoo blinked in surprise. “How did you know?”

 

Wooin smirked faintly. “You’re terrible at hiding it. Sand on your shoes and sea salt in your hair. Besides, you’re the type who works harder when things get tough.”

 

Jiwoo smiled, grateful for his understanding. “Thanks, Wooin. For everything.”

 

Wooin shrugged, his tone casual. “Don’t thank me. Just keep training. You’ll show them eventually.”

 

“We will” Jiwoo, correct him.

 

With that, the two headed off to another day of grueling training, their determination unshaken despite the challenges they faced.

 

(A/N: from here instruction Jang tech them force control, a neutral one and tell them they had match with affiliated student, event will followed same like Seo Jiwoo defending unaffiliated student from bullying and improvement her relation with her classmates, to training, to dual. )

 


 

The tension in the gymnasium-turned-training hall was palpable as Jiwoo stepped forward for her duel. The previous matches had been grueling for the unaffiliated students, with all but one ending in defeat. Wooin’s victory had been their only saving grace, and now it was Jiwoo’s turn to face Kang Sucheon, one of the strongest rookies from the Baekdu group.

 

Sucheon smirked confidently, his tall frame exuding arrogance. His reputation as a formidable gyrokinesis user preceded him. The air around him seemed heavier, as if even the atmosphere acknowledged his gravity manipulation ability.

 

Jiwoo, however, remained calm, her innocent smile masking the steely determination behind her amber eyes. She couldn’t stand bullies, and Sucheon’s treatment of the unaffiliated students had crossed every line.

 

As soon as Instructor gave the signal, Sucheon wasted no time. He raised his hand, and a crushing force of gravity bore down on Jiwoo, making the air around her shimmer with distortion.

 

“Let’s see how fast you can move now,” Sucheon taunted, confident the pressure would immobilize her.

 

To everyone’s surprise, Jiwoo didn’t falter. Her body tensed for a split second, and then she moved, swiftly, effortlessly, as if the gravitational pull didn’t exist.

 

Gasps echoed through the hall.

 

Sucheon’s cocky grin faltered. “What… ?”

 

Jiwoo appeared behind him in the blink of an eye. “Is that all you’ve got?” she asked, her voice light but cutting.

 

Sucheon spun around, increasing the gravitational force around him. The floor beneath them groaned under the strain, cracks forming on the special material.

 

But Jiwoo was unfazed. She darted around him, her speed leaving afterimages that Sucheon couldn’t keep up with. Each time he tried to pin her down, she evaded effortlessly, her movements so precise they seemed almost graceful.

 


 

“You’re wasting your energy,” Jiwoo said, her voice carrying across the hall. “You rely too much on your ability and not enough on skill. That’s why you’ll lose.”

 

Sucheon growled, his pride taking a hit. He launched a concentrated gravity blast at her, intending to end the fight decisively.

 

Jiwoo leapt into the air, dodging the attack with ease. Mid-air, she twisted her body and delivered a punch to Sucheon’s side, her fist crackling with electricity. The impact sent him skidding across the floor, a trail of sparks following his path.

 

Sucheon scrambled to his feet, anger clouding his judgment. He charged at her, only for Jiwoo to sidestep and trip him with a well-placed kick.

 


 

As Sucheon struggled to stand, Jiwoo stood over him, her expression stern but not unkind.

 

“You’re strong, Sucheon,” she said, her voice firm. “But strength isn’t just about power. It’s about how you use it. Bullying others doesn’t make you a leader, it makes you a coward.”

 

Her words hit harder than her attacks. Sucheon’s face burned with humiliation as the room fell silent, all eyes on Jiwoo.

 

On the sidelines, Jisuk leaned against the wall, a wide grin on his face. “This is gold. Sucheon’s getting destroyed, and I’m loving every second.”

 

Subin smirked, crossing her arms. “She’s not just strong, she’s got guts. Sucheon needed that reality check.”

 

The rest of the students, both affiliated and unaffiliated, were in awe. At first, they had felt sorry for Jiwoo, thinking she was at a disadvantage against Sucheon. Now, they were stunned by her sheer skill and strength.

 

Some whispered among themselves.

“Is she really unaffiliated? She’s amazing!”

“She’s not just beautiful… She's ridiculously strong.”

“I think I have a crush…”

 


 

When the duel ended, Instructor Jang declared Jiwoo the winner. Sucheon, battered and humiliated, couldn’t meet her gaze as he stumbled off the field.

 

Jiwoo bowed politely to the instructor and walked back to Wooin, who gave her a rare smile. “Well done,” he said simply.

 

Meanwhile, Kayden watched the match in the training hall. His feline tail swished lazily as he grinned.

 

“Good job, kid. Showed that punk who’s boss,” he muttered, proud of his cub.

 

What Kayden didn’t anticipate was the chaos that would follow. By the next day, Jiwoo had unknowingly gained a horde of admirers, students who admired her strength, determination, and beauty. While Jiwoo remained oblivious to the growing attention, Kayden found himself keeping an eye out for any overly eager fans.

 

“Great,” he grumbled. “Now I have to play bodyguard for this clueless kid.”

 

But deep down, Kayden couldn’t help but feel proud of his “little girl” as she continued to shine.

Chapter Text

Seo Jiwoo strolled through the academy courtyard, her signature soft smile lighting up her face as students waved at her. It had been a week since her duel with Sucheon Kang, and she had unknowingly gathered a group of admirers. From awe filled glances to bold greetings, it seemed the entire academy was enamored with her.

 

However, there was one who wasn’t pleased, Kayden.

 

Perched on Jiwoo's arms in his feline form, his sharp golden eyes scanned the crowd like a hawk. His mission, to protect his oblivious daughter from the growing legion of admirers.

 

As Jiwoo chatted with Wooin near the training grounds, a boy cautiously approached.

 

"Uh… Jiwoo," the boy stammered, his cheeks turning crimson. "I-I just wanted to say… your battle with Sucheon was amazing, and…"

 

Before he could finish, Kayden leapt from Jiwoo’s arms and landed directly in front of him. The boy froze as the fat orange cat hissed dramatically, puffing himself up like a protective lion.

 

"Casian Nitrate!" Jiwoo scolded, scooping him back into her arms. "Be nice!"

 

Kayden flicked his tail dismissively, glaring daggers at the boy, who quickly mumbled an apology and fled. Jiwoo sighed, completely missing the victorious smirk on Kayden's furry face.

 


 

Later that day, Jiwoo was walking to the dining hall with Jisuk, Wooin, and Subin. The moment they entered, the room erupted with whispers and giggles.

 

Subin rolled her eyes. "Seriously, Jiwoo, do you realize you’ve turned this place into your personal fan club?"

 

"What?" Jiwoo blinked, genuinely confused.

 

Wooin nodded calmly. "She's right. People have been following you around. It’s… odd."

 

Before Jiwoo could protest, a group of students started approaching their table. Jisuk immediately stepped in front of Jiwoo, arms crossed and radiating annoyance.

 

"What do you want?" he snapped.

 

One of the students, holding a carefully wrapped gift, stuttered, "W-we just wanted to give Jiwoo this and…"

 

"Not happening," Jisuk interrupted. "Take your sparkly ribbons and chocolates somewhere else."

 

Subin snickered. "I mean, thanks for saving us the trouble of throwing it in the trash."

 

Jiwoo frowned. "Guys, that's mean! They’re just being nice."

 

“Too nice,” Wooin muttered, standing silently like a wall beside her.

 

Kayden, who was lounging lazily on the table, let out a dramatic yawn. But the moment the gift-bearer tried to step closer, he "accidentally" swatted a cup of water onto the floor, forcing the student to step back.

 

"Oops," Subin said with a sly grin. "Looks like Jiwoo's cat doesn't approve, either."

 

The group quickly dispersed, leaving Jiwoo sighing in frustration while her friends and Kayden exchanged victorious smirks.

 


 

One evening, Jiwoo sneaked off to the beach to train, as usual. Kayden followed, tail flicking in irritation.

 

But her solitude didn’t last. A student, one of admirers had tracked her down, excitedly waving as they approached.

 

"Jiwoo! I just wanted to say you’re amazing!"

 

Jiwoo gave a polite smile, about to respond, when Kayden jumped onto a nearby rock. With a commanding meow , he glared at the kid.

 

Unfazed, the brave admirer stepped forward. "Your cat is so cute! Can I…"

 

Before he could finish, Kayden lunged, swiping the air near the boy’s hand.

 

"Casian Nitrate!" Jiwoo groaned, picking him up. "What is wrong with you?"

 

The admirer, now more nervous than excited, quickly backed away. Kayden purred smugly as Jiwoo sighed.

 


 

Eventually, the admirers got smarter. They tried to leave anonymous gifts at Jiwoo’s door instead. But every time, Jisuk would "accidentally" trip and crush the package, Subin would sneakily dump it in the trash, or Wooin would levitate it away, claiming it was "dangerous to touch."

 

Kayden, meanwhile, took his patrols to the next level, glaring at anyone who so much as looked at Jiwoo for too long.

 

Jiwoo remained blissfully unaware of the chaos. For her, life was as normal as ever. For Kayden and her friends, it was an ongoing mission, protecting their clueless, innocent friend from her fan club.

 

Kayden curled up on Jiwoo’s lap that night, satisfied. His cub was safe… for now.

 


 

The academy park was tranquil in the late afternoon, bathed in the soft golden glow of the setting sun. Jiwoo strolled along the paved path, enjoying the gentle breeze rustling through the trees. Beside her, Kayden padded along in his feline form.

 

"See, Kayden," Jiwoo said with a warm smile, "this is nice. Just relaxing for once, away from all the chaos."

 

Kayden gave a nonchalant flick of his tail. "Hmph. You say that, but trouble seems to find you no matter where you go."

 

As if on cue, a student approached them. She had an air of authority. By her side trotted a sleek, silver-coated dog with intelligent eyes.

 

“Hey, your cat… it’s walking without a leash?” The girl stood up, curiosity evident in her voice.

 

Jiwoo nodded, glancing down at Kayden. "Yeah, he doesn't need one."

 

"Let me guess," Iseul said, kneeling to Kayden’s level. "You’ve got an animal communion ability, don’t you? That’s why he listens so well."

 

Jiwoo stiffened, alarm bells ringing in her head. "Uh, no, it’s not like that…"

 

"Let’s see how good your control really is," Iseul interrupted, placing a hand on her dog. The animal’s eyes glowed faintly as Iseul activated her ability.

 

Unbeknownst to her, Kayden rolled his eyes. ‘Really? She thinks she can control me?’

 

Suddenly, Kayden’s body stiffened, and his posture changed as if he were under Iseul’s influence. Jiwoo’s heart leapt in panic. "Kayden?" she whispered.

 

Iseul’s face lit up with delight. "Amazing! Even a cat like this falls under my power so easily…"

 

Her triumph was short lived as Kayden abruptly sprang forward and scratched her hand, not enough to injure but just enough to sting.

 

"Ow!" Iseul yelped, clutching her hand.

 

Kayden meowed innocently, then casually groomed his paw as if nothing had happened.

 

"You’ve got a feisty one," Iseul said, her cheeks reddening with a mixture of embarrassment and irritation.

 

"Uh, sorry," Jiwoo said hurriedly, though her lips twitched in amusement.

 

"What’s his name?" Iseul asked, her tone shifting back to curiosity.

 

"Casian Nitrate," Jiwoo replied, trying not to laugh.

 

“What a weird name...” She smirked but internally felt impressed by the uniqueness. 

 

"I could never control a cat like this." She glanced at Jiwoo again. “You should come to Mir. We specialize in animal control, and someone with your ability could learn a lot.”

 

Jiwoo shook her head immediately. “I have no intention of joining any group. I’m fine on my own.”

 

Iseul smirked knowingly. “No need to hide it, I know you have an ability to communicate with animals just like me. And from what I can see, your power is much stronger. You’ve got control over that cat.”

 

She realized what misunderstanding had occurred.

 

But before she could say something, Iseul had already started walking away, brushing off the conversation. “Well, you can think about it. Mir is always open to those who want to learn.”

 

Left alone, Jiwoo groaned and turned to Kayden. "What do I do now? She thinks I have an animal ability!"

 

Kayden snickered, his voice dripping with amusement. "I’d say just go with the flow. Let them believe what they want, it’s not like you can tell them the truth about me."

 

Jiwoo sighed, crossing her arms. "You’re enjoying this, aren’t you?"

 

Kayden leapt onto a nearby bench, stretching out lazily. "Immensely."

 

She rolled her eyes but couldn’t help smiling. "Great. Just don’t scratch anyone else, okay?"

 

"No promises," he purred.

 


 

Seo Jiwoo entered the grand office of Han Seongik, the principal of Awaken Academy. The room was sleek yet imposing, with towering shelves of books and a large window that offered a panoramic view of the academy grounds. Principal Han, a tall man with a dignified aura and sharp eyes, gestured for her to take a seat.

 

“You wanted to see me, sir?” Jiwoo asked politely, sitting down.

 

“Yes, Jiwoo,” he began, his deep voice calm but commanding. “I’ve been observing you since you joined the academy. Your talent is… remarkable, to say the least.”

 

Jiwoo blinked, surprised by the compliment. “Thank you, sir.”

 

Han Seongik leaned forward, resting his elbows on the desk. “Your skills, especially in close combat, show immense potential. I rarely extend this invitation, but I’d like you to become my disciple.”

 

Jiwoo’s eyes widened. “D-disciple?”

 

He nodded. “I believe I can help you reach new heights. As a former top 50 awakened in the world, my expertise lies in close-combat techniques. My training could refine your abilities, strengthen your foundations, and even introduce you to unique skills that align with your style. It’s an opportunity few would pass up.”

 


 

Jiwoo hesitated, her thoughts immediately drifting to Kayden. "Sir, I really appreciate your offer. It’s an honor, but… I already have a teacher."

 

Han Seongik’s eyes narrowed slightly. 

 

“I’m aware of that, you’re under the tutelage of someone, though I haven’t been able to find out who. Regardless, I am not asking you to sever that relationship. You can continue to learn from your current teacher and you will also learn under my tutelage. But officially, you would introduce yourself as my disciple. You would gain access to my training and guidance while keeping your current bond intact.”

 

Jiwoo’s expression didn’t waver. “I’m sorry, Principal Han, but I can’t accept it.”

 

Han Seongik’s brow furrowed, clearly intrigued. “Why not? This is an offer that could significantly enhance your skills.”

 

Jiwoo smiled gently, but her voice was firm. “I appreciate your generosity, sir. But my teacher… he’s the best in the world, to me. He’s taught me everything I know, and I owe him everything. I couldn’t, in good conscience, accept anyone else’s guidance, no matter how skilled they are.”

 

Han Seongik leaned back in his chair, studying her closely. Her sincerity was undeniable, and her loyalty was admirable, if not a little perplexing.

 

“I see,” he said finally, a faint smile tugging at his lips. 

 

“It’s rare to find someone so steadfast in their convictions. While I believe my guidance could have been invaluable, I respect your decision.”

 

Jiwoo bowed her head. “Thank you, sir, for understanding.”

 

As she stood to leave, Han Seongik spoke again. “Jiwoo, I hope your faith in your teacher proves well placed. I’ll be watching your progress closely.”

 

Jiwoo turned back, her smile brighter. “It already has, sir. Thank you again.”

 

As she walked out of the office, Han Seongik chuckled to himself, shaking his head. Someone capable of shaping such a prodigious talent must be extraordinary… but who?

 

Meanwhile, beside her, Jiwoo felt the faintest purr from Kayden’s feline form, hidden and smug. ‘ Damn right, I’m the best.

 


 

The sun was setting over the academy grounds as Jiwoo walked down a quiet corridor, reflecting on the day's training. She had already made up her mind not to let the misunderstanding with Iseul and the others bother her. But before she could get lost in her thoughts, an intense presence interrupted her.

 

An elderly man appeared before her, his sharp eyes emanating authority. Jiwoo instantly recognized him, it was Kang Sucheon’s grandfather, the one who had been overseeing the Baekdu group.

 

“Jiwoo, isn’t it?” The old man’s voice was low, cold, and calculating. “I’ve heard much about you. Your abilities are impressive, but that’s not why I’m here.”

 

Jiwoo stood firm, her posture neutral as she prepared for the conversation. This man’s presence was not one to be taken lightly.

 

“I’ve been searching for my grandson,” he continued. “And it seems that you’ve caused him quite a bit of trouble. His failure to defeat you... is unacceptable. But perhaps you’ll find my offer more appealing.”

 

Jiwoo raised an eyebrow, not trusting him for a second. “What do you want with me?”

 

The old man’s lips curled into a tight smile, devoid of warmth. “I would like to extend an offer,” he said, his words measured. “Join my family. Join Baekdu. The strength you possess is something that could be of great use to us.”

 

Jiwoo’s eyes sharpened. “I’m not interested. I don’t want anything to do with any group.”

 

Her refusal was immediate, polite yet firm, but it only seemed to irritate the old man further. His smile faltered, replaced by a cold expression.

 

“You misunderstand, child,” he said, his voice icy. “This isn’t an offer. This is your only chance. If you refuse… I’ll make sure your life becomes very difficult.”

 

Before Jiwoo could respond, the old man lifted his hand, and the weight of gravity seemed to intensify around her. The ground beneath her feet felt heavier, as if invisible hands were trying to pin her down. Jiwoo’s body tensed, but she refused to let herself be overpowered. Her breath came in shallow bursts as the pressure mounted.

 

“Tell me, Seo Jiwoo,” the old man continued, his voice smooth and calculating. “Why would someone like you, so young and so strong, refuse such an opportunity? Could it be that you have something to hide?”

 

Suddenly, from behind the old man, two other figures appeared, their auras strong and menacing. The two henchmen stood beside him, ready to take action. This wasn’t about a simple offer anymore. It was a threat to Jiwoo’s very life.

 

Jiwoo wasn’t about to back down. She immediately reacted, summoning all the speed and power at her disposal. 

 

Her body blurred as she moved, dodging the initial attacks and striking back with lightning-fast punches. She managed to take out one of the henchmen with a well-placed blow, but the other quickly countered, creating shockwaves in the air.

 

Despite her strength, the weight of gravity kept her movements sluggish. She was already fighting at a disadvantage, but she refused to be beaten. It was intense, Jiwoo struggled to keep up as the pressure from the old man grew stronger.

 


 

The principal, Han Seongik, had arrived at the scene. He had sensed the surges of energy and rushed to investigate, only to be stunned by what he found.

 

"Old Kang?" Principle Han called, his voice filled with shock. "What’s going on here?"

 

The old man’s expression was a mix of rage and disbelief. “This… this girl is a spy!” 

 

“Where the evidence” Han Seongik responded, “even if that was the case we have procedure.”

 

Old Kang grits his teeth “I have the evidence, my man would present them later, also can’t you see”

 

“There’s no way someone young could be this strong, she is a spy.”

 

Jiwoo shook her head, her expression firm. “No, I’m not... not a spy.”

 

Han Seongik seemed to consider her words for a moment. “I see,” he said, his tone now calmer. 

 

“Then let me offer you something. You clearly have immense potential, but even if that is the case, your strength would not make sense, it's on par with instructors of the academy and no kid could have such strength, So. before I can help you. I need to know who trained you, what you’re capable of and you could become my disciple.”

 

Jiwoo looked at him, but she hesitated. She knew that if she accepted, it would mean revealing far too much about herself, things she couldn’t yet share.

 

The old man’s temper flared. ‘ You sly, Han Seongik, you want her that badly! I will destroy her before she can accept it .’ 

 

He lunged forward, his gravity manipulation intensifying. He raised his hand, and Jiwoo felt the weight of it press on her body, trying to crush her once more.

 

Jiwoo braced herself, but it was clear she wouldn’t be able to hold out much longer. Just as the old man’s power began to close in, a growl cut through the air.

 

A sudden crash shattered the air. The roof above them exploded, sending debris scattering as a hole opened up in the ceiling. From above, a figure descended, crashing through the opening with an overwhelming force.

 

It was Kayden 

 

The old man’s eyes widened in surprise as Kayden landed with a heavy thud, his presence commanding and fierce. He looked down at the old man, his expression cold.

 

“How dare you threaten my student?” Kayden growled, his voice dripping with fury.

 

The old man froze, his eyes narrowing in disbelief. “You… You’re the one who’s been hiding behind that mask.”

 

Kayden stepped forward, his energy radiating with a terrifying intensity. “You’re not going to hurt her,” he said, his voice dark and foreboding.

 

With just one motion, Kayden surged forward, crashing into the old man with such force that the room shook. The gravity pressure lifted, and Jiwoo felt herself free for the first time since the old man’s arrival. She stood there, panting, as Kayden unleashed his fury upon the elderly man.

 


 

“Kayden break,” Principle Han said, which surprised everyone. 

 

Kayden break, one of the top 10 in the world and strongest awaken whom even other top 10 avoid, was actually Jiwoo teacher. Wait, does that mean Seo Jiwoo is the mysterious ‘BlitzClaw’ youngest one to rank in the top 100 in the whole world? 

 

It was too much information to digest for everyone.

 

Sucheon's grandfather was scared out of his life. He bit more than he could chew. The old man, now on his knees, looked up at Kayden with wide, fearful eyes. 

 

“Who do you think you are?” Kayden roared. “How dare you lay your hands on my disciple?”

 

Jiwoo, still in shock, finally found her voice. She had barely realized what she had just said in the heat of the moment, but before she could stop herself, the words escaped her lips.

 

“Dad…” she muttered, her voice almost a whisper.

 

Kayden paused, blinking in surprise. For a brief moment, the room was silent. Jiwoo’s face flushed a deep shade of red as she realized what she had just said.

 

The old man, bewildered, stared at her. “Dad? Wha…?”

 

Kayden smirked, his usual playful demeanor returning. “Yeah, got a problem with that?”

 

The principal, Han Seongik, was still processing the chaos before him. He blinked, looking between Jiwoo and Kayden. His brow furrowed. 

 

“I’m… not sure I understand this situation fully. But I'd like to apologize for what happened to your dau… student.” Principal Han tries to ease the tension as much as he can.

 

Kayden turned to Jiwoo, his expression softening. “Don’t worry, kid. You’re safe now.”

 

Kayden walked over to Jiwoo, his powerful presence filling the room. He gently scooped her into his arms, his movements unexpectedly careful for someone radiating such overwhelming power. His eyes, however, carried a sharp edge as they scanned the room, landing on each person present.

 

“I’m only going to say this once,” Kayden said, his voice calm but filled with a chilling menace that sent shivers down everyone’s spine. “If word about this incident leaks out… If anything about my involvement reaches beyond this, I’ll know.”

 

His gaze swept over the instructors and Principal Han, his aura tightening like a noose. Even the seasoned fighters felt their breath hitch under his intensity. 

 

“And if I find out someone’s been talking,” he continued, his voice dropping to a deadly tone, “let’s just say… you won’t like what happens next.”

 

The instructors exchanged uneasy glances, while Principal Han, normally calm and composed, clenched his fists behind his back. Everyone in the room understood one thing clearly, they couldn’t afford to make Kayden their enemy.

 

Kayden then turned his attention to Sucheon’s grandfather, who was still kneeling on the ground, battered and defeated. The old man glared at him, but there was fear behind his defiance.

 

“You,” Kayden said, his tone dripping with disdain. “I should end you right here for what you tried to pull.” He leaned in slightly, his presence alone enough to make the older man flinch. 

 

“But because my student asked me not to…” Kayden’s sharp eyes flicked to Jiwoo for a moment before returning to the old man. “...I’ll let you off. This time.”

 

The room was silent as Kayden’s voice hardened. “But listen carefully, old man. If you so much as breathe a word about this to anyone, or if you dare try something like this again, you won’t just lose your reputation. Your entire group… everything you’ve built… will be gone . Do you understand me?”

 

The old man hesitated, his pride clearly warring with his survival instincts, but eventually, he nodded stiffly. “I… understand.”

 

Kayden’s lips curled into a smirk, his expression equal parts smug and threatening. “Good. Remember that.”

 

With that, Kayden turned and carried Jiwoo out of the room without another glance, leaving the instructors and Principal Han stunned. The once-chaotic scene fell into an uneasy silence, the air still heavy with Kayden’s unspoken warning.

Chapter 15

Notes:

(See the end of the chapter for notes.)

Chapter Text

Jiwoo lay on her dorm bed, her expression a mix of guilt and exhaustion. The bandages wrapped around her arms and shoulders. Beside her sat Kayden, his arms crossed and his expression unreadable, though his presence radiated calm authority.

 

“I’m sorry, Dad,” Jiwoo said softly, her voice trembling. Her gaze was fixed on her hands, clasped tightly on her lap. 

 

“I… I messed up. I revealed everything. BlitzClaw... my identity... everything we worked so hard to keep hidden is out now. I…”

 

“Stop.”

 

Kayden’s voice was firm but not unkind. Jiwoo flinched, then looked up at him hesitantly. His eyes softened as he leaned forward, resting his elbows on his knees.

 

“Jiwoo, listen to me,” he said, his tone gentler now. “What happened today wasn’t your fault. You were cornered. You fought to protect yourself, and you did everything right.”

 

“But I wasn’t supposed to let them know,” Jiwoo protested, tears threatening to spill. “keeping BlitzClaw a secret was important. I let you down. I let myself down.”

 

Kayden sighed, reaching out to place a hand on her head, ruffling her hair like he always did to reassure her. 

 

“The world isn’t the same as it was when we decided to keep BlitzClaw a secret. Things have changed, Jiwoo. You’ve changed.”

 

Jiwoo looked at him, confusion and guilt still clouding her eyes. “But… What if it was the wrong choice? What if it brings trouble for you?”

 

Kayden’s lips twitched into a faint smirk, and his eyes gleamed with his usual confidence. “Trouble? For me ? Let them try.” He leaned back in the chair, crossing his arms again. 

 

“And for you? Jiwoo, anyone who thinks they can mess with you is going to find out why you’re my student. You’ve got nothing to be ashamed of.”

 

“But I…”

 

“Jiwoo.” Kayden’s voice cut through her doubt like a blade. 

 

“You’re not some ordinary awakened kid anymore. You’re stronger than most people in this world. You’ve earned that strength. And you’ve done it the right way, through hard work, through your heart, through staying true to yourself.”

 

Jiwoo swallowed hard, his words sinking in but not fully easing her guilt. “But BlitzClaw was more than just a name. It was... it was my way of honoring you. I didn’t want to ruin that.”

 

Kayden’s expression softened further, and he let out a quiet sigh. 

 

“You haven’t ruined anything. That name? BlitzClaw? It’s just a name. You’re the one who gives it meaning, Jiwoo. And you’ve made it mean something real . Something good . Don’t let a bunch of fools who don’t understand that get into your head.”

 

Jiwoo blinked, her tears finally spilling over as a small, hesitant smile tugged at her lips. Kayden reached out again, this time placing his hand gently on her shoulder.

 

“You’re my student, Jiwoo,” he said, his voice steady and warm. “My daughter. And I couldn’t be prouder of the person you’ve become. So stop beating yourself up over things that don’t matter anymore. The only thing that matters is that you’re here, safe, and as incredible as ever.”

 

Jiwoo nodded, her heart finally feeling lighter. “Thanks, Dad.”

 

Kayden smirked again, leaning back. “Now, enough of this. Rest up. You’ve got a lot more training to do, and I’m not going easy on you just because you had a rough day.”

 

Jiwoo laughed softly, wiping her tears away. For the first time since the fight, she felt like she could breathe again. With Kayden by her side, she knew she’d be okay.

 


 

The soft moonlight spilled through the window of Jiwoo’s dorm room, casting a serene glow over her peaceful face as she slept. Kayden adjusted the blanket over her and, with one last glance, left the room silently.

 

Moments later, he stood at the entrance to Principal Han Seongik’s office. Without knocking, Kayden pushed the door open and stepped inside.

 

Principal Han looked up from his desk, startled at first, but his expression quickly shifted to a guarded calm. “Kayden...” he said slowly, leaning back in his chair. 

 

“I thought I sensed you earlier, but I wasn’t sure. I assume this isn’t a social visit.”

 

Kayden crossed his arms, his imposing figure and sharp gaze making the atmosphere heavier. 

 

“You’re right about that. We need to talk about Jiwoo.”

 

Han gestured toward the seat across from him, but Kayden remained standing. Sighing, the principal folded his hands on the desk. “What about her?”

 

“You know exactly what,” Kayden said, his voice low but firm. “That stunt earlier with old Kang? You were right there. You saw what happened. That shit tried to kill her.”

 

Han nodded solemnly. “I did. And you stopped him, didn’t you? I’ve already begun damage control. Nothing about Seo Jiwoo will leave this academy.”

 

“Good,” Kayden said curtly. “Because if it does...” His eyes glinted dangerously, and Han felt the weight of the unspoken threat.

 

“I understand,” Han replied calmly, though he couldn’t completely hide his unease. 

 

“But Kayden, you must see my position. Jiwoo’s strength is extraordinary. People will talk. Questions will arise, whether we like it or not. And if we don’t manage this carefully, it could put her, and this academy in danger.”

 

Kayden’s expression didn’t soften. “She’s just a kid, old Han. A kid who’s been through enough already. She didn’t ask for this attention. All she wants is to live quietly and train. I brought her here thinking she’d be safe. Are you telling me I made the wrong choice?”

 

Han shook his head firmly. “No. She’s safe here, Kayden. I’ll make sure of it. But we can’t ignore what’s happening. Jiwoo is special, and you know it. The way she fights, the way she carries herself, it’s not just raw power. It’s skill, discipline.”

 

Kayden’s lips twitched, but he said nothing.

 

“Though, if you’re going to keep her under the radar, you’ll need my help. Let me guide her, at least publicly. She doesn’t need to reveal anything, but she could use the academy’s protection as much as we could use her talent.”

 

Kayden’s eyes narrowed. “So that’s what this is about. You want to claim her to boost your academy’s reputation.”

 

Han shook his head, meeting Kayden’s gaze evenly. “No. I want to help her. And, if I’m being honest, yes. I want her to stay here long enough to grow into the incredible fighter she’s destined to be. Whether she's a student at the academy or not doesn’t matter as much as her safety.”

 

Kayden studied the principal for a long moment before sighing. “I’ll think about it. But if anyone here, so much as looks at her the wrong way, I’ll tear this place apart.”

 

Han gave a small, wry smile. “I wouldn’t expect anything less.”

 

With that, Kayden turned and left the office, his steps heavy but purposeful. Han watched him go, a mix of admiration and trepidation in his eyes.

 


 

The instructors’ office buzzed with the soft scratching of pens on paper and the rhythmic clatter of keyboards. For once, it was a relatively quiet day, with most of the staff buried in paperwork. 

 

“Hey,” an Instructor finally broke the silence, setting his pen down. His voice carried a hint of disbelief. “How are we gonna explain to our organization? Are we just going to pretend that didn’t happen the other day?”

 

Several heads turned toward him.

 

“You mean the Seo Jiwoo’s incident?” another instructor asked, glancing up from his monitor. 

 

“Yeah, I’ve been trying to wrap my head around it ever since.”

 

“I’m still in shock,” muttered Instructor Jang, leaning back in her chair. “Jiwoo… of all people. Who would’ve guessed she was the BlitzClaw ?”

 

Instructor Suhan Kang folded his arms, his expression thoughtful. “Forget BlitzClaw for a moment, she’s Kayden’s student. And, apparently, his daughter?! ” He stressed the last word as if it were the most outrageous revelation.

 

“That part got me too,” Instructor Jang said, running a hand through his hair. 

 

“We all thought Kayden was a lone wolf. A top-tier awakened, doing whatever he pleased.”

 

“It makes sense when you think about it,” Inhyuk Goo interjected. 

 

“Her power, her combat style, it’s too refined for someone her age. And the way she held her ground against elder Kang? That’s not just raw talent. That’s Kayden level training.”

 

“But why did he keep her a secret?” Instructor asked, furrowing his brow. 

 

“I mean, BlitzClaw is famous enough in certain circles, everyone was curious about Kayden’s connection to her? No one saw that coming.”

 

“Probably because he wanted to keep her safe,” Miyoung of mir suggested.

 

“Think about it. If the world knew the BlitzClaw, his student, was actually his daughter, she’d be a target for every major group out there.”

 

There was a murmur of agreement before Jang spoke again. 

 

“What really gets me, though, is how she handled the fight. Jiwoo was holding her own against him and his henchmen. That’s not normal, even, I couldn't do it.”

 

“Not to mention,” another added, “Kayden’s entrance, it destroyed whole portion of building, glad that students were not present or someone could have been hurt” 

 

“Forgot about the building,” Jang said, lowering his voice, “If anything had gone worse for Seo Jiwoo, I don’t think any of us would still be standing.”

 

The room fell silent at the thought, the weight of the truth settling over them.

 

Finally, Chul Young spoke

 

“Umm… still what should we report to our organization? Students are also restless, we haven't come up with a proper explanation!”

 


 

The dorm room door swung open, revealing Wooin, Jisuk, and Subin standing outside with wide grins.

 

“Jiwoo!” Subin announced dramatically, hands on her hips. “We’ve come to rescue you from your misery!”

 

Jiwoo, who was sitting on her bed, blinked in surprise. “Huh? Misery? I’m fine”

 

Jisuk interrupted, crossing his arms. “You’ve been sulking in here for too long. We figured you needed some quality company.”

 

“Unfortunately, Jisuk came along too.”

 

“Excuse me?! I am the quality company!” 

 

Jisuk raised an eyebrow. “You’re welcome, by the way. We could’ve brought snacks, but someone,” he shot a pointed look at Subin, “forgot.”

 

Subin rolled her eyes. “Oh, please. It was you who forgot”

 

“You two are being loud again,” Wooin said quietly.

 

Jiwoo chuckled softly at their antics. “Thanks, but I’m really okay.”

 

“Girl” Subin said, plopping down next to her. “Who won the sparring, by the way”

 

‘???’

 

You know, We heard about a sparring session between Sucheon's grandfather and principal Han ‘Mystery guest’. Professor didn’t tell us all the details, man everyone is dying to know more.

 

‘“I don’t know what you are talking about?” Jiwoo was genuinely confused.

 

Wooin decided to properly explain “The professors told us, there was an accident during a sparring between elder Kang and principal Han Guest and you got caught up in it accidently. Everyone was worried about you but also curious about the mystery guest who fought against elder Kang, the one whose power shocked whole island”

 

Jiwoo blinked. That wasn’t the truth. Not entirely, at least. The professors must have covered up the real details. Jiwoo knew what really happened, she had been there. She hesitated before sitting up, taking a deep breath.

 

Jiwoo decides to tell the truth, at least to her friends, she trusts them. “That’s… not exactly what happened.” 

 

Her friends looked at her curiously.

 

“I was involved in it, but not in the way they told you. The truth is…” She explained everything—the parts the professors had conveniently left out.

 

By the time she finished, Jiwoo was bracing herself for their reactions, expecting shock, disappointment, or even anger. But instead…

 

“Ohhh, that actually makes way more sense.” said Jisuk.

 

Subin nodded “Yeah, I was wondering why their version sounded so… clean. Like they skipped over the interesting bits.”

 

“You guys aren’t… mad?” Jiwoo asked with nervousness.

 

“Why would we be?” 

 

“We trust you.” Wooin added in a calm tone.

 

Jiwoo felt a warmth spread in her chest. The guilt that had been weighing on her seemed to lessen, replaced by relief. Her friends didn’t hate her. They weren’t disappointed. They just… accepted her. And that meant everything.

 

“Thanks, guys.”

 

“Of course! Now, let’s get back to the real topic” Subin added, pointing a finger at Jiwoo. “You’ve been hiding your identity as BlitzClaw from us this whole time? Do you know how much I admired you before I even met you? The BlitzClaw is my idol!”

 

Jiwoo’s face flushed. “It’s not like I was trying to lie. I just… didn’t want anyone to know.”

 

“Yeah, well, now we do,” Jisuk said with a grin. “And honestly? It makes sense. You’ve been kicking butt since day one.”

 

“Agreed,” Wooin said, his tone calm but sincere. “We all look up to you, Jiwoo. You’ve accomplished so much, and you’re always kind to everyone. It’s inspiring.”

 

Jiwoo’s cheeks turned redder. “You guys…”

 

“Oh, don’t get all emotional on us,” Subin said with a wink. “We’re not done teasing you yet.”

 

“Speaking of BlitzClaw,” Jisuk said, his eyes narrowing playfully. “I heard rumors about your legendary suit. Is it true you’ve got it with you?”

 

Jiwoo hesitated, her eyes darting. “Uh… maybe.”

 

Subin’s eyes widened. “Wait, what?! You actually brought it here? To the academy?”

 

“Well, equipment is important…” Jiwoo mumbled, looking embarrassed.

 

The three stared at her in stunned silence before bursting into laughter.

 

“Of course you did!” Subin wheezed, clutching her sides. “You’re so practical, Jiwoo! I love it!”

 

“You’re like a superhero who carries their costume everywhere,” Jisuk said, his voice thick with amusement.

 

“Can we see it?” Wooin asked, a rare hint of excitement in his voice.

 

Jiwoo hesitated but finally sighed. “Fine.” She leaned over and pulled out the case, placing it on the bed.

 

Subin didn’t wait for permission. She flipped the latches and opened the case with a dramatic flourish. Inside was Jiwoo’s sleek, custom BlitzClaw suit, its design a perfect blend of functionality and style, with sharp lines and a dark color scheme that practically screamed “legend.”

 

“Whoa,” Subin breathed, her eyes sparkling. “It’s even cooler than I imagined.”

 

“Seriously,” Jisuk agreed, leaning closer to get a better look. “This is amazing. You actually wore this into battle?”

 

Jiwoo nodded shyly. “Yeah. It’s reinforced for combat, also helpful in hiding identity. it’s really useful.”

 

“Useful?” Subin repeated, laughing. “Jiwoo, this thing is a work of art! You’re officially the coolest person I know.”

 

Wooin nodded. “It suits you.” 

 

Jiwoo smiled, feeling her spirits lift as her friends admired the suit. For the first time since the incident, she felt a sense of normalcy, however chaotic it might be.

 


 

Subin leaned against the wall with a playful grin. "Oh, by the way, I just remembered ‘BlitzClaw’ was officially ranked in the top 100 worldwide now?"

 

Jisuk smirked, crossing his arms. "Yeah, her rank and skills are higher than most of the instructors here. Jiwoo, you could totally be a teacher!"

 

Jiwoo's eyes widened as her face turned red. "W-What?! No, I couldn't! Stop saying that!"

 

Wooin nodded thoughtfully, as if genuinely considering the idea. "It’s true, though. Your combat skills alone could teach half the academy a lesson or two."

 

Subin burst into laughter. "See? Even Wooin agrees! BlitzClaw sunbaenim, do you accept us as your students?" She bowed dramatically, earning a glare from Jiwoo.

 

"Stop it!" Jiwoo whined, burying her face in her hands as the group erupted into laughter.

Notes:

Sorry for the late update. I was busy with exams and then some events and I forgot to put the notice about the late update even though i wrote it but forgot to put it on, lol. (ᵕ—ᴗ—)

Also Sucheon's grandfather died the same way as ‘original story.’ He deserved it (-_-)

Chapter 16

Notes:

Seo Jiwoo and her friends return from the academy, since the academy trial period ends. Few things will be the same as the original story, so I will skip those scenes.
Like— Jisuk trying to find an awakened cat who can fight against the talking cat monster (Kayden), LOL, and fight with Klein brothers again, to them being hospitalized. To Baekdu, the current leader finding his son losing in a match by an unaffiliated student. (poor Sucheon he was abused by his own family that’s why he was such a bully).
Baekdu leader try to sell ‘BlitzClaw’ information anonymously and face the wrath of Kayden. He will die like the ‘original story’ but the situation from Jiwoo's side would be different. I will start from here.

Chapter Text

For the past few days, an unsettling feeling had shadowed Seo Jiwoo’s every move. The sensation of being watched clung to her like static electricity, subtle yet prickling enough to keep her on edge. 

 

It was supposed to be a normal day after school. Her summer vacation had ended, and she was back to balancing school life with her training.

 

Currently, Jiwoo was out with her friends, a rare treat. They had just wrapped up their shopping trip and fed some stray cats in different places. Jiwoo knelt down, opening a bag of cat treats as the little creatures gathered around her, meowing eagerly.

 

“Here you go, eat up,” she said softly, her fingers brushing the fur of the cat.

 

But as the cats purred and nuzzled her hand, that prickling sensation returned.

 

Her shoulders tensed. The weight of an unseen gaze was back, crawling up her spine like a warning. Jiwoo straightened, scanning the area with her amber eyes. It wasn’t crowded, a few joggers here and there, a couple walking their dog but nothing seemed out of place.

 

“Jiwoo, you okay?” Subin asked, nudging her lightly.

 

Jiwoo blinked and gave a small smile. “Yeah, I’m fine.”

 

But she wasn’t.

 


 

This invisible presence that seemed to follow her again. This wasn’t the first time. And it wasn’t the second or third, either. Every time she felt that gaze, it was gone the moment she tried to pinpoint its source. Just leaving the unsettling certainty that someone was watching her.

 

What confused her more was that there was no hostility. 

 

Normally, she would’ve used her tracking skill. But her tracking ability relied on her electric intent, and that made her hesitate. If her stalker was skilled enough, they might sense her connection to Kayden, and the last thing she wanted was to expose her father to whoever this was.

 

Instead, Jiwoo relied on other methods. She heightened her senses, extending her perception to pick up even the faintest anomalies. But no matter how hard she tried, the result was always the same, nothing. It was as if the stalker didn’t exist.

 


 

Then there were the notes.

 

The first one had appeared in her locker at school. It had been short and teasing, mentioning how she spent an “unreasonable amount of time debating between two brands of cat food.” She’d dismissed it as a prank, maybe it was Jisuk?

 

But the notes kept coming.

 

One had been left at the park bench where she usually sat after school. It teased her about her diet 

 

Too much junk food isn’t healthy, you know. I thought Awakened were supposed to have self-discipline .”

 

Another appeared after a particularly careless moment when she almost tripped over her shoelaces. “Careless. Tsk, tsk. You are being careless, by the way, which chocolate do you like?”

 

Jiwoo had crumpled that note and thrown it away, muttering to herself about how her stalker clearly had too much time on their hands.

 

Despite her irritation, she couldn’t shake the curiosity. Who was doing this? And why? 

 

Jiwoo wasn’t used to being noticed as Seo Jiwoo, the ordinary girl. As BlitzClaw, she was a global sensation, admired and feared. But as Jiwoo, she was just a regular student. What could have drawn this mysterious person’s attention?

 


 

Today was no different. As Jiwoo and her friends were having lunch in their usual spot, the break was almost over and they decided to head back to their classes. 

 

“Man, my body is still sore from training, my sister always go too hard in practice sessions ” Jisuk complain “can’t even skip school”

 

“I can’t believe you even came to school,” Jiwoo teased, shaking her head. 

 

Jisuk rolled his eyes. “It's not like I have a choice, okay? Noona will… never mind” His whole body shivered just at the thought. 

 

Wooin grinned. “Right. She will beat you pulp during training.”

 

Jiwoo laughed, but her amusement was short-lived. That feeling of being watched lingered, stronger than before. Her friends were too busy joking to notice her growing unease.

 

“I’ll catch up with you guys,” she said suddenly.

 

Jisuk raised an eyebrow. “What? Why?”

 

“I just forgot something. It won’t take long.”

 

Wooin shrugged. “Alright, but don’t take too long. Break time is almost over.”

 

As her friends walked ahead, Jiwoo stayed behind, her amber eyes scanning the area. She closed her eyes and took a deep breath, centering herself.

 

If the stalker wanted a game, she’d play it.

 


 

Jiwoo heightened her senses, her awakened power sharpening every sound, every scent, every subtle shift in the air. The world slowed as she focused. She could hear the faint rustle of leaves in the breeze, the distant chatter of children playing, the rhythmic footsteps…

 

But nothing out of place.

 

“Seriously… what are you?” she muttered under her breath, frustration creeping into her tone.

 

Then, just as she was about to give up, she noticed something. A faint trace, a subtle disturbance in the air. It wasn’t exactly a sound or a smell. It was more like… a signature. Someone had been there recently, but it was gone now.

 

Jiwoo followed the trail, moving quietly to avoid alerting whoever it was. Her breath steadied, her steps light and deliberate. But then, as quickly as it had appeared, the trail vanished, leaving her standing alone on the sidewalk.

 

Her brow furrowed.

 


 

Her stalker wasn’t just skilled, they were toying with her. And that realization made her grit her teeth.

 

"Fine," she muttered. "You want to play hide-and-seek? Let’s play."

 

Her train of thought was interrupted by Wooin’s voice in the distance. “Jiwoo! What’s taking so long?”

 

She sighed, her frustration melting into resignation as she turned to rejoin her friends. But as she walked away, the tiniest flutter caught her eye. Another note.

 

Jiwoo stared at it for a long moment before picking it up. The handwriting was neat, almost playful. “ Why are you so serious? Relax. You’re more fun to watch when you’re smiling.

 

Her fingers crumpled the note, a mixture of embarrassment and irritation flooding her.

 

"This guy… seriously has too much time on his hands," she muttered.

 

From a hidden vantage point, a figure watched her retreating form, lips quirking into an amused smile. The game, after all, had just begun.

 


 

Perched on the edge of a rooftop, Amyeong better known as "Dark" in the Awakened world watched Seo Jiwoo through the lens of the dim street lights below. She was walking back home with her friends, a playful smile on her face as they laughed and joked. The picture of normalcy.

 

But Amyeong wasn’t fooled.

 

That girl no, that BlitzClaw … was anything but ordinary.

 

He leaned back, arms folded as the faint breeze tousled his dark hair. For the past few days, this game of hide-and-seek had been his private amusement. Watching her navigate his little breadcrumbs, sensing his presence even when the rest of the world remained blissfully ignorant, it was impressive. Most couldn’t even dream of detecting him, let alone tracking his trail, even when he deliberately left it for them.

 

Yet Jiwoo had done so.

 

Once.

 

It was subtle, but she’d managed to pinpoint his trace without resorting to the conventional tracking techniques that every Awakened relied on. She hadn’t unleashed her electric intent, something she was clearly capable of, but had used her heightened senses and raw instincts instead. That alone was enough to earn his respect.

 

“Kayden’s disciple, huh?” he murmured, a shadow of a smirk playing on his lips. “Not bad. Not bad at all.”

 


 

It still shocked him, though.

 

When he’d first purchased the information from the black market, he hadn’t expected much. The identity and whereabouts of BlitzClaw were the kind of secrets that would shake the Awakened world to its core. 

 

Many believed the info was either a scam or a death trap, but Amyeong had been curious enough to investigate.

 

The details were vague… a location and a handful of hints, not enough to identify her outright but enough to narrow down the possibilities. And there she was, hidden in plain sight, living the life of an ordinary schoolgirl.

 

Amyeong had only realized who she was after observing her for days. At first, disbelief had struck him like lightning. This was the same child from years ago.

 

The one who had saved his life during an unexpected ambush. She’d been so young then, trembling and uncertain, but with a spark of courage that had stuck with him.

 

And now, that spark has grown into something extraordinary.

 

BlitzClaw. Kayden’s sole disciple.

 

Initially, his intention had been simple to challenge or kill BlitzClaw, depending on whether she proved worthy of the hype. But seeing her had changed everything.

 

The child who had once saved him was now being hunted.

 


 

He sighed, leaning forward to watch her figure disappear into the distance.

 

The black market wasn’t the only place where whispers of BlitzClaw circulated. Jiwoo had no idea how many people were after her. Some wanted revenge, their pride wounded by the infamous BlitzClaw during a fight. Others were after Kayden’s closely guarded Force Control technique, a treasure in the Awakened world. And some… well, some just wanted to use her as leverage against Kayden.

 

It didn’t matter who they were Amyeong wasn’t about to let them reach her.

 

He had been protecting her from the shadows, dealing with the occasional lowlife who got too close or intercepting potential threats before they ever reached her. Jiwoo was completely unaware of his interference, as it should be.

 

Amyeong’s lips curled into a faint smirk. He didn’t do this out of sentimentality… Well, not entirely. It was true that he owed her for what had happened years ago. But there was another reason, one that nagged at him constantly.

 


 

The information he’d bought wasn’t the problem. It was the source .

 

The black market didn’t deal in absolutes. They trafficked in rumors, half-truths, and possibilities. But someone out there knew just enough about Jiwoo to be dangerous. The hints in the data he’d purchased, the approximate location, vague descriptions of her habits… meant that whoever was behind it had been watching her for some time.

 

And that wasn’t all.

 

There was something else he needed to confirm.

 

Amyeong’s gaze darkened as he stood, brushing the dust from his coat. This wasn’t just a simple observation mission anymore. It had turned into a hunt—a hunt for the person who thought they could toy with Jiwoo’s safety.

 

Until then, he’d stay in the shadows. Watching. Protecting.

 

“Looks like I’ll be sticking around a while longer,” he murmured to himself.

 

He vanished into the night without a sound, leaving behind no trace of his presence.

 

Jiwoo had no idea that her most unsettling days were only beginning.

 

And she certainly had no idea that one of the Awakened world’s deadliest assassins was now her self-proclaimed shadow.

 


 

The quiet streets of Seoul were dimly lit by street lights as Jiwoo carried her grocery bags home. The cool night air brushed against her cheeks, but her thoughts were preoccupied with the strange events of the past few days. The feeling of being watched had returned intermittently. Whoever had been stalking her seemed more interested in playing games than causing harm.

 

But tonight, something was different.

 

She froze when she heard it.

 

"BlitzClaw," a voice called from behind her, cutting through the stillness like a blade.

 

Her body stiffened as her mind raced. BlitzClaw. Not Jiwoo. Someone had called her by the name she used as an Awakened.

 

Slowly, she turned, her heart pounding.

 

There he stood, a man with an unsettling grin and a dark aura radiating from him. She recognized him immediately, Muras, one of the top 50 Awakened in the world and a former subordinate of Astra, a man who had been killed by her father.

 

Her stomach churned as her eyes narrowed. She had known Muras was still out there, an escaped remnant of Astra’s faction, but she hadn’t expected him to find her so soon or at all.

 

"How...?" she muttered, her mind spinning. ‘ How did he know? How did he find me?

 

Muras chuckled, his laughter grating and unhinged. "You don’t seem happy to see me, BlitzClaw. Or should I call you by your other name? Oh, wait… I think I prefer BlitzClaw. It suits you better, doesn’t it?"

 

Jiwoo’s grip on her grocery bags tightened as she carefully set them down, her body instinctively sliding into battle mode. Her electric intent sparked faintly, ready to spring into action.

 

"How do you know who I am?" she demanded, her voice steady despite the tension coursing through her veins.

 

Muras tilted his head, his grin widening. "You’re famous, kid. But even I wouldn’t have believed the information from the black market. BlitzClaw, Kayden’s precious little disciple, hiding in plain sight as an ordinary girl. It’s almost laughable."

 

Jiwoo clenched her fists. ‘ Black market rumors. Someone really did sell information about me. But who?

 

Her mind raced with questions. Was Muras the one stalking me? No, she realized almost instantly. His behavior didn’t match. If it had been him, he wouldn’t have wasted time playing games. He would have confronted her immediately… just like now.

 

"You’ve got guts showing your face here," Jiwoo said, her voice cold. "You know what happened to Astra. Do you really think you’ll do any better?"

 

Muras’s expression darkened for a moment before twisting into a manic grin. "Oh, I know I’m no match for Kayden. I tried gathering allies, but everyone’s too afraid of him. They’re cowards. So, I’ve decided to change my approach."

 

Jiwoo’s heart sank as he continued, his voice dripping with malice.

 

"If I can’t kill Kayden, I’ll destroy his legacy. And you, little BlitzClaw, are the perfect place to start. You’re strong, crazy strong but you’re not him. Not yet. And I can’t let you grow into the monster he is. I’ll take you down before you become a threat to the rest of us."

 

Jiwoo’s eyes narrowed as electricity crackled around her. She knew the gap between their power and experience was immense, but she refused to show fear.

 

"Big talk for someone hiding in the shadows all this time," she said, her voice sharp. "If you’re so confident, come and try."

 

Muras’s grin widened. "With pleasure."

 


 

He moved faster than Jiwoo anticipated, a blur of speed that closed the distance between them in an instant. His strike connected before she could fully react but somehow she intercept reducing the damage as much as she could, still the impact sending her skidding back several meters. She barely managed to stay on her feet, her electricity flaring as she prepared to counterattack.

 

But something felt off.

 

The sharp pain in her arm where he had grazed her wasn’t normal. Her vision blurred slightly, and a cold dread settled over her as she recognized the technique.

 

"Poison," she hissed under her breath.

 

It wasn’t just any poison, it was a deadly technique used exclusively by Astra’s faction. Jiwoo gritted her teeth, trying to ignore the growing numbness in her limbs. She couldn’t afford to slow down.

 

Muras didn’t give her time to recover. He launched another assault, his movements precise and relentless. Jiwoo fought back with everything she had, electricity crackling in arcs around her as she dodged and countered. But every move felt heavier than the last, the poison steadily sapping her strength.

 

She landed a few hits, but it wasn’t enough. Muras was strong, too experienced, and the poison was paralyzing her.

 


 

Finally, a powerful strike from Muras sent Jiwoo crashing to the ground. She tried to push herself up, but her body refused to cooperate. Her vision blurred further as Muras loomed over her, his grin triumphant.

 

"You put up a decent fight, kid," he said, crouching down to look her in the eyes. "But this is where it ends. Don’t worry, though… I won’t kill you. Not yet."

 

He leaned closer, his voice low and menacing. "You’re going to help me bring Kayden to his knees. And when he comes to save you, I’ll make sure he suffers like no one ever has."

 

Jiwoo’s vision went dark as unconsciousness claimed her.

 

Muras stood, slinging her limp body over his shoulder. He glanced around, deliberately leaving subtle traces of his presence behind.

 

"Come and get her, Kayden," he muttered with a smirk.

 

And with that, he disappeared into the night, leaving the quiet streets empty once more.