At first I was a bit paranoid about Sucheons grandfather not only exposing Jiwoo and Kaydens relation but also my own personal info I wished to keep secret. But I remembered. Kayden confronts Dusik as they leave the island. As far as I know, Kayden takes no risks and makes sure Dusik and his two lackeys remain silent, permanently. If it goes the same as in the Manwha. Then I won't have to worry too much. Yet I still have something else to worry about.
"You didn't have to come all the way to my room, sir" Seongik sat across from me on the couch. Thanks to Giwooks help, he's been moving me around wherever I wanted. Just a moment ago, he stopped by and helped me to the couch. Then he decided to give Kemono a walk since I couldn't. Thanking him as he left, Seongik Han walked in right after. Leaving me in a nervous wreck as Giwook closed the door. "I should visit you at least once. You did a lot for Jiwoo as well as for everyone else's sake before Kayden appeared" he mentioned. I gulped, nodding my head lightly. It may have been a heroic moment in his eyes but to me, it was way too crazy. My words of going to war with Beakdu could've hurt Huas reputation more than ever. But knowing Kain, he's probably said such things before. "Uhm, may I ask who all knows?" Referring to my awakened ability's and my true strength. Seongik raised a brow, clasping his hands together. Remembering the scene of my spar against Dusik.
Even he was taken aback the moment he felt the amount of power stored within Kains body. To him, the child has always been a unique existence. Kain Hua, a boy that knew nothing but terrorizing those around him. Using his fathers influence to get whatever he wanted and resented awakened ones because he, himself, wasn't born special. But now, after all these years. Kain is awakened? So what was the point of acting in those disgraceful ways? "Only Inhyuk, Giwook, Seongha, myself, Jiwoo, Kayden, Dusik, and the two with him" I let out a breath. Happy. Thankfully the other instructors didn't arrive early enough to see me using my ability. "It may be too much to ask of you, Mr.Seongik Han. But I must request you keep me being an awakened one a secret. I don't wish for anyone to learn of my abilities nor do I want my father to know my powers" Seongik blinked. Reluctant to say anything but nodded his head. "Very well. Haha" he chuckled. "I guess our spar isn't going to happen anytime soon" I raised a brow. "No, it was never going to happen. How could I ever spar against the former number one awakened one in South Korea?" I asked. A rhetorical question.
"Well it wouldn't make a difference. You're father was originally supposed to be South Koreas number one awakened one but he declined the title so Jiyoung was named number one instead" I flinched. For real? "Haha- he's my father. I can't see my dad in a respective light like that..." of course I believed it. With how much pressure he gave off just standing there suffocated me. I can only imagine how strong he truly is for even Seongik Han to say he's the og number one. "That's true" he laughed. Getting up. "Since I came to check on you and I have, I should get going now. The awakened academy will be ending soon. So you should start packing up when you can" I blinked. "Is it because of Kaydens appearance?" I asked just to be met with silence. "Have a good rest Kain" Seongik smiled politely as I bowed where I sat, looking back up when he shut the door.
Jiwoo knows I'm awakened but I'm also positive Kayden already told Jiwoo not to tell anyone I'm awakened. Even if he didn't, Jiwoos the type who wouldn't blurt out everything just because. He's a smart and polite child. So of course I had no worries about him knowing. It's everyone else I'm worried about. "Whew" I sighed. Biting the inside of my cheek. Everything's fine. Everything will be fine. Then my mood faded into happiness. I finally get to go home. To Elise and Suho. To my kittens and other pups. Afterwards, I can move out of that darn apartment and into my real home. "I can't wait" I chuckled.
...
A few days later~ I was up and running around again. My legs felt spick and span! Honestly, the infirmary is amazing! "I'm glad they let me skip the last instructor meeting...I don't want to be glared at on my last day of school..." I sighed. Knowing how Suhan, Miyoung, and Chul would side eye me every single meeting. Then try to nitpick anything I did just to get a reaction out of me. I have no idea what the hell Kain did to their respective groups but whatever it was left an awful impression on them. "Let's go to the students now. The meetings finished" I pushed myself off against the wall. Lazily humming away to pass time until the trio walked out of the room, all making their way to the unaffiliated students. "Jeez. I'm going to have a hard time explaining all of this to my father..." I grimaced. Remembering all the paperwork I had to do even if I was an assistant. I was still a teacher in some respects. "No kidding..." Seongha sighed. "You guys remember to keep your mouths shut right?" I raised a brow at all three of them, all of them flinching then nodding their heads. The thought of lying to their groups, of course, took a toll on them. Especially since they vowed their loyalty to them. But I'm not affiliated with any group, so I have reason to hide myself.
"How long have you been training anyway?" Inhyuk had to ask. To him, even Jisuk wasn't at a level to break Dusiks power. Same for Seongha and Giwook. All their kids weren't at that level yet. "Well...it's been about 2 and a half months?" I said questionably. Mostly because I didn't keep track at all. I just went straight into learning how to use everything my hyung taught me. "What!?" They all simultaneously yelled. "Jeez! Calm down!" I yelled back, covering my ears. "I thought the Hua organization was training you since birth!" Inhyuk admitted, wondering what kind of monster the Hua organization made only to have all his expectations blown away by a simple 2 months training and he's already this good? "No. I'm trying to keep it from my fathers organization too. For all I know, I might end up becoming an heir-" I shivered at the thought. "So I'd rather not put all that annoying crap on my plate. You know? Itll just be nonstop nagging about this and that- plus Elise would only worry about me all the time. She sent a dozen letters asking how I was and if everything's okay. I feel bad for not responding but I really had no choice because I'm trying to keep my distance. Then there's Suho whos helpful yet it feels like I can't get closer to him for some reason but continues to protect me because of fathers orders. I especially don't want to have my fathers enemy's wrath put on me instead-" I stopped. Gulping down any more words I was going to start spouting out. "...yeah, that's- that's why I don't want anyone knowing. Plus...I have to in order to find someone. If they're still out there" I scratched the back of my head. Thinking of hyung. It's an extreme long shot. Worse than finding a needle in a haystack because what if there is no needle? But if I came here. I'm sure he's here too. Since we both passed at the same time.
"...do you have a mentor?" Giwook suddenly asked next. I thought for a moment. Hyung is my mentor. But since he's not here, I couldn't say whether he is my mentor. Plus, my father also participated in the making of some of the journals. So both of them would've been my mentors. "Yes. A few" I said honestly. "What about now?" He asked again, although a bit taken aback by the vague answer of a "few". How many mentors have I had in a span of 2 months? Is what they are thinking. "No. I have no mentors presently. But I'm making everything my past mentors taught me my own. It's the least I could do. And maybe in the far future, I'll have my own disciple to pass the knowledge they showed me" I smiled just thinking about it. It's a long away dream. But I do eventually want to teach someone else what hyung and father taught me. Someone who's like Jiwoo. Still, by then, I hope I can stay in the shadows for as long as I could.
But I knew I probably won't have much time. After all, "that" arc is coming up. As much as it hurts to not have it happen, I had to. Otherwise another important character won't show up if I put a stop to it. Still, even if I wanted to put a stop to it, I probably couldn't. Not with my current level of power. "We're here. Stand in line" Giwook stopped after I moved to the side, standing with Inhyuk and Seongha. Flinching when I felt his hand pat my head. "Hm?" I asked, quite confused but not hating it. I love it whenever Giwook gives me attention. "You're a good kid. I'm sure you'll become even stronger" he praised. "Only if you want me to" I smiled. He paused, clearing his throat then turned away. After the trio found out about my powers, you can say I've grown more comfortable with them. To the point, little remarks I would usually joke around with hyung are now used towards them.
I've grown fond of them. Especially Giwook. Smirking, I couldn't help but notice the slight redness on his ears with his back turned to me. How bad I wanted to jump on his back and tease him more. "...you changed again" Inhyuk mentioned. I turned to him, tilting my head a bit. "I didn't change. I'm just showing you guys a side of me I hardly show to others. It's...it's been a long time since I felt like this" and it was true. Half the time I was here, I mourned my brother and mother. The other half I became obsessed with hiding while growing as strong as I could in order to protect myself. I never tried to stop and simply enjoy myself for a little. Although I may have gotten my kittens and pups, that was more of a distraction. Something to help me from thinking about the night I died.
It's still hard to think about. And from what happened when Dusik hurt Jiwoo, I know well I'm under the impression of making Jiwoo another version of my hyung. Yet, another distraction. This time. When I go back to the mainland. I'll work on myself. As well as to view Jiwoo and the people around me as ally's rather than enemies that might turn on me any second. I smiled.
"You guys probably heard the news. As of today, this semester of the academy is over" I stood at attention hearing Giwook start talking to the students. All had sullen looks on them. Sad school came to an end so early. "Don't be disappointed. The academy will be reorganized and your education will significantly improve by the time you come back for next semester. Train and enhance your powers wherever you are. I hope for the best for you guys and hope to see you next semester" all the students brightened up. Smiling ear to ear after Giwook finished his statements. "Yes sir!" They all said, much like soldiers full of enthusiasm. "Mr.Jang" they called out to him. He looked at them, a bit curious. "Thank you for teaching us!!" They all shouted. "We were lucky to have you as an instructor. You'll be teaching us next semester right?" The kids suddenly crowding him left Giwook quite shocked but also appreciated. Once again, the red flush danced about his ears as I could only giggle at how adorable he was being. "Of course. Who else would volunteer to teach you punks?" He grumbled.
"How cute" I commented, enjoying this moment. "What about you? Are you coming back next semester as Giwooks assistant again?" I looked over at Inhyuk. My smile slightly lowered into a sad smile. "No. I have my own business I need to take care of next semester. And I don't want another incident like before to happen. I'm not willing to risk it again" plus, I need to speak with Kains dad. I'm not sure how the conversation will go but it's my own personal problem. "The semester after, I might" I said. Waving at Jiwoo when we made eye contact. "We'll see what the future holds" after my words, I caught the sound of both Inhyuk and Seonghas amused huffs. As if knowing I'll most likely be back next semester. But I seriously don't know. Because I'm not sure how my conversation with Kains father will play out.
...
"Take this" Giwook placed a piece of paper in my hand, closing my fingers around it. "What is-?!" Before I could asked what it was, Giwook leaned down, allowing his lips to graze my ear lobe as he whispered. "It's my number. Since you don't have a mentor at the moment, I thought I could help you in some way. Although what I can do and teach you is limited, I can still help you in some ways in order to develop your powers effectively. Just text or give me a call" once he finished, he leaned away. "Have a safe trip back" he patted my head again, saying bye to the other students like Jisuk, Wooin, and Jiwoo one last time before returning back to the awakened academy. I gulped. Rubbing my ear. Blush evident on my cheeks. "Hurry up, we're boarding" I made eye contact with Jisuk once I turned around, covering my mouth to keep my lips from smiling uncontrollably after Giwooks gave me his phone number. Since I wasn't allowed a phone with my stay here.
But Jisuk spun around, seemingly upset as he stomped up to the deck then walked inside the boat. I just huffed. Wondering what the hell his problem is when I thought we were cool now. "Let me help you" Jiwoo grabbed my luggage from my hand before I could tell him I'm fine. "It's a thanks. So please don't worry" Jiwoo reasoned, making me have to give in. "About that, let's keep that between us too" I said as we both made our way up the deck. "Yeah. Mr.Kayden told me you wanted to keep it a secret. But...if that was the case, why did you save me? If I ended up putting you in danger too I-" "shhh" Jiwoo was almost ramble my ear off when I shushed him, pressing my finger against his lips in order to keep him quiet. "I did it because I wanted to. You were in danger. I'm sure you would've done the same for me if I was in your situation. Don't think too much about it , okay? It's just the duty of your hyung" I smiled, reaching up and ruffling his hair. "My hyung?" He asked. "Yes. Your hyung" I repeated. Then a second later, I gasped feeling Jiwoos arms embrace me into a hug. A tight one at that. I hugged him back, staying that way for a good minute then finally started to feel a little antsy.
"You should go back inside. Your friends are probably wondering where you are" slightly pushing him off me, I assured him I'll be fine on my own as he finally left me by myself, going into the ship to see his other friends. I let out a long sigh, rubbing my arms that Jiwoo touched. "I need to get this body used to physical touch..." I reminded myself. Every time someone seems to even graze me, I shiver. It's annoying. Still, I walked around the deck a little more before we set sail, leaving the awakened academy. Watching the island slowly fade into a speck, I took a deep breath.
"The amount of thoughts that ran through my head when coming to the island vs going back is a huge difference. Don't you think Kemono?" I looked down, seeing Kemono laying at my feet as I once again leaned on the rails while looking out to the sea. While coming to the awakened academy, it felt like I was being sent to prison. But leaving it, I'm not exactly sure how I felt. Neutral is the best I could describe it. Not relieved but not anxious. Not sad nor happy. I didn't feel anything for that matter.
For the rest of our trip back, I remained quietly observing the ocean's waves. Refusing to go inside the ship. Even if I'm on better terms with Jisuk now, it still felt a bit weird around them. As if I don't belong there. Still, as long as I have Kemono, I don't care at all.
...
Once the boat docked on main land, everyone looked exhausted. Barer dragging themselves off the boat as I could only chuckle. Of course, all of them walked to a van from Shinwha. Slowly walking down the ramp with the two suitcases I brought, I glanced around, noticing a separate black car pulling up behind the van. Everyone stopped, wondering who would park behind them in a huge space. "Hyung, are you coming with us?" Jiwoo popped up beside me, startling me. "Oh, n-no. My ride's here" I said, having an apologetic smile as Jiwoo pouted, a bit sad we have to go our own ways so soon after everything on the awakened academy island. "Oh! Let me give you my number then!" Jiwoo rushed to the van again, quickly asking everyone if they had a paper or pen. While I couldn't help but smile at how adorable he is. "Let me grab that for you" I flinched hearing someone speak to me after Jiwoo left.
Turning, my eyes widened. An extremely good looking guy walked my way in a regular button up black dress shirt and dress pants. As if he just came back from a rough meeting, his hair was quite messy but in a way it almost looked styled. But the tattoos peeking out from behind the loosened buttons from his collar and down to his chest shocked me. Even his arm covered in a tattoo sleeve reaching down and easily picked up my suitcase without struggle. Those silver golden eyes looked down at me, pausing to examine my expression. While my own couldn't tear away from the piercing on his lip. Who-who is this? I thought, rummaging through my memories. Did I even encounter someone so...well, sexy? If I didn't know any better, I would've thought I accidentally walked into some mafia based Kdrama. Maybe he freshly came out of the bedroom after a steamy night? Either way, his musky cologne made me gulp.
"Let's get going. I was assigned to help you move into your new home" his voice sounded very familiar. For some reason, I couldn't think of anyone though. "Y-yes" I simply responded, watching Kemono stay calm as he walked towards the car, entering the back seat. I blinked. It was the first time Kemono met someone for the first time without growling at them. Jiwoo being an exception of course. I slowly followed behind the man, watching him click the trunk open and set the suitcase inside. He then walked back over to me, picking up the second one. "Here!" I jumped when I saw Jiwoos' hand appear in front of me. Scaring me after I was admiring the man who's apparently assigned to help me. "Oh- thanks. Are you heading home now?" I asked, taking the paper and gently folding it before sliding it into my pocket. "Yeah. I want to see how the cats are doing..." Jiwoo peeked at the man leaning against the car, waiting for me to finish up my conversation with Jiwoo. Tapping his arm with his finger.
"Uhm...who...no never mind. Looks like you're busy so I won't keep you anymore. Get home safe Kain!" Jiwoo smiled, waving as he ran off into the van, jumping in as it started as soon as he shut the door. I waved back, smiling happily when I saw Wooin also waving from the window. Jisuk simply glanced at me then the man who still waited before turning away. Subin also looked at us but didn't seem all that interested. Inhyuk waved as well, surprisingly. Once they left, I was finally able to put my hand down. "Jeez" I sighed, stretching before getting into the car. Sitting in the passenger seat because Kemono was sprawled out in the back seat, asleep. "Did you make friends at the awakened academy?" He asked, starting up the car. "You could say that" I took a deep breath, staring out the window as the man drove us back to the apartment. I stayed quiet, trying my best to seem as tired as I could. A new face appeared and I have no idea who it is.
Once again, I have to be careful.
"Young master!?" As soon as I walked through the entry doors into the apartment complex, I was met with Elise and Suho talking behind a desk when they both turned to greet a resident just to jump out of their seats. "Hey" I smiled. But I flinched, watching Elise practically hurdle the desk and sprint right at me. For a moment, I thought she was going to punch me until her arms swung open, tackling me into a hug. Thankfully, the man from before stood behind me so his solid stature cushioned as well as stopped me from falling onto the ground as Elise hugged me tightly. Sniffling. "I was so worried! I-I thought something might've happened while you were there!! Why didn't you respond to my mail!?! What kind of employer are you!?" She sobbed as I could only remain speechless. I thought she was still scared of me. I had prepared myself for a dry welcome back from them but Elise seems to have forgiven Kain completely.
"I'm sorry. I was too busy to respond and all contact with outsiders is forbidden in the academy '' I patted her back, wanting to tear up as well. It's my first time having just a nice welcome back in so long. Without a sense of being feared, hated, blamed, annoyed, or similar feelings.
"Welcome back" Suho walked up, bowing deeply before standing up, seeing the person behind me. The man was shocked, feeling me fly back after Elise's aggressive hug, causing me to crash into him. It was a first ever sight to behold. Someone cares so much for Kain they cried for him? Truly a sight.
"Hyung? What're you doing here? I thought you were gonna be back till 3 months from now" I flinched. Hearing Suho call me hyung. Or rather, the one behind me. "Yeah, I was. I came back because Ilseong ordered me to help Kain move into his new house" he explained. Finally, after calming down, Elise let go of me and backed up, wiping her red eyes noticing a new face. "...who are you?" She asked, grabbing only my sleeve and pulling me away from him. Almost protectively. This caught me off guard as she slid herself between me and him. Whoa? This action also seemed to render the man speechless for a moment before he cleared his throat.
Now that I think about it. He just called Kains father by his name and Kain himself. On a first name basis?
"My name is Izen Yun" he bowed to her. "He's my older brother," Suho added. "And Mr.Hua's secretary" oh shit. So, this is Izen? The man I've been in contact with when it came to learning about Kains father ?? For real? "Oh" Elise relaxed. Her guard softened as she smiled, reaching her hand out. "My name is Elise Yang. The young masters maid" Izen smiled in kind, taking her hand and both held a firm hand shake before letting go. "Young master! I shall make you a feast! Come! Let's go back to the apartment!" She grabbed my hand, dragging me to the elevator as Suho and Izen stayed behind, talking amongst themselves as I could only remain stunned.
That hot hunk is Ilseong Huas Secretary? For some reason, I thought his Secretary was at least in his 40's because he always sounded exhausted. "Well...I have more things to worry about but maybe it's for the best" I told myself when Elise ran out of the elevator on our floor.
This just makes it easier for me to get in contact with Ilseong. So, this is a better outcome than I thought.
_________________________________
A/n: Izen and Sehyun meet 🥸 wonder how Izen is going to react when he realizes just how much "Kain" has actually changed lol. The first awakened academy arc has come to an end~✨
(Tbh I didn't think I'd write past 40 chapters- looks like I'm dedicated)
Sehyun as soon as he saw Izen:
Sehyun when Elise hugged him like they haven't met for years: