The sun hadn't risen fully when the students of Class 2-1 were summoned to the training dome—an indoor arena built for one purpose: to test and break egos.
> "Physical evaluation first!"
"Line up by number!"
Each student stepped forward as instructors recorded their stats. Strength, speed, stamina, and flexibility—everything was measured.
When it was Jang Hamin's turn, the whispers returned.
> "Bet he'll flop."
"He's so skinny…"
He stepped onto the sprint track.
3… 2… 1—
The timer blinked.
The wind cracked.
6.2 seconds.
Silence.
> "...That's faster than Kyungho."
Kyungho's smirk twitched.
Next: strength test.
Hamin grabbed the digital punch pad.
One breath. One precise strike.
CRACK!
The screen flickered.
987 points. Just three points below the school record.
Even Kang Hojin sat up straighter.
---
Combat Evaluation – One-on-One Sparring
> "Next match: Jang Hamin vs. Nam Kyungho."
The crowd leaned forward.
Kyungho stepped into the ring, stretching his neck.
> "Finally. Let's see if you're worth the attention."
Hamin didn't bother to speak. He took his stance—loose, calm, unfamiliar.
Start!
Kyungho dashed in—taekwondo-based footwork, swift and powerful. His kick was meant to knock Hamin out in one blow.
But it missed.
No—it was dodged.
Kyungho attacked again, chaining low kicks and jabs.
Hamin's movement was unnatural. Like he knew the angles. The rhythm.
One dodge. One counter.
CRACK!
A perfectly timed elbow to Kyungho's ribs. He staggered.
Another blow—open palm to the neck.
Kyungho collapsed, gasping.
The room was silent.
> "...Winner, Jang Hamin."
Areum watched with a small smile.
Hojin stood up, eyes narrowing.
> "He's not just strong… He's dangerous."
---