The school day started like any other—students rushing to classes, teachers preparing lessons, and the usual hum of conversation filling the hallways. But Hwang Siyeok could feel it: something different today. A tension in the air, subtle but distinct.
In the courtyard, a tall, athletic student named Kang Joon—a new transfer with a reputation for being competitive and outspoken—approached. His eyes narrowed slightly as he spotted Hwang Siyeok.
"Hey, you," Kang Joon called, loud enough for others to hear. "I've heard about you. Everyone says you're… incredible. Is it true?"
Hwang Siyeok paused for a moment, calmly adjusting his bag. His green eyes met Kang Joon's without a flicker of challenge or arrogance. "Depends on what you mean by incredible," he said softly.
Kang Joon smirked, stepping closer. "Oh, come on. Don't play coy. Are you really the best at everything?"
Around them, students began to gather, whispering, curious about the encounter. Some girls blushed quietly at the tension, while boys watched, unsure what to expect.
Hwang Siyeok's lips curved into a faint, calm smile. "I don't prove anything to anyone. But if you want to challenge yourself… I can help you see your limits."
The statement wasn't boastful—it was measured, calm, and compelling. Kang Joon paused, uncertainty flickering across his face. He hadn't expected someone so relaxed in the face of a challenge.
"Alright," Kang Joon finally said, "let's see what you've got."
A small sparring match formed—strictly controlled, no real harm intended. But even in this playful contest, Hwang Siyeok's mastery was clear. His movements were faster than anyone could follow, precise, and efficient. Kang Joon tried to predict his strikes, but each feint and motion was flawless and untraceable.
Within moments, Kang Joon was lightly pinned—not in humiliation, but as a subtle demonstration of skill. He gasped, amazed and frustrated. "How…? I couldn't even—"
Hwang Siyeok released him with a calm nod. "You learned something, didn't you? Knowing your limits is more important than proving yourself."
Students around them whispered in awe, some blushing from witnessing the effortless dominance, others inspired by the lesson. Even teachers passing by noticed the controlled, respectful display of skill.
Shy Suya, standing nearby, smiled softly. "He even… handles rivals with calm. Not anger, not arrogance… just… guidance."
Hwang Siyeok adjusted his bag and walked away as if nothing had happened. Kang Joon, still catching his breath, stared after him, a mix of admiration and frustration in his eyes.
By the end of the day, the courtyard felt subtly changed. Students carried themselves a little taller, rivals thought twice about their actions, and even adults sensed an unseen force shaping behavior—quietly, humanly, and without recognition.
Hwang Siyeok, as always, walked home calmly, unaware of the growing influence his presence had on everyone around him. Fully human, fully capable, and quietly extraordinary, he remained the unseen guide of Huweol High.
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