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The moon hung high in the sky, casting a silvery glow over the courtyard as Haewon helped Sunghoon with his healing. The cool night air was filled with the soft rustle of leaves, and the stars twinkled brightly above, creating a serene yet tense atmosphere.
"Remember, it's all about channeling your energy and focusing on the wound," Haewon instructed, making a small cut on her hand once again and demonstrating the healing process once again. "It's not just about the physical act; it's about connecting with your inner power."
Sunghoon watched intently, absorbing every detail. He made a similar cut on his own hand and began to focus. Haewon could see the faint static energy beginning to form around the wound, a sign that he was getting closer.
"Good," Haewon encouraged, her voice steady. "You're doing well. Just keep your focus steady."
Sunghoon's brow furrowed as he concentrated harder, feeling the static energy increase. Despite his efforts, the cut remained open, but he could sense progress.
"I can feel it," he said, frustration tinging his voice. "But it's not closing."
"It's okay," Haewon reassured him. "Healing takes time to master. You're on the right track."
As they continued practicing, Haewon couldn't shake the feeling of being watched. She paused, her eyes scanning the surrounding forest. The sensation was growing stronger, prickling at the edges of her awareness.
"Do you feel that?" she asked, her voice barely above a whisper.
Sunghoon looked up, his senses on high alert. "Yeah, I do. We're not alone."
They exchanged a tense glance, communicating silently with their eyes. Haewon's eyes darted around, trying to pinpoint the source of the unease.
"Whatever or whoever it is, they're good at hiding," Haewon muttered, her grip tightening on her blade.
Sunghoon nodded, his gaze sweeping the trees. "What should we do?"
Haewon considered their options. "Let's keep practicing, but stay alert. We can't let them know we're onto them."
They resumed their training, but the tension was palpable. Haewon made another cut on her hand, showing Sunghoon the steps once more. He followed her lead, the static energy flickering around his wound again.
"You're getting there," Haewon said, her voice steady despite the unease. "Just keep at it."
Sunghoon took a deep breath, refocusing his energy. As he worked, his mind raced with thoughts of who could be watching them and why. He tried to push the distraction aside, knowing that mastering healing was crucial.
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"I'll get this," Sunghoon said with determination. "I have to."
Haewon nodded, feeling a surge of pride. "I know you will. Just keep practicing."
Suddenly, a twig snapped nearby, and both Haewon and Sunghoon spun around, blades at the ready. They scanned the area, Sunghoon's eyes caught a glimpse of something-a shadow flitting through the trees, a face hidden in the dark, one that was familiar-but he decided to stay silent. The forest went silent, the tension thick in the air.
"This isn't good," Haewon whispered. "We need to be more cautious."
Sunghoon agreed. "Whoever's out there, they're getting bold. We have to stay sharp."
They exchanged another look and cautiously walked around the perimeter, scanning for any signs of movement. After a thorough check, they found nothing but still couldn't shake the feeling of being watched. Reluctantly, they returned to the courtyard.
Haewon knelt down and started a small fire, the flames casting flickering shadows on their faces. Sunghoon sat across from her, his gaze fixed on the fire, deep in thought.
Haewon sighed, her expression troubled. "Someone's definitely out there, and they're not just passing by."
Sunghoon nodded, his face serious. "Yeah, we need to figure out who it is and why they're watching us. But for now, let's focus on what we can control."
Haewon poked at the fire, her mind racing. "Could it be that stranger Minji mentioned? But how can they find this place so easily?"
Sunghoon's eyes softened as he looked at her. "Don't worry, Sunoo did say he's going to try keeping an eye on whoever this person is. If they're going to get anywhere near here, we'll know beforehand. "
She offered a small, appreciative smile, the firelight dancing in her eyes. "I know we will. But we need to be ready for whatever comes next."
As they sat by the fire, the warmth of the flames contrasting with the cool night air, an uneasy silence settled between them. Haewon stared into the flickering light, her thoughts a whirlwind of emotions. She knew she couldn't avoid the topic forever.
Taking a deep breath, she broke the silence. "Sunghoon, about what I said the other day..."
She trailed off, unsure how to continue. Her eyes met his across the fire, and she saw understanding and patience reflected in his gaze.
"I'm glad you told me," Sunghoon said softly, his voice filled with sincerity. "And I'm even happier you told me."
Haewon's heart skipped a beat at his words, a mixture of relief and anxiety flooding her senses. She looked away, trying to gather her thoughts.
"But I want you to know," he continued, his tone gentle but firm, "I won't force you into anything. Take all the time you need. Whenever you're ready, I'll be here."
Haewon felt a rush of gratitude, his words easing some of the tension that had been building inside her. She nodded, a small smile tugging at the corners of her lips. "Thank you, Sunghoon. I appreciate that more than you know."
Sunghoon returned her smile, his expression warm and reassuring. "Let's focus on what we have on our hands for now," he suggested. "There's a lot we need to deal with, and we can't afford any distractions."
Haewon nodded in agreement, feeling a renewed sense of determination. "You're right. We need to stay vigilant."
With a slight grin, Sunghoon blurted, "You know, when I first met you, I would've never imagined this would happen."
Haewon turned her head to him, a chuckle escaping her lips. "You mean falling for your mentor wasn't part of your plan?"
Sunghoon laughed, the tension between them easing. "Definitely not. And I have to admit, you were a bit of an ass."