Community Manhwa

Medieval Castle Manhwa

Made by the community on Manhwa AI

Phantom of the Opera: Opera house in Paris, France Where Fu ChaoYi in his Phantom Mask holding a candle with finger to his lips saying Shhh! 🤫
A new female deticitve comes to a crie scene where her new male cooleges are there with scars on thier faces starting new case in a new city with new team
Photo 1 is wearing the outfit in photo 4, photo 1 is not wearing the bag. 

Photo 2 is wearing the outfit in photo 3 and is not wearing shoes but is wearing white socks. 

Photo 2 is sitting in the living room of a luxury, cozy 2 bedroom/ dorm unpacking a black suit case in the living room. 

Photo 2 then looks over at the front as she hears a click.

Photo 1 then walks in the front door with a pink suitcase. 
Photo 2 then stands up and smiles to greet photo 1 as she enters the living room.

Photo 1 and photo 2 the hug each other.
Photo 1 is wearing the exact same outfit walking in the hallway of the dorm on her black IPhone 16.

Photo 1 is wearing a cute black purse on her shoulder. 

Photo 1 is walking and pulling her black suits case that has another back pack on it. 

Photo 1 is walking past other happy college  students as she is looking for her dorm room. 

Photo 1 then say “317, 317. Come on where are you 317?”

Photo 1 then stops walking and stands in front of the dormitory front door that has a golden 317 on the front.

Photo 1 then opens the front door and walks in.

Photo 1 face lights up and glows with joy as she looks around the  luxury, cozy 2 bedroom apartment with modern furniture.

Photo 1 then jumps and yells “ HELL YEAH!!” In a very happy voice.
# THE NULL SOVEREIGN

## CHAPTER 1 — THE SILENT PILLAR

### SEQUENCE 01 — THE AWAKENING PLAZA

**PANEL 01 — EXTREME WIDE**

The **Awakening Plaza of Asterion** stretches across the page.

Thousands upon thousands of people fill the marble square.

White-and-gold marble reflects the morning sun.

At the eastern edge rises the enormous **Royal Palace**, its towers and golden spires piercing the sky.

At the center stands the **Divine Pillar**.

Thirty feet of living crystal.

Its interior pulses with rivers of System energy.

Blue.

Gold.

White.

Blue again.

**CAPTION:**

*Every sixteen-year-old in the Kingdom of Asterion undergoes the Awakening.*

---

**PANEL 02 — WIDE**

The crowd is divided.

Nobles stand behind velvet ropes guarded by Silver-rank soldiers.

Commoners occupy the rest of the plaza.

Parents hold their children's shoulders.

Guild representatives watch eagerly.

Merchants whisper.

Priests stand beneath the palace balconies.

Everyone is waiting.

---

**PANEL 03 — MEDIUM**

Kael Veyron stands alone among the crowd.

Seventeen.

Thin.

Plain.

His borrowed clothes hang loosely from his shoulders.

The sleeves are slightly too short.

He pulls one down.

It rolls back up.

He pulls it again.

**CAPTION:**

*Kael Veyron had no family waiting for him.*

---

**PANEL 04 — CLOSE-UP**

Kael's fingers nervously pinch the sleeve.

His knuckles are slightly pale.

**CAPTION:**

*No father.*

*No mother.*

*No name worth celebrating.*

---

**PANEL 05 — CLOSE-UP**

Kael looks toward the Divine Pillar.

His expression is uneasy.

The enormous crystal reflects in his eyes.

**CAPTION:**

*The Pillar would decide the rest of his life.*

---

### SEQUENCE 02 — PELL

**PANEL 06 — MEDIUM**

A stocky red-haired boy stands beside Kael.

Pell Harten.

His best clothes are visibly just clean work clothes.

His belt buckle is rattling from how badly he's shaking.

**PELL:**

"Stop fidgeting."

---

**PANEL 07 — TWO-SHOT**

Kael looks sideways at him.

**KAEL:**

"I'm not fidgeting."

**PELL:**

"You're pulling your sleeves."

---

**PANEL 08 — CLOSE-UP**

Kael looks down at his hand.

He releases the sleeve.

Then notices Pell trembling.

**KAEL:**

"You're shaking."

---

**PANEL 09 — CLOSE-UP — PELL**

Pell's face is completely serious.

**PELL:**

"That's different."

Beat.

**PELL:**

"That's medical."

---

**PANEL 10 — SMALL**

Kael almost smiles.

For the first time, the oppressive atmosphere around him breaks.

---

**PANEL 11 — TWO-SHOT**

**PELL:**

"What do you think you'll get?"

**KAEL:**

"Iron."

Beat.

**KAEL:**

"Maybe Bronze if I'm lucky."

---

**PANEL 12 — CLOSE-UP — PELL**

Pell looks horrified.

**PELL:**

"I just don't want Farmer."

---

**PANEL 13**

Kael looks at him completely deadpan.

**KAEL:**

"You could pull turnips very well."

---

**PANEL 14 — PELL**

**PELL:**

"Shut up."

---

### SEQUENCE 03 — THE NOBLES

**PANEL 15 — WIDE**

The noble section.

Velvet rope.

Two Silver-rank guards.

Silk.

Jewelry.

Perfect posture.

The children stand like they've rehearsed this moment their entire lives.

---

**PANEL 16 — CLOSE-UP**

A noble boy's polished boots.

Another's jeweled bracelet.

A third's expensive System-enhancement necklace.

---

**PANEL 17 — MEDIUM**

Kael watches them from the commoner section.

**CAPTION:**

*They had been preparing for this day since birth.*

---

**PANEL 18 — MEDIUM**

Elara Wenthis.

Tall.

Blonde.

Immaculate.

She stands at the front of the noble section.

Her posture is perfect.

Her expression calm.

---

**PANEL 19 — CLOSE-UP — ELARA**

Her eyes remain fixed on the Pillar.

Completely confident.

---

**PANEL 20 — KAEL**

Kael looks at her.

No envy.

No hatred.

Just distance.

**CAPTION:**

*They lived in different worlds.*

**CAPTION:**

*The Pillar was about to make that difference official.*

---

### SEQUENCE 04 — THE PRIESTESS

**PANEL 21 — FULL-WIDTH**

A bell rings.

**SFX:**

**KOOOOONG**

The entire plaza falls silent.

---

**PANEL 22 — UPWARD ANGLE**

The balcony of the Royal Palace.

High Priestess Seraphina steps forward.

White hair cascades over her shoulders.

She appears no older than thirty-five.

Her eyes are milky white.

Blind.

Perhaps.

---

**PANEL 23 — CLOSE-UP**

Seraphina's pale eyes.

Despite being blind, they seem to look directly through the entire crowd.

---

**PANEL 24 — WIDE**

Her Saint-rank aura spreads across the plaza.

No visible attack.

No violence.

Just overwhelming presence.

The crowd instinctively straightens.

---

**CAPTION:**

*The Church was present.*

*The System was watching.*

---

**PANEL 25 — CLOSE-UP**

Seraphina raises one hand.

---

**PANEL 26 — SPLASH PANEL**

The Divine Pillar suddenly erupts with light.

**SFX:**

**WHOOOOOM**

System energy races through its crystal interior.

---

### SEQUENCE 05 — THE SYSTEM

**PANEL 27 — FULL-PAGE SYSTEM OVERLAY**

A translucent System notification appears before everyone.

**SYSTEM NOTICE**

> **DIVINE SYSTEM NOTICE**
>
> **THE AWAKENING CEREMONY**
>
> **YEAR 4247**
>
> *All eligible candidates shall approach the Divine Pillar in designated order.*
>
> *The System will assign Rank, Class, and Purpose.*

---

**PANEL 28 — WIDE**

The notification disappears.

The crowd begins to move.

---

**PANEL 29 — MEDIUM**

A noble boy approaches.

Confident.

---

**PANEL 30 — CLOSE-UP**

His hand touches the Pillar.

**SFX:**

**WHUM**

Golden light surrounds him.

---

**PANEL 31 — SYSTEM PANEL**

> **CANDIDATE: ALDIS MERROW**
>
> **RANK: SILVER**
>
> **CLASS: KNIGHT**
>
> **AUTHORITY: STANDARD**

---

**PANEL 32 — CROWD**

Polite applause.

His family smiles.

---

### SEQUENCE 06 — THE AWAKENINGS

**MONTAGE**

**PANEL 33**

> **IRON — FARMER**

A boy looks disappointed.

---

**PANEL 34**

> **BRONZE — MERCHANT**

A girl bursts into tears.

Her family embraces her.

---

**PANEL 35**

> **IRON — LABORER**

Silence.

---

**PANEL 36**

A Silver awakening.

The crowd cheers.

---

**PANEL 37 — KAEL**

Kael watches.

The morning sun has climbed higher.

Sweat gathers beneath his borrowed clothes.

His hand returns to his sleeve.

---

**CAPTION:**

*Iron.*

*Bronze.*

*Silver.*

*Everyone received something.*

---

### SEQUENCE 07 — PELL HARTEN

**PANEL 38 — SYSTEM**

> **PELL HARTEN**

---

**PANEL 39 — CLOSE-UP — PELL**

His face goes white.

**PELL:**

"...No."

---

**PANEL 40**

He walks toward the Pillar.

His legs visibly shake.

---

**PANEL 41 — CLOSE-UP**

Pell places his hand against the crystal.

---

**PANEL 42**

A faint iron-grey glow.

---

**PANEL 43 — SYSTEM**

> **CANDIDATE: PELL HARTEN**
>
> **RANK: IRON**
>
> **CLASS: MERCHANT**
>
> **AUTHORITY: STANDARD**

---

**PANEL 44 — CLOSE-UP**

Pell stares.

Then his eyes fill with tears.

---

**PANEL 45**

His father screams from the crowd.

**PELL'S FATHER:**

"MERCHANT!"

---

**PANEL 46**

Pell laughs through his tears.

He turns toward Kael.

Raises both thumbs.

---

**PANEL 47 — KAEL**

Kael smiles.

A tiny nod.

---

### SEQUENCE 08 — ELARA

**PANEL 48 — WIDE**

The System calls the next name.

**SYSTEM:**

> **ELARA WENTHIS**

---

**PANEL 49 — FULL-BODY**

Elara walks toward the Pillar.

Her movements are controlled.

Elegant.

Almost ceremonial.

---

**PANEL 50 — CLOSE-UP**

Her hand touches the crystal.

---

**PANEL 51 — SPLASH**

The Pillar erupts in brilliant silver-blue light.

**SFX:**

**VRAAAAAAM**

---

**PANEL 52 — SYSTEM**

> **CANDIDATE: ELARA WENTHIS**
>
> **RANK: SILVER**
>
> **CLASS: BATTLE MAGE**
>
> **AUTHORITY: STANDARD**

---

**PANEL 53 — NOBLE SECTION**

Her family nods.

Satisfied.

Not surprised.

---

**PANEL 54 — KAEL**

Kael watches.

His expression changes.

A cold realization settles over him.

**CAPTION:**

*The Pillar had decided Elara's path before she was born.*

---

**PANEL 55**

Kael looks toward Pell.

Then toward the nobles.

**CAPTION:**

*The System was supposed to be fair.*

---

**PANEL 56 — CLOSE-UP**

Kael's eyes.

**CAPTION:**

*Everyone said it was.*

---

### SEQUENCE 09 — KAEL VEYRON

**PANEL 57 — FULL-WIDTH**

The plaza has grown hotter.

The crowd has thinned slightly.

The list is almost finished.

---

**PANEL 58 — SYSTEM**

> **KAEL VEYRON**

---

**PANEL 59 — EXTREME CLOSE-UP**

Kael's pupil contracts.

---

**PANEL 60**

His breathing becomes visible.

**SFX:**

**THUMP**

---

**PANEL 61**

His fingers curl.

**SFX:**

**THUMP**

---

**PANEL 62**

He steps forward.

---

**PANEL 63 — LONG SHOT**

Kael walks alone toward the marble stairs.

The enormous Pillar waits above him.

The crowd surrounds him.

But visually, Kael appears completely isolated.

---

**CAPTION:**

*One step.*

---

**PANEL 64**

His foot touches the first marble stair.

**CAPTION:**

*Two.*

---

**PANEL 65**

His hand trembles.

He forces it still.

---

**PANEL 66 — EXTREME WIDE**

Kael reaches the top.

The Divine Pillar towers above him.

---

### SEQUENCE 10 — THE TOUCH

**PANEL 67 — POV**

Kael looks at the crystal.

System energy moves inside it like blood through veins.

---

**PANEL 68 — CLOSE-UP**

His fingertips approach the surface.

One centimeter.

---

**PANEL 69**

Touch.

---

**PANEL 70 — EXTREME CLOSE-UP**

Kael's eyes widen.

The System enters him.

**SFX:**

**MMMMMMMM**

---

**PANEL 71 — ABSTRACT**

System energy races through his body.

His veins appear illuminated.

A lattice of information surrounds his consciousness.

**CAPTION:**

*Sorting.*

*Measuring.*

*Evaluating.*

---

**PANEL 72 — BLACK TRANSITION**

The hum stops.

---

**PANEL 73 — FULL-WIDTH**

The Divine Pillar goes completely black.

Not dark blue.

Not dim.

**BLACK.**

The sunlight around it appears swallowed.

---

**PANEL 74 — EXTREME CLOSE-UP**

Kael's hand remains against the black crystal.

His eyes reflect nothing.

---

**PANEL 75 — WIDE**

The entire plaza freezes.

No one moves.

---

**PANEL 76**

A child in the crowd stares.

His mother instinctively pulls him closer.

---

**PANEL 77**

A priest slowly rises.

---

**PANEL 78**

Seraphina's expression changes for the first time.

Her eyes widen.

---

**PANEL 79 — KAEL**

Nothing.

No System warmth.

No hum.

No response.

---

**PANEL 80 — SILENT PANEL**

Five seconds.

---

**PANEL 81**

Ten.

---

### SEQUENCE 11 — NULL

**PANEL 82 — FULL-PAGE SYSTEM**

A System notification appears.

But unlike the previous notifications—

**there is no color.**

No gold.

No silver.

No blue.

Only black text inside a stark white frame.

> **CANDIDATE: KAEL**
>
> **FAMILY: VEYRON**
>
> **AGE: 17**
>
> **RANK: NULL**
>
> **CLASS: NULL**
>
> **AUTHORITY: RESTRICTED**
>
> **STATUS: SEALED**

---

**PANEL 83 — EXTREME CLOSE-UP**

Kael's face.

He reads it.

Again.

And again.

---

**PANEL 84 — SINGLE WORD**

> **NULL**

---

**PANEL 85 — SILENCE**

No dialogue.

---

**PANEL 86 — CROWD**

A parent takes a step backward.

---

**PANEL 87**

Another pulls their child behind them.

---

**PANEL 88**

Nobles whisper behind gloved hands.

---

**PANEL 89**

Priests lean toward each other.

Their faces are no longer calm.

They are afraid.

---

**PANEL 90 — CLOSE-UP**

Someone in the crowd screams:

**VOICE:**

"DEFECTIVE!"

---

**PANEL 91 — CHAOS**

The word spreads.

**VOICES:**

"Defective!"

"Anomaly!"

"Broken!"

"NULL!"

---

**PANEL 92 — KAEL**

Kael stands completely motionless.

The noise becomes visually distorted around him.

---

**CAPTION:**

*Not Iron.*

*Not Bronze.*

*Not Silver.*

*Nothing.*

---

### SEQUENCE 12 — THE MESSAGE

**PANEL 93 — EXTREME CLOSE-UP**

Kael's hand against the black Pillar.

Something appears beneath his palm.

Ancient symbols.

---

**PANEL 94 — POV**

Ancient writing burns across the black crystal.

No System interface.

No notification.

Something older.

---

**PANEL 95 — CLOSE-UP — KAEL**

His expression changes.

Confusion.

Recognition.

---

**PANEL 96 — BLACK BACKGROUND**

The ancient words appear.

> **RETURN TO THE FORGE, FIRST SOVEREIGN.**

---

**PANEL 97**

Kael stares.

---

**PANEL 98**

The inscription disappears.

---

**PANEL 99 — KAEL**

**KAEL:**

"...What?"

---

### SEQUENCE 13 — CAPTURE

**PANEL 100**

Two priests seize Kael by the arms.

---

**PANEL 101 — CLOSE-UP**

Their faces.

Not disgust.

Not anger.

Fear disguised as professional composure.

---

**PRIEST:**

"Come with us."

---

**PANEL 102**

Kael looks toward the crowd.

---

**PANEL 103 — PELL**

Pell stands frozen.

His Merchant classification forgotten.

His face has gone pale.

---

**PANEL 104 — KAEL**

Kael looks at him.

---

**PANEL 105 — PELL**

Pell looks back.

Neither says anything.

---

**PANEL 106 — WIDE**

The priests drag Kael down the marble stairs.

The black Pillar remains behind him.

Still dead.

Still black.

---

### SEQUENCE 14 — BENEATH THE PALACE

**PANEL 107 — VERTICAL**

Stone stairs descend.

Kael is led deeper beneath the Royal Palace.

The bright plaza disappears above.

---

**PANEL 108**

White marble becomes grey stone.

---

**PANEL 109**

Grey stone becomes ancient masonry.

---

**PANEL 110**

The light disappears.

---

**PANEL 111 — WIDE**

A small stone room.

One bench.

One candle.

One iron door.

No windows.

---

**PANEL 112**

Kael is pushed inside.

---

**PANEL 113**

The iron door closes.

**SFX:**

**CLANG**

---

**PANEL 114 — EXTREME CLOSE-UP**

The lock turns.

**SFX:**

**CLICK**

---

**PANEL 115 — LARGE SILENT PANEL**

Kael sits alone on the bench.

Head lowered.

The candle flickers.

---

### SEQUENCE 15 — NOBODY

**PANEL 116**

Kael closes his eyes.

---

**PANEL 117**

He attempts to summon his System interface.

Nothing.

---

**PANEL 118**

Again.

Nothing.

---

**PANEL 119 — ABSTRACT**

Where there should be a System interface—

there is only black.

---

**CAPTION:**

*No rank.*

*No class.*

*No stats.*

*No skills.*

*No credits.*

*No connection.*

---

**PANEL 120 — KAEL**

His eyes open.

---

**CAPTION:**

*He was invisible to the System.*

---

**PANEL 121 — LARGE PANEL**

Kael sits alone in the candlelit room.

**CAPTION:**

*He was Nobody.*

---

### SEQUENCE 16 — THE GLOBAL NOTICE

**PANEL 122**

The door opens.

A young priest enters.

He is visibly trembling.

---

**PANEL 123**

The priest holds a glowing System tablet.

---

**PRIEST:**

"The System has issued a notice."

---

**PANEL 124**

Kael looks up.

---

**PRIEST:**

"A global notice."

---

**PANEL 125**

The priest turns the tablet around.

---

**PANEL 126 — FULL-PAGE SYSTEM PANEL**

> ⚠ **SYSTEM ALERT** ⚠
>
> **ILLEGAL EXISTENCE DETECTED**
>
> **SUBJECT:** KAEL VEYRON
>
> **CLASSIFICATION:** NULL
>
> **STATUS:** ANOMALY
>
> **EXECUTION AUTHORIZED**
>
> **ALL CITIZENS ARE ORDERED TO REPORT SIGHTINGS**
>
> **REWARD FOR CAPTURE:**
>
> **500,000 SYSTEM CREDITS**
>
> **+ RANK PROMOTION**

---

**PANEL 127 — EXTREME CLOSE-UP**

Kael's eye.

The reflection of the words **EXECUTION AUTHORIZED** burns across his pupil.

---

**PANEL 128**

The priest backs toward the door.

---

**PRIEST:**

"I'm sorry."

---

**PANEL 129**

His hand grips the door.

**PRIEST:**

"I'm so sorry."

---

**PANEL 130**

He looks at Kael.

Terror.

**PRIEST:**

"They are coming."

---

**PANEL 131**

The door closes.

---

**PANEL 132 — BLACK**

Silence.

---

**PANEL 133 — FINAL PANEL**

Above Kael, muffled through layers of stone—

**SFX:**

**BOOM**

Then—

**SCREAMING.**

Then—

**CLANG.**

Then another explosion.

Kael slowly raises his head.

---

**CAPTION:**

*They were already here.*

# END OF CHAPTER 1
Chapter 11 – The Night Felix Saw The Real Jennie

It was finally night.

The city lights were glowing, the streets were busy, and for once…

Jennie wasn’t in the dorm arguing with Felix.

She was with Mina.

⸻

Jennie walked into the lounge and found Mina waiting.

Her long black hair with soft curtain bangs framed her face. She wore a black jacket over a fitted top, baggy cargo pants, and her favorite sneakers. Her silver headphones rested around her neck.

Mina smiled.

“You actually came.”

Jennie sat down.

“Don’t sound so surprised.”

“I am surprised.”

“Rude.”

“Accurate.”

Jennie rolled her eyes.

⸻

The night started normally.

They talked.

They laughed.

They caught up.

Mina ordered two giant colorful mocktails.

Jennie stared at hers.

“Why is it so big?”

Mina shrugged.

“You need something fun.”

“I have fun.”

Mina looked at her.

“You argued with Felix for twenty minutes yesterday about a pillow.”

Jennie paused.

“That pillow was important.”

Mina laughed.

⸻

As the night went on…

Jennie became less and less like the Jennie everyone knew.

The serious DJ.

The queen of roasting.

The girl who always had the perfect comeback.

Gone.

⸻

Mina stared as Jennie laughed at the menu.

“Why are you laughing?”

Jennie pointed.

“Look.”

“It’s a menu.”

“No.”

She held it closer.

“The salad has a personality.”

Mina blinked.

“…What?”

“It looks judgmental.”

Mina covered her face.

“Oh no.”

⸻

Five minutes later…

Jennie was trying to convince Mina that a tiny decoration on the table was “the world’s smallest DJ.”

Mina looked at it.

“It’s a candle.”

Jennie nodded seriously.

“Exactly.”

“How is that a DJ?”

“It has a stand.”

Mina burst out laughing.

⸻

Then suddenly…

Jennie got quiet.

Mina noticed.

The goofy smile disappeared.

“You okay?”

Jennie looked down.

“Yeah.”

But Mina knew her too well.

“Jennie.”

A pause.

“I just…”

Jennie looked at her drink.

“Everyone thinks I’m cold.”

Mina softened.

“Because you pretend you are.”

Jennie didn’t answer.

⸻

Mina sighed.

“Okay.”

She pulled out her phone.

“I’m calling someone.”

Jennie immediately looked up.

“No.”

Mina smiled.

“Yes.”

“No Felix.”

Mina raised an eyebrow.

“You said Felix before I did.”

Jennie froze.

“That doesn’t count.”

“It definitely counts.”

⸻

Mina searched her contacts.

Felix.

Call.

⸻

Back at the dorm…

Felix was sitting on the couch.

His soft black hair was messy, and he wore a black hoodie, gray sweatpants, and white sneakers.

Han was beside him eating snacks.

His soft brown hair was sticking up, and he wore an oversized hoodie with black jeans.

Felix’s phone rang.

He looked down.

“Mina?”

He answered.

“Hey.”

Mina immediately said:

“Felix, emergency.”

Felix sat up.

“What happened?”

“Your roommate has been replaced.”

Felix blinked.

“What?”

“The Jennie I know has disappeared.”

Han leaned closer.

“What is happening?”

Mina continued.

“She laughed at a menu.”

Felix paused.

“…A menu?”

“Yes.”

A pause.

“She also complimented a candle.”

Han covered his mouth.

“That sounds impossible.”

“It happened.”

⸻

Twenty minutes later…

Felix arrived.

He found Jennie sitting with Mina.

The second she saw him…

Her eyes widened.

“Felix!”

He stopped.

“Hi?”

“You came.”

Mina smiled.

“I told you he would.”

Jennie looked at Felix.

“You actually came.”

Felix nodded.

“Of course.”

She stared at him.

“Why?”

Felix looked confused.

“Because you’re my roommate.”

Jennie looked away.

“That is a very boring answer.”

Felix smiled.

“You wanted a different one?”

She immediately shook her head.

“No.”

A pause.

“…Maybe.”

⸻

On the way back…

Jennie was completely different.

She walked slowly beside Felix.

Then suddenly stopped.

“Felix.”

“Yeah?”

“You know your hair is nice?”

Felix froze.

“What?”

“Don’t make it weird.”

“I’m not.”

“You look surprised.”

“Because you never compliment me.”

Jennie nodded.

“True.”

“Then why now?”

She thought.

“Because I’m honest today.”

Felix smiled.

“Interesting.”

⸻

A few steps later…

Jennie looked at the ground.

Her smile faded.

“Do you actually think I’m mean?”

Felix stopped walking.

“What?”

“Everyone thinks I’m cold.”

Her voice became quieter.

“I joke because it’s easier.”

Felix looked at her.

For once…

He didn’t tease her.

“You know…”

“What?”

“I don’t think you’re cold.”

Jennie looked up.

“You don’t?”

“No.”

“Then what do you think?”

Felix smiled slightly.

“I think you’re someone who cares too much and doesn’t want people to know.”

⸻

Jennie went quiet.

Then her eyes watered.

“I hate that you’re right.”

Felix looked surprised.

“Jennie…”

She wiped her face quickly.

“I’m not crying.”

“I didn’t say you were.”

“Good.”

A pause.

“…Because I’m definitely not.”

Felix smiled.

“Right.”

⸻

When they reached the dorm…

Everyone was waiting.

Lisa immediately looked shocked.

“Wait.”

“Is Jennie emotional?”

Rosé smiled softly.

“She’s just having a moment.”

Jisoo nodded.

“Let her.”

Hyunjin dramatically whispered:

“The walls have fallen.”

Han nodded.

“The roast queen has been defeated.”

Jennie looked up.

“I heard that.”

Han immediately stood straight.

“She’s back.”

Everyone laughed.

⸻

Before going into her room, Jennie stopped.

She looked at Felix.

“Thanks.”

Felix smiled.

“Anytime.”

Jennie nodded.

Then quietly added:

“But don’t tell anyone I was nice.”

Felix grinned.

“Your secret is safe.”

And for the first time…

Jennie wasn’t annoyed that Felix saw the real her.

She was glad he did.
Book 2 – Chapter 23: The Worst Timing Ever

The morning after…

Everything was normal.

⸻

Well…

Almost normal.

⸻

Jennie walked into the dorm kitchen wearing her usual black oversized hoodie, cargo pants, and boots.

Her short dark bob was perfectly styled, giving her the same intimidating DJ queen energy.

⸻

Lisa was already there.

Her Oreo-inspired haircut — mostly black with white strands — was tied back slightly. She wore a comfortable hoodie and leggings while making breakfast.

⸻

Lisa looked at Jennie.

“You’re smiling.”

⸻

Jennie immediately stopped.

“No, I’m not.”

⸻

“You were.”

⸻

“I was thinking.”

⸻

“About Felix?”

⸻

Jennie froze.

⸻

“No.”

⸻

Lisa smiled.

“That pause was a whole confession.”

⸻

Jennie grabbed a drink.

“You talk too much.”

⸻

“That’s your way of saying yes.”

⸻

“That’s my way of saying you’re annoying.”

⸻

“Same thing.”

⸻

Jennie rolled her eyes.

⸻

Then…

The door opened.

⸻

Jisoo walked in wearing a soft sweater and jeans. Her long blonde hair with lavender-pink tips was styled beautifully.

Rosé followed behind her wearing a denim jacket and comfortable pants. Her short blonde Apatapate-inspired hair was slightly messy in a cute way.

⸻

Rosé looked between Lisa and Jennie.

“What did we miss?”

⸻

Lisa pointed at Jennie.

“She smiled.”

⸻

Everyone gasped dramatically.

⸻

Jennie stared.

“Are you all done?”

⸻

“No,” Jisoo said immediately.

⸻

Jennie sighed.

⸻

“Traitors.”

⸻

Later – Practice Room

⸻

Everyone gathered for rehearsal.

⸻

Felix arrived.

His blonde hair was slightly styled, and he wore a black hoodie, jeans, and sneakers.

⸻

Jennie looked at him.

Just for a second.

⸻

A tiny smile.

⸻

Han saw it.

Immediately.

⸻

“Oh.”

⸻

Everyone looked.

⸻

Han pointed.

“Something is happening.”

⸻

Jennie turned.

“Finish that sentence and regret it.”

⸻

Han stopped.

⸻

“Never mind.”

⸻

Hyunjin laughed.

His red-tipped hair stood out as he adjusted his jacket.

⸻

“Han finally learned survival instincts.”

⸻

Han looked at him.

“Don’t act like you’re safe.”

⸻

Felix tried not to smile.

⸻

Jennie noticed.

⸻

“What?”

⸻

“Nothing.”

⸻

“Your face is suspicious.”

⸻

“My face?”

⸻

“Yes.”

⸻

“How can my face be suspicious?”

⸻

“You’re Felix.”

⸻

Everyone laughed.

⸻

The Weird Part

⸻

During practice…

The music suddenly stopped.

⸻

Everyone looked at Jennie.

⸻

“What happened?”

⸻

Jennie checked the equipment.

⸻

“The cable is missing.”

⸻

Han raised his hand.

“I might know why.”

⸻

Everyone looked at him.

⸻

“…Why?”

⸻

“I may have borrowed it.”

⸻

Jennie’s eyes narrowed.

⸻

“Why?”

⸻

“I thought it was a charger.”

⸻

Silence.

⸻

Hyunjin covered his face.

⸻

Jisoo blinked.

⸻

Rosé laughed.

⸻

Felix looked at Han.

“How?”

⸻

Han shrugged.

“It looked like one.”

⸻

Jennie slowly walked toward him.

⸻

“Han.”

⸻

“Yes?”

⸻

“Congratulations.”

⸻

“On what?”

⸻

“You are officially the reason instructions exist.”

⸻

Everyone burst out laughing.

⸻

The Even Worse Timing

⸻

After practice…

Jennie and Felix were alone putting equipment away.

⸻

Felix smiled.

“You know…”

⸻

“What?”

⸻

“I like this version of you.”

⸻

Jennie looked at him.

“What version?”

⸻

“The one that doesn’t pretend she doesn’t care.”

⸻

She stared.

⸻

Then immediately recovered.

⸻

“Don’t get emotional.”

⸻

“I’m just saying.”

⸻

“You’re always just saying.”

⸻

He laughed.

⸻

Then suddenly…

The door opened.

⸻

Lisa.

Jisoo.

Rosé.

Han.

Hyunjin.

⸻

All standing there.

⸻

Silence.

⸻

Everyone looked at Jennie and Felix.

⸻

Felix froze.

⸻

Jennie froze.

⸻

Han slowly smiled.

⸻

“Oh.”

⸻

Jennie immediately pointed.

“No.”

⸻

“I didn’t even say anything.”

⸻

“You were about to.”

⸻

Han closed his mouth.

⸻

Lisa looked between them.

⸻

“So…”

⸻

Jennie stared.

⸻

“So what?”

⸻

Lisa smiled.

⸻

“Nothing.”

⸻

A pause.

⸻

“Absolutely nothing.”

⸻

Jennie narrowed her eyes.

⸻

“Everyone leave.”

⸻

They laughed.

⸻

Because everyone knew.

⸻

The savage DJ queen was still savage.

⸻

Still terrifying.

⸻

Still impossible.

⸻

But something was definitely different.

⸻

And the funniest part?

⸻

Jennie was the last person who wanted anyone to notice.write in English
00:00:00 - 00:01:02
Jeang Fong found himself transported to the enchanting realm of Pokemon where he was bestowed with the divine selection system. To his astonishment, the initial trio of Pokémon presented to him comprised the legendary Hoen deities Rayquaza, Grouden, and Kyogre. Please, host, make your choice of your initial Pokémon. Option one, select the green orb to acquire the sky dragon, Rayquaza. Option two, opt for the blue orb to gain the ocean god, Kyogre. Option three, choose the red orb to obtain the earth

00:00:32 - 00:01:37
god Grouden. Faced with this momentous decision, Jeanfong resolutely opted for the sky god, Rayquaza. Thus began the prologue to an exhilarating adventure, one that would see him ascend to the pinnacle of prowess as he gazed upon the myriad legendary Pokémon in his possession and mused how lonely it is to be invincible. This Rayquaza was obtained after clinching the Hoen League Championship whose rookie trainer uses Rayquaza to challenge gyms. Question Chinley. The media incessantly claims that the strongest trainer in Hoen is

00:01:04 - 00:02:10
Jeang Fong. He ought to take this championship, remarked Makoli that I only love digging for stones. If you seek a battle, Jeang Fong is your man, for I can never defeat him, declared Daigo. Jean Fong, let's have another battle. This time, I will not lose. Challenge Dash Jeang Fong. The matter of you bullying me previously has yet to be settled, warned Cynthia. Chapter one. My starter Pokemon are the Hoen deities in the Pokemon world. Hoen League, Old Town, a town that can be described as untouched by any hue. It is also the

00:01:37 - 00:02:32
birthplace of the protagonist from various versions of the Pokémon games, including Ruby, Sapphire, Emerald, and subsequent titles such as Pokémon Dark. Yet for Jean Fong, this was an entirely novel adventure. As a native of Earth and a fervent admirer of the Pokemon series, having immersed himself in its anime, games, and comics, just days prior, he had been diligently striving to complete Pokemon Emerald. Little did he know that upon finally conquering the game, he would unexpectedly find himself

00:02:04 - 00:03:06
transported to the Pokémon world as an orphan in Oldale Town. Well, since he was here, he might as well make the best of it. Gazing into the mirror, he saw his 18-year-old self still in the prime of youth, which filled him with joy. Before his transmigration, he had already been a 30-something adult, burdened by the woes of adulthood and the frailties of life. Now, thanks to this extraordinary turn of events, he was restored to the vigor of 18, brimming with vitality and energy, an opportunity too precious to squander.

00:02:35 - 00:03:32
Moreover, he had entered the realm of his beloved Pokémon. With optimal health and a renewed lifespan, Jeanfong found himself utterly content. However, now that he had crossed over, Jeanfong was eager to encounter the Pokemon he cherished to embark on a journey as a Pokemon trainer to challenge gyms and to ascend to the title of the strongest trainer just like Ash. Yet, there was one pressing issue. Jeang phone lacked a starter Pokémon. Though, Professor Burch also resided in Old Town tasked with

00:03:04 - 00:04:00
distributing the initial trio of Hoen starters, Trio, Torchic, and Mudkip. Jeangfong being an orphan without financial means had not embarked on a journey by the age of 18. He had remained in the town helping its residents in exchange for necessities or a bit of pocket change for survival. Had it not been for the kindness of Oldale's inhabitants who had looked after him, he would not have survived to this age. Furthermore, the other trainers had already claimed their initial Pokémon. And even if Jeang Fong yearned to

00:03:32 - 00:04:30
travel, it was likely that Professor Burge had no more starters left to offer. Ah, what a predicament. Jeang Fong sighed, casting a glance at his modest dwelling. This situation could only be described as destitute. Without a starter Pokémon and devoid of funds, he found himself unable to leave Oldale Town for other loc. The reason was simple. Without a Pokémon companion, encountering wild Pokémon in the wilderness would spell disaster for a mere human. That a moment's carelessness could lead to his demise at the hands of

00:04:01 - 00:04:56
a wild creature. Did he truly believe that he could best wild Pokémon solely with his physical prowess? as if he were the strongest rookie from Pallet Town. In such circumstances, Jeanfong feared he might not survive the attempt to leave Oldale Town. Thus, how could he even entertain the notion of becoming the world's strongest trainer? Alas, it seemed his travel plans were destined to be cut short. Just as these thoughts plague him, a melodious voice suddenly resonated in his mind, detecting

00:04:28 - 00:05:25
transmigrator Jeang foam binding system. Ding! Congratulations, host. You have acquired the divine selection system. It has been noted that you are concerned about your initial Pokémon and travel funds, hence a beginner's gift pack is hereby issued. Would you like to open the beginner's gift pack immediately? Upon hearing the voice, Jeang Phone was momentarily takenback, followed by an overwhelming surge of joy, his face lighting up with excitement, a system, a trans migrator. This seemed to be the

00:04:56 - 00:05:56
hallmark of a protagonist. Truly, one receives what one lacks. And thus, Jeang phone promptly addressed the system. Divine selection system. Please open the beginner's gift pack at once. Ding. Host has opened the beginner's gift pack. The divine selection system is now officially bound to you. Jeang foam. Unique and unchangeable. Ding. The beginner's gift pack contains the following three options. Option one. Select the green orb to acquire the sky dragon rayquaza and receive 1 million

00:05:26 - 00:06:30
poke dollars for travel expenses one master ball and five luxury balls. Option two, choose the blue orb to gain the ocean god Kyogre along with 800,000 poke dollars for travel, one master ball, and five ultra balls. Option three, opt for the red orb to obtain the earth god grouden with 700,000 poke dollars for travel, one master ball, and five regular poke balls. At this moment, as Jeang Fong beheld the gleaming options before him, he stood frozen in astonishment. Whose benevolence granted such legendary Pokémon as starters?

00:05:59 - 00:06:54
Typically, trainers in the Hoen region would receive their initial Pokemon from Professor Burch, which would be Trio, Torchic, or Mudkip, each evolving into formidable and popular final forms. To acquire such illustrious starters would ordinarily require one to be a direct member of the Pokémon League or a trainer favored by the professors. Of course, if one hailed from a prestigious family, there would be no need for concern over initial Pokémon, perhaps even acquiring something superior to the

00:06:26 - 00:07:26
typical starters. Take for instance the former Hoen champion Zineodigo whose initial Pokémon was a dazzling semi-define shiny Beldum. Yet for someone like Jeang Fong, an orphan, the norm would be to lead a life akin to that of a bug catching boy leading a mundane existence as a backdrop to the true champions. Originally, Jean Fong had intended to capture a caterer pie or something similar, leveraging the rapid evolution of bugtype Pokémon as a transitional phase toward becoming a Pokémon master. However, with the

00:06:56 - 00:07:52
arrival of the divine selection system, Jeangfang's fate had undergone a remarkable transformation. At the very least, he would no longer need to gamble his life to acquire his first ordinary Pokémon. From this point forward, as a possessor of legendary Pokémon, Jeanfong would undoubtedly rise to join the ranks of the elite, even if he currently possessed only a single legendary creature. After exhaling a deep breath to dispel his anxiety, Jeang began to contemplate the implications. The Hoen

00:07:24 - 00:08:27
deities held immense fame among Pokemon enthusiasts. Grouden, also known as the god of the earth, is often referred to as the one who cannot fly. It possesses the formidable ability to ren the land of sunder and recreate continents, embodying the essence of both fire and ground type legendary Pokémon. Kyogre, the antithesis of Grouden, is colloquially known as the flying great whale, the watertype deity. It engages in perpetual life and death battles with Groudon, reigning as the god of the ocean. Rayquaza, a legendary Pokémon of

00:07:56 - 00:08:58
both dragon and flying types, is revered as the god of the sky, wielding immense authority. Each time Grouden and Kyogre clash, it is Rayquaza who descends to quell their strife. In its natural habitat, Rayquaza resides within the ozone layer, and should cosmic entities threaten, it emerges to defend the Earth. Its remarkable prowess allows it to confront both opponents simultaneously, effortlessly restoring peace between the two. In terms of base stats, both Grouden and Kyogre possess slightly lower values than Rayquaza,

00:08:26 - 00:09:24
totaling 670 points, while Rayquaza boasts a total of 680 points. Moreover, we must consider certain portrayals in the anime, particularly that of the shiny Mega Rayquaza, which showcase the extraordinary strength to single-handedly combat six legendary Pokémon. Thus, when Jean Foam encountered this choice, he had already formed a resolution in his heart that of course the level of poke balls and the amount of poke dollars, the exclusive currency of the Pokémon world seemed trivial in the presence of legendary
00:08:55 - 00:09:55
beings. Regardless, these funds would suffice for Jeang Fong to lead a comfortable life for quite some time. Well then, system I choose. Chapter 2. Choosing Rayquaza, the system space system, I choose the green orb. Rayquaza selection confirmed. Once Jean Foong had made up his mind, his choice was unequivocally established. That choice was none other than the sky god Rayquaza. With the formidable power of the sky god as Jeangfangs initial Pokémon, his journey as a trainer would undoubtedly transform into an invincible

00:09:25 - 00:10:23
path. This was truly a legendary creature, one that even champions and elite trainers would find insurmountable. Moreover, in terms of resources and pokeballs, this choice surpassed that of Grouden and Kyogre, as 1 million Pokémon coins would suffice for Jeang Foam to procure ample training supplies. In this world of Pokémon, an affiliated trainer of the Alliance is one who can obtain initial Pokémon from various professors and acquire a Pokédex. During their travels, they are entitled to complimentary food, lodging,

00:09:55 - 00:10:50
and the medical treatment of their Pokémon at Pokémon centers across the regions. However, without a Pokedex or a starter Pokemon from the regional trio, one falls into the category of non-affiliated or wild trainers who must bear their own expenses. Lodging meals and medical care at a Pokémon center would typically cost around 1,000 Pokémon coins per night, while a standard Pokeball is priced at 200 coins. Though these prices are not exorbitant, the daily expenses of staying at a Pokémon center for healing

00:10:22 - 00:11:19
after battles can accumulate significantly. Thus, it becomes evident how challenging it is for an ordinary individual to alter their destiny. Only those hailing from affluent families can afford to wholeheartedly embark on the path of a trainer for their descendants. Upon Jangfangs selection of Rayquaza, he once again heard the systems notification chime. Ding. Congratulations, host. You have chosen the green orb, obtained the legendary Pokémon Rayquaza, and received a reward of 1 million Pokémon coins as travel

00:10:50 - 00:11:51
funds, one master ball, and five luxury balls. Ding. The system space has been activated. The host can store all items, resources, including Pokémon, within the system space. This system space can simulate the most suitable living environment for the host's Pokémon, allowing for superior growth and even enabling simulated battles within the system space. Rayquaza is already within the system space. The host can access it at any time. Ding. The host's current attribute panel is as follows. Host

00:11:20 - 00:12:20
Jeanfong age 18. Funds 1 million Pokemon coins. Pokemon Rayquaza attributes can be viewed. Items five luxury balls attached system space. Upon hearing these announcements from the system, Jangfong could not help but feel overwhelming joy. The divine selection system actually came with a system space, which meant that all the legendary Pokémon he would capture in the future could remain by his side, and summoning them would merely be a thought away. Even Rayquaza would not need to remain confined within a Pokeball. With

00:11:51 - 00:12:52
Rayquaza's protection, Jeang Fong would be virtually invincible in this Pokemon world, ensuring the safety of his life and possessions. He would face any nefarious organizations, be it Team Rocket, Team Aqua, or Team Magma, without a trace of fear. A single luxury ball in the Pokémon League store cost a staggering 20,000 Pokémon coins, 100 times the price of a standard Pokeball. Now, having received five for free, he could indeed begin to assemble his first team. Although luxury balls are expensive, their advantages are immense.

00:12:21 - 00:13:15
They significantly enhance the bond between trainer and Pokémon and provide a considerably better living condition for Pokémon within their confines. However, with the existence of the system space, it seems that their only advantage remains the increase in intimacy. After all, how could a Pokeball space compare to the entirety of the system space? Perhaps Ash's Pacu's reluctance to return to its Pokeball stems from the mundane environment of a standard Pokeball. At this moment, holding the master ball

00:12:48 - 00:14:01
designated for Rayquaza, Jean Fong opened Rayquaza's attribute panel. Ding. Rayquaza's current attributes are as follows. Pokemon Rayquaza, divine role, sky god. Level 100. Ability: Airlock. Type: Dragon flying. Qualification. Color. Qualifications range from white, green, blue, purple, gold, red to color in ascending order. Bond evolution unlocked. Mega evolution. Mega Rayquaza skills. Dragon Ascent, Dragon Pulse, Dragon Breath, Outrage, Intimacy, 255. Experience: Guardian of the World's

00:13:24 - 00:14:23
Skies, now devoted solely to protecting its trainer under the guidance of mysterious powers. Hobby enjoys battle. At this moment, gazing at Rayquaza's extraordinarily lavish attributes, Jeang found himself entranced. Upon seeing Rayquaza's divine role, his heart swelled with joy. It is well known that in the Pokemon world, the disparity in strength between divine beasts with roles and those without is vast. For instance, take Articunino, a secondary divine Pokémon. Possessing a divine role

00:13:54 - 00:14:49
allows it to contend with even Lugia at certain moments. The three divine birds with divine roles can easily overpower Lugia, whereas the weaker Articuno could be defeated by Ash's Charizard. This is the reality of that gap. A divine Pokemon with a divine role will only face defeat against another divine Pokemon of superior strength. However, more often than not, the outcome is a stalemate, akin to the rivalry between Kyogre and Grouden. Jeangfangs Rayquaza had already reached the pinnacle level

00:14:21 - 00:15:24
of 100, requiring no further training as it was already a fully realized entity. The qualification was also of the highest caliber being color. In this world, Pokemon qualifications are categorized into seven tiers: white, green, blue, purple, gold, red, and color. As the sky god, Rayquaza exists at the zenith of qualification, and the potential of divine Pokémon is undoubtedly formidable. Continuing to scrutinize further, the intimacy was a perfect 255, ensuring that Rayquaza would heed its trainer's commands

00:14:53 - 00:15:53
without hesitation. Furthermore, Rayquaza possessed the capability for mega evolution, transforming into the formidable mega Rayquaza. However, the bond evolution remained in an unlocked state, which puzzled Jong Fo. Wasn't this form of evolution exclusive to Ash and his Greninja? Could it be that Rayquaza also has its own bond evolution form? With a sense of confusion and curiosity, Jeang inquired of the system system. What does it mean that bond evolution is unlocked? Following Jeangfangs inquiry, the system

00:15:22 - 00:16:20
responded, returning to the host. Any Pokemon belonging to the host can achieve bond evolution through maximum intimacy, provided there is a mutual understanding between trainer and Pokémon, facilitated by the system to become stronger. However, as the intimacy between the host and Rayquaza has not yet reached its maximum, once the host and Rayquaza achieve mutual understanding, it will naturally be unlocked. Additionally, all Pokémon possess a state of Mega Evolution, but current human research on Pokémon is not

00:15:51 - 00:16:49
exhaustive, resulting in only a few discovered Mega Evolution forms. As long as the host acquires their Mega Evolution stones, they too can undergo mega evolution. Upon hearing the systems clarification, Jeang Fong understood, "All Pokémon possess a mega evolution state, but bond evolution can only be attained through the power of the system. As for which evolutionary method is superior, that is a matter of personal perspective. This indicates that regardless of what Pokemon Jongfong captures in the future, he will have the

00:16:20 - 00:17:15
potential to unlock their powers as long as one acquires their mega evolution stone or achieves maximum friendship, the two evolution methods, mega evolution and bond evolution, can be unlocked. Regarding his fondness for battle, Jean Foong expressed that in the future, during worthy confrontations, he would certainly summon his Rayquaza to fight. With this understanding, Jehong commanded, "System, I wish to enter the system space." At that moment, Rayquaza resided within Zongfangs system space.

00:16:48 - 00:17:47
Since the system indicated that his bond with Rayquaza was not yet at maximum, it was imperative to cultivate their synergy. Similarly, Jean Fong was eager to witness the true form of Rayquaza. Previously, he had merely been an observer watching anime and playing games. Nothing could compare to the exhilaration of witnessing it firsthand. In the next instant, as the system responded, Jeang Fong felt a flash before his eyes. Subsequently, he found himself within the system space. Upon opening his eyes, he beheld a vast

00:17:17 - 00:18:19
expanse filled with prairies, oceans, lakes, mountains, volcanoes, and forests, an unbounded realm that felt entirely new. However, this new world appeared remarkably desolate. Just as Jeang Fo marveled at the system space, a resounding roar echoed through time and space. Turning towards the source of the sound, he was met with the sight of a massive green and gold three-clawed dragon soaring through the sky. P S. The qualifications range from low to high as follows: white, green, blue, purple,
Chapter 37 – The Countdown to Graduation

The announcement appeared on every hallway screen.

“Graduation Ceremony: Two Weeks Away.”

⸻

The entire school changed overnight.

Suddenly…

Everyone was talking about memories.

Photos.

Last performances.

Future plans.

⸻

Jennie stood in the hallway staring at the announcement.

Her blonde hair was styled in loose waves, and she wore a black oversized jacket, a white top, baggy jeans, and her favorite boots.

For once…

She wasn’t making a joke.

⸻

Felix noticed.

His black hair was slightly messy, and he wore his varsity jacket, black shirt, athletic pants, and sneakers.

“You okay?”

Jennie looked at him.

“Yeah.”

A pause.

“Just weird.”

“What?”

“Everything.”

⸻

Felix looked at the graduation poster.

“I know.”

“It feels like yesterday we couldn’t stand each other.”

Jennie smirked.

“You couldn’t stand me.”

Felix laughed.

“You roasted me every five seconds.”

“You deserved it.”

⸻

Han suddenly appeared.

His messy brown hair was covered by a graduation cap he wasn’t supposed to be wearing yet.

“I heard emotional conversations.”

Everyone groaned.

⸻

Lisa walked over laughing.

Her ash-blonde hair with bangs was tied back, and she wore a casual black jacket with cargo pants.

“Why are you wearing that?”

Han looked proud.

“I’m preparing.”

“For what?”

“My future as the best graduate.”

“We haven’t graduated yet.”

“Details.”

⸻

Rosé smiled.

Her lavender hair fell over her shoulders, and she wore a soft sweater and jeans.

“He’s been practicing his graduation speech.”

Jisoo looked concerned.

Her red hair was tied neatly, and she wore a cream sweater with black pants.

“How long is it?”

Han looked away.

“…Forty minutes.”

Everyone:

“No.”

⸻

Hyunjin arrived dramatically.

His blond hair was perfectly styled, and he wore a black sweater with layered necklaces.

“Graduation is the end of one era…”

Everyone stared.

“And the beginning of another.”

Han nodded.

“Exactly.”

Jennie whispered to Felix:

“They are both dramatic.”

Felix whispered back:

“Extremely.”

⸻

Later that day…

The group practiced for the ceremony.

⸻

Jennie was helping organize the music.

Felix was helping with the sports awards.

Han was somehow distracting everyone.

⸻

“Han.”

“What?”

“Why are you spinning in the graduation chair?”

“Testing durability.”

“Why?”

“In case I become too successful.”

⸻

Jennie shook her head.

“You are impossible.”

Han smiled.

“Thank you.”

⸻

After practice…

Jennie and Felix stayed behind.

The empty auditorium was quiet.

Rows of chairs filled the room.

The stage lights were on.

⸻

Felix looked around.

“Can’t believe we’re almost done.”

Jennie nodded.

“Yeah.”

⸻

He smiled.

“You know…”

“What?”

“If we met on the first day again…”

“I would still roast you.”

“I know.”

“And you would still annoy me.”

“I know.”

⸻

A small smile appeared on Jennie’s face.

“But…”

Felix looked at her.

“But?”

She looked away.

“…I’m glad we met.”

⸻

Felix smiled.

“Me too.”

⸻

A moment passed.

Then…

Jennie pointed at his outfit.

“Your graduation suit better not look weird.”

Felix blinked.

“That was the moment you chose to roast me?”

“Of course.”

He laughed.

“Never change.”

⸻

The auditorium lights turned off.

They walked out together.

Graduation was coming.

A new chapter was beginning.

But one thing was guaranteed…

Even with diplomas…

New futures…

And everything changing…

Jennie and Felix would still find a way to annoy each other.