...

After a week of rigorous training and rest, the siblings returned to the academic halls of the academy. Though it appeared different, the hallways and classroom locations were similar to those in Ondur. The atmosphere was vibrant, buzzing with the excitement of acquiring new knowledge and facing upcoming challenges. The corridors of the academy formed a maze brimming with knowledge that seemed to have transformed during their absence.

"I think it's this way," Si-Woo said with newfound confidence, turning a corner. He had spent hours memorizing the layout of the place Minho gave them, eager to impress Ha-Yoon with his sense of direction. However, as he took that confident step, she reached out and tugged him firmly in the opposite direction.

"It's actually over here," she said, her voice tinged with disappointment. "We're not going to the library."

Ha-Yoon leads them to their homeroom classroom, where they find themselves greeted by a mix of curious and envious stares from their classmates. The whispers grew louder as they approached, their names echoing through the hallways like a soft chant. It was clear that their recent exploits had made them the talk of the academy.

Mai looked up from her desk as they entered, a gentle smile playing on her lips as she caught sight of them. She had her hair tied back in a ponytail, and she looked as if she had been waiting for them.

"How does it feel to be in the same class as your brother, Ha-Yoon?" she asked, her eyes sparkling with curiosity.

Ha-Yoon couldn't help but chuckle as she took her seat beside her. "It's...different," she admitted, still getting used to the idea. "But in a good way, I guess." She looked over at Si-Woo, who was busy examining their new classroom with wide eyes.

Just as Mai was about to ask Si-Woo about his experience with Minho's training, the door swung open, and in walked their homeroom teacher. The room fell silent, all eyes on the imposing figure that was Minho.

"I hope you are all doing well," he boomed, his voice echoing off the walls, "and are well-adjusted to the new land of Yohen." His eyes scanned the room, and for a brief moment, they lingered on the siblings, the corners of his mouth twitching into what might have been a smile. "Your dedication to your studies and training will be crucial in the coming days," he continued, his tone serious once again. "Yohen is counting on you all to become the guardians it needs."

As the students settled into their seats, a buzz of anticipation filled the classroom. The warm sunlight streamed through the large windows, illuminating the faces of eager learners. Minho stood at the front, his presence commanding and reassuring.

“Good morning, class!” he boomed, his voice echoing off the walls. “I hope you’re all ready for another exciting day of learning.” He paused, scanning the room with a knowing smile. “Today, we have important news regarding the upcoming mid-term placement test.”

Whispers rippled through the students, their curiosity piqued. Ha-Yoon leaned forward in her seat, her eyes bright with interest. Si-Woo, sitting beside her, felt a mix of excitement and apprehension as he prepared for the potential challenges ahead.

Minho continued, “As many of you know, the mid-term placement test is a crucial assessment that determines whether you can advance in your studies here at the academy. However,” he added, raising a hand to quell the murmurs, “for those who took the pre-mid-term placement test and scored a ninety percent or higher, you won’t need to take this mid-term test unless you want to try and move up a level.”

A collective sigh of relief and excitement echoed in the room. Ha-Yoon’s face lit up. “That means I don’t have to take it!” she whispered to Si-Woo, her voice bubbling with joy. “I can focus on training and helping you with your studies!”

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Si-Woo offered her a small smile, masking the swirl of emotions inside him. “Yeah, you did great on the pre-test. I’m happy for you.” His thoughts drifted to his own decision not to take the test again, the weight of expectations resting heavily on his shoulders.

Minho continued, “I encourage each of you to reflect on your journey thus far. Whether you are moving up, staying at your level, or facing a setback, remember that every challenge is an opportunity for growth. Those of you advancing will have new responsibilities and knowledge to acquire.”

Ha-Yoon’s hand shot up, eager to ask a question. “I know for the people who scored low on the pre-mid term test it didn't count but what if someone doesn’t pass this test? Can they try again?”

Minho’s expression turned serious. “No,” he replied firmly. “If you score low, you will be moved down one level or even two levels, depending on your performance. It’s crucial that you prepare adequately and take this test seriously.”

A murmur of apprehension swept through the class. Si-Woo could feel the weight of the words pressing down on him. Ha-Yoon’s enthusiasm dimmed slightly as she processed the implications.

Minho continued, “However, remember that there are always ways to improve. The academy is here to support you. Use this time wisely. Review your notes, practice your techniques, and most importantly, support one another.”

As Minho wrapped up the lesson, Si-Woo exchanged a glance with Ha-Yoon. Despite the challenges ahead, they felt a renewed sense of hope and determination. With their bonds, training, and unwavering support for each other, they were ready to face whatever came next.

As Minho continued his lecture, he announced, "In addition to the midterm placement test, I want to remind everyone about the upcoming parent-student-teacher conference. It’s mandatory for every student and their parent or guardian to attend."

Ha-Yoon's expression brightened momentarily before falling into a thoughtful frown. Si-Woo felt a familiar wave of sadness wash over him at the mention of the conference. The thought of facing an event designed for families was daunting for both of them, and he clenched his fists, trying to suppress the emotions bubbling to the surface.

Si-Woo was silent, pondering what would happen when they had to attend without their parents. He glanced at Ha-Yoon, who seemed to be lost in her thoughts as well, but she didn’t voice any concerns.

Minho noticed their somber expressions and spoke with understanding. "If a student cannot bring a parent, a guardian or another trusted adult may accompany you. The purpose of this conference is to provide insight into your progress and discuss any challenges you may be facing."

As the bell rang, signaling the end of class, Si-Woo and Ha-Yoon lingered behind, discussing their feelings.

"I really wish they were here for us,” Si-Woo said quietly, his heart heavy.

Ha-Yoon placed a comforting hand on his shoulder. "I know it’s hard, but we’ve got each other. And look how far we’ve come!"

With a nod, Si-Woo felt a bit of the weight lift off his shoulders. "Yeah, you’re right. We just need to focus on our training and keep improving."

The full moon hung high in the night sky, casting a pale glow over the academy grounds. Si-Woo and Ha-Yoon walked together in silence, their usual banter absent. As they approached the academy, Si-Woo came to a halt just outside the entrance. His gaze drifted upward, locking onto the bright moon, its serene light contrasting with the turmoil inside him.

He stood there, his face expressionless, but his heart heavy. He wasn’t preparing for another battle with Sol or the physical challenges of the academy—he was bracing himself for something more painful: the sight of all the children with their parents.

The parent-student conference loomed ahead, and the thought of seeing happy families together, while he and Ha-Yoon walked in alone, weighed on him. The memories of their parents, lost in the earthquake that had shattered their lives, surfaced with every glimpse of other children’s smiles. He clenched his fists, pushing back the rising tide of sadness that threatened to overwhelm him.

Beside him, Ha-Yoon noticed the shift in his energy. She gently tugged on his sleeve. “Si-Woo...are you okay?” she asked, her voice soft and concerned.

He forced a small smile, though it didn’t quite reach his eyes. “Yeah, just...thinking,” he replied quietly, turning his gaze away from the moon.

She looked at him, her usual outgoing nature subdued for a moment. “We’ll get through it. We always do.” Her voice was firm, though she too felt the ache of their missing parents.

They exchanged a knowing glance, a silent agreement to keep moving forward. Together, they walked into the academy, the sight of children happily greeting their parents sending small pangs through Si-Woo’s heart. He squared his shoulders, putting on a brave face for Ha-Yoon’s sake.