~~chapter 9~~

*Somewhere in Korea*

In a dimly lit room adorned with shadows, a grim tension hung in the air. The man in the black suit reclined on an opulent sofa, swirling a glass of deep red wine in his hand. He appeared calm, but there was a furious intensity in his eyes as he considered his plans.

**"How much longer will we wait to strike?"** the dark-haired man sitting opposite him asked, his tone laced with impatience. The flickering candlelight cast elongated shadows, dancing ominously on the walls.

The man in the black suit took a slow sip of wine, savoring the moment. **"Let her enjoy her little moment for now,"** he replied coolly, setting the glass down on the table with a clink. **"When the time comes, she will pay for what she has done to me."**

The intention behind his words simmered like a cauldron ready to boil over, reflecting the deep-seated animosity he held for Y/N. Memories of betrayal flashed in his mind, haunted by the choices made long ago. He had been cast aside, a pawn in a game much larger than he had anticipated.

**"Do you really think she won't see it coming?"** the other man questioned, leaning forward, eyebrows furrowing with skepticism. **"She has gained considerable power and support."**

The man in the black suit smirked, a glint of malice in his eyes. **"She may think she has strength and allies, but every force has its weaknesses. And I know hers better than anyone."**

......................

The night settled in, blanketing the world outside in a soothing darkness that contrasted with the inner turmoil plaguing Y/N and her friends. As they arrived back at the mansion, the lingering weight of Tailupa's warning hovered in the air.

Anya, nestled comfortably in Jennie's arms, slept soundly, blissfully unaware of the tension bubbling beneath the surface of their gathering. Jennie smiled down at the little girl, her expression a mix of affection and protectiveness.

**"Okay, everyone take some rest. Tomorrow is going to be a long day,"** Y/N said, her voice gentle yet resolute as they all headed toward their rooms.

As Y/N walked through the dimly lit corridors, her mind raced with thoughts of their time spent with Tailupa. She had always known her grandmother possessed a unique intuition, but the warning of impending unease gnawed at her. What could be on the horizon that they weren't prepared for?

In the privacy of her room, she sank into a chair, staring at the vibrant decorations still adorning her space. The holiday spirit filled the walls, but a shadow loomed in the corners of her mind.

She took a deep breath, trying to calm the whirlpool of anxieties. There was much they had overcome together, and yet, each challenge felt like a prelude to something heavier. Her purpose was clear: To protect Anya, her friends, and everything they cherished.

Just then, a light knock at the door broke her train of thought. It was Lisa, her expression serious.

**"Can I come in?"** she asked gently.

**"Of course,"** Y/N replied, gesturing for her to enter.

Lisa sat across from Y/N, her brow furrowed. **"Did you feel uneasy when Grandma was speaking? Something feels off."**

Y/N nodded, releasing a sigh. **"I can't shake the feeling that something is coming. Grandmother's intuition has always been strong."**

**"We should discuss this with the others. We can't ignore Tailupa's warning,"** Lisa suggested, her determination palpable.

Y/N agreed. **"You're right. Tomorrow, we’ll gather everyone and evaluate our next steps. We need to be prepared for whatever may come."**

As they shared their thoughts, an underlying current of resilience sparked between them. Their friendship and bond fortified them against external threats. Together, they were a formidable force.

**"For now, let’s focus on resting,"** Y/N said, her voice gentle but firm. **"We need our strength."**

Lisa nodded and stood, her resolve unwavering. **"Alright, see you in the morning."**

After Lisa left, Y/N took a moment to gather her thoughts and then turned off the lights, letting the day’s events settle into a calm stillness. She climbed into bed, thoughts of Anya’s joyful laughter mixing with the heaviness of their responsibilities.

As sleep beckoned, Y/N vowed that whatever challenges lay ahead, they would face them together, united by love and loyalty. The warmth of Anya’s presence lingered in her heart, a reminder of everything worth fighting for.

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