Chapter 43: The Past Of Jack and Juan (3)

Shin Baek surveyed the aftermath of the battle. Yagi lay unconscious, the remnants of the Tribals scattered around him. A wide grin stretched across his face as he looked at Jack and Juan.

"Excellent work, both of you," he boomed, his voice filled with pride. "You fought with impressive coordination. You each have your strengths, and together, you can achieve great things."

Juan, however, remained tense. He eyed Jack with a simmering hostility that did not escape Shin Baek's notice.

"I am the one who deserves to be the leader," Juan declared, his voice taut with ambition. "My strength is undeniable."

Shin Baek chuckled softly. "Patience, Juan. There will be time. One of you will become the new leader, but for now, focus on maintaining order in Gangseo."

Over the next few days, Jack and Juan, despite their underlying tension, worked together to subdue several smaller gangs plaguing Gangseo. They discovered a grudging respect for each other's skills, even developing a few basic communication channels.

The day of the leadership announcement arrived. Anticipation crackled in the air as everyone gathered at the Final Council headquarters.

Shin Baek stood tall, his face etched with a solemn expression. "The time has come to choose a new leader," he announced. "After careful consideration, I have chosen..."

As Shin Baek paused for dramatic effect, a hush fell over the room. Everyone held their breath, their eyes glued to the elder.

"Jack Seo!" Shin Baek declared, his voice ringing out.

A stunned silence followed. Jack, overwhelmed by surprise, looked at Juan, whose face contorted with rage. Cheers erupted amongst the Final Council members, congratulating Jack. Juan, however, stormed out of the room, his anger palpable.

A few days later, Shin Baek donned his graduation gown, a bittersweet smile gracing his lips. He had finally achieved his academic goals, but leaving the Final Council filled him with a sense of nostalgia.

He gathered everyone together for a farewell speech. "It's been an honor leading you all," he declared, his voice gruff with emotion. "Remember, the Final Council stands for order and justice. Never stray from that path."

He then turned to Jack, placing a hand on his shoulder. "Lead with wisdom and strength, Jack," he advised, a hint of concern flickering in his eyes.

With one final wave, Shin Baek turned and walked away, leaving Jack to face the challenges ahead.

As night shrouded the city, a sinister plot unfolded. Juan, consumed by a sense of betrayal and fueled by bitter ambition, returned to the Final Council headquarters. With a ruthless efficiency, he launched a surprise attack. The unprepared Final Council members, caught off guard, were quickly overwhelmed.Juan, his eyes burning with rage, fought with the ferocity of a cornered animal. The Final Council members, caught off guard, were quickly overwhelmed. One by one, they fell before Juan's onslaught.

Just as Juan stood amidst the fallen members, a lone figure emerged from the shadows. It was Jack, his face grim with determination.

"Juan," Jack said, his voice calm despite the rising tension. "What are you doing?"

Juan smirked, his eyes gleaming with a dangerous glint. "Finally, you came, Jack," he snarled. "Now, I'll show you what true power is!"

Chapter 43: End