A Moment of Calm

The next day…

The room was still, the low hum of medical equipment the only sound as Seung stirred awake. His body ached, particularly his wrist, which was now tightly wrapped in white bandages. His eyes flickered open, and the familiar, sterile scent of the ward filled his senses. At least the pain had dulled, replaced by a steady throb that was manageable.

His mind went back to the trial. He'd succeeded. But it had been close—too close.

"Looks like I'm still alive," Seung muttered, flexing his fingers gingerly. His wrist twinged, and he winced.

The door to the ward slid open with a soft click, and Seung turned his head. Eunji stepped inside, her usual calm expression in place. She was carrying a small basket of fruits, which seemed oddly out of place for her.

"Expecting me to eat all that?" Seung quipped, raising an eyebrow.