Chapter 21: New York

The van screeched to a halt outside the towering convention center. Exhausted but determined, Wang Soo and his team rushed toward the entrance, their breaths fogging in the brisk New York evening air.

"Everyone stay sharp," Wang Soo instructed, his voice steady despite the chaos. "We're running on borrowed time. Stick to the plan."

Ji Yeon shot him a glance. "After everything we've been through? I'm surprised we're still standing."

Will clutched his laptop, his knuckles white. "My hands are still shaking from what happened back in Creatis."

Celin touched his arm. "Breathe, Will. We've made it this far. We'll see this through."

The group navigated the bustling crowds inside, their path a blur of corporate elites, investors, and media personnel. Backstage, the weight of the moment pressed on them. Wang Soo adjusted his tie as he glanced at the clock.

"This is what we've worked for," he reminded them in a hushed tone. "No matter what happens out there, remember: this is bigger than us."

Lee stepped closer, her hand brushing his arm. "We've got this. You've got this."

The Presentation

When Wang Soo stepped onto the stage, the applause was deafening. His gaze swept over the sea of faces as the lights dimmed. Behind him, the massive screen flickered to life, displaying the sleek interface of One Eye.

"Good evening, everyone," Wang Soo began, his voice clear and commanding. "Today, we unveil a project that represents not just innovation but a challenge to the status quo. I present to you One Eye."

The screen transitioned to a live demonstration of the app.

"With One Eye, citizens can monitor government activities in real time—city budgets, parliamentary votes, public project spending—every detail laid bare. It's a tool to empower accountability and transparency."

The audience murmured in awe as the app revealed live data from Creatis, exposing questionable allocations and inconsistencies.

"But that's not all," Wang Soo continued, his tone sharpening. "One Eye is built on a database of information gathered over years, exposing systemic corruption at every level. This isn't just an app. It's a revolution—a way to hold power accountable."

He paused, letting his words sink in. "Transparency is not a privilege; it's a right. The people deserve to know."

The applause was thunderous, investors and attendees rising to their feet. Cameras flashed, capturing the pivotal moment. Wang Soo took a steadying breath as the enormity of the achievement washed over him.

As the team regrouped backstage, a man in a crisp suit approached them. His presence was imposing, his gaze sharp and assessing.

"Wang Soo," the man said, extending a hand. "I'm Prosecutor Mike."

Wang Soo shook his hand cautiously. "Prosecutor? From Creatis?"

Mike nodded. "I've been following your work closely. When I saw Albeirt's movements and your launch announcement, I knew I had to act. I took the first flight here to meet you."

Ji Yeon crossed her arms. "Why come now? Where were you when everything was falling apart back home?"

Mike's expression darkened. "My hands are tied in Creatis. The corruption runs deeper than you can imagine. I've had to tread carefully to stay in the fight. But what you've done here—it's remarkable. Dangerous, but remarkable."

"What do you want?" Wang Soo asked, his tone measured.

"To offer what support I can," Mike said. "But understand this: you've made powerful enemies. They'll stop at nothing to destroy you. Be vigilant when you return to Creatis. The system you've challenged isn't just corrupt—it's vindictive."

That evening, the team gathered in their hotel suite. The adrenaline of the day had worn off, leaving exhaustion and quiet contemplation in its wake.

Ji Yeon broke the silence. "We did it. I can't believe we actually pulled this off."

Will nodded, staring at his laptop. "This isn't just an app anymore. It's a symbol. But symbols are targets too."

Celin sat beside him, her voice soft but resolute. "We've opened Pandora's box. There's no turning back."

Lee turned to Wang Soo. "What about you? What do you see next?"

Wang Soo looked out the window at the glittering skyline. "For the first time in years, I feel like I'm not fighting alone. This isn't just my fight anymore. It's ours. Together, we'll face whatever comes next."

Anna, seated quietly in the corner, looked at her phone. Her expression was unreadable.

The following morning, an unexpected knock at the suite's door startled the team. Will opened it to find his father standing there, his presence commanding as ever.

"Dad?" Will said, his voice laced with surprise.

"I've heard everything," Mr. Park said, his tone sharp. "Your mother told me about the kidnapping. That Albeirt bastard crossed a line."

He turned to Wang Soo, his gaze firm. "You've shown courage and resolve. I may not agree with your methods, but I respect your results. This project will change the world—and I'll make sure it succeeds. Whatever resources you need, you have them."

The team exchanged stunned glances.

Before departing for Creatis, Wang Soo composed a message to Yura, Han Ko, and Albeirt.

"People used to call me a devil when I was younger. I'm not proud of that fact. But let me make one thing clear: this isn't revenge. This is how I rise above. I was alone back then, but not anymore. I'm no longer walking this path alone. You'll see how this so-called devil creates a better world—by turning saints into sinners."

End of Season 1

author's note.

Hi. everyone.

thank you for the support, I've pushed my limit by creating and rushing 21 chapters in a week and since I'm old (I think) I will take my time to rest and finding the route that Wang Soo and the team gonna take in season 2, it won't be long. Happy New Year.

Foreshadowing: The Silent Storm

As the jet ascended into the skies, Wang Soo glanced out the window, his mind racing. The team celebrated quietly behind him, but he couldn't shake the feeling of impending danger.

Elsewhere, in a shadowy office in Creatis, a mysterious figure examined a wall of photographs—each depicting Wang Soo, his team, and their loved ones. One photo, circled in red, was Anna's.

"She's still useful," the figure said. "For now."

Back on the plane, Anna stared at her phone, her hands trembling as she read a message:

"You've done well, but remember your place. Don't think you're untouchable."

She deleted the message and gazed at her teammates, determination hardening her resolve. "I won't let them hurt you," she whispered to herself. "No matter what it costs me."