Steam rose from the bowls laid out across every table. The clatter of spoons, the low scrape of benches shifting, and the soft shuffle of feet filled the cafeteria with a kind of quiet energy. It wasn't loud—no shouting or laughter—but there was a hum of life in the room. Of people gathered. Of people waiting.
Seul and Areum moved steadily between rows, setting down extra bowls, refilling trays. Areum's expression was focused, but calm—her movements smoother than they had been a few days ago. Seul carried a pot of broth in one hand like it weighed nothing, using her other to ladle out portions with practiced ease.
Jin stood near the front of the room, hands in his pockets. Behind him, the long table where the leadership usually sat was empty—save for Echo, Joon, and Seul, who had finally made her way back over once the last tray was set down.
