The Test of Correction

Gangnam-gu: Seoul, South Korea - Moon Residence

The family dinner unfolded in a peculiar blend of warmth and tension within the cozy confines of the Moon family residence. The dining table was adorned with an array of dishes, a feast that showcased the culinary prowess of Ma-Ri, the family matriarch. The centerpiece was a steaming pot of Galbitang, a hearty Korean soup made with beef short ribs, radishes, and a savory broth.

As the family settled around the table, bowls filled with the fragrant soup were placed before them. Byung-Ho, the father, turned on a screen displaying the recorded footage of the night's eldritch encounter. The flickering light of the video cast an eerie glow across the dining room.

Ma-Ri smiled, "I hope you all enjoy the Galbitang. It's been simmering for hours."

Byung-Ho nodded, "Let's begin the debriefing. Eun-Ji, you led the charge tonight. Good initiative."

Ma-Ri brow furrowed with concern, "But, sweetie, your form during the chaos magic invocation needs refinement. It was too erratic."

Eun-Ji was quick to agree, "I'll work on it, Mother."

The family dove into their meal, the flavors of the Galbitang providing a momentary respite from the critical atmosphere. Despite the delicious distraction, the impending analysis lingered in the air.

Byung-Ho pointed to the screen again, "Look here, Jae-Hoon handled this encounter smoothly. Eun-Ji, your positioning was off during the creature's dispersion."

Jae-Hoon leaned in closer and I his sister, "Remember, sis, always anticipate its movements. You have to be a step ahead. Be ahead or your dead."

Eun-Ji sported a stoic expression, "Noted."

The dining room echoed with the clinking of chopsticks against bowls as the family continued their meal, a temporary reprieve from the harsh critiques.

Ma-Ri savored the soup and fished for affirmation, "Eun-Ji, the Galbitang is comforting, isn't it?"

Eun-Ji knew what she wanted to hear. It was made easy, because it was true. "It's delicious, Mother."

Byung-Ho leaned back in his chair, "Now, about the hand-to-hand combat. Too aggressive. You left openings that could have been exploited. You see here and here, Jae-Hoon had to save you because you put yourself at risk."

Jae-Hoon interjected, "Sis, remember what I taught you about balance. Use your opponent's momentum against them."

As the family delved into the minutiae of the mission, Eun-Ji maintained a stoic facade, masking the internal turmoil. Each criticism felt like a blow, a reminder of the relentless pursuit of perfection her family demanded.

Ma-Ri, as if she was aware of her daughters distress, softened. "We critique because we care, Eun-Ji. You have great potential. Just hone your skills."

Byung-Ho validated the compliment, "Indeed. You did well, but we expect excellence. The Dragon doesn't settle for anything less."

The family continued to share the meal, interspersing bites of Galbitang with words of advice and correction. Eun-Ji absorbed it all, determined to improve and live up to the family expectations, even if it meant facing their unrelenting standards. In truth, she understood that in this line of work, errors could spell disaster.