Morning light slipped quietly through the curtains, spreading a calm glow across the room. Today was important. Ray and Joohee had requested a meeting with the Head of the Hunter Association, and neither of them took it lightly.

  Ray stood before the mirror, adjusting his clothes carefully. He wore a crisp white shirt, freshly pressed, the fabric fitting neatly against his broad shoulders. Over it, he slipped on a fitted black blazer that sharpened his presence instantly. The blazer hugged his frame just enough to give him a refined yet powerful look, reminding anyone who saw him that he was not just another weak E-rank hunter. He fastened a black tie at his collar, pulling it snug with practiced fingers. His formal black trousers were clean and well-tailored, falling smoothly down to polished leather shoes that reflected the morning light.

  As he straightened his cuffs and checked his reflection, Ray’s thoughts drifted. This meeting could change things, he thought. I need to look dependable. Someone who deserves to be heard. For a moment, another thought surfaced—how Joohee would look today. He pushed it aside, focusing again on the seriousness of the day.

  In the other room, Joohee stood quietly, preparing herself with calm precision. She wore a fitted black blazer over a white blouse, the contrast giving her a sharp and professional appearance. The blouse was simple, yet elegant, its soft fabric resting neatly beneath the blazer. Her pencil skirt followed the line of her figure without being excessive, paired with black tights that added to her formal look. Instead of her usual ankle boots, she chose a pair of black high heels, the subtle click they made on the floor echoing her resolve.

  She didn’t use much makeup. Her face remained natural and clean, but her lips were painted with a bright red, blood-colored lipstick that stood out boldly. It gave her an air of confidence and authority, as if she were ready to stand her ground no matter who sat across from her. She picked up a soft shoulder bag, checking once more that everything she needed was inside.

  Joohee looked at herself in the mirror, inhaling softly. This isn’t just for me, she thought. It’s for Ray too. I need to be strong today. Her eyes softened slightly as his image crossed her mind. She wondered if he was nervous, if he was overthinking the meeting the same way she was.

  When they finally stepped into the living room, both paused.

  Ray turned first, and for a brief moment, he forgot what he wanted to say. Joohee stood there, composed and confident, looking every bit like a capable professional. The red of her lips caught his attention instantly, contrasting beautifully with her black-and-white outfit. She looks… reliable, he thought. Like someone people would listen to.

  Joohee noticed him at the same time. Ray’s formal attire made him look different—more mature, more grounded. The fitted blazer and tie gave him a presence she rarely saw outside the battlefield. He looks like someone who belongs in the Association, she thought quietly. Not someone they should ignore.

  Neither of them spoke at first. There was a silent understanding between them, a shared sense of responsibility and anticipation.

  Ray broke the silence with a small nod. “Ready?”

  Joohee returned the nod, her expression steady. “Yes.”

  As they stepped outside together, the weight of the meeting settled on their shoulders. Whatever awaited them at the Hunter Association, they would face it side by side—prepared, determined, and standing a little taller than before.

  The morning air was cool and calm as Ray and Joohee walked side by side toward the Hunter Association. The city was already awake. Cars moved steadily along the roads, and hunters in various uniforms passed by, some chatting loudly, others walking in silence with tired expressions. Compared to them, Ray and Joohee looked unusually composed.

  Ray adjusted his blazer slightly as they walked. “It feels strange,” he said, breaking the quiet. “Going there without a raid or an emergency.”

  Joohee smiled faintly. “Most people only go to the Association when something urgent happens. This time, we’re going by choice.”

  Ray nodded. “Still… I don’t know what to expect from the Head.”

  “He’s strict,” Joohee replied honestly. “But he listens when there’s a reason. As long as we stay calm, it’ll be fine.”

  Ray glanced at her. “You sound confident.”

  “I’m not,” she admitted. “I’m just used to pretending when it matters.”

  Ray let out a small laugh. “That makes two of us.”

  They continued walking, their footsteps in quiet rhythm. A group of young hunters passed them, whispering softly. Ray noticed but chose not to react.

  Joohee followed his gaze. “You’re thinking too much again.”

  Ray sighed. “Am I that obvious?”

  “Yes,” she said gently. “You always are.”

  Ray scratched the back of his neck. “I just don’t want to mess this up. We worked hard to get here.”

  “We did,” Joohee agreed. “And that’s exactly why you shouldn’t doubt yourself.”

  Ray slowed his steps slightly. “Back then, I never thought I’d even stand in front of the Association Head. I was just trying to survive.”

  Joohee’s expression softened. “You still are. You’re just doing it more responsibly now.”

  Ray looked ahead. “You really believe that?”

  “I wouldn’t be here if I didn’t,” she said without hesitation.

  The traffic light ahead turned red, forcing them to stop. Ray watched the people crossing the street—office workers, hunters, civilians—each carrying their own worries.

  “Do you ever get tired?” Ray asked suddenly.

  Joohee blinked. “Of healing?”

  “Of everything,” he clarified.

  She thought for a moment. “Yes. But resting doesn’t mean giving up. It just means choosing when to move forward again.”

  Ray nodded slowly. “You always know what to say.”

  “That’s not true,” she replied. “I just say what I feel.”

  The light turned green, and they crossed together.

  As they walked, the tall structure of the Hunter Association began to appear in the distance. Its massive glass exterior reflected the sky, giving it an almost intimidating presence. Hunters moved in and out of the building constantly, some injured, some proud, some exhausted.

  Ray stared at it. “It’s bigger than I imagined.”

  Joohee followed his gaze. “It always feels that way when something important is waiting inside.”

  Ray took a deep breath. “Whatever happens, thank you for coming with me.”

  Joohee looked at him, surprised. “You don’t need to thank me.”

  “I know,” Ray said. “But I still want to.”

  She gave a small nod. “Then don’t forget why we’re here.”

  “I won’t,” Ray replied firmly.

  They slowed as they reached the wide steps leading up to the entrance. The Association’s emblem was engraved above the doors, shining under the daylight.

  Ray clenched his fist briefly, then relaxed it. “This is it.”

  Joohee straightened her posture. “Let’s go.”

  Together, they stepped forward and reached the entrance of the Hunter Association, ready to face whatever awaited them inside.

  The grand hall was filled with warm light and gentle music as Maha’s guild celebrated its 50th Anniversary. Elegant chandeliers hung from the ceiling, casting soft reflections over polished marble floors. Long tables were arranged neatly, covered with white cloth and decorated with golden trims. Fresh flowers filled the air with a pleasant fragrance, giving the entire place a feeling of pride, history, and unity.

  Members of the guild stood together in small groups, laughing, talking, and sharing memories of past raids and difficult battles. Some wore formal suits, others chose elegant dresses, but every face carried the same emotion—belonging. This guild was not just a workplace; it was a family built over decades of blood, sweat, and survival.

  At the center of the hall stood Maha, calm and composed, quietly observing everything. She listened more than she spoke, her eyes reflecting the lights above. This guild had shaped her, protected her, and trusted her strength. Tonight was not about ranks or power—it was about legacy.

  Soon, the music softened, and the hall gradually fell silent. All eyes turned toward the small stage at the front. Rabindra, the guild master, stepped forward. He was only a few years older than Maha, yet his presence carried the weight of responsibility and experience. He wore a dark formal suit, simple but dignified, matching his personality.

  Rabindra looked around the hall for a moment, taking in the familiar faces. Then he smiled lightly and began to speak.

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  “Fifty years,” he said, his voice steady and clear. “That’s how long this guild has stood against fear, despair, and impossible odds. Fifty years of battles, losses, victories, and survival.”

  The room was silent, every word sinking in.

  “When this guild was first founded, hunters were fewer, dungeons were deadlier, and hope was fragile. Many believed we wouldn’t last even a decade. But here we are.” He paused, lifting his gaze. “Because this guild was never built on strength alone. It was built on trust.”

  A quiet murmur of agreement spread through the crowd.

  “We trusted each other with our lives. We believed that the person standing beside us would never turn their back when things went wrong. That belief is what carried us through the darkest raids and the longest nights.”

  Rabindra’s eyes briefly rested on Maha before he continued.

  “Today, this guild stands stronger than ever—not because of one person, but because every generation carried the will of the previous one forward. Veterans passed their knowledge. New members brought fresh courage. And together, we grew.”

  The atmosphere became heavy with emotion. Some members lowered their heads, remembering fallen comrades.

  Rabindra took a deep breath. “I won’t promise that the future will be easy. Dungeons will become more dangerous. Enemies will grow stronger. But as long as we stand together, this guild will never fall.”

  A firm confidence echoed in his voice. “So tonight, let us celebrate not just fifty years of history—but the future we will continue to protect.”

  The hall erupted into applause. Cheers filled the air, loud and genuine. Rabindra stepped back, bowing his head slightly in gratitude.

  Servers moved swiftly, handing out glasses of wine to everyone present. The rich red liquid shimmered under the lights. Maha accepted a glass, holding it carefully as the noise slowly settled.

  Rabindra raised his glass high. “To the past that shaped us,” he said.

  Maha lifted hers as well.

  “To the present that binds us,” Rabindra continued.

  All around the hall, glasses were raised.

  “And to the future,” he finished, “that we will face—together.”

  “To the future!” everyone echoed.

  The sound of glasses clinking filled the hall, marking a moment of unity, pride, and quiet determination as the celebration of the guild’s 50th anniversary truly began.

  Maha stood alone on the balcony, her hands resting lightly on the cold railing as she looked up at the gloomy night sky. Thick clouds drifted slowly across the moon, hiding its light and leaving only faint silver edges behind. The stars were few, scattered like broken promises, barely shining through the darkness. The wind moved gently, carrying a quiet chill that matched the stillness of the night. Below her, the city lights flickered softly, distant and muted, as if even the world had chosen silence.

  Since Ray had gone missing, Maha’s cheerful expressions had vanished. The smiles that once came naturally no longer reached her eyes. Laughter felt distant, almost unfamiliar. She had stopped seeking joy and instead chose solitude, cornering herself in discipline and routine. Training became her refuge. Pain became proof that she was still moving forward.

  She had refined herself relentlessly. Her body had grown slim and fit, shaped by countless hours of practice and endurance. Strength wrapped around her frame, visible even beneath simple clothing. Her fair skin made her presence stand out wherever she went, but she no longer cared about such things. Even the six-pack she had earned through harsh training meant nothing to her beyond efficiency. Becoming stronger was her only goal now.

  Yet no matter how much strength she gained, loneliness poured endlessly into her heart like an unsealed wound. People admired her achievements, praised her talent, respected her rank. They spoke of her power, her discipline, her future. But none of them looked into her inner self. None of them saw the quiet darkness she carried every day.

  Maha slowly reached for the locket hanging around her neck. The metal felt warm from her skin. She opened it gently, as if afraid it might break. Inside, one side held a small, faded childhood photo—Ray and her, standing close together, smiling without worry. The other side was empty.

  Her fingers trembled slightly as her eyes lingered on that empty slot.

  Once, she had believed that slot would one day hold their wedding photo. She had imagined it clearly—grown-up smiles, shared happiness, a future built together. That empty space was meant for a promise she thought was unbreakable.

  Now, it only reminded her of what was lost.

  “It won’t happen anymore,” she whispered to herself, though the night did not answer.

  Footsteps approached softly from behind. Maha did not turn at first. She already knew who it was by the presence alone.

  “Miss Seonryū,” a calm male voice spoke, measured and polite. “May I have some moments of your precious time?”

  Maha nodded without expression, though she disliked interruptions like this. She closed the locket and faced him.

  Avesh Raja, the guild master of the Golden Lion guild, stood before her. He was well-dressed, confident, and carried himself with pride. Without hesitation, he stepped forward, reached into his coat, and then did something she had not expected.

  He knelt.

  In his hand was a ring, its surface reflecting the dim light of the balcony. The moment felt heavy, pressing against the quiet night.

  “Miss Seonryū,” Avesh said firmly, “will you marry me?”

  Maha did not pause. She did not hesitate. Her answer came instantly.

  “No.”

  The word was cold and absolute.

  Avesh looked up, startled. “Why?” he asked, disbelief creeping into his voice.

  Maha met his gaze, her eyes empty of warmth. “You are nothing in front of him,” she said calmly. “So don’t think I will ever accept your proposal.”

  Without another word, she turned and walked away from the balcony.

  Avesh remained kneeling, his hand clenched around the ring. Silence wrapped around him, thick and suffocating. The rejection burned deeply, not just as refusal—but as humiliation.

  That night, under the dark sky, pride shattered quietly, and resentment took root where dignity once stood.

  Joohee and Ray reached the main building of the Hunter Association just before noon. The structure stood tall and imposing, made of reinforced glass and steel, with the association emblem carved above the entrance. The moment they stepped inside, Ray felt it clearly—the atmosphere was tense.

  The large hall was crowded. Hunters in various uniforms filled the space, some injured, some laughing loudly, others arguing over rewards and rankings. The air carried mixed emotions: ambition, exhaustion, pride, jealousy. Screens on the walls displayed dungeon alerts, raid results, and rank updates, flashing constantly.

  As Joohee and Ray walked forward, Ray noticed eyes turning toward them.

  People were staring.

  Some whispered quietly, others didn’t bother lowering their voices. Ray caught fragments of their words.

  “Are they a couple?”

  “That guy looks too weak for her.”

  “Isn’t she a B-rank healer?”

  “Lucky bastard.”

  Ray frowned slightly but kept walking. He had grown used to this kind of attention. Joohee, on the other hand, maintained her calm expression, her posture straight and composed. She seemed unaffected, as if whispers were nothing more than background noise.

  Still, Ray felt awkward. They’re misunderstanding, he thought. We’re not like that.

  Before he could sink further into his thoughts, a woman approached them. She wore a formal gray suit with an association badge clipped to her chest. Her movements were professional and precise.

  “Raylight Amatsurishi and Lian Joohee?” she asked.

  “Yes,” Joohee replied.

  “Please follow me.”

  Ray guessed she was a staff member. The way she spoke and walked made it obvious. They followed her through a series of corridors, passing by offices with transparent walls where officials discussed reports and raid footage.

  Eventually, they reached a quiet section of the building. The noise from the main hall faded, replaced by a heavy silence.

  “This is the waiting room,” the woman said, opening a door. Inside were simple sofas, a table, and a water dispenser. “Please wait here.”

  She paused, then turned to Joohee. “The Head has requested to meet you first, Miss Joohee.”

  Joohee nodded. “Understood.”

  She looked at Ray briefly. “I’ll be back soon.”

  Ray nodded in response. “Take your time.”

  Joohee followed the staff member out of the room, leaving Ray alone.

  The door closed softly.

  Ray leaned back on the sofa and exhaled. The quiet felt strange after the chaos outside. His eyes drifted to the ceiling, but his thoughts were already racing.

  So this is it… the Head of the Hunter Association.

  He wondered what kind of person they would be.

  A man or a woman?

  Old or young?

  Strict or kind?

  More importantly, Ray wondered about their strength.

  Are they powerful?

  Are they someone who reached the top through sheer ability… or politics?

  His fingers curled slightly.

  And what about me? He thought bitterly. What will they think when they see my rank? An E-rank who keeps getting injured. A burden.

  He glanced at his hands. They looked normal, nothing special. No one could tell how much power was sealed inside him—or how broken he felt because of it.

  Ray sighed.

  Will they be generous… or short-tempered?

  Will they try to control me? Monitor me? Discard me?

  His thoughts drifted to Joohee.

  She’s always been protecting me, he realized. Even now, she’s going first.

  That made him feel both grateful and frustrated. He hated being the weaker one. Hated needing someone else to stand in front of him.

  Time passed slowly. Every second felt heavier than the last.

  Ray straightened his posture, forcing himself to calm down.

  No matter who the Head is, he told himself, I won’t run. I won’t hide.

  Somewhere beyond that door, decisions were being made—decisions that might change everything.

  And Ray waited, uncertain of the fate that was about to step into his life.

  Joohee entered the director’s office quietly. The room was spacious yet minimal, designed more for efficiency than luxury. Large windows allowed pale daylight to spill across neatly arranged shelves and a wide desk stacked with documents.

  Behind the desk sat Director Sangah Yewonha.

  She looked young, still in her late twenties, but her presence carried weight. Her posture was straight, her eyes sharp, and her expression calm yet calculating. She had recently taken the position as the new head director of the Hunter Association, and many still whispered about her age. Yet those who worked closely with her knew—she was far more knowledgeable than most.

  Joohee bowed slightly and took the seat across from her.

  Sangah set aside the papers she had been reviewing and folded her hands together. Her gaze fixed on Joohee, serious and probing.

  “Joohee,” Sangah said evenly, “you know why I called you here, don’t you?”

  “Yes,” Joohee replied without hesitation. Her voice was steady. “I know.”

  Sangah leaned back slightly. “Tell me what you think. Is he suspicious?”

  Joohee lowered her eyes for a moment, thinking carefully. Then she looked back up, meeting Sangah’s gaze directly.

  “I don’t think so,” she said. “The more days I spend with him, the more I understand how much he’s struggling. His strength doesn’t match his will. He keeps getting hurt, yet he never complains. I’ve seen people pretending to be weak. He isn’t one of them.”

  Sangah’s fingers tapped lightly against the desk.

  “I know,” Joohee continued. “So please don’t worry.”

  The room fell silent for a brief moment. Sangah studied Joohee closely, as if weighing her words against unseen evidence. Then she exhaled softly.

  “Your judgment has always been reliable,” Sangah said at last. “That’s why I wanted to hear it directly from you.”

  Joohee relaxed slightly, though her posture remained respectful. The meeting was not yet over, but she felt that her stance had been understood.

  Meanwhile, far away in the waiting room, Ray sat alone.

  He glanced at his watch for the third time. The ticking seconds felt unusually slow. His leg bounced lightly as he leaned forward, elbows resting on his knees.

  She’s taking longer than expected, he thought.

  Before he could sink further into impatience, he felt a presence approaching.

  Ray lifted his head.

  A woman stood in front of him, silently observing.

  She was tall and muscular, her posture firm and unyielding. A stern expression rested on her face, sharp and unreadable. Her long, straight, silver-white hair fell down to her waist, catching the light faintly. Her eyes were a striking yellowish-green, piercing and alert, as if always assessing her surroundings.

  Her tan complexion and visible abdominal muscles made it clear—this was someone who trained relentlessly.

  She wore a dark brown, almost black, sleeveless and form-fitting crop top. The neckline was high, and at the center of her chest rested a light-colored, golden, diamond-shaped emblem. Her upper arms were bare, showing toned muscle, while long black arm sleeves covered her forearms and hands, leaving her fingers exposed. The material looked tight and flexible, designed for combat.

  Her muscular belly’s bare fair skin was exposed above black low-rise pants. Two belts wrapped around her waist—one standard, the other decorative, with straps hanging loosely. In her hand, she held a long, straight sword with a white scabbard, resting casually against the floor.

  Ray swallowed.

  Strong, he thought instantly. Very strong.

  She looked down at him, her gaze sharp but curious, as if examining a rare specimen.

  For a moment, neither of them spoke.

  Then she straightened slightly and introduced herself in a calm, confident tone.

  “I’m Annerose White. You can call me Rose. Are you the rumoured Ray who had survived in an unknown dungeon?”