A luxurious hotel in Samcheok, Gangwon Province. The event room.
"..."
"..."
A strange silence drifted between the noisy cluster of people. The one to speak first was Gio. He spoke plainly, as if delivering a simple fact.
"I will be the one preparing the meals, so I'm not concerned about the food being unappetizing."
"...Ah, you're going to cook, young master?"
"My cooking skills and digestive capacity are excellent. So even in a dungeon, I'm confident I can enjoy a proper meal."
"That's... a refreshing answer."
"Thank you for your concern, but you're standing a bit too close. Could you take a step back?" "Ah, my apologies."
The hunter with black eyes curved like a crescent moon raised both hands with a grin. It was a classic gesture of surrender—and of mockery.
He took a small step away from Sergio.
"I've heard so many stories about Hunter Sergio, I think I imagined we were already friends."
"Ah, so that was a gesture of camaraderie just now. I understand what you meant."
"Our young master is very open-minded, isn't he? And funny, too. I'm really glad to meet you like this."
Many other hunters were pretending not to listen but were secretly intrigued by their exchange. Yet Sergio didn't seem to care, and neither did the blond hunter who had initiated the conversation.
"I have a bad habit of saying things without thinking. You'll forgive me, right?"
With long, straight blond hair and a well-shaped physique, his face resembled that of a noble knight from a fairy tale. As he walked up, radiating a provocative energy, Sergio responded with a smile.
"You are truly humble."
"Oh? I look humble? That's the first time I've heard that. Surprising, really."
"This was an enjoyable conversation."
"Would you consider continuing it a bit longer?"
"I was only planning to make a brief appearance and return. I ask for your understanding."
"Hmmm...."
The hunter let out a long, vague hum with a face unreadable in its expression, then backed away with a grin. His retreat was as absurdly casual as his approach.
"Let's talk again sometime."
"That would be welcome news."
At that moment, Curator Garasani, who had been observing the situation, approached.
"Hunter Sergio."
Just like this random provocation, it seemed that due to the current team composition of the Collector's Guild, some people viewed Sergio as a greenhouse flower. Aware of this perception beforehand, the Guild members had deliberately kept some distance to avoid giving the impression that they were overly guarding or coddling Sergio—but this case was different.
"Is there anything I can assist you with?"
"Well... how about an explanation of the situation?"
"Yes. It must have been a bit startling."
Garasani spoke with a look that suggested he sympathized with the trouble.
"For something like that to happen the moment you arrived..."
Indeed, Gio had been dragged into provocation as soon as he entered the room. To understand how the current situation came to be, we must rewind a little.
***
"A hotel?"
Gio tilted his head as he echoed the word, and Joo-Hyun nodded.
"Yes. Since the event is hosted by the Church of the Sun, it looks like they've put in a lot of effort."
"Could I ask what you mean by 'a lot of effort'?"
"Actually, I figured you might not be familiar with hunter customs, so I came prepared."
Joo-Hyun, who had returned to the Collector's Guild after a long absence, sat with Gio in a small meeting room.
"It's ideal if the dungeon being targeted is close to the guild involved, but in most cases, it's located in a completely different region."
"That seems likely."
"This time, for example, it's in Samcheok, Gangwon Province. So, when conditions allow, especially among the larger groups that care about appearances, hunters are not immediately dispatched into the dungeon."
"Then..."
"They try to secure a base near the dungeon entrance where hunters can rest. Think of it like a rest stop. It's one of the common customs in hunter culture."
Not fully grasping the ways of Earth, Sergio asked,
"So they don't head into battle right away?"
"They want hunters in optimal condition before dungeon entry."
"Because traveling drains stamina?"
"That's the biggest reason."
Joo-Hyun nodded.
"Some hunters can teleport using their skills or equipment, but usually it's only the individual who can move. Even then, it consumes stamina, mana, or gear durability."
Even with a professional teleport hunter assisting—one not involved in the raid—the same limitations applied.
The person being teleported still experienced stamina loss.
"Such professional teleport hunters are very rare. They're high-value assets, in demand everywhere, and hard to book."
"So it's not a method that can be used commonly."
"Exactly. Although large guilds like the Collector's may already have a few such hunters, most other guilds can't rely on that luxury."
"Are there no public teleport stations? I remember someone named Cha Eun-Hyeok who sold fish bread mentioning something similar."
"Those only exist in a few places. They're extremely limited. Cha Eun-Hyeok must live in a fairly developed area. Especially in Gangwon Province, there are no terminals."
"...There are no terminals in Gangwon Province?"
Sergio was shocked. Joo-Hyun continued.
"It means there's no transportation infrastructure installed by the government. There's no teleport terminal, no non-magical railways, and not even properly paved roads for buses or cars."
Yet most hunters still had to use those unpaved roads to reach Gangwon Province. The region's dungeons were infamous for being physically taxing just to reach.
"There's a stark gap in infrastructure between cities and rural areas. Gangwon Province still bears the scars of the great catastrophe. The only area set up for habitation is Samcheok. It's a harsh region."
"I understand."
"That's why, for this operation, it's especially important to provide hunters with a proper place to rest. Even when not as far as Gangwon, resting before dungeon raids is essential."
Joo-Hyun smiled gently.
"To ensure hunters can perform at their best."
"You make it sound like there's another reason."
"Gio, you're correct. As I said earlier—it's also about appearances."
Gio glanced up at him, surprised.
"Appearances?"
"Particularly among Seoul-based guilds."
"They care about appearances?"
"Well, this is a trait of Korea in general..."
Joo-Hyun explained with a slightly embarrassed look.
"Korea is known for having excellent personnel, but it's small geographically. Only Seoul and Busan are significantly developed and populated."
Gio thought to himself, '...How is this different from before the catastrophe? Just a matter of survival difficulty...?' Her explanation continued.
"Seoul especially values popularity among its citizens. SNS is deeply ingrained in the culture, and people are tightly connected. Many guilds thrive on the support of the public."
"You mean they're selling an image?"
"Exactly. The better they appear—strong, flawless—the safer the citizens feel. It's tied to Seoul's civic pride."
"I don't understand what kind of pride that is."
"It's a common human instinct—to mistake something external for their own. Even if it isn't theirs, they associate themselves with powerful guilds. People aren't like you, Gio. They don't just focus on themselves."
"Oh..."
Sergio, who was technically human, felt oddly insulted. Was this really how people saw him?
Apparently, yes. Though he did enjoy the VIP treatment he received as a living artwork. With a flowing stream of self-justification, Gio nodded.
"I understand."
"Do you? You really are clever, Gio."
Joo-Hyun smiled as if explaining to a younger sibling.
"That's why large Seoul-based organizations care so much about appearances. Major raids are the perfect opportunity to show off. And this includes the custom I mentioned earlier."
"You mean securing a resting place near the dungeon?"
"Yes. Even a poor guild will go out of its way to follow that tradition. If they don't, it gives the impression that they don't care if their members live or die."
Which wasn't entirely wrong.
"A hunter's survival rate is heavily influenced by their condition that day. Unless they want to advertise that they're killing off their own, guilds provide rest stops."
There were exceptions, of course.
"Illegal guilds, for instance. Since they don't care about public scrutiny, they'll send their hunters to die without hesitation. They don't bother with customs."
"All illegal guilds are like that?"
"Maybe there are exceptions, but all the ones I know of are. Customs are only followed by groups that care about keeping up appearances."
"I've heard illegal guilds are numerous."
"Yes. This world's overflowing with people. There's no shortage of labor from slums, third-tier provinces, or even criminals."
"Overflowing with people..."
Considering Korea once feared collapse from population decline, the reversal was shocking. And grotesque. Sergio was at a loss. Unaware of Gio's inner turmoil, Joo-Hyun continued.
"The Church of the Sun, your Collector's Guild, and other participating groups are all reputable. With so many eyes on them, they're planning a small party to wish for the raid's success."
Gio blinked.
"A party to wish for success?"
"It's not a strict tradition, but it's common. Depending on resources, they may hold a brief, joyful gathering to lift the mood."
She explained like a human enlightening a clueless cat.
"A short celebration to boost morale—without exhausting the hunters. After enjoying such a festival and rest in a nice space, people feel mentally and physically recharged."
"I don't find the idea of a festival appealing."
"I know you're not fond of noisy settings. Reporters and press will be there too, so there will be many humans. I wouldn't recommend openly skipping it, but just showing your face and returning to your room is fine."
"That's allowed?"
"Not every hunter enjoys these events. Some are shy. Some think they're pointless. And with so many people, there'll be someone who doesn't get along with you."
Still, such parties had positive perceptions.
"The main purpose is social. Especially when multiple groups are involved—like now—it helps break the ice. Hunters get to understand each other's fighting styles."
"That's a good intention."
"There might be friction, sure. But that's also part of it. It's a way to identify compatible and incompatible teammates before going in. Composition matters in raids."
"...I have one question."
Introvert Sergio asked,
"You said 'team composition during the raid'—don't they just group guildmates together?" "Ah... That must be unfamiliar and uncomfortable for you, Gio."
Joo-Hyun nodded sympathetically.
"While guilds try to keep their members together, the most critical factor is role balance. If one guild sends only healers, they'll be scattered among other groups."
It was a valid point.
"..."
Gio felt himself shrink a little.
'I might just end up avoiding everyone the entire raid...'
Then what was the point of all the socializing he'd forced himself to do at the Collector's Guild? Joo-Hyun tried to comfort him.
"There'll probably be reporters at the venue, but don't worry. At least one Collector's Guild member will stay near you... and like I said, you can just show your face and leave."
"Wouldn't that be rude to others?"
"Plenty of hunters don't enjoy these things. If you step out early, the hosts will just remember you as someone who dislikes crowds. It's not considered rude."
"That's a relief."
Gio was reassured by her gentle encouragement.
"If it's just making an appearance, it shouldn't be a problem." And so, Gio headed to the only hotel in Samcheok with members of the Collector's Guild. The moment he stepped into the event room from his designated suite... someone picked a fight.
***
Back in the event room of the hotel. "If you wish, I can file a formal complaint with Haryeong."
At Garasani's words, Gio asked,
"The person I just spoke with—is he affiliated with the Haryeong Guild?" "Yes. Were you greatly offended?"
"No, not as much as you're imagining."
"I see. That's good."
"...Haryeong..."
It was one of the guilds Joo-Hyun had mentioned.
"..."
Gio's eyes settled on the man he'd just spoken to. Their eyes met. The man gave a small wave, and Argio pulled his hood over his head.
"...What a shame."
There was no malice..
-x-X-x-
In this narrow, narrow world, there are two things that only humans can possess.
[One is conviction, and the other is malice.]
If you desire my wrath, then become human.
For no matter how long a beast may bark, how could I ever grow angry?
***
Hunter Sergio, having truly only shown his face, exited the event room.
"Captain."
A member of the Haryeong Guild approached the blond hunter with a familiar expression.
"Why'd you do that? Just now, with the Collector's Guild hunter?"
"Yeah, I wonder. Why did I?"
"Hmmm, didn't want to get teamed up with him?"
"Did it look that way to you?"
"When you don't want to work with someone, that's how you act."
The man, addressed as "Captain," curved his eyes into crescents.
"I don't always act that way, you know?"
"Living up to your name, huh—Liar?"
"Ah... I hate that name."
"The Association gave it to you. You should be grateful."
"I said I hate it."
"That was obviously picking a fight, just now."
The guild member nudged his captain in the side.
"And did you see it?"
"See what? The eye color change?"
"You totally saw it. Don't play coy."
"When he suddenly pulled up his hood like that, of course I looked..."
Trailing off, the blond hunter swept his gaze across the room. His dark, almost lightless eyes absorbed the scene.
"Looks like a few others noticed it, too."
When he jabbed at Hunter Sergio earlier and got a smile and eye contact in return, he waved casually—and right after that, Sergio's eyes changed color beneath the hood.
"What do you think the color was?"
"Hard to say. The shadow under that hood was strangely deep..."
"Hmmmm, must be an item?"
"From what I saw—yellow?"
"I'll go with gold."
"Then it's probably gold."
Another guild member chuckled and asked,
"Didn't the Collector's eyes look gold, too?"
"No, no. His were... lighter in tone."
"'Lighter' as in fluorescent?"
"Something like that."
"Still, don't you think... it's possible?"
"Possible what?"
"Oh come on, you know what I mean."
"Admittedly, it's an interesting idea."
The blond hunter smiled slowly. Clearly, his charming little guildmate wanted to suggest: What if Hunter Sergio, whom Collector Bisa Beul so obviously favors, is actually related by blood?
"Just wondering who he takes after, to be so empty-headed."
"Should I shut up now...?"
"Mm-hmm. Might be good to tone it down. Some Collector's Guild members are still in the hall, and they've got ears, you know?"
"Then I'll shut up, Captain."
"Don't know who you take after, being so cute. Must be me?"
Feigning affection, the man slung an arm around his teammate's shoulder with a grin.
"Let's be careful, yeah? I don't wanna pick a fight with the Collector..."
"Because the team lead will chew you out?"
"That, and other reasons."
"Still, wasn't what you just did already asking for a fight?"
"Ah-ha, was it now?"
His eyes curved again.
"How troublesome."
It was the face of a liar.
***
"Haryeong..."
Curator Garasani continued speaking.
"They're a textbook guild of brawlers."
The hunter was attending to Gio in his assigned room while explaining.
"They prefer to live without brains."
"Without brains?"
"I don't mean they literally remove them. Just that they live without thinking."
"Ah, I see."
Gio hadn't asked because he didn't understand—but silence often kept him out of trouble.
The Fifth Floor Director looked on at the attentive 'portrait' without smiling, clearly pleased, then turned to Joo-Hyun, who had been helping Gio unpack.
"Miss Joo-Hyun, do you have any material on the Haryeong Guild?"
"If it's information on the guilds participating in the operation, I've got it here."
"Thank you for your hard work."
Garasani took the transparent tablet from Joo-Hyun and turned back to Gio.
"May I continue with the explanation?"
"It would be very helpful if you did."
"I'm honored. Thank you."
Wearing a calm smile befitting his alias as "Housemaster," Garasani resumed.
"The man who approached you in the event room is named Sanarae. His alias is 'Pinocchio.' He holds the title of Captain within the guild. Haryeong is structured into standard members, captains, section chiefs, unit leads, and the guild master."
"Those ranks... Were they borrowed from industrial job titles?"
"You're quite knowledgeable about human social hierarchies. Impressive. Yes, members of Haryeong view themselves as a kind of sanitation crew. And sanitation jobs are, of course, a type of industrial labor."
"So Haryeong members think of themselves as street cleaners?"
"They embrace the idea of 'cleaning' in multiple senses. Haryeong handles not only monsters, but also Red Hunter-class citizens—those rated fifth tier. In a way, they clean both dungeons and society."
Garasani brought up profiles of the Haryeong guild members on the room's display screen.
"However, don't expect them to possess ordinary civility."
"Yes, you described them earlier as people who live with their brains removed."
"Thank you for remembering. Haryeong's members are hard to manage unless you're their direct superior."
With a glance at Garasani for permission, Joo-Hyun added,
"If I may offer a supplemental explanation—the members of Haryeong give complete authority over themselves to their superiors. That includes their lives."
"You've touched on a very important point, Miss Joo-Hyun. Yes, most of them seem like people desperate to die. We can categorize Haryeong members into three main types."
Garasani listed them calmly:
"First, those who simply enjoy battle. Second, those with terminal-stage danger insensitivity—people who throw their lives away. And third, those addicted to the sensation of death."
He pointed to the profile of "Haryeong: Sanarae" on the screen.
"This one here falls into the third category."
"I'm not quite sure I understand what it means to be addicted to the sensation of death."
"It means exactly that—someone who can't detach from the experience of death. A kind of addict."
Sensing his explanation wasn't clear enough, Garasani paused and rephrased.
"Hunter Sergio, are you familiar with how a person behaves when addicted to a substance? It doesn't have to be drugs—alcohol or cigarettes can be addictive, too."
"Yes, I'm aware."
"Then you can think of it like that. Sometimes humans lose control of themselves, flirting with death or drowning in lethargy. Hunter Sanarae is a far more hedonistic kind of person, but..."
"A hedonist?"
"You could categorize him as a pleasure-seeker. He often behaves like someone intoxicated by all kinds of stimuli. Even if he seems to think and act rationally, he's fundamentally unwell. Not someone you want to form personal ties with."
Garasani returned to the list of Haryeong members.
"To continue—the guild members are that much more obedient to their superiors."
"I didn't get the impression their hierarchy was particularly strict. Don't any of them rebel?"
"The probability is extremely low. For them, mutiny holds no meaning."
At that, Joo-Hyun chuckled and added,
"They're a guild made up of people who don't want to deal with complicated things."
"Ah, I understand now."
In short—they want pleasure without responsibility.
"Then I suppose they wouldn't want to rise too high in the ranks."
There would be no reason to. From the sound of it, they hated thinking so much that the idea of shouldering more responsibility clearly didn't appeal to them.
"They're not shallow thinkers, in a way. That's what makes them oddly admirable."
"Admirable, are they? You're very generous, Hunter Sergio."
Garasani smiled fondly, like a grandfather watching his brilliant grandchild get into a prestigious university. Then, returning to the earlier subject, he said:
"Back to what we discussed—Hunter Sanarae's disrespectful behavior toward you surely had a motive. At the very least, being a Captain, he's not someone entirely devoid of thought."
Garasani stroked his chin thoughtfully.
"Haryeong... does not care much for so-called 'young masters' or 'ladies.' The guild is largely composed of individuals with unclear backgrounds, and thus they hold deep resentment toward the ranking system. It's a classic case of status-based conflict."
"Their backgrounds are unclear?"
"Yes. Take Hunter Sanarae, for example—he's from the slums. Especially Sanarae... I must warn you, what I'm about to say may be unpleasant—but he is quite well-known for his hatred of 'greenhouse flower' hunters."
Despite his appearance—like a chivalrous knight or a fairy tale prince—Sanarae's behavior bordered on thuggish. He had a lazy grin and an instinct for getting under people's skin. Unless authority was enforced through strength, he didn't listen. He knelt easily, as if it were second nature, but behind that gesture lay different intentions. And with a face that never seemed capable of it, he lied with the ease of breathing, causing endless headaches for those around him. Sometimes pathetic, other times beast-like in his cruelty. He could calmly utter false vows with perfect grace. He smiled charmingly through every deception—so no one ever truly expected obedience or loyalty from him.
"His eyes clearly say he's not in his right mind, yet he behaves as though he is. There's a widespread rumor that had the Haryeong Guild not taken him in, he would've been designated a Tier 5 citizen."
Joo-Hyun nodded in agreement.
"He's often described as someone whose thoughts no one can read. Betrays people without hesitation, acts irrationally without warning."
"He does seem to get along well with other Haryeong guild members, though. But they hardly interact with anyone outside their own."
Garasani nodded.
"I believe that connects back to what we discussed about status conflict."
"You mean their attitude toward so-called 'young masters' and 'ladies'?"
"Yes. Not always, but on average, they maintain a peculiar hostility toward those they perceive as 'greenhouse flowers.'"
"Unfortunately, I am indeed a greenhouse flower."
Gio declared this with confidence, but Garasani only smiled softly—as if watching a cat clumsily roll over. It was the kind of fondness that treated nonsense as endearing. Gio, once again, fell silent.
Garasani continued.
"Hunter Sergio certainly gives off that 'young master' impression from the outside. You're under the overt favor of our guild master, and even among this team, it's obvious you're accompanied by a special support group."
"It must have been obvious."
"Regrettably, yes. And your sudden rise to fame as Hunter Sergio is likely being dismissed as a stunt by the Collector's Guild. Which only adds more reasons for Sanarae to take issue with you."
Joo-Hyun added with an awkward smile,
"To be fair, the number of people sent for your support... it was more than usual for the Collector's Guild."
"What do you mean by that?"
"Well, usually the Collector's Guild doesn't..."
Joo-Hyun trailed off, hesitant to say it outright. Garasani filled in, confirming her point.
"That's right. The Collector's Guild typically does not dispatch this many personnel for a single hunter."
"From what I know, the Guild usually recruits experienced hunters. Since they're already skilled, the risk is considered minimal."
"Of course, when danger is high, the Guild does not hesitate to offer robust support. But usually that comes in the form of material resources or sending basic field agents."
Gio asked,
"But the people who came with me aren't all just field agents, are they?"
"Exactly. I myself am a curator, and two of the members with us are trainees from the gallery."
Garasani seemed pleased with Gio's observation.
"In the Collector's Guild, even the uniform design differs by role. This makes it easy for outsiders to identify a member's position at a glance."
Field agents wore sleeveless cloaks. Trainees wore light, mobile capes. Curators wore neat overcoats. Those without uniform but wearing suits with the Collector's insignia were typically administrative staff. Outside of official events, most members didn't bother wearing uniforms—but not in this case.
Garasani gestured to Sergio's black cloak.
"For instance, the cloak Hunter Sergio is wearing—it's also a type of field cloak."
"Yes, it doesn't have sleeves."
"Then most people will assume you're a field agent of the Guild."
"Even though it's not the official uniform?"
"Hah. Hunters are creatures of habit. If it looks familiar, they'll assume it's standard."
Hunters often avoided unfamiliar gear—any discomfort, however minor, could decide life or death in battle.
"And since the Collector's Guild emphasizes uniformity, even outside formal occasions, they often provide gear that resembles the standard set. People will perceive you accordingly."
Garasani smiled gently.
"When the departure ceremony begins the day after tomorrow, will you wear the official Collector's Guild uniform, Hunter Sergio?"
"Yes, I look forward to it."
"Thank you for your generous spirit, despite how this might have made you feel."
Garasani bowed slightly, then continued.
"For all these reasons, I believe Hunter Sanarae may have simply been testing you. There's been much talk about you, yet little actual record of activity."
With his usual blank expression, Gio nodded.
"I sensed that too, from what you said."
"Yes. And if not that, then perhaps..."
Garasani stroked his chin again, as if weighing something.
"...he simply doesn't want to be in the same team as you."
"Really?"
"Hunter Sanarae is known for this kind of behavior on the day before dungeon entries."
"Ah, so it's a pattern."
"He's the kind of person who swallows bitterness, but always finds a way to spit it back out."
Joo-Hyun gave a knowing, faint smile.
"As I mentioned, these events provide useful insight into team chemistry. He may have acted out to ensure he gets placed on a different team."
To that, Garasani gave a tidy smile.
"Of course, the reverse often happens."
"Why's that?"
"Because when paired with so-called 'greenhouse flowers,' Hunter Sanarae tends to perform well."
"I imagine he doesn't enjoy it, though."
"Precisely why he works harder."
"To finish it quickly?"
"Correct, Hunter Sergio."
Garasani nodded.
"Even aside from that, his wild, unstructured combat style pairs well with the more rigid techniques of 'young masters' and 'ladies.' They dilute each other's extremes."
Surprisingly, such contrasting hunter types often formed effective teams.
"Still, whenever possible, we separate them. Especially now, when we have plenty of excellent personnel. No need to let friction fester."
"I see."
"So then..."
Garasani asked politely,
"Hunter Sergio, what would you like done about this man?"
Having finished the explanation, all that remained was to learn Gio's intent.
"I am here to offer you what you desire. If it did not offend you, please share your will with me. I have the power—and the willingness—to follow it."
"..."
"You may use me however you wish. Whether you seek interference, detachment, or even just idle conversation—only say the word, and I will follow."
"...Hmm."
Gio, with those pale blue eyes and that expressionless face, answered:
"There was no malice."
***
"There was no malice."
The straight-haired blond hunter, Sanarae, said with a smile shaped like a crescent moon.
"I just thought it'd be fun."
"...That's it?"
"I wanted to poke at him, I guess."
"What kind of nonsense is that..."
"I was just curious."
He possessed a sense more beast than man.
"That one... didn't smell human."
And so, he had to know.
What kind of being was standing among them?
***
Gio said,
"He simply seemed curious about me."
"Ah, I see."
"That's why... I found it a little disappointing."
Argio, with golden eyes, gazed at the profile of Hunter Sanarae on the screen.
"...I prefer clarity."
Was this one a beast?
Or was it human?
"..."
No matter.
Both are valid.
-x-X-x-
The day of the official deployment ceremony.
"When are they coming out?"
"They said the departure was at 10, right?"
"Only the attendants are visible so far."
Near Hwanseon Cave in Samcheok, Gangwon Province—an area still not fully recovered from the aftermath of the Great Catastrophe—people had gathered just beyond the barricaded danger zone.
Even in such rough regions, whenever a major guild launched a raid, it was common for both media and spectators to crowd in. Among those with cameras were not only journalists but also fans who had come all the way here out of sheer devotion to a particular hunter.
"..."
Choi Raon—once mockingly called the splat girl—was one of them.
"...The Collector's Guild isn't out yet, huh..."
Growing anxious as she waited, she was startled when someone called out.
"Oh! Unnie!"
"Gah...!"
"Come on, it's been forever!"
"Jesus, you scared me."
Choi Raon clutched her pounding heart. Maybe it was the stress of leaving the safety of Seoul alone to come to this infamously dangerous Gangwon region.
Fortunately, the woman who had spoken to her was someone she used to tour the country with, chasing candid shots of hunters. Camera slung over her shoulder, the woman grinned and sized Choi Raon up.
"Ever since you got dragged off by that hunter in the black cloak, you ghosted us. Looks like you found a new ray of light and salt, huh? Coming all the way out here again—for a hunter?"
"Yeah... a hunter. But seriously, what about you? What happened to your old flame?"
Fans like Choi Raon—who moved on quickly—weren't exactly beloved in fan circles. But this woman had a similar temperament, which is how they'd become close.
They had originally met on the idol scene—bonding over shared stanning. Raon remembered the last time she'd seen this woman, she had been obsessed with a boy idol. But now...
"..."
"...Sorry."
"...It's fine."
Why would someone who used to stan a civilian idol show up here, camera in hand?
'So your well ran dry too, huh.'
There hadn't been any news of a group disbanding, so it was likely her favorite had been involved in some scandal, leaving a void in her heart. She'd always been sensitive to flaws in the ones she admired.
'Sure, in this day and age, what celebrity doesn't have baggage...'
Most fans were turned off by personality scandals backed by solid proof—videos of someone abusing their manager, or leaked voice files mocking others. That kind of thing.
It wasn't that such "flaws" were rare anymore, but Choi Raon couldn't keep loving someone once she saw that dark side. Especially if the face didn't justify the moral compromise.
She knew she was being a bit extra.
'Still... I don't get how others just look past that stuff.'
Out of simple decency, she didn't say "What the hell did that jerk do this time?" She was curious, sure, but some things you just don't say. You don't go rubbing salt into someone's wounds.
"...Ahem."
"Hmph."
They tacitly agreed not to dig deeper.
"So, who are you here for?"
"Ah..."
"It's fine. I made a new account too."
"It's not that."
With an embarrassed expression, the woman replied,
"Hunter Sanarae..."
"Huh?"
"He's my mess. The kind you'd be ashamed to show in public. Beautiful face, constantly causing trouble, never even gets famous because all his screw-ups keep needing to be cleaned up."
"...What?"
"God, if he crosses the line even once, I swear—just once—I'll end him."
"Wow..."
Choi Raon, who didn't know who Sanarae was, found the woman's reaction strange—but got the gist. Sanarae was probably one of those hunters who liked to stir up trouble just barely within the limits of acceptability.
Then the woman asked,
"So, who brought you all the way out here? Didn't you take half a day off?"
"Nah, full vacation day."
"Whoa, must be a big catch. Who is it? What guild? Not Haryeong if I don't know him. Eunwol? The Church of the Sun?"
"Collector's Guild."
"Collector's...?"
The woman glanced past the barricade where attendants were still arranging things, then looked toward the hotel where the hunters were staying.
"...You don't mean Hunter Sergio?"
"Oh? You know him?"
"Of course. He's been making waves lately."
"I actually met him before."
"...Ah!"
The woman's eyes widened.
"The splat girl."
"Thanks for not shouting that out loud."
"No way. I thought your silhouette looked familiar."
"He saved me in the dungeon, too."
"Damn... You hit the jackpot."
Granted, it was a jackpot earned while almost dying—but in today's world, that's modern life. If you got rescued by your bias and didn't end up with lasting injuries, people would be jealous.
The woman scrunched up her face.
"Jealous. Meanwhile, my account could explode at any moment."
"Is he that unstable...?"
"Kind of... a chaos-magnet hunter..."
"How'd you fall for someone like that?"
"Been in denial for over two years."
"That was when you were stanning someone else, wasn't it?"
"Exactly. God, it's bullshit."
The woman looked genuinely aggrieved.
"Next thing I know, I'm licking photos of him."
"Well... That's how bias-crashes usually go."
There are straightforward crushes like Choi Raon's—clear, overwhelming, love-at-first-sight types—and then there are the messy ones, like this woman's. Denial all the way, while the fingers obediently collect every photo.
"...Oh, looks like something's happening."
"Huh? Where?"
"The attendants are clearing a path."
"Oh, yeah."
During official raids, the Association often dispatched personnel to assist. These were referred to as "attendants," and if you knew how they moved, you could guess what was about to happen.
"Looks like they're making space for teleportation. I mean, if you have that option, why bother walking out here?"
"The hotel isn't that close, after all. If they want to present themselves in top shape before entering the dungeon, this makes sense."
The woman polished her camera lens and nodded.
"Catch you later, unnie. Let's grab lunch afterward."
"Sure, there's a kalguksu place nearby. They had dumplings too..."
"Oh, I love dumplings. Sounds like a solid spot."
They gave each other thumbs-ups and parted ways.
In chaotic scenes like this, with press, onlookers, and solo fans everywhere, fans had to fend for themselves.
The first to arrive were the priests of the Church of the Sun.
"It's the Church of the Sun!"
"Priests! Could we get an interview?"
"What's your take on the last failed raid?"
"Priest Ahn Seo-Hee, please look this way!"
"Priest!!"
As expected, the area quickly grew loud.
'Wow, am I even going to be able to get good shots...?'
Choi Raon had plenty of experience as a candid fan photographer, but even she found this kind of hunter-fandom overwhelming. Sergio was the first hunter she ever took paid time off to photograph during a deployment ceremony.
Thankfully, the hunters were arriving one group at a time. After the Church of the Sun, no other guilds showed up right away. Choi Raon let herself relax and observe the situation.
She was a bit impressed.
'As expected of priests... They've got this divine aura about them.'
Despite the surrounding commotion, they maintained a composed and pristine presence.
Their robes were pure white—flawless. But clearly battle-ready, interwoven with sturdy gear to allow fluid movement.
Just then, she met eyes with a priest with vivid green eyes.
Feeling awkward, Choi Raon gave a small, polite bow—and the priest, in turn, offered a modest nod.
Still slightly dazed, she watched the priests pass by... and next came the procession from the Guild Eunwol.
"Sunbae, it's Eunwol."
"They've brought a lot of healers, apparently..."
"They say the raid field is covered in poison. Probably because of that."
"Yeah, in cases like that, healers are cheaper than potions. Especially if it's not just brief damage."
"Hunters really live a rough life..."
"Well, they make a lot of money. It's an equivalent exchange. Life in exchange for money, you could say."
Hearing the reporters' chatter, Choi Raon turned her gaze back to the Eunwol Guild.
'They give off a similar vibe to the priests who just passed by...'
Choi Raon couldn't sense presences like a hunter, but she could still recognize that distinct aura of religious devotion. Dressed in white robes, they followed behind the Church of the Sun. Their garments were lighter in appearance but still conveyed that same devout energy.
'Can't see their faces well...'
More heavily covered than even the Church of the Sun, their concealed forms made her blink.
'Is the white robe their uniform? I've never seen a guild hide their faces this much at a deployment ceremony.'
Deployment ceremonies, especially ones exposed to the media, were usually an opportunity for guild PR. It was a world where image mattered—most tried to look as dazzling as possible.
But Eunwol, with their priest-like demeanor, came off as extremely ascetic.
'Right, I think Eunwol provides personnel for both the Church of the Sun and the Moon Temple. I should've looked into them more.'
The temple attendants—like those in the Church—served their priests while keeping their presence as muted as possible. Given that, this kind of atmosphere made sense.
"Oh, it's Daecheong now."
"Heard they'd be joining too."
"Not taking pictures of Daecheong?"
"Probably nothing exciting over there."
"Still..."
"They're too clean-cut. Not much of a spectacle."
"Then I'll shoot them."
The Daecheong Guild members all wore matching blue uniforms. Unlike the previous Eunwol group with their white robes, they didn't attract much attention.
'I feel like I've heard of Daecheong before, but maybe they're not a top-tier guild?'
Maybe it was just her, but it seemed like even the camera flashes were fewer than earlier.
'Feels familiar. Must've collaborated with someone I used to stan... But I can't recall at all.'
At that moment, another guild's members appeared.
"That's Haryeong."
"Still wild as ever."
"They hate anything constraining, so their outfits are always a mess..."
"They don't have uniforms?"
"Of course they do. Standard black ones. They just refuse to wear them."
"Their guild leader doesn't say anything?"
"They ignore anything that's not battle-related. It's a nest of troublemakers."
"Scary..."
"They're the ones involved in that journalist assault incident. Basically beasts."
As the reporters muttered, Choi Raon heard a familiar voice—
"—Hunter Sanarae! Please, just one look this way! Please, Hunter!!"
It was the woman she'd just parted with, the one who had wished her good luck.
And one of the men in the Haryeong group responded. He walked calmly amid the restless pack, standing out for his neat pace. Curious, Choi Raon followed him with her eyes—and was struck by his striking appearance.
'...Looks like a romance novel knight commander. So she's still into pretty boys...'
His long, straight golden hair fell almost to his tailbone, vivid in color. His face bore no expression, yet he didn't seem overbearing. His bearing and movements had an elegant air, yet everything about him was unreasonably gorgeous.
Perhaps recognizing his fan's desperate voice, the man turned toward the sound.
"Hm?"
Upon spotting her, he smiled radiantly—on that listless, pale face.
For a moment, even his pitch-black eyes seemed to shine. The smile was so bright that Choi Raon, caught off guard as she watched her friend's bias, flinched a little.
"Noona! We meet again?"
"Narae-yaaah...! You're so handsome, my Sanarae!!"
"Aw, I'm touched. Gonna get a nice shot of me?"
"You can count on me!!"
Hunter Sanarae, who had come right up to the barricade to charm his fan, gave a lazy wave and rejoined his group. His fellow hunters looked simultaneously fed up and used to it—clearly not the first time this had happened.
The reporters commented again.
"Hunter Sanarae still gives great fan service."
"I mean, if someone chases you out to Samcheok on a weekday morning, you'd probably feel obligated too."
"Even if he didn't, I hear he's easy to win over if you treat him sweetly..."
"Could be image management. Could be attention-seeking. Or maybe he just likes hearing people scream for him. That punk's fan service motivation is probably a mix of everything."
"Hunters really have it rough nowadays. Even that's part of the job."
"You're like twelve. Quit yapping about 'hunters these days' and fix your focus."
Listening in, Choi Raon mused to herself:
'So that's how he normally is...'
A pale, languid guy acting all cutesy—definitely the kind of impression her friend would fall for.
'But there's something... a little dangerous about him.'
He was neat and smiled well, yes, like a knight. But those dead, black fish-like eyes were eerie. His smile, foxlike and serpentine, curved into crescents that made her shiver a little.
He hadn't done anything wrong, but still... he didn't exactly seem sane.
"..."
'That's a rude thing to think about someone you've just met.'
'Focus on yourself, Raon. Mind your own business.'
And then—
"...Ah, ah! It's the Collector's Guild...!!"
Choi Raon lit up, hastily raising her camera. The familiar weight and grip snapped her mind into focus.
"Excuse me! I'm so sorry—coming through!"
"Hey, what the..."
"I'm really sorry! Please just let me squeeze past—just this once!!"
Some people were annoyed, but many understood. Their eyes seemed to say, Ah, that's her main bias. That understanding warmth nearly made Choi Raon burst into tears.
She barely made it to the barricade, got into position, and gasped in awe.
"Waaah...!"
Maybe it was because her favorite was in this group—but the Collector's Guild procession seemed more majestic than all the others combined.
Dressed in coordinated uniforms blending black and white, the hunters marched in line. At the very front walked a platinum-haired man.
He was her light and salt. The reason she had come all the way to dangerous Gangwon and waited with a nervous heart.
'Damn, the Collector's uniforms are on another level...'
She'd only ever seen him in a black cloak—but today, respecting the guild image, Hunter Sergio wore a sleek cloak in black and white. Beneath it, the custom-tailored Collector's suit fit him to perfection.
'Wow... wow. Did he just clock out from the Louvre or something?'
He looked like a living cultural treasure that needed to be preserved.
"...H-Hunter Sergio!! Sergio Hunter...!!"
Mustering her courage, she raised her voice—and he responded.
"Ah."
"!"
"Miss Choi Raon?"
"Gasp...!"
Hunter Sergio stepped right up to the barricade and looked at her. Her heart thudded violently as her favorite stood before her. Choi Raon clutched her mouth.
"I-I, um..."
"Did you come to see me? I'm grateful."
"C-could I take just one photo...?"
"Please, as you wish."
"Thank you...!"
By the time she came to her senses, Hunter Sergio was already walking away, waving gently.
"..."
"..."
The woman from before approached again and asked,
"You hit the jackpot?"
"...Yeah, I did."
"Me too."
"Yeah... I saw."
"This is why we stan."
"Totally worth taking a vacation day."
It was still morning, but it already felt like a fulfilling day.
***
"..."
A pink-haired woman gazed silently at Sergio.
"...."
"Yeongwon-ssi? Is something wrong?"
"No, just..."
Her name was Jeong Yeong-Won.
"I was just taking in the moment."
An acquaintance of Yoo Seong-Woon—and a gardener from the Guild Eunwol.
-x-X-x-
Gardeners, quite literally, tend to "gardens."
And the way each gardener nurtured their garden—varied entirely from one to the next.
Some would dedicate all their time to the garden.
Some would come by only when needed.
Some treated the garden like a dear friend or family member...
"..."
There were even gardeners who worshipped their gardens like a priest serving a god.
'...That must be the Eye of Origin Yoo Seong-Woon told me about...'
Among the hunters from various guilds gathered at the dungeon entrance, one pair of eyes was focused solely on "Sergio."
They belonged to Jeong Yeong-Won, a hunter from Eunwol—who was also a gardener.
A colleague nudged her and said,
"Yeong-Won, your eyes."
"Ah."
Jeong Yeong-Won adjusted her glasses.
"Are they normal now?"
"Yeah. They look like plain yellow again."
"Then earlier they were...?"
"Hmm. Crimson, maybe?"
"I see."
She gently touched the corner of her eye.
'That's the inconvenient part about being a gardener.'
Gardeners are intimately connected with their gardens—so much so that it sometimes changes the color of their hair or eyes.
Even Jeong Yeong-Won, who tended a tranquil spring field of blossoms, experienced this.
'It's not a garden that changes me often... Could it be because the Eye of Origin is nearby?'
Her gaze drifted again, prompting another question from her teammate.
"Why do you keep staring at Sergio Hunter?"
"...Ah, because he's handsome."
"...Well, you're not wrong."
"I was aware it was rude."
"He doesn't seem to mind, though..."
"Feels like he's used to people looking."
"If I looked like that, I'd probably be used to it too."
"It does seem natural for someone like him to attract attention."
As though he'd been created just to be seen.
Jeong Yeong-Won once again looked at "Sergio," standing among the Collector's Guild members.
"It's not just about looks."
Was it her nature as a gardener that made her keep staring?
'No, this... this is the normal human response.'
She clenched and unclenched her fist—subtle tension building.
'The Eye of Origin... among so many people...'
So little is known about the Origin.
So much remains undiscovered.
Its mystery is something humans are neither meant to pry into nor easily permitted to witness.
It's simply too vast.
It appears in too many forms, affects the world in too many ways.
Jeong Yeong-Won assumed "Sergio" was one such form.
'That's just one of the Origin's methods of influencing the world, I suppose.'
Yoo Seong-Woon had referred to "Sergio" as the Eye of Origin.
'...Then was that ideal appearance crafted to experience human life and collect data firsthand? So that goodwill would make data collection easier? But pure goodwill wouldn't be enough to gather comprehensive data on human behavior... Unless it's specifically data on how people respond to kindness itself...'
With no choice but to indulge her habit as a gardener, Jeong Yeong-Won turned to her team leader.
"Senior."
"Hm? What is it?"
"Would it be possible to push for me to be in the same team as that person?"
"...Just to be cautious—this isn't about romantic feelings, right? I won't cover for that."
"What a horrifying thing to suggest."
"Right, I should've known. No way our Jeong Yeong-Won would fall in love with a human. I got worried there for a sec."
Though she never publicly revealed it, gardeners rarely develop romantic or sexual feelings toward humans.
Her team leader nodded.
"I'll see what I can do. But isn't he a priest or something?"
"...Please memorize your intel properly. He's not a priest, he's a tamer."
"Oh, the vibe was just very priest-like. So he's not even a healer?"
"I'm not sure about that part. Information is limited... He might be a healer, possibly."
"Hmm. Then will they even let you join his team?"
"Since he primarily acts as a tamer, I think having a healer in his party wouldn't be an issue."
"Got it. I'll frame it that way when I make the request."
The leader grinned lazily.
"So? What part was so interesting to you?"
"..."
"Aw, come on. I know how you think."
"...It's just..."
As Jeong Yeong-Won turned to look at "Sergio" again, their eyes met.
"..."
Yes.
"..."
What beautiful eyes.
Under the veil of composure, the gardener glimpsed the very essence of Origin.
What looked like irises shone like divine radiance. The pupils, sunken deep, held an indescribable overlap of colors.
Ah. A human-shaped Origin.
'...Incredible.'
It went beyond beauty. That luminous brilliance made her mind reel.
Her heart pounded. She couldn't believe the version of herself reflected in those eyes. She felt she might forget her own identity. Overwhelmed by an otherworldly mystery, she could hardly breathe.
It was vast—unfathomably deep and immense.
'It's so... blissful.'
What is that being made of?
'Dizzy...'
A sweet fragrance reached her.
Like the flowers of her own garden.
No—sweeter still. A scent of honey and milk.
Cool and soft, like lilacs blooming in spring.
A fragrance flowing from destiny itself—cradling both life and death.
"..."
"...Yeong-Won?"
"..."
"Yeong-Won? Did you fall asleep?"
"No."
"Then why'd you stop mid-sentence?"
"We made eye contact for a moment."
Receiving the full attention of the Origin...It left her unable to think clearly.
"What were you asking just now?"
"I asked why you're showing so much interest."
"It's really nothing."
Her face was unreadable, but her fingers gripped the staff tightly.
"...I believe he is worthy of being observed."
An opportunity like this would not come again. Reverence for the Origin... Had stirred even a mere gardener.
***
"Garasani."
"Yes, please speak."
"If anyone starts to hate me, please let me know."
"Do you think someone hates you?"
"That one, with the cherry blossom-colored hair..."
"Ah."
Garasani glanced toward the Eunwol Guild and chuckled.
"I don't think that's hate in her eyes."
"Then why does she keep glaring?"
"Her gaze is sharp. Like a hawk's."
"It's very unsettling."
"Shall I lodge a formal complaint?"
"That won't be necessary..."
Gio could only come to one conclusion.
"Must be because I'm too handsome."
"Hahaha...! Ah yes, quite possibly."
Garasani laughed warmly, as if he'd just seen the world's most adorable puppy.
"Once we enter the dungeon, teams will be split. You won't have to worry. You didn't seem uncomfortable, so I didn't take action earlier..."
"I'm used to it, but that doesn't mean it's pleasant. No need to do anything about it though. I was just being needy because you're so reliable, Garasani."
"Ah, truly an honor. If you continue to depend on me, I couldn't ask for more. I believe we'll be in the same team post-entry."
Garasani glanced sideways at the Temple clergy, hosts of this raid.
"They value safety. And since it's rare for a curator from the Collector's Guild to join, they'll likely arrange the team the way we intended."
"By 'the way we intended,' do you mean the Guild's effort to accommodate me?"
"Exactly. People will think we're here to assist and monitor Sergio Hunter. The Temple will follow that narrative."
"Then I'm relieved. Just having one familiar face helps."
"Even if I'm assigned elsewhere, I'll ensure I remain by your side. If something unexpected happens, I'll take the necessary steps—so don't worry, Sergio Hunter."
"Thank you for your thoughtfulness."
Without acquaintances nearby, Sergio would quickly turn quiet—so he felt reassured.
'Yep. Life is all about connections.'
How fortunate to have become the Collector's portrait.
***
Indeed, Gio was placed in the same team as Garasani.
"I never thought I'd see you again like this. What a surprise."
"Is that so?"
"I mean it. I'm thrilled we're in the same team, young master."
"Young master?"
"Ah, slipped again. I'll press my hands together and beg for forgiveness, will that do?"
"Ha ha..."
Sanarae was also on the team.
"..."
"..."
Gio looked into his eyes silently, then smiled.
"...Adorable."
Before Sanarae could even respond, Gio returned to his gentle expression, as if gazing at a puppy too cute to exist.
"Of course I'll forgive you."
"Uh...?"
"You're smiling as you apologize—how could I ignore that?"
"Uh... Okay? I feel like I was just treated like something less than human..."
"Do you like to eat? You're awfully thin for a grown man. Can't have you collapsing."
"Whoa, don't squish me! Hey—whoa—wait! Sergio Hunter, why are you so strong?"
"This pitiful body of yours... all skin and bones... and you've dragged it all the way here?"
"I'm not that thin... Sergio Hunter? Are you even listening?"
"Looks like I have no choice but to fatten you up during this raid..."
"Please... give me a chance to retreat."
Barely escaping Gio's grip, Sanarae gasped.
"You trying to eat me or something? You... eat people?"
"From what I've heard, human meat doesn't taste very good."
"Let's not even ask how you know that—also, that doesn't reassure me."
"Don't worry. I'm against eating anything that tastes bad."
"Still not comforting!"
Sanarae actually backed off a step, rare for him, muttering under his breath,
"Weird... why do you remind me of my dead grandfather...?"
"I'm honored. Perhaps I'm as warm and reliable as your grandfather was?"
"No... It's something else... Something I can't quite name. But I will figure it out..."
Leaving the pensive Sanarae behind, another team member stepped forward.
It was Jeong Yeong-Won—the hunter who had stared at Sergio before dungeon entry.
"Nice to meet you, Sergio Hunter. We locked eyes earlier, didn't we?"
"Ah, yes. You're from Eunwol, right? I hope I'm not mistaken."
"You're correct. Thank you for recognizing me. I'm Jeong Yeong-Won."
With her soft, cream-pink hair and round glasses, she extended a hand with a serious face.
"Would you shake hands with me? Just once."
"...? Of course."
It felt... like more than a simple greeting. Curious about her unusual tone, he shook her hand lightly.
"...Excellent grip control."
"Really?"
"I thought it would hurt more."
"Do I look that rough?"
"No, not really..."
Nodding to herself, she added,
"Thank you for being considerate."
"...For what exactly?"
"My position is healer. I'll be in charge of healing the team."
"Ah, I see. I look forward to working with you."
So what exactly did I just get praised for...?
Getting complimented for a handshake left Sergio a bit bewildered inside—though he kept a straight face.
It felt like being praised for breathing.
"Um, then... may we also...?"
"? Yes, nice to meet you."
"Please shake my hand too."
"Sure, nice to meet you."
After greeting two more hunters from the Daecheong Guild, Sergio finally asked,
"So why is it just me that got handshakes from everyone?"
"..."
"..."
"...?"
Surprisingly, no one had a real answer.
"...Good question...?"
"Oh, this is delightful."
It looked like they had the perfect storm of a team.
And with an odd mix of exasperation and amusement, Sergio stepped into the A-Class dungeon: The Quadrupedal Underground Rainforest.
-x-X-x-
Gio wasn't particularly angry with Sanarae.
"Why should I be?"
"Hmm, I see."
Sanarae replied with a languid grin.
"Most people would be mad by now."
"I think that's understandable."
"You're tougher than I thought."
Contrary to his infamous reputation, Sanarae was surprisingly cooperative.
"Well, if you're not all emotional, wanna help me find a base first?"
"A base?"
Gio blinked at the term, prompting the curator Garasani, who stood beside him, to whisper,
"'Base' is slang for a temporary resting spot inside the dungeon. It's useful to secure a shelter or stronghold in advance, especially if the raid won't end within a day or two."
Garasani glanced around and added,
"The temperature and humidity are high, and there are many poisonous plants. We should find solid ground or, if that's not possible, clear a spot ourselves."
"My personal opinion? Might be faster to just make one. Can't tell where the other teams landed, but this area doesn't smell like dry soil... We'll need to walk a bit."
Sanarae sniffed the air as he scanned the surroundings.
"It's really humid here."
The thick, tightly-packed vegetation certainly wasn't helping. Breathing felt as hard as being trapped in a sauna.
"I heard it rains here periodically, the kind that drives people mad. Maybe it evaporates and makes it worse..."
"They also said the fake sun changes its position at random. We should prioritize building something to shield us from the rain."
As Sanarae and Jeong Yeong-Won discussed, one of the Daecheong Guild hunters turned to Gio.
"You're a tamer, right...? Could you maybe scout out a spot?"
But it was Jeong Yeong-Won who answered, not Gio.
"That's sacrilege."
"Excuse me?"
"You have committed sacrilege."
"Uh... wha...?"
The declaration was so grave that the Daecheong hunter briefly wondered if he'd committed a mortal sin, and Gio questioned if he might be the reincarnation of King Sejong.
Snapping out of it, Gio chuckled awkwardly.
"Yeong-Won, are you teasing me by calling me young master too?"
"I'm sorry, that wasn't my intent..."
"In a space with such poor visibility, it's only right for the tamer to act."
That's what he was brought for, after all.
"Then, if you'll excuse me for a moment."
Gio pulled on his hood and called out to his little companion, who was sprawled out comfortably, apparently enjoying the dungeon's high humidity.
"Honey."
"Kurrr."
"Oh."
Sanarae gasped even before Honey had fully emerged. When Gio turned to look, Sanarae was resting his chin on his hand, nodding—clearly impressed.
"So once your face reaches that level, even making sounds like 'Honey' doesn't sound cringe. That's wild."
"Thank you for admiring my face. I think it's a rather pleasing one myself."
His mother had lovingly sculpted his features from womb to newborn stage with utmost care.
"Turned out pretty well, don't you think?"
"Huh. That's a new response. Did you have work done?"
"No, it's all natural. A face shaped by fate."
"Yeah, guess you can't buy that kind of face. Sorry for the assumption."
Sanarae laughed, feigning sheepishness.
"When you said it was made, I figured it was artificial. You really do talk in a weird way, young master."
"Sorry for the confusion. Let's agree that no one is at fault—shared responsibility."
Gio reached out, and Honey plopped into his hand. At the sensation and weight, Gio smiled softly and murmured,
"...Have you gained weight?"
"Ggungk ggungk ggungk...!!"
"He can fly, believe it or not."
"GGUNG GGUNG GGUNG!!!"
"Honey, could you find us a place to settle down?"
He gently stroked Honey, who stopped bouncing.
"We need to set up shelter before that rain that hurts people starts falling."
"...Kurruk."
"Not too far, ideally. Can you manage that?"
"Kur."
With a quick flap, Honey zipped off between the trees. Despite its chubby appearance, the little creature flew shockingly fast, impressing the hunters.
One of the Daecheong Guild members said in awe,
"Amazing, Sergio Hunter. Your monster listens so well..."
"Well, I am a tamer."
"Even for a tamer, this level of bond is rare."
And it made sense—how many people had been killed or wounded by the time a tamer finally subdued a monster? No one wanted to get too friendly.
"Oh, that reminds me..."
Another guild member asked,
"What happened to the famous Anti-Cat?"
"Hm? That was Anti-Cat? It looked totally different in size."
"Yeah... I'm not sure myself."
"Was your cat really an Anti-Cat, Sergio Hunter?"
Gio nodded.
"If you're referring to the gemstone feline from Gem's Waterway, then yes."
"Wow, impressive. They rarely even approach humans..."
"She seemed sensitive to the unfamiliar environment, so I separated from her for a bit."
"So she's here in the dungeon with you. Do you use a cage?"
"Cage" referred to an item tamers used to carry monsters—usually designed as accessories for convenience.
Gio smiled and lifted a corner of his cloak.
"No, she's in here."
"Inside the cloak...?"
"Technically, inside the shadow."
"...Did Anti-Cats always have that ability?"
"I'm not sure. It just... happened."
"That's incredible."
The Daecheong hunter nodded, impressed.
"Anti-Cats are notorious for hating humans. Sounds like your monsters really trust you. Sticking close to you is probably best for them."
At that moment, Honey returned. The hunters were stunned at how fast the tiny creature came back.
"Kurrrrr!"
"Did you find us a home?"
"Kurung."
Honey placed something from its mouth onto Gio's hand.
"Oh, that's..."
"Soil."
Healer Jeong Yeong-Won stepped forward and touched it. The dirt crumbled gently at her white fingertips.
"Dry soil. And it's firm, too."
She looked at the honey-colored bird with awe.
"How did it find this in such a humid rainforest?"
"I'm not sure either, but I'm glad it found a good spot."
Gio smiled brightly.
"Right?"
He had no idea what Honey did, but it worked. That was enough.
***
"..."
"Kang Seodam, priest?"
"...Ah. Yes, Yoo Ji-Na. I'm listening."
"Is something wrong?"
"No, not really..."
He had just felt the Sun's divine presence from afar and flinched. It felt like the Sun God was firing off miracles for the smallest reasons.
Already tired from being dragged into this rainforest, Kang Seodam decided it was best not to comment.
***
When they arrived at the spot Honey had guided them to, Sanarae tilted his head.
"...?"
"Is something wrong?"
"Mm, no."
Sanarae sniffed the air.
"Smells like sunlight?"
"Maybe sunlight reaches even here."
"Hmm... no, more like... hmm..."
"Sanarae Hunter?"
Ignoring the Daecheong hunter, Sanarae turned to look at Sergio.
"..."
"Thank goodness. Looks like Honey found a good spot."
"...This was already here, right?"
"I don't know why you'd ask that, but what else would it be if not that?"
Garasani added,
"It's unlikely a place like this would just appear out of nowhere."
"There are no monster traces either, so I'm reassured."
Yeah, yeah.
'These two from the Collector's sure bounce off each other well...'
Sanarae swept his eyes across the space with his signature deadpan stare.
It was large enough to fit 50 people. A hollowed-out space inside a massive tree—larger than most around. Trees like this were common here, but none had such natural hollows.
'That means this was created... somehow.'
Yet there were no signs of tools, cuts, or burns. The earth was dry, compact. The cavity looked naturally aged, like it had formed over centuries.
Vines dangled across the entrance like a curtain, blocking outside humidity. It would also be great for hiding from monsters.
'But that strong scent of sunlight...'
And that smell...
"..."
It was the same as the scent from that little bird.
'...Even if that's true, it still doesn't explain how this place exists.'
You couldn't carve out something like this—not just by hacking and breaking. Sanarae could feel it—this space was full of life. Not something artificially made in a short time, but something grown.
"...Huh. I don't get it."
"What don't you get?"
"Like... what you actually are."
"Ah."
Sergio Hunter asked cheerfully.
"Would you like me to tell you?"
"Oh, really?"
"I'm actually a priest serving a Sun God from another dimension."
"...Huh?"
"And when I begged earnestly, the Sun bestowed this nice house upon me."
"..."
Sanarae's smile twisted a little.
"...Did I tease you too much? You mad? Hey, you know I meant no harm, right?"
"Ahaha, now that's a fun reaction. Was it too unbelievable?"
"If you hate being called young master that much, I'll stop..."
"Oh no, as I said—I'm not mad."
It sounded sincere enough that even Sanarae was impressed.
"It really does seem honest. That's rare."
"What's so surprising about that?"
"Well, I wasn't exactly speaking nicely."
"It's impressive that you're even aware of that."
"...You are teasing me now, aren't you?"
"Not at all."
Sergio wore a face of slight exasperation—but it was so perfectly idealized that Sanarae suddenly felt an unplaceable unease.
"I don't get why you'd think I'm angry."
"...Most people are when I talk to them. So I figured you would be too."
"Then that would be a case of overgeneralization."
"Is that what people normally say in this kind of situation?"
"Well, I was scared at first."
"..."
All the hunters, including Sanarae, turned to look at Sergio.
"Why are you all staring?"
"Sergio Hunter, you really don't have a knack for jokes... I guess no one's perfect."
"I truly was scared.
It felt like I was getting picked on by a scary guy on my first day."
"And now?"
"Well, now..."
Sergio looked at Sanarae.
"..."
"..."
Just as his eyes seemed to flash gold, he smiled.
"...Haha."
He reached out and ruffled Sanarae's hair roughly.
"Augh...!"
"Being honest helps with bonding, Sanarae Hunter."
"Wh—huh? What the...?"
"Enough chit-chat. Let's start unpacking, shall we?"
"Wait! What did you just do?!"
As the bewildered Sanarae blinked, Garasani approached.
"Our guild member seems to have caused you discomfort. Are you alright?"
"Huh? Oh, no, I'm fine. Is Sergio Hunter always like this?"
"He's rather assertive. I hope you understand."
"So that was his way of telling me to stop teasing. Seriously, you Collector folks sure talk fancy."
Sanarae muttered while trying to fix his hair.
"Is this... how people usually think?"
What a strange person.
'His thought process is so damn weird.'
Still, wouldn't hurt to keep him as a connection.
***
"..."
And five hours into the general exploration, Sanarae came to a realization.
"You're a candy-house witch."
"...Sorry? Did you say you're hungry?"
"So you really do plan to eat me."
"If you're rambling nonsense, your stomach must still be empty..."
"You're a tyrant. This is food torture."
Tilting his head over a bowl of cream stew, Sanarae muttered,
"How do you get this flavor from rainforest plants...?"
"I supplemented the flavor with bacon I brought."
"Why would you even bring bacon into a dungeon? How did you bring it?"
"Why wouldn't I bring delicious bacon?"
"Wow, that's wild. There are so many reasons not to, but somehow I feel like you wouldn't listen to any of them."
Sergio wasn't a hunter. He was clearly a witch from the gingerbread house.
"You're a hunter or a pig...?"
The other hunters flinched. Collapsed in a circle, they looked like defeated soldiers—wracked with guilt over overeating.
Eating light during a raid was an unspoken rule, but overwhelming flavor short-circuited their judgment.
"So that's why Hansel and Gretel were lured so easily."
"I'm delighted to hear such high praise for my cooking."
"Mm... not sure that was praise."
"Then what was it?"
"Like a death-row inmate's final words. A cry before getting eaten by a monster."
Sergio asked calmly,
"Who's dying?"
"A hunter becomes a pig, and a pig must die."
"Then why be a hunter?"
"Your way of thinking is so bizarre."
He really was a strange one.
"Grandma, one more bowl please."
"You eat so well—what a lovely sight."
"Okay, but if you ever build a candy house, give me a heads-up. I wanna come see."
"A candy house, hmm. I like that. I'll keep it in mind for future creative work."
And as he ladled another bowl, he looked so genuinely happy, Sanarae couldn't help but laugh.
-x-X-x-