The room Suho was led to by the staff was the best one in Damhwa.

However, contrary to his expectation of only seeing Nexus Guild Leader Baedonghyuk and Hunter Association President Jang Kyunghwan, there were two unexpected figures present as well: Vice President Park Gyumin and Special Division Chief Pi Sungyeol.

‘It makes sense for Park Gyumin to be here since he follows Jang Kyunghwan like a shadow, but why is Pi Sungyeol here?’

What was their agenda?

One thing was clear, though—White auras, symbolizing positive energy, radiated strongly from the group.

As Suho entered, they welcomed him warmly.

“Oh, here comes our Hunter.”

“Haha, we’ve been waiting for you, Hunter Ahn.”

In the place of honor sat Jang Kyunghwan, with Park Gyumin, the Vice President, and Baedonghyuk seated on either side of him. As Suho approached, Baedonghyuk naturally shifted to allow Suho to sit closer to Jang Kyunghwan.

Jang Kyunghwan, who had already had a few drinks, seemed to be in a good mood as food started being served for Suho.

With the table set, Jang Kyunghwan raised a bottle and spoke.

“First, let me congratulate you. I heard you conquered that infamous Sealed Gate in under five minutes? Haha, truly, Hunter Ahn Suho is a national treasure and the future of our country. Now, let’s all raise a toast in honor of Hunter Ahn Suho’s achievement!”

“Haha, yes, let’s do it!”

“It’s a special day, so Hunter Ahn, why don’t you give us a toast? After all, you’re the guest of honor today.”

At Jang Kyunghwan’s suggestion, Suho smiled lightly and didn’t refuse.

“Then I’ll suggest something simple. When I say ‘to everyone,’ let’s all respond with ‘cheers.’”

“Haha, sounds great!”

“To everyone!”

“Cheers!”

*Clink!*

After the toast, the atmosphere quickly grew more comfortable.

Eventually, after some idle chatter, Jang Kyunghwan began to address the real reason for inviting Baedonghyuk.

“By the way, I heard from Hunter Ahn that you didn’t impose any fixed contract term, Baedonghyuk. That’s quite impressive.”

“Oh, yes. Typically, contracts are made on a minimum of three-year terms, but Hunter Ahn is an exceptional person. He’s destined to do great things for the country, so the last thing I’d want to do is hold him back with my own personal interests.”

At that, Jang Kyunghwan smiled approvingly.

“Haha, as expected, Guild Leader Baedonghyuk’s foresight aligns closely with our own at the Korean Hunter Association. Isn’t that right, Hunter Ahn?”

“Yes, thanks to Guild Leader Baedonghyuk’s consideration, I’ve been able to learn a lot about the industry in a more comfortable environment. I believe that this experience will enable me to contribute even more if I join the Hunter Association in the future.”

Joining the Hunter Association to accomplish more—that was Jang Kyunghwan’s ultimate hope for Suho. After all, Suho’s achievements would reflect on his own.

That was why he’d arranged this meeting.

Taking a cue, Pi Sungyeol chimed in eagerly.

“I, too, am thrilled at the thought of Hunter Ahn joining our Association. An outstanding talent like him would not only elevate the Association but also strengthen the country’s safety and prestige.”

“Haha, indeed. With that in mind, the President here has arranged a special certificate of appreciation for Hunter Ahn.”

A special certificate of appreciation.

Suho couldn’t help but smile inwardly at that.

A certificate signed by the Association President was practically a ticket guaranteeing success in the upcoming 5th-grade Hunter recruitment exams.

Following Park Gyumin’s words, Jang Kyunghwan added.

“Haha, truth be told, we should have given it to you after the Nameless Sword Gate. I never expected you to clear another Sealed Gate so soon. I was truly shocked when I heard about your conquest of the Swamp of Despair.”

“It was nothing. Considering the rarity of Sealed Gate passes, I was simply grateful for the opportunity and wanted to make the most of it.”

“Haha, such humility from a young man!”

“Isn’t that the truth?”

Jang Kyunghwan praised him, and Park Gyumin eagerly chimed in.

A warm atmosphere prevailed.

Taking a sip of his drink, Pi Sungyeol then asked in a relaxed tone.

“So, could you tell us how you managed to conquer the Swamp of Despair? I’m very curious as a fellow Awakened.”

“Oh, yes. I’m not an Awakened myself, but hearing about a place with hundreds of casualties… how was it, Hunter Ahn?”

Pi Sungyeol’s question.

Suho knew.

This was the start of Pi Sungyeol’s interrogation method.

‘Pi Sungyeol’s specialty is to ask seemingly casual questions to extract information he wants.’

In that sense, it was true that no one knew much about the interior of the Swamp of Despair.

According to Suho’s memory, not even Pi Sungyeol knew about the interior before the ‘Seeker’ had cleared it.

Suho decided to mix truth with fiction.

“The Swamp of Despair is nothing more than a single staircase without any monsters.”

He mentioned the ‘Stairway of Despair.’

The best lies always contain an element of truth.

Suho elaborated on the Stairway of Despair and its powers before weaving in some alternative strategies.

“…By assessing the dangers of the first step, I thought of using tools rather than stepping on it directly. And it worked.”

Suho explained that he had used his spear to ascend the stairs, allowing him to clear the gate in record time.

Everyone nodded, impressed by his explanation.

It sounded convincing.

Pi Sungyeol, especially, seemed impressed.

“Hmm… most Hunters would try to rely on mental immunity skills or items, but you used a much simpler method?”

“I just thought of it simply. And I got a bit lucky.”

“Indeed, that’s what makes you exceptional, Hunter Ahn. By the way… what level are you currently at? I heard you’re not even at level 100 yet?”

“Yes, I’m currently level 53.”

“Level 53! Incredible. Then you must have developed a unique trait as well?”

Pi Sungyeol’s eyes sparkled with excitement, and the White aura grew stronger.

Of course.

Anticipation is a positive emotion.

‘I see, so that’s what he’s after.’

It made sense in retrospect.

While Suho’s primary choice for department was Gate Management, Pi Sungyeol had every intention of recruiting him eventually.

‘A capable ‘hound’ is always valuable to a handler with a blade.’

In that sense, the first thing he would want to verify was the hound’s trait.

Information on levels, main skills, and class could be found with a bit of research, but traits were only revealed if the individual chose to disclose them.

But Suho had no intention of revealing his traits, such as New Blood, Dragon Blood, Vampire Blood, Pocket Dimension House, or Guiyoung Spear.

Suho replied.

“My trait is the Path of the Sword. Although I’m a healer, I tend to rely on swordsmanship, so I developed the Path of the Sword.”

“The Path of the Sword… a rather unusual trait for a healer.”

Pi Sungyeol wore a curious expression.

But Suho could see it.

The subtle hint of disappointment in Pi Sungyeol’s aura as the White aura dimmed.

‘As expected.’

Suho understood Pi Sungyeol’s reaction.

The Special Division housed many hunters with rare traits.

That’s why it annoyed him.

To be regarded merely as a ‘hound.’

He knew this, but disrespect was never easy to stomach.

And indeed, Pi Sungyeol thought to himself.

‘Well, that’s fine. The Path of the Sword is typically a dealer’s trait, but with a healer, it could mean he’s a hybrid.’

Perhaps that’s why?

Pi Sungyeol chose to see it positively.

After all, Suho was producing results, regardless of his makeup.

With that thought, the White aura around Pi Sungyeol brightened again.

At that moment, Baedonghyuk spoke up.

“I didn’t know you had the Path of the Sword as your trait. It certainly is an interesting combination.”

“Haha, while I mainly use sword skills, I don’t intend to neglect my healing skills. I’m planning to grow further in the healer class for the time being, and any support from you, Guild Leader, would be greatly appreciated. As you know, Hunter lifespans are short.”

Baedonghyuk offered a somewhat bitter smile.

“Of course. I’m well aware that the higher Hunters climb, the greater their mortality rate. As a guild leader, I understand that better than anyone. It’s truly concerning. While I’m thrilled to have someone as talented as Hunter Ahn Suho with us, it pains me to think of the dangers he will have to face.”

He sounded genuinely troubled.

The White aura dimmed as a sign of his sincerity.

Then, as he munched on some appetizers, Jang Kyunghwan added.

“Yes, it’s widely known that Hunters have a high mortality rate. I hope Guild Leader Baedonghyuk will continue to support him, as guilds are often more adept than the Association at nurturing Hunters.”

“Haha, certainly. I’ll do my best. I’m always ready to help with any other tasks the

 Association may have.”

And he meant it.

After all, the reason Baedonghyuk attended this meeting was to maximize Nexus’s relationship with the Association through Suho.

This was the best course for Nexus, which usually received little attention from the Association.

‘A strong guild can accomplish so much more.’

Satisfied with Baedonghyuk’s response, Jang Kyunghwan smiled.

At that moment, Park Gyumin, who had been waiting for a chance to interject, seized the moment.

“As expected of Guild Leader Baedonghyuk. I’ll do my best to act as the bridge and communication channel between the Association and Nexus so that our country can become safer and more reputable. Now, let me pour us another drink.”

Typical Park Gyumin.

Attending a meeting just to make himself known and grab any benefits.

Suho recognized this trait from his previous life and intended to make the most of it.

Accepting Park Gyumin’s glass with a smile, Suho replied.

“I’ll be counting on you, Vice President Park.”

“Haha, of course, of course. Hunter Ahn, don’t hesitate to reach out if you need any assistance, regardless of rank.”

Pi Sungyeol, seated next to Park Gyumin, also raised his glass with a smile.

“And don’t forget me. My contact is always open. Since I’m a field agent, I can help with the smaller issues.”

“With everyone here offering their support, I feel very reassured. I’ll continue to clear not only the Sealed Gates but every Gate in Korea for the sake of the nation.”

“That’s the spirit of a young Hunter. Such ambition!”

“Haha! Indeed!”

Laughter filled the air, accompanied by the glowing White aura of mutual ambition.

Each of them had laid their intentions bare.

With their mutual goals understood, all that remained was for each to secure their interests.

As the evening reached its peak and the gathering finally ended, Suho’s eyes gleamed.

What he truly intended to achieve from this meeting was just about to begin.