The top floor of Argus Guild's headquarters had no unnecessary luxury—just dark wooden panels, tall windows, and the quiet weight of authority.
Lee Jun sat across from a sharply dressed man in a black suit, his hair slicked back, posture perfect. His eyes were sharp—not cold, but honed like a blade sheathed with care.
Han Seo-jin, Guild Master of Argus.Mid-thirties, by appearance. Calm, calculating, and known more for his strategic mind than brute strength. A negotiator among hunters.
"So, you're the one Minho told me about," Seo-jin said smoothly, twirling a pen between his fingers. "Lee Jun, correct?"
Jun nodded. "I'm not affiliated with any guild, but I need a steady outlet to sell... rare materials."
Seo-jin nodded slightly and slid a document across the table.
"Exclusive agreement. No minimum quotas. We won't force you to deliver more than you can provide. But everything—especially Veilroot—goes through us."
Jun skimmed the contract, then looked up. "In exchange, I want equipment. For my combat units."
Seo-jin gave a faint smile and clapped twice. A staff member entered carrying a black case, opening it to reveal compact gear—leather vests, shoulder guards, soft boots, and utility belts, all sized for small creatures.
"Custom-made for goblin-sized units," Seo-jin said. "Lightweight, cut-resistant, and capable of channeling mana for minor shields. One initial batch. More if the supply proves consistent."
Jun examined the equipment. It was leagues above anything he'd scavenged or crafted before.
"Fair," he said. "But I also want my identity to remain private."
"Of course. You're not the only rare supplier who prefers to stay anonymous."Seo-jin set the pen down. "But know this—others are searching for Veilroot. If I find out you're selling elsewhere... the deal's off."
Jun nodded and signed. "As long as you hold your end of the deal, I won't sell to anyone else."
Hours later, Jun left the Argus Guild building with the black case on his back.The first alliance was formed.
But as his footsteps echoed down the quiet street, his mind was already racing:
Veilroot was only the beginning.His goblins would grow stronger.And the outside world...would soon come knocking.