Lee Seong-jun followed Vice President Ko Tae-hyun into the office, the morning light spilling across the polished floor. Ko Tae-hyun gestured toward a sofa, inviting him to sit. Lee Seong-jun obeyed silently, noting the commanding presence of the man across from him. A week earlier, at the Frenzy Gate, he had barely registered this aura, weakened and distracted. Now, Ko Tae-hyun radiated a sharp, almost tangible energy, precise and intense, like a peak-level skill.
Lee Seong-jun's mind scanned the aura, comparing it to unmanned combat techniques. Earth Hunters, he realized, were far more dangerous than rumored. Every encounter demanded full attention, whether with monsters or humans, no matter their rank. The energy flowing from Ko Tae-hyun reminded him to stay cautious, even in ordinary conversations.
Ko Tae-hyun's words broke the momentary silence. He offered green tea, prepared with careful efficiency by Secretary Kim Min-hyeok. The aroma and warmth filled the space, a subtle calm before the formalities began. He acknowledged the gesture with a quiet nod, sipping slowly, while Ko Tae-hyun formally congratulated him on reaching B-rank. It was a title he had anticipated, yet the acknowledgment carried weight—his progress recognized officially by the Hunter Association.
Contracts and compensation followed. Lee Seong-jun learned he would receive the highest B-rank benefits: a signing bonus of 20 billion won and an annual salary of 2 billion won. Jo Kang-hyun placed the official contract before him. The document required no adjustments, and Lee Seong-jun approved it with a measured glance. An additional 15 billion won would be deposited immediately, reflecting the association's serious investment in the returning hunter.
Then came the true gift, the subtle genius of Ko Tae-hyun's planning. From Jo Kang-hyun's hand came a ring, delicate yet potent, imbued with subspace functionality crafted by the master dwarf Childre. Inside, a perfectly maintained space of roughly 33 square meters awaited. Ko Tae-hyun explained the limitations of gifting through a government-funded organization, and how lending the ring for a year, renewable at will, circumvented bureaucracy.
Lee Seong-jun's mind raced. The subspace ring could carry immense byproducts, provide nutrient reserves during emergencies like Frenzy Gate expeditions, and offer a perfect vacuum for safe storage. It was freedom, utility, and safety, all in one artifact. The loan was essentially unlimited, a calculated gift to secure trust and favor without triggering political complications. Gratitude and strategy intertwined, a silent pact forged in gold and magic.
Even Secretary Kim Min-hyeok received recognition—a B-rank promotion reward in the form of a prestigious apartment contract. Lee Seong-jun appreciated the thoughtfulness; family comfort mattered to him, and the association's understanding of his priorities impressed him.
Finally, the long-awaited confirmation arrived: the special management team for Lee Seong-jun would be officially established. Jo Kang-hyun felt the weight of opportunity settle on his shoulders. This was his chance to consolidate influence within the association, to prove loyalty and skill. His voice rang out with fervent determination, promising unwavering dedication to Lee Seong-jun.
In that quiet office, surrounded by gifts, authority, and careful planning, the foundations of a new era were laid. Favor, trust, and strategic generosity secured allies, prepared for the challenges ahead. Lee Seong-jun's return was no longer a mere homecoming—it was the start of an unstoppable ascent, a careful orchestration of power, influence, and unparalleled growth.