The group suddenly bowed their heads and declared their allegiance, but their actions only served to disconcert Jeong In-Chang.

“What… quickly raise your heads…” Jeong In-Chang said as he gestured for them to get up with his hands.

“I want to live honestly. Not only as a Hunter but also as the father of a child,” said one of the representatives of the guild members who was bowing.

Another member then raised his head and said cautiously, "There is something that the Deputy Guild Master doesn’t know."

There were no passersby nearby. It may have been a coincidence or planned that way. Regardless, he continued, “We are murderers.”

"…"

Jeong In-Chang's face stiffened.

***

As promised, Yeo Seong-Gu had come to see Lee Jun-Kyeong the next day. They met at Lee Jun-Kyeong’s apartment to avoid having to meet outside. It may have been because they had gotten more comfortable with each other or because of the secretive conversation they were about to have, but Lee Jun-Kyeong welcomed him warmly and had prepared some tea.

"Hyung, do you like jujube tea?"

He sat down at the table holding a steaming cup, and across from him was Yeo Seong-Gu with an unreadable expression.

“...”

“...What?”

They had planned to talk today, but the look on the guild master’s face made him feel as though it would be challenging to begin the conversation.

Fortunately, Yeo Seong-Gu spoke up first.

“Did I end up harming you with my actions?”

Lee Jun-Kyeong...