— Everyday Life in the Hunter's World
Seonwoo opened his eyes to a thin morning light, sunlight streaming through the narrow window of his small apartment, reflecting off the cold concrete floor. The city of Injeong began to stir: the roar of vehicles, calls of street vendors, metallic clangs from Hunters at work on the streets. His thin body felt heavy, his hands trembling as if mocking him—a young man with the lowest Job, a beginner constantly overlooked. He walked the apartment corridors, drawing deep breaths, trying to calm the fear that haunted him daily.
Outside, the remnants of old Gates littered the central district. Traces of past battles and lingering Void energy served as reminders that great power always comes with great risk. The glass towers of elite Hunters reflected the morning light, a stark contrast to Seonwoo's modest presence. Yet inside him, a spark of curiosity burned—an urge to discover his own limits, even if his body resisted.
Suddenly, Hyunsoo, a more confident peer, tapped his shoulder. "Seonwoo, going to the southern Gate? They say a new monster appeared. Pretty troublesome."
Seonwoo lowered his head, swallowing his shame. "I… I'm weak. I'd only be a burden."
Hyunsoo stared at him, expression unreadable—slightly mocking, slightly concerned. "Sometimes the weak surprise you. At least you're still trying."
Amid preparations of elite Hunters, Rina, a female Hunter with a calm and sharp aura, passed by. "Seonwoo, don't die there," she quipped with a faint smile. Her eyes held hidden concern, understood only by those familiar with the harsh world of Hunters.
Seonwoo observed the others readying themselves. Weapons glowed with energy, courage radiating from every movement. He knew his body was weak, his Job low, yet something inside refused to give up. Fear mixed with curiosity propelled him forward, each step feeling like a dance over an abyss.
Approaching the southern Gate, violet energy pulsed in the air. The first monster appeared—a dark-scaled creature with glowing red eyes, Void aura radiating from its body. Its attacks were swift, forcing Hunters to focus completely. Seonwoo held his breath, trembling, but still moved. He attacked and dodged, learning from every movement, noting every possible opening.
Rina tapped his shoulder. "Remember, moving is already better than standing still."
Every step Seonwoo took was deliberate. Though the fight ended in defeat—sprawled on the ground, wounds marking his body—something new emerged: courage to face his own fear. From this defeat, a seed of determination was planted, a small spark destined to become a greater source of strength.
After the battle, they returned to the city. Seonwoo gazed at the Gate ruins, realizing the world waited for no one. Other Hunters resumed their activities, proving that even the failure of a weak young man did not stop the flow of life. Yet, inside him, something began to stir—a spark of curiosity and bravery that would lay the foundation for his long journey toward unimaginable power.
d within himself.