The morning sun bathed the city in a warm, golden light, casting long shadows across the bustling streets. Hyun woke up early, feeling a sense of calm after the previous night’s dinner with Flora. He had enjoyed the break from the chaos, but today promised new challenges.
As he prepared for the day, Hyun’s thoughts wandered to Flora and the conversation they had shared. It was a rare moment of normalcy in his tumultuous life, and he appreciated the connection they had formed.
His phone buzzed, pulling him from his thoughts. He glanced at the screen and saw a message from Flora. The text read:
*“Good morning, Hyun. I hope you’re doing well. I was wondering if we could meet again today. I have something important to discuss with you. Let me know if you’re free.”*
Hyun considered the message for a moment before replying:
*“Good morning, Flora. I’m free today. What would you like to discuss?”*
He quickly received a response:
*“Great! I’ll meet you at the café we visited yesterday. See you soon.”*
**Back at the Café:**
Hyun arrived at the café a little earlier than the agreed time, taking a seat at a quiet table by the window. He sipped his coffee, waiting for Flora to arrive. The café was already starting to fill up with the morning crowd, but it maintained its cozy atmosphere.
A short while later, Flora walked in, her pink hair and cheerful demeanor standing out among the patrons. She spotted Hyun and made her way over, carrying a folder in her hand.
“Hyun, good to see you again,” Flora greeted him with a warm smile as she took her seat.
“Hi, Flora. What’s on your mind?” Hyun asked, curious about the reason for the meeting.
Flora set the folder on the table and looked at Hyun with a serious expression. “I wanted to discuss something important regarding the Tower Gate and its aftermath. We’ve been analyzing the data and reports from the raid.”
Hyun raised an eyebrow. “What did you find?”
**Discussing the Aftermath:**
Flora opened the folder and pulled out several documents and maps. “We’ve discovered some concerning patterns. It seems that the demonic forces we encountered in the tower are not isolated incidents. There are indications that the Tower Gates might be part of a larger, more dangerous plan.”
Hyun’s interest piqued. “A larger plan? What do you mean?”
Flora pointed to a map covered in red markings and notes. “These marks represent locations where similar gates have appeared or are predicted to appear. The pattern suggests a coordinated effort to increase the number and intensity of the gates.”
Hyun examined the map closely. “If this is true, then the Tower Gates are just the beginning. We could be facing a much larger threat.”
Flora nodded, her expression grave. “Exactly. We need to prepare for the possibility of more powerful and dangerous threats emerging. I believe that our recent victories have only been the start of a much larger battle.”
**A Surprising Offer:**
Flora took a deep breath, looking directly at Hyun. “This brings me to why I wanted to meet with you. Given your skills and recent performance, I’d like to offer you a position with the Executor Guild. We could use someone with your abilities to help us prepare for the coming challenges.”
Hyun looked surprised. “The Executor Guild? That’s a big offer. Why me?”
Flora’s eyes softened with sincerity. “I’ve seen what you’re capable of. Your strength and leadership during the raid were impressive. We need strong and capable individuals to help us navigate what’s coming, and I believe you would be a valuable asset to our team.”
Hyun pondered the offer. “I appreciate the offer, but I’m not sure if joining a guild is the right step for me. I’ve always worked alone.”
Flora’s expression grew earnest. “I understand your hesitation, but think about the potential benefits. Working with a guild could provide you with resources, support, and information that could be crucial in facing the challenges ahead. It’s also an opportunity to make a significant impact.”
Hyun considered her words, feeling the weight of the decision. “I’ll need some time to think about it. This isn’t a small decision.”
Flora smiled, understanding his need for time. “Of course. Take all the time you need. Just know that the offer is open, and we’d be glad to have you on board.”
**An Unexpected Encounter:**
As their conversation wrapped up, the café door opened, and a familiar face entered. Jin-Ho walked in, spotting Hyun and Flora at their table. His expression brightened when he saw them.
“Hey, Hyun! Flora!” Jin-Ho greeted them, waving as he approached.
Flora looked up, surprised but pleased to see Jin-Ho. “Jin-Ho, what a coincidence! What brings you here?”
Jin-Ho grinned. “I was just grabbing a coffee before heading to the guild. I didn’t expect to run into you two. Everything okay?”
Hyun nodded. “We were just discussing some important matters regarding the Tower Gates and the future.”
Jin-Ho raised an eyebrow. “Important matters? Sounds serious.”
Flora explained briefly, “We’ve discovered a pattern that suggests a larger threat involving the Tower Gates. We’re trying to prepare for what might come next.”
Jin-Ho’s expression grew serious. “That sounds intense. If you need any help or support, just let me know. I’m always ready to pitch in.”
Hyun appreciated Jin-Ho’s offer. “Thanks, Jin-Ho. We’ll definitely keep that in mind.”
**Parting Ways:**
As the conversation came to a close, Jin-Ho and Flora exchanged goodbyes, leaving Hyun to his thoughts. The offer from the Executor Guild weighed on his mind as he considered his next steps.
Flora stood up, preparing to leave. “I’ll let you get back to your day. Think about the offer, and let me know if you have any questions.”
Hyun nodded, standing as well. “I will. Thanks for the invitation and the discussion.”
As Flora walked out of the café, Hyun watched her go with a thoughtful expression. The path ahead was uncertain, and the decision to join a guild was a significant one.
With a final sip of his coffee, Hyun gathered his things and prepared to head out. The city outside was bustling with activity, and he felt a renewed sense of purpose. The challenges ahead were daunting, but he was ready to face them, whatever they might bring.