Hyun Woo walked through the village, his hunter’s instincts sharp. The villagers greeted him warmly, oblivious to the true reason for his visit. He stopped outside a small hut, his eyes narrowing at the sight of her—tending to an injured child, her hands gentle and steady.

“This is the monster I’m supposed to kill?” he muttered, watching her closely. She turned suddenly, her eyes meeting his through the open window. His jaw clenched as he stepped back into the shadows.

“Let’s see how long you can keep up this act,” he said, his voice barely audible.