I was Kicked Out of the Hunter’s Guild

There were three clients in front of us.

The rough details of each person and the items they desired from this art exhibition were outlined.

“Still, this feels a little different from what I expected. Generally, when I think of art, I naturally picture paintings and sculptures.”

“The scope of art is limitless. If a human being expresses something, it can be considered art in itself.”

In fact, the requests listed before me gave off an unusual impression in many ways.

The first client wanted a vase.

He had specified his purpose and even attached an image—a vase crafted by an Indian artisan, which looked quite crude.

At first glance, it seemed ordinary but somewhat charming. What stood out, however, was the fact that this client worked as an executive at a famous oil conglomerate in the Middle East.

Considering his prestigious position, one would expect a preference for something extravagant. Yet, his surprisingly simple taste could be seen as a unique characteristic.

The second client was even more unusual, starting with the item they wished to purchase.

Although it resembled a statue, it was by no means an ordinary one.

It wasn’t merely a representation of a person or object—it represented something imaginary.

This client wanted a 2D character brought into 3D form.

In other words, a figure.

I found myself wondering what kind of figure it might be. Since this also falls under formative art, there was no reason it couldn’t be considered a work of art.

Moreover, this wasn’t just any figure—it was a special limited edition, a one-of-a-kind piece in the world.

Specifically, a figure of a certain red-armpit shaman character.

Moreover, what was truly amusing was the fact that the person who wanted this figure was the president of a global conglomerate well-known even among Koreans.

To be honest, I couldn’t help but feel a strange sense of familiarity at the thought that someone like him secretly enjoyed games or animations.

And then, there was the third and final client…

This person’s case felt unique in a slightly different way compared to the previous two.

First of all, the client did not clearly reveal their identity.

However, it was known that he was the chairman of a multinational company called Laie.

The only information provided was that he wanted a particular instrument expected to be showcased at this art exhibition.

Of course, this request was also related to art—specifically, the art of music.

Unlike the previous two, it felt refreshing because it involved auditory art rather than visual or sculptural art.

While reviewing these requests, we found ourselves contemplating which one to choose.

“Honestly, if we’re talking about pure entertainment, I think number two would be the most interesting.”

“If I had to share my preference, I’d pick number one. I find the modesty of it quite appealing.”

“I like the third client the most. Unlike the others, he seems to have a true appreciation for art. Above all, Mon pays, la France—my country, France. Since I’m returning home after a long time, I’d love to work for someone who truly understands art.”

Our opinions differed, each of us leaning toward a different choice based on personal taste.

The conditions were more or less similar, and the locations were all satisfactory. From my perspective, it didn’t really matter who we chose.

However, it seemed the other two felt the same. They glanced at each other for a while, neither able to assert their opinion strongly.

At that moment…

“…The third one.”

“…Huh?”

Kwonsoon, who had been silent all this time, finally spoke. The three of us exchanged slightly teasing looks.

“I like the third option. Let’s go with the third one.”

“Uh… really? You want to do that?”

With her clear expression of preference, we naturally started to agree.

Since the vote had been split 1:1:1, it was only natural that the decision would come down to Kwonsoon’s choice, forming the majority.

And so, we finally decided to take on the third request.

Right after that, Iare immediately contacted the client and informed them of our acceptance.

About three hours later…

A reply came through the company account.

It was a message expressing gratitude for accepting the request, along with details about the upcoming schedule.

“So… are we heading to France now?”

“Yes. First, we’ll have to meet the client in person and proceed with the contract. It’ll most likely involve some sort of interview.”

“An interview, huh? When and where is it supposed to be?”

“Well, the time is 8 p.m., three days from now. And the location is…”

At that moment, Iare’s expression shifted slightly, showing a hint of embarrassment.

As soon as I glanced at the screen to check the so-called interview location, my face mirrored her puzzled expression.

“Jinhyun… this place, it couldn’t be…”

“No way… but it definitely looks like it, doesn’t it?”

If this was a coincidence, it was quite a strange one.

As we openly began to exude a strange atmosphere, the other two also started examining the contents on the screen, their expressions turning suspicious.

“Wait… this place… isn’t it that place?”

“I think I recognize it. I’ve been there a few times before. Isn’t that… where Iare’s sister works?”

The interview location displayed on the screen—

Coincidentally, it was the café run by Sooyoung noona.

A café located in Sangdang-gu.

Of all the places, the fact that this was chosen as the interview location made me seriously wonder if this was just an incredible coincidence.

“Still… this client seems quite unusual. Don’t interviews like this usually take place at a private office or company building?”

“Yes… that’s true… but…”

Iare responded to my words with a slightly odd expression.

It seemed she was just as puzzled as I was, given that the meeting place turned out to be my sister’s café.

“Well, anyway… since they asked us to come there, we should head over first. Given the location, Iare and I will go together.”

“Yes, I’ll go with you.”

“Don’t just show up unprepared. Make sure you’re ready before you go.”

***

Three days later

As expected, when we arrived at the so-called interview location, we sat down with a mix of anticipation and slight awkwardness.

“So… this client really chose this place for the interview, right?”

“Seems like it. Did you hear anything else?”

“No, nothing special. But, as you can see, there are fewer customers than usual for a Saturday afternoon.”

Just as my sister mentioned, the café was unusually quiet today.

At the moment, the only people here were me, Iare, and the owner—Sooyoung noona.

As for Ran, she had gone upstairs to the second floor to sleep, so there were really only three of us around.

‘No, it’s not just the café… there are too few people on the street as well…’

There was still a little time left before the interview. Yet, despite the calm, I couldn’t shake off my growing sense of unease.

‘No matter how much I think about it, something doesn’t add up. This ominous feeling just won’t go away.’

Of course, I couldn’t say the probability was zero, but…

On this vast earth, of all places—

The fact that the client chose this café, the only place connected to someone we personally knew, and not anywhere else, felt like too much of a coincidence.

It was hard not to feel suspicious.

And based on this suspicion and the current circumstances, I started considering all the possible developments that might unfold.

Based on my suspicions and the current situation, I began to consider the possible developments that might unfold.

‘The mission we’re about to undertake is a security mission. Our job is to protect the designated target unconditionally—no matter where, when, or who we’re up against. And… there’s a chance that this so-called interview is actually a way for the client to test whether we’re fit for the task. If that’s the case…!’

Just as that thought crossed my mind, my gaze instinctively shifted toward the clock hanging on the wall.

There were 15 minutes left until 8:00 p.m.

But… regardless of the time, I immediately turned to Iare and spoke with a serious tone.

“Are, stay on high alert—right now.”

“Huh? What do you mean…?”

“I’m speaking with the authority of the commander. Do it immediately.”

“Ah… yes.”

Hearing the clarity and urgency in my voice, Iare responded with a nod, though her face still showed confusion.

Nevertheless, following my order, she reached into her jacket and pulled out the suppression rod—a spare weapon she had been carrying for emergencies.

And at that moment…