In the aftermath of the battle, Jihoon and his team were escorted into the coalition's stronghold. The tension was palpable as coalition warriors exchanged wary glances with Jihoon's group. Despite their victory, mistrust still hung in the air.
Master Yun led them into a grand hall. Ornate tapestries of past martial glories adorned the walls, but the atmosphere was grim. Jihoon noted the subtle signs of fear among the coalition members—dark circles under their eyes, hands gripping weapons too tightly.
"Speak," Yun commanded, taking a seat at the head of the table. "You've shown us what magic can do, but that doesn't mean we're allies. Why are you here?"
Jihoon met Yun's gaze. "Because the Shadow Veil's corruption is a threat neither of us can face alone. You've seen what it does. That was just one artifact's influence. There are more out there, and they're growing stronger."
Yun frowned. "And you expect us to trust you? Magic is unnatural. It defies the principles of Murim."
Ryujin crossed his arms, leaning against the wall. "Unnatural or not, it saved your men today. Denying that won't keep you alive."
Yun glared at him but said nothing. Jihoon took a deep breath, his voice steady but firm. "This isn't about tradition or pride. It's about survival. The Shadow Veil's forces don't care about your martial code or my magic. They'll consume everything in their path."
A younger coalition leader, a woman named Lady Ha-eun, spoke up. "And what would you propose, magician? That we abandon our ways and follow yours?"
"No," Jihoon replied quickly. "I'm not asking you to give up your traditions. I'm asking you to let magic and martial arts work together. If we combine our strengths, we have a chance to destroy the Shadow Veil before it destroys us."
Silence filled the hall as the coalition leaders exchanged uncertain glances. Finally, Yun sighed. "You make a compelling argument, but the coalition is vast. Convincing a handful of us won't be enough."
"Then let us prove ourselves," Jihoon said. "Give us the resources to track down the next artifact. Fight with us when the time comes. If we succeed, you'll see the value of what we offer."
Yun hesitated but finally nodded. "Very well. You'll have our support—for now. But one failure, and this alliance ends."
Jihoon bowed his head. "That's all I ask."