Midnight Meeting

Sijun, Joon Woo, and Dr. Kim arrived at the old clock tower, the moon casting an eerie glow over the ruins. The rival faction, led by the young woman, Scar, awaited them.

Scar's gaze locked onto Joon Woo. "You're the one they call Mammoth. We've heard a lot about you."

Joon Woo's expression remained neutral. "What do you want?"

Scar smiled. "We have information about the Echoes. And the Revival Chamber."

Dr. Kim's eyes widened. "What kind of information?"

Scar leaned in. "We know where to find the remaining Echoes. But it won't be easy. You'll have to navigate the Dead Zone."

Sijun's heart skipped a beat. The Dead Zone was notorious for its high monster density and treacherous terrain.

Joon Woo's eyes narrowed. "What's in it for you?"

Scar's smile grew wider. "We want a share of the Revival Chamber's resources. And a guarantee of safety for our faction."

Dr. Kim hesitated. "I'm not sure we can promise that."

Scar's gaze turned cold. "Then we'll just have to take it by force."

Sijun stepped forward. "Wait. Let's hear them out. We can work together."

Joon Woo's gaze locked onto Sijun's. "You trust them?"

Sijun nodded. "We need all the help we can get."

QUEST UPDATE:

_New Alliance: Rival Faction_

_Reward: 800 EXP, increased trust with Joon Woo (40%)_

_Humanity +15%_

As they formed the uneasy alliance, Sijun realized that Scar's faction had its own agenda. What secrets were they hiding?