The sound of clashing weapons and goblin screeches echoed through the thinning fog. Jun's trained goblins, now armed and battle-hardened, fought fiercely to defend their land. From beyond the mist, a tall and muscular silhouette slowly emerged—much larger than a normal goblin, with aged green skin and thick leather armor covering most of his body.
Jun stood at the front of the cabin, his breathing heavy, eyes locked on the approaching figure.
"Godon, hold your position. Don't move," Jun ordered firmly.
Godon stood by his side, gripping a spear tightly. His eyes narrowed as he observed the large creature, analyzing its movements. But there was no recognition in his gaze—this was not someone he had ever met before.
The figure finally stepped fully out of the fog.
A massive goblin, nearly two meters tall, carrying a double-headed axe. Scars crisscrossed his chest, and his eyes glowed a menacing red. Behind him crouched several smaller goblins, bowing low with clear respect. It was obvious—this was their leader.
"My name... Gho'lran," the goblin growled in broken human language. "This land… ours. Surrender, or you… all die."
Jun didn't flinch. His grip tightened on his wooden spear. "Then come and take it."
The battle erupted.
Godon and the elite goblin guards charged, their formation tight and coordinated. They fought in sync, covering each other's blind spots. Jun joined the fray from the rear, hurling spears and shouting commands.
Though outnumbered, Jun's goblins demonstrated discipline and teamwork. But Gho'lran's strength was overwhelming. With a single swing of his axe, he sent goblins flying through the air.
Jun quickly realized—this was no ordinary opponent. Gho'lran's presence and power rivaled that of a Rank C Hunter.
The clash dragged on, blood staining the soil, screams filling the night. Yet Jun refused to back down. This was the land he and his goblins had built together—and he would not let anyone take it away.
As the night deepened, the fog began to thicken again. Gho'lran slowly withdrew, his deep laughter echoing behind him.
"This is not over, human. We will return."
Jun stood silently, breath ragged. Several of his goblins were injured, two had fallen—but they had survived.
That night marked the beginning of a greater war—and a sign that Goblin's Grove had drawn the attention of dangerous forces.