The Time-Limited Leader Makes the Raid a Success - Chapter 91



Only Noblemtl

Episode 92

92. One person is enough.

The garden, though artificial and densely beautiful, was quiet. If it weren’t for the sound of water dripping from the bamboo troughs that would lean when full and hit the basin, you’d almost think it was an uninhabited place.

What broke the silence was an angry voice coming through the receiver.

-Lord Yoshimura.

“Chairman Han.”

-There is no trust between us, but I think we agreed to see less bloodshed.

“That’s why you’re not touching Joo Se-ah, whom you cherish.”

-You have to say it straight. You can’t touch that guy.

Yoshimura expressed his displeasure by coughing up phlegm.

Han Byeong-gu didn’t stop there and continued to pressure him.

-The guys who are in here now. Whose division are they?

“Those guys coming in?”

-Assassination squad! Don’t act foolishly. I already found out and contacted you.

“An assassination squad? I’ve never heard of one.”

Han Byeong-gu was silent for a moment.

Yoshimura was a former comrade who had now become an old enemy, but he was not shy.

If he had wanted to attack me coolly, he would have attacked me. He was not the type to hide his true feelings and plot a plot.

So, I thought carefully about contacting one of my former colleagues from the Japan Guild Union. He was someone I could communicate with.

‘Is this the dictatorship of another clan that Yoshimura doesn’t know about? Or is it his acting skills?’

Han Byung-gu decided to back off at this point. The purpose of the phone call had already been achieved. He had warned Yoshimura, who was influential in the Union, so something was bound to change. The next step was to watch the movement and decide.

-I have one last request for you. Please don’t forget the tragedy of the Battle of Guryongneung.

Han Byeong-gu hung up the phone after saying just those words.

Yoshimura couldn’t put the receiver down.

‘Guryongneung… … .’

The Nine Dragons was one of the biggest battlegrounds during the Great War.

The Hunters’ Tomb, where nine dragons coil around.

Although it ultimately brought glory to the battle, the secret behind the battle was also the shame of the old generation of hunters who are still alive today.

When Han Byung-goo mentioned this battle, it was like he was mentioning the Maginot Line. It was not meant to reveal the corruption, but to remind us of the results of that corruption.

“If Chairman Han mentioned Guryongneung, it means he’s really angry… Phew, even as I get older, I can’t seem to stay away from this damn incident.”

Yoshimura, who had been muttering alone, clapped his hands. The sliding door opened and the man on his knees lowered his head.

“Get ready to go to the union. I’m going to have to go out for the first time in a while.”

* * *

After finishing the call with Yoshimura, Han Byeong-gu visited Bukpocheon with Aila and her group.

It was because of the contract between the Iron Will Guild and the World Hunters’ Federation.

Originally, it was going to be a gradual process that would take time, but since Bukpocheon is scheduled to open at the end of December, we decided to resolve it quickly while there was still no attention on it.

Han Byeong-gu attended as a mediator for this contract, collecting opinions from both sides and ensuring that it was properly observed.

“We’ve already discussed the details, so what’s there to say at length? Let’s just sign and be done with it.”

Han Byeong-gu urged the work on. Joo Se-ah, who was checking the contract, asked in passing.

“Aren’t you going to see your granddaughter?”

“This guy is the real deal!”

“Why are you angry?”

“I can tell you’re doing this on purpose, you punk! That’s right, it’s the bean curds of our family! Okay?”

“No, that’s not wrong. Why are you suddenly criticizing yourself? It’s so embarrassing.”

“Oh my! I’m going crazy. What do I think is pretty about this guy… .”

“It’s a bit embarrassing for me to say this myself, but I’m naturally pretty.”

Kang Moo-hyuk spoke to Ayla, not caring about the two people who bickered as if they were enemies whenever they met.

“There’s something a little different. The part about the breeders here. They’re going to be dispatched directly by the federation, not from the North American ranch?”

“Yes. Although it is confidential, the Federation also raises tamed monsters. In fact, their know-how, breeding facilities, and technology are more advanced than those of other ranches.”

Alex, who was well-versed in the federation’s affairs, answered instead.

Kang Moo-hyuk was puzzled by the changed conditions.

“The additional conditions are quite generous. You said before that the Federation was reluctant to step forward.”

“Of course, we have prepared a separate contract with the same conditions as before. If you find it burdensome, you can return it to its original state.”

“If the conditions are different from before, it means you want something more.”

“Nothing much. Just take care of a few headaches for the Federation.”

Kang Moo-hyuk thought deeply.

‘They only have words, but the power of the World Tier Guilds is no less than that of the Federation, and they’re asking me for a favor?’

It smelled fishy.

When Kang Mu-hyeok showed signs of doubt, Aila opened her mouth.

“Three tests. Our alliance doesn’t take anyone’s hand. Only those who pass these tests are given the opportunity to join.”

“If we connect with the North American guilds, business will become easier in many ways. However, their interference will also become more severe. Maximizing profits is their primary task. However, the Federation does not work with Iron Will expecting anything in return. They have enough money, power, and strength, so there is no need to reach out to a C-class guild in Korea.”

Alex quickly added.

Kang Mu-hyeok asked back.

“Isn’t this contract being carried out because there’s something to be gained from that C-class guild?”

“World peace is a benefit to all of humanity. But Iron Will doesn’t have to sacrifice himself for the greater good. Iron Will gets what he can, and we pursue peace. Isn’t that a win-win?”

Even though he had listed many good stories, Kang Moo-hyuk was convinced and did not give in.

‘I think we could have gotten enough cooperation under the existing contract, but seeing that they added stronger contract conditions… there must be something there.’

Kang Moo-hyuk knew it but had no choice but to pretend not to know. According to what was written in the contract, there was no loss at all. No, it was a huge gain.

There may be procedural issues with foreign capital investing in domestic guilds, but financial support and loans from the federation have become possible. Above all, the fact that the federation’s systems and infrastructure can be shared is attractive.

‘But why am I hesitating? I can’t be sure because I don’t have enough information.’

As Kang Mu-hyeok was lost in thought, Han Byeong-gu tapped Alex on the shoulder.

“Wait a minute. Look at me. You too, Ayla.”

“Shall I save your seat?”

As Kang Mu-hyeok tried to stand up, shaking his buttocks, Ayla waved her hand away.

“It’s okay, Kang Mu-hyeok.”

As Ayla muttered something, a barrier of mana was created around Ayla and her group, including Han Byeong-gu.

Their voices were not heard.

A completely separate space.

Joo Sea was amazed when she saw it.

“That’s amazing. I can’t even feel anything inside. It’s definitely not a skill. What could it be?”

“It must be magic.”

“It’s a bit… … to call it magic.”

“It’s probably not the skill-type magic we know, but another magic that Miss Ayla uses.”

Kang Moo-hyuk stared intently at Han Byung-goo and Ayla. To be exact, it was the shape of their mouths.

‘It’s not Korean after all. The shape of the mouth is different. What should I do? It’s hard to read lips if it’s not Korean… ‘

On the other hand, Han Byung-goo was speaking Korean. However, since the other person understood him, it seemed like he had been using his language skills.

Kang Moo-hyuk focused only on Han Byung-goo’s mouth.

“Are you trying to get me to join the league? I’m not even a hunter?”

“Commander? That’s a trick. The elders allowed you to get away with it?”

“I didn’t know that unknown entity was so important. Those heavy butts moved well.”

“So how are you going to take the test? Are you going to make me do something too difficult?”

“Oh my, how did you get such a request? I bet that guy will have a hard time.”

“Do it in moderation. The result isn’t important, but that guy’s temper is not normal. Things could get worse.”

“Close your eyes and go to sleep. It’s not a bad suggestion, so let’s move on.”

As soon as the conversation ended, Mana’s barrier disappeared.

Kang Moo-hyuk just summarized Han Byeong-gu’s words.

‘It’s limited, but it’s basically all the information you need to know. If the president of the association, who has devoted his life to the development of the Korean guild, just passes it by, then it’s not a bad suggestion. But what does it mean to be a member? It seems like there will be limitations as much as benefits.’

Aila spoke to Kang Mu-hyeok, who was waiting while pretending to check the documents.

“I’m sorry for keeping you waiting. Mr. Han Byung-goo has a lot of useless worries, unlike before.”

“Huh? When you grow up, you’ll be like me.”

“I’m older than Han Byung-goo, right?”

“Ugh… … .”

“Miss Ayla was older than you, sir? Wow, someone like that told me about the will of the old man.”

Joo Se-ah laughed in vain as if it was absurd and provoked him, but Han Byung-goo didn’t respond as if he had nothing to say.

Kang Moo-hyuk said, holding out the contract.

“I have a few more questions.”

“As much as you want.”

“The support written here. Does it also apply to that tie pin?”

Alex flinched at Kang Moo-hyuk’s question. He glared at Han Byung-goo.

“This technology is a Federation secret. Even if you are Mr. Han, it would be troublesome for you to go around bragging like that.”

“It’s not me!”

The one who helped Han Byung-goo, who was waving his hands and strongly denying it, was Kang Moo-hyuk.

“It’s not what the chairman said. Every time you speak, mana moves to the tie pin. It’s probably a skill related to interpretation… I haven’t heard of a modern item that has the skill in it yet. It seems like the association has a monopoly on the technology that makes that possible.”

“Mana… Do you see this too? That’s amazing. That’s right. It’s a federation technology. Skills are embedded in objects. Of course, the process is complicated and the cost is quite high, so it’s not commercialized yet.”

Kang Mu-hyeok shook his head at the subtle rejection.

“I think you misunderstood. I’m not asking you to share that technique.”

“Oh? Then you’re asking if I can provide it. Of course, if you sign a contract, I can give you a few as gifts.”

“That’s not it, but if you give it to me, I’ll gladly accept it.”

Alex realized he had made a mistake. He had promised to give something he didn’t have to give.

It wasn’t that I was sorry, but I felt like I was losing the negotiation.

“To be exact, I’m asking if technical support for the Ironwill Guild’s equipment is possible.”

“Equipment?”

Kang Moo-hyuk asked Ahn Ji-il to wait a moment and then asked him to bring some equipment from Warehouse C.

Ayla turned her robe inside out to minimize the number of people who knew her true identity.

After a while, when Kang Mu-hyeok laid out his equipment, Alex showed interest.

“It’s communication equipment.”

“It can also be used within the special zone or gate here.”

“At the gate too?”

“It’s less efficient and only allows for short-range communication, but it has the advantage of not requiring expensive messaging skills.”

Alex looked quite surprised. This was because he saw exactly what Kang Moo-hyuk meant.

“I guess even low-ranked hunters can use it.”

“That’s right. Inexperienced, low-ranked hunters often have accidents because they can’t give and receive orders accurately. If this equipment becomes popular, such absurd sacrifices will be drastically improved.”

“What do you want from us?”

“Please provide technical support so that we can improve it to make it more popular and lower the price.”

“It’s not just a simple improvement, right?”

“Manufacturing facilities, distribution, and sales are also necessary.”

Alex rubbed his chin and thought for a while before speaking.

“Do you have any other equipment besides this?”

“There’s a whole warehouse full of them!”

An Ji-il, who had been standing there blankly after being suddenly called in, shouted in anticipation after realizing the situation.

Alex, surprised by this, opened his eyes wide and laughed.

“That’s surprising. Not all of it will be useful, but if you look through it, you might find quite a few items that the Federation would be interested in.”

“They are all useful!”

An Ji-il shouted excitedly once again.

“Okay. I’ll have to talk to the Federation Development Department first, but I’ll look into it positively.”

“Yes!”

An Ji-il clenched his fist. Kang Mu-hyeok felt as if he was resentful at the sight of him enjoying himself so much.

‘Oh, I should have skipped a bit more. I guess I’m sorry I got caught doing this.’

Alex, who was smiling happily at An Ji-il’s happy appearance, looked back at Kang Mu-hyeok.

“I think we’ve done enough for you, Captain.”

Alex stepped forward, signing the contract.

Kang Moo-hyuk sighed inwardly, took the contract, and handed it to Joo Se-ah.

She signed the contract without any objections, as it was a meeting that Gilma was excluded from, but there were parts that had been discussed in advance and the director had been given full authority, so she approved it right away.

Alex said, looking satisfied with the completed contract.

“Okay, then. Shall we talk about the test?”

* * *

“Vladivostok.”

Considering that Kang Mu-hyeok could not travel far due to guild work, the Federation gave him a commission from the closest place.

The second and third were to be announced whenever the previous work was finished.

“It’s not easy. You didn’t take on this for nothing, did you? ‘Woopumangbau’? Honestly, this is crazy.”

“I said I wouldn’t hold you responsible if you failed. I wouldn’t break the contract either.”

“What the hell kind of test is this? You said it has nothing to do with the contract.”

Kang Moo-hyuk also continued to have doubts about that point.

‘I think it has something to do with the member part. If you look at the test, it seems like failure means failure. But what I’m saying is that it’s okay to fail again. I don’t know since you didn’t say anything about that part.’

While reading the material containing the first test content several times, Kang Moo-hyuk was more absorbed in understanding the content behind it than in worrying about the test itself.

Joo Se Ah noticed something and asked.

“Aren’t you worried about the test?”

“I’m worried.”

“It doesn’t seem like much, does it?”

“It’s okay to fail, right? There’s no penalty.”

“No. It’s common in this area to blow a request, but it’s frustrating. I’m going to be ignored every time we work together.”

“It hasn’t blown up yet.”

“This is the same as telling me to blow it up. It’s a waste of time!”

Kang Moo-hyuk confirmed the monster in the photo.

An avian monster with a plump body like a penguin and a pelican beak.

Although it cannot fly, it is classified as a bird because its appearance resembles a bird.

“Even the country can’t handle this cleanly. Since I’m on the Russian intelligence service’s list anyway, it’s hard to get a visa.”

“You mean the SVR (Russian Foreign Intelligence Service)? Why there?”

“I beat up a few Russian kids during Slayer… Anyway, you can’t go there unless you smuggle.”

“The guild leader wasn’t putting it on the raid list anyway.”

“Then, who should I send? Lee Jin-ju Hunter? Are you going to send an expedition? Even the #1 guild in Vladivostok can’t do anything about it?”

Kang Moo-hyuk held up a photo of Wufu Mangbaou, fixed it on the whiteboard with a magnet, and pointed at it with his finger.

“This test. I got lucky. You don’t have to go far. One person is enough.”

“One person? That’s ridiculous!”