Su-ho immediately checked the details of the item.
[ Liberated Soulstone ]
“I’ve returned the money to everyone on the list and made sure to keep their mouths shut.”“Remember to speak casually unless we’re alone. It looks less suspicious.”
“...Ahem. Understood. Anyway, it’s all taken care of. I told them the incident was the result of an anonymous tip-off, so none of the draft dodgers will raise a fuss.”“And what about Chief Lee Wan-ik and Deputy Manager Lee Se-hyun?”
“I’ll summon them separately today and deal with them immediately.”“Got it. Also, take care of my evaluation while you’re at it. Oh, and one more thing—about the Resource Division, please transfer me there after Management.”
“Resource Division? Why?”“Do I need to explain?”
“...No. My apologies.”“I’ll hang up now.”
“Why even ask? Just do as I say.”
Still, Su-ho couldn’t deny that Park Gyu-min was proving unexpectedly competent, likely due to the metaphorical sword hanging over his neck.
Thanks to him, things were running smoothly. Non-Awakened Affairs was unusually quiet, and none of the draft dodgers had shown their faces after the weekend investigations wrapped up.
“Now all that’s left is my evaluation.”
Su-ho’s goals were progressing steadily. He had Park Gyu-min in his pocket and had resolved the draft-dodging scandal in one clean sweep. All that remained was completing his Awakening Division evaluation and moving on to the next department.
During his lunch break in the underground library, his phone buzzed.
The caller was none other than Park Gyu-min.
Su-ho smiled as he answered, “Yes, Vice President?”
“The Awakening Division evaluation has been finalized. The two individuals involved have been dismissed for their roles in the incident.”“Did you mention Pi Seong-yeol?”
“Tch, as soon as I brought him up, they both clammed up. Thanks to that, it seems like there won’t be any further noise.”“Of course. They fear Pi Seong-yeol more than they fear you.”
“...That’s something I can’t argue with. Anyway, your next assignment will be with the Management Division, followed by the Resource Division.”“So he doesn’t like being reminded that Pi is scarier than him. Interesting.”
Su-ho chuckled. “I heard the Management Division evaluation is just a written test. I’ll finish it today, so please expedite the process.”
“Today? That’s quick. The test isn’t exactly easy, you know.”“It is for me. I’ll wrap it up by today, so be ready. Also, send me the contact details for the Management Division head and their subordinate managers.”
“Why do you need their numbers?”“Because I said so. Let me know if anything comes up.”
“Su-ho, where are you?”“I’m at the underground library. What’s up?”
“I just wanted to inform you that your Awakening Division evaluation is complete.”“That was faster than expected.”
“It surprised me too. Anyway, the results came back perfect, as expected. Team Leader Jung will contact you soon. Congratulations on finishing the process.”“Thank you, and thank you for your hard work as well.”
“Having the right connections really pays off.”
“Ah, Su-ho, I was just about to call you.”“Is this a good time?”
“Yes, of course. Did you hear from Eom Jun-seong?”“Yes, that’s why I’m calling. I’m ready for the Management Division test. Can I take it right away?”
“Already?”“The study materials you provided were very helpful. I’d like to take all the tests at once, like I did back in school. Is that possible?”
“If you’re sure, I’ll make the arrangements. But it might have to wait until after lunch. Could you come to the second conference room in the Management Division afterward?”“Understood. By the way, is the Resource Division next?”
“Junior, where are you right now?”“I just finished the Management Division’s theoretical test and was on my way to the Resource Division.”
“I see. Then put off the Resource Division training until tomorrow and come see me now. It’s almost quitting time anyway—you won’t get much done there today.”“Ah... understood.”
“Come immediately. I’ll be waiting.”Pi hung up without waiting for a response, clearly in a hurry.
Su-ho stifled a laugh and turned back to Jung Cheol-min.
“I’m sorry, Team Leader. I’ll need to visit the Resource Division tomorrow instead. Could you let the department head know?”
“Of course. Don’t worry about it.”
Jung Cheol-min’s understanding was appreciated, though it was clear Pi’s actions were rather inconsiderate. Still, who in the Association would dare challenge Pi Seong-yeol over something like this? Especially considering the Resource Division was firmly within Pi’s sphere of influence.
Heading to the Special Division
After thanking Jung Cheol-min with a polite nod, Su-ho made his way to the Special Division, reflecting on the situation.
“He must have something urgent to discuss.”
With that thought, Su-ho smiled faintly as he walked through the halls.
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