episode_0164

‘Nothing special.’

It was certainly better than the chaotic campus.

Still, it was messy, shabby, and distracting.

It was a sight far from suitable for the head of an organization.

A pigsty, rivalling an unkempt bachelor pad.

Nevertheless, he didn’t show it.

‘…….’

Most of what cluttered the interior were stacks of paper.

Piles of documents overflowing on the desk and papers scattered everywhere.

At a glance, none of the papers looked intact.

Underlines marked with handwriting, or full of scribbles.

There were abundant traces of painstaking struggle with the papers.

This room itself was clearly Chairman Pyo’s battlefield.

The multi-person table and chairs, at least, were clean.

It seemed they had forcibly made space and hastily set them up.

Compared to Chairman Max’s private study in their shelter…

“It’s very messy, isn’t it? I apologize.”

He had almost thought something rude.

At Chairman Pyo’s embarrassed invitation, everyone took their seats.

At the same time, Secretary Choi, who hadn’t been seen until now, appeared.

Pulling in a small tray, she soon began to prepare drinks on the table.

‘…….’

Clean paper cups and bottled water.

The sense of stinginess vibrated intensely from the start.

Looking at the reactions of the others, they seemed unperturbed.

As if this was taken for granted.

He’d heard the situation was dire, but it was worse than he’d imagined.

She replaced her greeting with a simple nod and approached Chairman Pyo.

As if it were the most natural thing.

Seeing her standing like that, her intellectual aura stood out.

Both Secretary Choi and Representative Kim.

They were beauties that opened one’s eyes, as long as they didn’t open their mouths.

As long as they didn’t open their mouths.

Chairman Pyo cautiously spoke to him, who had been silently staring at a glass of water.

“…I apologize for being able to offer only such humble hospitality.”

“It’s fine.”

Saying so, he picked up the paper cup and took a sip, showing he was quenching his thirst.

At that, the air between the tables seemed to soften a little.

Chairman Pyo didn’t miss that timing and began to explain.

“First… our current situation—”

“Chairman Pyo-nim.”

He cut off Chairman Pyo, who was about to begin his lengthy explanation.

“You don’t need to give me a long-winded explanation.”

“That…”

“I understand that the environment is harsh and there’s no time. So, let’s get straight to the point.”

He met Chairman Pyo’s gaze.

Chairman Pyo nodded at his gaze, which was by no means hostile.

“Leader.”

At Chairman Pyo’s signal, Captain Lee stepped forward as if he had been waiting.

“As I mentioned, our target is the USFK base, specifically the Yongsan Base.”

“Didn’t they withdraw from there and isn’t it a park now?”

“That’s correct. But some facilities remain.”

He cocked his head at Captain Lee’s explanation.

“Isn’t it difficult to find anything worthwhile there?”

“Not necessarily.”

“?”

“Hmm… It’s a bit roundabout, but I’ll explain.”

Captain Lee soon began his briefing in a clear voice.

A Captain opening his mouth just for him.

It was a funny situation, but he focused on Captain Lee’s explanation.

There were two main reasons for targeting the already withdrawn Yongsan Base.

The origin was the already failed Gangnam Raid incident.

At that time, they didn’t just gather troops.

They concentrated emergency supplies, whether they were scattered or from intact units.

He didn’t know it, but apparently, there was a system where, in an emergency equivalent to a national disaster, supplies within the base would be mobilized immediately.

Yongsan Base served as a relay point to resolve sudden transportation issues.

However, its role was minimal, and even that had to be handled by the Korean military.

Though it was hardly a substitute, the US military reportedly provided supplies instead of troop support.

When he asked if that wasn’t a good thing, Captain Lee smiled bitterly.

“Those goods weren’t obtained through legitimate procedures.”

“…?”

“Seonghan, have you heard of MREs?”

“Are you referring to combat rations?”

“Yes. Those MREs are actually military supplies. And private trading of military supplies is strictly prohibited by law.”

“I heard you could get them in places like Cheonggyecheon before?”

“That’s right. It’s originally illegal.”

“So?”

“Usually, items secretly taken out are often surplus goods.”

He understood what Captain Lee was trying to say.

“To put it nicely, it was supply support, but in reality, it was an intention to dispose of unnecessary burdens. The US military made a big show of it, but the Korean military had no choice but to accept them quietly, even though they knew.”

In other words, instead of sacrificing their innocent soldiers, the US military gave away defective goods and called it even.

They also pretended to help with supply transport, then quietly slipped away.

And currently, most of the US military has reportedly deserted their units.

For a superpower that claims to be the world’s police, their actions were sly.

But from their perspective, he could understand it.

They were Americans, not Koreans.

They might not have wanted to die fighting zombies in a distant foreign country.

From their perspective, it was disappointing, but from their side, it was understandable.

He wouldn’t want to die a dog’s death either.

What was it like?

He got the impression that it was a very capitalist move.

To him, thinking such thoughts, Captain Lee continued his explanation about the US military.

“It has been confirmed that they have gathered at Camp Humphreys, that is, Pyeongtaek Base.”

“What’s there?”

“…The US military isn’t helping Korea.”

“??”

Captain Lee revealed that the US military would completely withdraw from Korea.

Indeed, the US military reportedly did not provide support for the Gangnam incident.

They left supplies as if giving charity and gathered to save themselves.

And that gathering point was the Pyeongtaek Base.

After the Gangnam incident, it was difficult to assess the situation, so communication was cut off.

But the reason they were now looking for Yongsan Base was…

“The supply transport wasn’t fully completed.”

“Do you think there might be things left?”

“That’s right.”

“Isn’t that being overly optimistic [a phrase for being overly optimistic/delusional]?”

Hearing Captain Lee’s explanation, he couldn’t help but think that.

A positive outlook was necessary, but this was too much…

“Even if there are no supplies, there’s still meaning in going.”

“What’s the reason?”

“We want to get our hands on a helicopter.”

“…A helicopter?”

“That’s right. Among the remaining facilities at Yongsan Base, there’s a helipad. And there’s a high probability that transport aircraft are at that helipad.”

He understood why Captain Lee wanted a helicopter.

Moving by land, or rather, walking on the ground, was certainly dangerous now.

It was impressive enough that they had even cleared some roads from Konkuk University to Sagajeong.

But using roads required time and equipment.

Everything was in short supply, and even thinking about the future, a helicopter was necessary.

Feeling the need for a helicopter was rational.

Still, Captain Lee’s opinion felt like a faraway dream.

At that moment, Secretary Choi, who had been quiet, interjected.

“We confirmed that several transport aircraft attempted to land at the helipad. We are not certain whether they took off again or not.”

“We predict it was attacked by zombies in the end.”

“…….”

Secretary Choi didn’t state the method, but she was confident in the transport aircraft’s existence.

Captain Lee predicted a zombie attack.

He roughly estimated the situation.

‘Acquiring helicopters and supplies from a base overrun by zombies…’

He thought about it for a moment.

Yongsan was in the middle of Seoul.

Yongsan Station was also famous and used by many people.

He didn’t know for sure, but there were probably a significant number of zombies swarming there.

He’d have to see for himself, but it didn’t look easy.

While thinking, he turned his gaze to Captain Lee.

“Was this why you needed me?”

“…That’s right. It was certain that if Seonghan lent his strength, the success rate would increase, even if only by a little.”

“What were you planning to do if I wasn’t here?”

Captain Lee didn’t hesitate for a second at his question.

“The operation would have remained unchanged.”

“…….”

He didn’t make empty promises.

He didn’t boast about guaranteed success.

‘Was he prepared to die from the start?’

Should he call him frustrating, or steadfast?

What was certain was…

‘He’s incredibly brave.’

His unwavering, determined gaze felt almost macho.

Captain Lee’s valor was highly commendable.

Regrettably, relying on uncertain information was a concern.

He didn’t want to go on a pointless wild goose chase.

He quietly asked Secretary Choi.

“Where did you hear that story?”

“I heard it from Representative Kim.”

“? That person?”

He was momentarily flustered and asked again.

“What, what are you saying! What about me!”

‘Should I go back?’

His mood instantly soured.

Promises and all be damned, he seriously considered leaving.

“I heard the Taesung kids talking about it! What’s… what’s wrong with that!…sir.”

Representative Kim, who met his gaze, shriveled up, perhaps because he had inadvertently put force into his eyes.

“What do you mean you heard it from Taesung?”

“Ah, no, that is… sir.”

Representative Kim, intimidated and gauging his reaction, timidly opened her mouth.

“I overheard employees from the Strategic Planning Department talking.”

“…….”

“Th-they had some way of getting information, but I don’t know what it was. Oh, it’s true! D-don’t look at me like that…”

“…….”

“A-anyway, they wanted to get that, but they mumbled it was impossible, so I just told you what I heard!…sir.”

After Representative Kim finished speaking, Captain Lee continued, as if to back her up.

“Representative Kim is correct. In fact, there was a discussion between Taesung and Jincheon about trying to salvage abandoned supplies. But they deemed it impossible and gave up.”

“Hmm…”

“I know it’s dangerous, but right now, I thought it was the most viable option.”

The success or failure didn’t matter.

This was the moment when the basis for Captain Lee’s plan became a little clearer.

No matter what, it was Taesung after all.

Still…

He asked the slightly deflated Representative Kim.

“How did you come to know that information?”

“Why are you curious about that…sir?”

“…….”

He stared intently, and Representative Kim began to speak on her own.

He finally understood how to deal with this woman.

“At the time, well… I just happened to be poking around everywhere…”

“You stumbled upon it?”

“Ack! Yes!”

Unexpected.

They were the ones who pulled all sorts of dirty tricks behind the scenes.

They were the ones who didn’t hesitate to shoot people.

He couldn’t believe those gangster-like bastards just watched a young woman wreak havoc.

“At that time, my grandfather was fine… I just wanted to help somehow.”

Representative Kim looked dejected at the mention of her grandfather.

From her words, her grandfather seemed to be the Chairman.

He wondered if he was someone even the two groups couldn’t easily mess with.

For now, he put his personal curiosity aside.

After hearing the story so far, his mind was clear.

‘This… it’s worth a shot, isn’t it?’

More than just worth a shot, he really wanted to do it.

Captain Lee’s plan was close to reckless, but it had supporting evidence.

Although he didn’t like that it was information stolen from Taesung.

But what if he succeeded?

‘I get compensation, the Konkuk University shelter gets supplies, and Taesung gets screwed.’

There was no reason not to do it.

He had been indirectly screwed over by Taesung all this time.

But what if he snatched this for himself?

‘…It might not hurt them, but it would be annoying, right?’

The sudden surge of motivation felt rather good.

He made up his mind and asked Captain Lee.

“Method of travel?”

“We plan to travel by helicopter.”

He seemed to be referring to the single helicopter that remained outside.

That was fine by him.

If they travelled by helicopter, they could get there quickly without obstacles.

He nodded and stood up from his seat.

“Let’s go.”

At his words, everyone in the room jumped in surprise.

“Now, sir?”

“The objective is clear, why waste time? And you’re all in a hurry, aren’t you?”

“P-please wait. The helicopter is still being prepared—”

Knock knock knock!

Through the chaotic atmosphere, a knocking sound was heard.

And a young soldier entered, giving a sharp salute.

“Ah! Warrant Officer Jo.”

“Captain-nim. Helicopter adjustment requires more time. Repairs took longer than expected.”

“Really? When can you finish?”

“It can be done by tonight.”

“Alright. Ah, Seonghan. This is Warrant Officer Jo Ilcheon, who will be piloting the helicopter.”

He and the warrant officer exchanged gazes.

Warrant Officer Jo, with a lean rather than muscular build, had grease on his hands and face.

They briefly introduced themselves, and Warrant Officer Jo immediately headed back outside.

Captain Lee immediately spoke, as if to calm him down.

“As you can see, the helicopter is still being prepared. And it’s already almost evening.”

“Ah…”

“Departure is scheduled for tomorrow morning. I will explain the detailed plan again.”

It wouldn’t matter if he went alone, but it was a bit disappointing.

Listening to Captain Lee’s subsequent explanation, he felt as if he had been too hasty.

Ultimately, tonight would be spent on preparation and rest, and the departure was set for tomorrow morning.

The detailed contents were decided to be discussed again in the evening.

He was also told they had to meet the team members who would be accompanying them.

Even at this point, seeing his unperturbed demeanor, the others seemed a little flustered.

Perhaps it was due to his lack of hesitation, apart from the urgency.

Afterward, the main topic of conversation shifted to expectations for Director Jang’s performance.

In particular, assessing the condition of Chairman Kim Daeho, Representative Kim’s grandfather, was added to the tasks.

In addition, taking care of patients within the shelter and matters concerning quarantine were added, and Director Jang’s role became crucial in an instant.

“Though I am lacking, I will do my best.”

Director Jang simply accepted it with a dignified attitude.

With that, the meeting concluded, and a break was given.

Captain Lee stood up and led him away.

“First, I’ll guide you to a place to rest.”

“Aren’t you busy?”

“I am, but it’s fine.”

“It’s okay if these two guide me.”

He pointed to the two soldiers who had stood by like background props.

The Balloon Man and the Thug Woman.

The two men and women, singled out by him, grimaced.

“Are you sure it’s okay? Sergeant Kim, Staff Sergeant Park. The two of you will guide Seonghan.”

“L-Leader…”

“Understood?”

At Captain Lee’s narrowed eyes, the two fell silent.

Captain Lee left them with a promise to see them again in the evening and began to move busily with Chairman Pyo again.

“…….”

“Where do I go?”

“…Follow me.”

“Your words got short quickly?”

“…….”

“Huh?”

“…I’ll guide you.”

He followed behind the two, who sighed heavily and walked sluggishly.

He chuckled, hearing them curse very softly.

“Keep grumbling if you want to know what’s going to happen.”

“Huh?!”

“T-that, you heard that…”

“I have pretty good hearing.”

“…….”

“What are you doing? Hurry up.”

He enjoyed the reactions of the two, who were fuming.

The two guided him to a nearby spot in the same building.

“…For now, you can stay here.”

“Where are you two?”

“We’re over there…”

He glanced over; it was a space on the opposite side, a little further away.

He nodded slightly.

“Go on. Don’t look for me until the meeting resumes.”

“…….”

He snickered, watching the two quickly turn and disappear at his dismissal.

The room he opened the door to seemed to have been an employee’s overnight duty room.

The space, with slight signs of being lived in, wasn’t perfectly clean.

Still, it was enough to stretch out and lie down.

He set his backpack and duffel bag aside and sat on the cot.

“…Aren’t you busy?”

He couldn’t help but ask Representative Kim, who had followed him all the way here.

Why was she following him all the way here…

“Oh, well…”

“Do you have something to say?”

“Oh, no. Please rest.”

Representative Kim, who had hesitated, immediately ran off.

“Pfft…”

Though he hadn’t known her long, the Young Lady of Daesan was unpredictable.

He shifted his body slightly and lay down on the cot.

He had expected to leave immediately, but the schedule was delayed.

‘…….’

Captain Lee and the others trying to achieve something even in dire conditions.

Chairman Pyo and Secretary Choi also seemed to be pushing themselves to the limit.

He chuckled recalling Representative Kim saying she had been poking around, wanting to do something herself.

‘Did she manage to pull off a jackpot [a big score] then?’

In a way, she had laid the groundwork for a big score.

He had a good feeling about it.

He lay still for a moment, then got up.

It was hard to stay still with the rare feeling of his body buzzing.

‘…Should I prepare too?’

He got up from his seat and locked the door.

Then he opened his inventory and began to lay out useful items one by one.

‘…….’

He examined and touched various tools, implements, and equipment.

It was only early evening.

There was still plenty of time until tomorrow.

He suppressed the urge to move his body and focused on maintenance.

Clatter- click-

Once his hands started moving, they didn’t stop.

And it continued until someone knocked on the door.