Demo Day at the Hotel
The security deposit had finally come back. I'd moved into the new place early and was just biding my time until the lease ended, but Woorim Group had really come through on that front.
"We just happened to have folks looking for a jeonse, so we introduced them to the place where Director and Shin Na-o had been living," they'd said.
Really? I didn't dig for more details. I'd covered almost the entire house price myself, while Na-o had sprung for the furniture. Throw in a car, and it'd be perfect—but still no one who could drive. Here I was, finally living that rich life vibe, but no personal driver felt like a glaring omission.
Should I actually hire a driver?
Turning a monster into a cute girl and teaching her to drive? Way too high-level. Na-o didn't even have a license, as far as I knew. And making her in her loli form do it? That'd just be weird. I looked like a kid myself, and Na-o wasn't far off. Besides, with her streaming career, using her as a chauffeur wasn't practical.
For driving, maybe a job posting. But our office was all girls, so no guys. On top of that, someone trustworthy who wouldn't blab about the Cute Girl Mod... Conditions were brutal. Did that kind of talent even exist?
Driver later. They were picking us up today anyway.
"We've been waiting."
As we stepped out of the office, a car was parked there. The same realtor who'd shown us properties before greeted us.
"I'll take you right to the chairman. Hop in."
And just like that, we piled into the car. You get something, you give something. After all those perks, no backing out now. Off to work the demo event.
Problem was, no clue what might go down or what we'd face.
...Still, I'd organized the list.
I scrolled through the text file on my phone. Over the past month, I'd compiled everything I could on Threat Level 4 and Threat Level 5 monsters. About half we could handle; the rest would be tough. We'd agreed: prioritize evacuating demo attendees.
What made this a monster game? The horror element. Too many unkillable bastards.
With a heavy sigh, we arrived at the demo hall.
"They're doing the demo at a hotel?"
Na-o blinked as we got out. Our group: me, Ari, Lisa, Na-o. Four total. Left Taemi behind in case someone recognized her; no need to drag Miyeong along. Could summon if necessary.
"Can't have civilians stumbling in by mistake. That's why demos are always like this."
Our escort explained. The fancy hotel lobby displayed products neatly. More exhibition than demo, really. Not dead silent, but a calm, soothing vibe—like a classy art gallery. Not crowded, but not empty either. Suit-clad folks milling about with dignified poise; all big shots, clearly.
"Director, you've arrived."
Woo Jin-ho spotted me and approached.
"Hello, Executive Director..."
"Glad you made it safely."
"Oh, no... Your ride made it easy. Uh, what now?"
"Nothing special required."
"Huh?"
"We've got security deployed."
He introduced a few guards.
"They'll handle the basics. Enjoy the demo, Director—and if anything pops off, handle it your way."
"My way?"
"Exactly."
Free access anywhere, even CCTV room. Felt like I was their ace in the hole. Guards would manage most things, but if shit hit the fan irreversibly, I'd step up.
Where'd Woo Jin-ho's trust come from? Felt like blind faith in that "call from the future."
Bit much. He had reasons for the support, sure, but the unearned favor sat uneasy.
Maybe 'cause I'm the cutest girl in the universe?
Baesena had showered me with baseless goodwill too. Hidden Cute Girl Mod effect: "Cute girl protag wins everyone's love"?
Whatever. Uneasy or not, free rein was fine by me.
"Ari, Na-o—keep eyes on CCTV."
"Yeah, got it."
Split up. Ari and Na-o on overall surveillance from CCTV with guards. Me and Lisa patrolling, checking the scene.
Woorim Group's demo: recurring event in the monster game. Showcased anti-monster gear, doubled as networking schmooze-fest.
Nice chance to build connections.
Running the agency taught me: this gig ran on networks. Tough getting commissions from normies. All my jobs so far? Industry insiders. My contacts dictated my paycheck.
Cheap loan or not, I was in debt. Debt-ridden cutie. To pay off billions, maybe aim for a "killer hotel" big score. For now, just cover interest steadily. Networking helped.
So I scoped folks out.
"Pardon, but are you from Ririri Solutions Agency?"
A kindly middle-aged man approached. I nodded hesitantly.
"Sorry to butt in. Saw you with the exec—figured. Here's me."