Chapter 144: Cleanup Commences
Translator: RaidenTL
Chapter 144: Cleanup Commences
Not long after they headed toward Incheon, Karina sent a text with his parents' new address.
As soon as they arrived, Seo-un stepped out of the car and gaped at the newly built house.
"This is..."
"I’ve been waiting for you."
At the sound of the voice, he turned to see two women approaching. Jeong Su-hwa and Karina, both dressed in sharp black suits, stood there to greet him.
Since he had mostly resolved the lingering tension from their last game together, Seo-un turned his gaze toward Jeong Su-hwa.
"I’ll go see my parents first. We can talk when I come back out."
The two women nodded. Karina pressed the bell next to the ornate main gate, which was set into a high perimeter wall.
Ding-dong.
With a soft chime, the gate clicked and swung open automatically. Stepping inside, they were greeted by a vast, lush lawn that had only been partially visible from the outside. As Seo-un mentally calculated the land prices in Songdo, Incheon, for such a massive front yard, Karina gave a sheepish smile.
"Father mentioned he wanted to take up landscaping as a hobby."
Li Lingwei and Juriel’s brows twitched slightly at her natural use of the word "Father," but Seo-un simply nodded. His father had spent his entire life toiling for the family; his only hobby had been meticulously tending to cheap bonsai trees.
‘He cherished that bonsai I brought home from a 4-H camp years ago.’
Thinking of his father, who still cared for a haphazardly made bonsai from a school trip, Seo-un figured landscaping was a perfectly fitting pastime for his retirement.
As they walked past the trees lining the walls and the pines scattered throughout the yard, they came across a pond built to the side of the house.
"Ah, please watch your step there. I’ve planted bamboo."
Seeing the bamboo shoots barely poking their heads through the soil, Seo-un quickly stepped back. The house was a single-story structure, but its sheer scale for just two people made Seo-un’s eyes widen even further.
"I... I wanted to make sure it was a place they could live in for the rest of their lives, so I paid extra attention to the details."
Seo-un thought that if she had paid "extra attention" a second time, she might have built a fortress. Just then, the front door burst open.
"Seo-un!"
His mother ran out and pulled him into a tight embrace.
"You were worried, weren't you? I'm sorry."
"It’s fine. You’re here now, and that’s all that matters. Your father is inside. Come in, quickly."
Seo-un allowed himself to be led inside by his mother’s aged hand, which gripped his tightly. Upon entering, he saw his father pacing in the spacious, open living room. The older man quickly sat on the sofa and spoke gruffly.
"You're here."
"Yes. You were worried, weren't you?"
His father shook his head and turned on the TV, answering nonchalantly without even looking at him.
"Worried? Why would I be? I knew you’d handle yourself just fine."
This was the same man who had reportedly visited the Swedish Embassy almost every single day while Seo-un was missing. Seo-un didn't bring that up and simply bowed his head.
"Things happened so suddenly that I couldn't get in touch. I'm sorry."
"Have you been eating well?"
The simple question—have you been eating?—made Seo-un’s throat tighten unexpectedly. As a surge of heat rose from his chest to his throat, leaving him speechless, Juriel and Li Lingwei brushed past him and approached his father on the sofa.
"Father! We’re here too!"
"Have you been well in the meantime?"
His father’s face brightened significantly more than it had when Seo-un walked in. He moved over on the sofa, urging the two women to sit. Karina headed into the kitchen where Seo-un’s mother was preparing a meal, and Seo-un gestured to Jeong Su-hwa, who was standing awkwardly by the entrance.
As she cautiously approached and took a seat, Seo-un’s father spoke.
"You’re the young lady who helped us back then. Are you here because of Seo-un?"
Seo-un looked puzzled at the mention of "help."
"Yes. I came because I have something urgent to discuss with him. Have you been doing well since then?"
His father nodded at her stiff tone and looked at Seo-un as if it were no big deal.
"She’s the one who personally stepped in to handle the difficult issues when we were building this house. She said she was from some government department..."
As his father tried to recall the name, she answered for him.
"The Department of Homeland Security."
"Right, Homeland Security. She mentioned they owed you a great debt?"
Seo-un nodded as his father looked at him for confirmation.
"It was nothing major."
Skipping the details, they were soon called to the table by his mother. Once the meal at the luxurious dining table was finished, Seo-un glanced at his mother’s expression.
"Mom... I heard. About Aunt... Have you heard from her?"
The moment he finished speaking, his mother’s face darkened.
"...Not yet. The situation over there is quite bad... But you don't need to worry. She’s staying in Koreatown where there are lots of people, and they say the US is putting everything into suppressing the situation. I’m sure she’ll be fine."
Seo-un’s expression grew somber as he watched his mother quickly stand up to clear the dishes. His mother’s only family was her younger sister. His aunt had immigrated to the US before Seo-un was even born. He had only met her once when he was eight, but he remembered her as a very warm person.
Juriel and Li Lingwei stepped in to lighten the heavy atmosphere. After spending some time easing his parents' worries, Seo-un prepared to leave.
"Keep in touch. Eat well. I’ll stop by soon to drop off some side dishes."
Seo-un nodded at his mother’s words. As soon as he passed through the yard and stepped outside the gate, he turned to Karina and Jeong Su-hwa.
"I have a rough idea of what this is about."
Karina shook her head.
"Just so there’s no misunderstanding, I’m only here to stop you, Seo-un."
Juriel and Li Lingwei interjected.
"Stop him from what?"
"If Seo-un says he’s going to do something, he does it. I don't care if it's you, Karina—trying to force him is going to be a problem."
As a stifling pressure began to radiate from Li Lingwei, Karina raised her hands in a gesture of surrender and glanced at Jeong Su-hwa.
"Let’s hear her story first. I’ll say my piece after."
Everyone’s eyes turned to Jeong Su-hwa.
"Go ahead," Seo-un said.
She began to speak in a calm, level voice.
"Please understand that what I am about to say is by no means a demand."
Everyone nodded, waiting for her to continue.
"As you all know, Los Angeles, California, has become the real-time map for this Cloyd game. The US government is currently deploying all its Players and stockpiled ability users to get the situation under control."
They waited silently for her next point, as this was common knowledge.
"The US government is requesting support from almost every nation except Russia and North Korea. Especially from us, given our alliance. However, most countries are refusing. Japan, in particular... used the excuse that their government guilds were decimated by you, Seo-un, to decline the request."
Seo-un nodded. "Of course. Who would be crazy enough to send support to another country when they don't know when the same thing might happen in their own?"
Jeong Su-hwa nodded and continued.
"Correct. The Korean government intended to refuse for the same reason. As you know, our situation is even worse than Japan's. We were going to explain that after the Kim Chi-sang incident, Korea is barely in a position to defend itself... but the situation has changed slightly."
"How?"
"It’s something even I wasn't fully aware of, but there are an estimated 550,000 Koreans living in LA's Koreatown."
Seo-un’s eyes widened. "That many?"
It was a figure Seo-un hadn't considered, and the scale of it was shocking.
"Of course, most are technically American citizens and, strictly speaking, foreigners with no legal ties to Korea. But the number is too large to simply ignore. Thus, the government has decided to deploy stockpiled personnel and is requesting help from Neutral and Resistance Players as well."
"A 'help our own people' plea? That's a weak justification."
Karina nodded in agreement with Seo-un. However, Jeong Su-hwa shook her head.
"I thought so too, but surprisingly, many Players have stepped up to help."
"...So, you want me to lend a hand too?"
"I understand if you refuse. In fact, I personally would prefer it if you stayed in Korea."
Seo-un narrowed his eyes. "Why?"
"Because there’s no guarantee a similar situation won't happen here. With the pool of government Players so depleted, local Players are the only force left to defend the country in an emergency. I don't believe exporting this strength is wise. This isn't just my opinion, though it seems the higher-ups made this decision based on various political factors."
Once she finished, Karina stepped forward.
"Now it’s my turn to state my position."
"I can guess without hearing it. You want me to stay out of it, right?"
"Yes. Technically, you are a Swedish citizen, Seo-un. You have nothing to do with Korea or the US. The reason she’s making this request is likely because they researched your family history beforehand."
Karina glanced at Jeong Su-hwa as she finished.
"That’s correct," Jeong Su-hwa admitted easily. "The superiors who sent me knew that point, which is why they chose me to deliver the proposal."
She admitted it so readily that it took the wind out of Karina’s sails. Feeling a bit deflated that her 'gotcha' moment had no effect, Karina continued in a slightly more subdued tone.
"While you were on your way here, intelligence reports from various countries were updated. It seems those who participated in the same game have all returned now that it's over. We believe the same game was held across all three worlds simultaneously, and that future games might follow the same rules. Given how irregular the rules have been lately, we need to be extremely cautious."
Seo-un’s gaze darkened. What if he had a sibling whose life was in danger in a foreign disaster? The mere thought made his chest feel tight. More than anything, a fiery rage rose within him toward those who played games while treating human lives as mere coins.
"The US, huh..."
"Seo-un! You need to think this through. Based on our data analysis, if you step in..."
"I might become a Boss Monster."
Li Lingwei and Juriel’s eyes widened in shock. Reflecting on the games they had experienced, it was a very real possibility.
"If you’re designated as a monster, you become a target for every Player in the game. And you aren't even a participant. If you die this time, that’s the end."
Seo-un understood why Karina had rushed here to stop him. If he decided to go to the US and died there, everything she had invested in him would go up in smoke.
"Karina, you haven't seen it firsthand, have you? We have. We’ve seen how far humans can fall for the sake of coins. This isn't some distant story about famine in Africa. You said there are 550,000 Koreans there? My aunt is one of them. If I can help, I have to. We’re talking about human lives."
At Seo-un’s final words, Karina could no longer try to stop him. She had been receiving real-time updates on the situation in LA. Having seen those horrific scenes, the weight of the words "human lives" coming from Seo-un was too heavy to ignore.
"...I’ll make the arrangements."
She pulled out her phone and made a call.
"O.P. has decided to go to the US. Prepare everything."
She hung up and looked at Seo-un.
"When... do you want to leave?"
"Is departure possible this evening?"
"No problem. Until then, we will draw up a plan and coordinate with the US government."
She bowed her head and returned to her car, making another call with a grim expression.
"Are you... really going?"
"You’re the one who pushed me into it, and now you’re asking?"
Seo-un’s retort made her brow furrow.
"I’ll say it again: I would prefer it if you didn't go."
"I thought of my aunt the moment I heard the story. My mind was made up as soon as you said LA. Even if I’m not in the country, please look after my parents."
He spoke while looking toward the stockpiled agents who were disguised as civilians in the area.
"Ah, you knew?" she asked in surprise. She had specifically deployed agents who were experts in infiltration and disguise.
"They’re definitely different from the guys who were loitering around my neighborhood last time. But I’ve acquired some good eyes."
As Seo-un spoke, his left eye glowed red. Jeong Su-hwa felt a chill run down her spine, making her shudder involuntarily. The moment he focused on his left eye, his field of vision expanded until he could see the top of his own head. He could see everyone within a 500-meter radius as clearly as if they were standing on the palm of his hand.
Anyone with even a slightly unusual presence was highlighted. Martial artists appeared with a red aura, the energy concentrated in their Dantian glowing intensely. Mages, conversely, appeared in blue, with the energy concentrated around their hearts. The Swedish agents didn't even need to be detected; they were openly guarding the perimeter.
Seo-un’s eye returned to normal after he finished scanning the surroundings.
"I’ll accept the favor."
With that, Seo-un got into the car where the two women were waiting.
"Where to?"
"Let’s go to Gi-chan first. Head to Bucheon."
Jeong Su-hwa stared blankly at the spot where the Bentley had been for a long moment before sighing. She then took out her phone and reported to her superiors.
*
Gi-chan, who had just dealt with a bit of a commotion after meeting his younger sister, headed to a cafe near his house after receiving Seo-un’s call. Inside the cafe, Seo-un was talking with Juriel and Li Lingwei, drawing everyone's attention thanks to the two women's striking looks.
"That guy must be loaded. Having two women that beautiful on either side of him."
"But wait, they look like they're talking, but I can't hear a thing. I bet those women have nice voices too."
Just then, Gi-chan arrived, drawing the attention of the women in the cafe.
"Hyung!"
Seeing him wave as he approached, Seo-un waved back and mouthed something.
"You put up a Silence barrier," Gi-chan noted as he reached the table.
The murmuring around them grew louder.
"Oh, I’ve heard of this. Those people are Players."
"Players?"
"Yeah. It’s common knowledge that Players carry items enchanted with Silence magic to block out surrounding noise."
Ignoring the focused stares from those around them, Seo-un’s group was in the middle of a heated debate.
"I absolutely have to go this time."
"She’s right. This isn't like Russia. It’s obvious how many Players will be there. And they’ll be moving in Quads. We aren't doubting your skills; we’re talking about the danger."
At Juriel and Li Lingwei’s words, Seo-un looked to Gi-chan for help.
"Noonas, Hyung is just worried about the 'what-ifs.' If another game starts in Korea..."
Before Gi-chan could finish, Juriel cut him off.
"Don't you realize there’s no chance of that? One game was held across three worlds. Nothing else will happen until all three games are finished."
Her sharp mind had quickly grasped the situation, and Seo-un agreed with her assessment. That was why it was so difficult to leave the two of them behind.
"Even so, I’d like you two to protect my parents and Gi-chan’s sister. Russia might try something again."
"That’s already over. I heard from Karina. They’ve tucked their tails between their legs."
Seo-un shook his head at Li Lingwei’s protest.
"Sigh. Do you really have to go? Juriel, this is different from the game."
"I know."
"We’ve crossed dimensions to be here. I’m not becoming a widow before we’ve even had a wedding."
Seo-un’s face flushed at the word "widow."
"Hyung, looks like you don't have a choice."
When even Gi-chan said that, Seo-un shook his head in resignation. In truth, he had wanted to leave even Gi-chan behind and move alone. There was a 100% chance he would be designated as a monster the moment he entered the map.
‘My location will be exposed to the enemies 24 hours a day.’
Seo-un felt uneasy about dragging the three of them into that danger.
"Fine. But if you’re coming, you have to stay sharp. This isn't a game."
The three of them nodded solemnly as Seo-un’s gaze sharpened. Checking the time on his phone, Seo-un stood up.
"Are you really okay with coming along? Won't your sister worry?"
"It’s fine. I’ve given her a reasonable explanation."
The four of them got into the Bentley and headed for the airport. At the airport, Karina was already waiting for them with a private jet.
"Please, board the plane."
As they boarded, Seo-un tilted his head as he saw her follow them.
"Karina, this time..."
"Oh, I’m not going, of course. Only the four of you will be disembarking."
She gestured, and the plane soon took off. Juriel and Li Lingwei, flying for the first time in their lives, stared out the window with wide eyes once they were free from the pressure of takeoff. Watching them, Karina began her briefing.
"I will now walk you through the decisions that have been made."
The four of them focused their attention on her.
"First, the US government has approved your entry and expressed great gratitude for Jin Seo-un’s assistance."
It wasn't a personal thank-you, but hearing they were grateful didn't feel bad.
"Due to the unique circumstances, the four of you have been authorized to stay in the US without visas or passports. As for compensation, it has been agreed that you will negotiate with the US government based on your performance once the incident is resolved."
"I don't like the idea of money being involved in saving lives," Gi-chan said.
Karina shook her head.
"Even so, that’s something to be decided later. It’s always better to have them in your debt for future leverage."
Juriel nodded in agreement. Karina scanned the four of them before continuing.
"Within the limits of LA, an agreement has been reached that you will be free from any liability for damage to public or private property. You don't need to worry about anything while fighting the enemy. It has also been agreed that you will not be held responsible for any casualties that occur while neutralizing the threat."
Seo-un nodded, impressed that she had handled issues he hadn't even considered.
"I definitely didn't think about those things. You handled it well."
"The US is a country where people sue over the smallest things. Finally, regarding transportation to LA... after much deliberation, we’ve decided on a parachute drop over Pasadena to move into LA."
Gi-chan looked at her, puzzled. "Is that really necessary?"
"Currently, all aircraft except for drones are prohibited from entering LA airspace. Any plane would be a sitting duck for ground attacks. You will be dropped at the border between Pasadena and LA."
Gi-chan nodded, finally understanding. It made sense when he thought about it.
"Once you land at the drop point, you will rendezvous with a US agent. He will assist your movement to the map. And once you enter the map, a US government agent currently playing will be assigned to you as a Helper."
"A Helper?"
“This part was a reward-related matter that we pushed for strongly. The Blue Coins from the players the four of you hunt within the map will be handed over to you in their entirety through that Helper. We have already reached an agreement with the U.S. government so that you can use those coins at the vending machines inside the game.”
“You’ve already thought that far ahead.”
At Gi-chan’s remark, she offered a smile.
“Our Swedish intelligence is quite excellent, after all.”
While Seo-un admired her meticulousness in handling even the smallest details he hadn't considered, his expression remained grim. He was deeply worried about the safety of his aunt—his mother’s only sister and his sole remaining relative.
The flight continued as the four of them ate their in-flight meals and drank, all while receiving real-time updates on the situation in LA. Finally, as they neared their destination, the chartered jet lowered its altitude as much as possible.
“Everyone, put on your parachutes. They will deploy automatically at a certain altitude, but if they don’t, just pull this cord.”
At her instructions, Juriel rejected the parachute the other three were putting on.
“I can just use magic.”
Karina took Juriel’s parachute and set it aside, then looked at the four of them for a final farewell.
“Please, return safely!”
With those words, she pulled open the door of the jet. As soon as the door opened, the four of them plummeted out in sequence.
Following Seo-un’s command over the Team Voice, the four checked the screens on their wrists. Their current positions were marked via GPS, and their landing destination was highlighted separately. The displays, which were wrapped around their wrists and flexible like laminated sheets, were items Karina had specially prepared.
After gliding for a short while, they saw green smoke rising from the ground in the distance.
Seo-un couldn't deny Gi-chan’s observation. In the middle of a city road, his name, ‘Jin Seo-un,’ was written in large Korean letters on the pavement, with green smoke billowing out from all directions. Over a hundred police cars were blocking the surrounding roads, and a massive crowd of people was staring up at the sky.
The moment he finished speaking, Seo-un’s parachute deployed automatically. He struggled for a moment with the controls, having only received a brief explanation from Karina on the plane, but once he reached the desired position, he cut the lines and dropped to the ground.
Thud! Bam! Snap.
Following Seo-un’s lead, Gi-chan and Li Lingwei also shed their cumbersome parachutes and dropped accurately onto the landing zone. Only Juriel drifted down and landed gracefully. A man in a black suit approached Seo-un and bowed deeply.
“Mr. Jin Seo-un. Thank you for traveling such a long way to help us. The U.S. government will never forget the assistance provided by you and your party.”
“The situation is urgent, so let’s talk while we move.”
As soon as Seo-un spoke, the man guided them to a vehicle. No sooner had they climbed into the luxury car than the hundred-odd police cars activated their sirens, escorting the vehicle carrying Seo-un’s group.