Chapter 31
Hearing Junhyuk was still considering guild membership, the Association President spoke softly.
"Then let's get to the point. Several major American guilds have been making moves to recruit you, Junhyuk."
Junhyuk’s expression turned puzzled at the abrupt statement.
"American guilds?"
For the first time, Junhyuk felt genuine surprise. Even with his C-rank first awakening, was that truly enough to draw attention from America’s massive guilds?
Seeing his confusion, the President continued gravely:
"While our association has operatives planted abroad, other nations have done the same here. Reports indicate your test data leaked to their associations and eventually reached select guilds."
The specifics didn’t matter to Junhyuk. What baffled him was why a mere first-stage awakened like himself warranted such attention.
"I don’t understand. Is a C-rank truly remarkable enough for major American guilds to act? I’m still just a first-stage awakened."
"You might see it that way, but consider this—a proper C-rank is like an unscratched lottery ticket. Reach your second awakening’s full potential, and S-rank becomes attainable. Even now, your abilities rival most third-stage awakened."
Truthfully, C-ranks comprised most second-stage awakened. Statistically, Junhyuk already matched typical second-stage fighters. If he maximized his second awakening?
He could leap to A-rank overnight—gaining third-stage equivalent power with a clear path to S-rank.
"Hmm..."
"After reviewing your test footage—apologies for accessing it without consent—I must say it was extraordinary. The most flawless tanking I’ve witnessed from any C-rank. Now I understand their interest."
The footage had stunned him. The idea that a newly awakened tanker displayed such mastery—surpassing even veteran capabilities—defied belief.
"Regardless, I grasp your point. But why summon me? To warn me about foreign interest?"
"Actually, the association proposes this: reject all overseas guild offers and remain in Korea."
"Oh? Stay here? Not difficult, but why should I?"
Though America felt more familiar from his villainous past life, Junhyuk couldn’t stomach exposing his siblings to foreign discrimination and language barriers.
"Your tanking skills alone make you invaluable—talent we can’t lose. We believe you’ll surpass even Lee Daesoo, Korea’s legendary tanker."
Tankers—the nobility of professions—commanded universal respect, especially as natural awakenings dwindled.
"We offer three terms: 1 billion won upfront, full tax exemption for your party, and two A-grade equipment pieces."
The cash meant little (he already held nearly 20 billion), but tax breaks and gear intrigued him. Still, such lavish terms for a C-rank?
"I accept the offer seems excessive for mere residency. Are there hidden clauses?"
The President nodded.
"Perceptive. Conditions include: no foreign citizenship, no guild membership, consulting us for overseas expeditions, and prioritizing our raid requests."
Junhyuk understood most terms except the guild prohibition—why block domestic guilds too?
"No guilds?"
"Correct. Guild policies would override your decisions during our requests. However, we’ll provide full support if desired."
Essentially, no intermediaries between them.
"Contract duration?"
"Until your second awakening."
Unaware of Junhyuk’s rapid growth potential, the President estimated two years—ample time to secure him.
"Acceptable. Any other stipulations?"
"None. But decide quickly—this offer expires before American guilds contact you. We dislike fence-sitting."
Junhyuk had already chosen.
"No need to delay. Let’s contract now."
The deal favored him—avoiding post-beginner protection period hassles. Beyond citizenship and guild bans, terms were mere suggestions.
"Requiring no deliberation?"
"None. Better foreign offers might exist, but I’ve no plans to leave Korea yet."
He’d resolved to complete certain goals before departing—accepting this windfall served him perfectly.
"Decisive. Let’s proceed."
Thus, Junhyuk unexpectedly forged a favorable pact. After sealing the contract, he extended his hand with a smile.
‘Now for the real purpose.’
"A pleasure. I look forward to our collaboration."
Deeming it routine, the President shook his hand without suspicion.
Copy!
Junhyuk instantly replicated the President’s skills—pre-researched for this moment.
Later, Junhyuk sipped iced tea at a café. With his siblings at school, he lingered before handling other errands.
"Unexpected solutions arose. Staying in Korea aids my plans anyway. Now, about that treasure hunt..."
Five years hence, the Heaven Guild would unearth 200 tons of gold bullion (worth ₩16 trillion) beneath a shabby building in Bongcheon-dong—70 tons seized as tax, 130 tons fueling their rise to Korea’s top guild.
"200 tons... Rumors claimed more, but this alone guarantees lifelong wealth."
Though unverified whispers spoke of additional treasures, Junhyuk—having read precise news reports during his fugitive past—now plotted to claim it all post-second awakening.
A contented smirk crossed his lips.
"Enough to live worry-free. Heh.”
