Panua delivered a shocking statement with a composed expression, awaiting Lennok's response in silence.
Lost in deep contemplation, Lennok slowly parted his lips.
"I don't understand."
"What?"
"I can't see why a company as large as Dyke would lack resources, or what's missing that made you make such a request. Especially coming directly from the head of planning."
The plan to dismantle the monopolistic hold on the weapon market in District 40s seemed understandable.
However, the notion of specifically enlisting Lennok's assistance presented an entirely different matter altogether.
"There are two reasons," Panua immediately replied.
"Firstly, you are a highly skilled freelancer who has achieved an extraordinary career trajectory at an unprecedented pace… and also the fact that you are a wizard."
She didn't bother elaborating on the difficulties of finding a proficient wizard, but after a brief hesitation, she continued.
"Secondly, by showcasing a freelancer actively involved in that area, we can to some extent justify our actions. In fact, this is the primary reason."
"Justification," Lennok echoed.
"If we were to directly deploy forces under our own banner to the outer districts, we would likely face numerous checks and balances and not come out ahead. However, if we indirectly exert control through you, a wizard, our competitors would find it difficult to protest outwardly."
The 40s districts were a lawless zone operating with the city government's permission, strictly adhering to an unwritten rule that it functions based on market forces.
If this delicate balance were disrupted and large corporations started to intervene, the external order would crumble, leading to the collapse of the profit structure.
And that was certainly not the outcome desired by the higher-ups in the city government.
"……"
Observing the cold smile forming on the corners of Panua's lips, Lennok nodded.
In summary, the plan involved utilizing Lennok as a representative to eliminate business competitors in the 40s districts.
Illegal arms dealers, gangs, and violent organizations active in that area—the aim was to dismantle the intricate business network entwined in the back alleys and secure a portion of the remaining profits.
It was an audacious plan, one that carried inherent risks.
Dyke Corporation had likely entertained similar thoughts before.
However, such circumstances were of no concern to Lennok.
One crucial question remained unanswered.
"What can you give me in return for doing all this?"
Silently, Panua activated the screen positioned next to her in the office.
"I am aware that you, as a wizard, are in search of several exceedingly rare items. Your discerning eye is truly remarkable, as expected of your exceptional skills."
"………."
Lennok remained quiet, taken aback by such words coming from the head of the planning department in a colossal corporation like Dyke.
"But our interest in collaborating with you, Wizard, is sincere. I believe you will understand once you lay eyes on this item."
Effortlessly, the screen flickered to life, revealing a solitary photograph.
Five weathered pencils, preserved to the point of near disintegration.
Encased within a sturdy glass display, they were securely bound by pale, fluorescent chains.
Yet, they emitted an unmistakable aura, creating hazy ripples in every direction.
Instantly, Lennok recognized the item's extraordinary nature upon seeing it.
Panua continued her explanation.
"This is the ‘Five Fingers of Enakphil,' which was featured in the VIP auction sponsored by the Central Council. They are renowned as safeguarding tools exclusively bestowed as gifts to VIPs who engage in direct trade with the Maladis School of the Magic Tower. Each pencil possesses five elusive spells granted by the school."
As she spoke, she cast a quick glance at Lennok.
"This is not an item that can be acquired merely through wealth, let alone easily encountered at an auction."
"………"
"If you would be so kind as to undertake the five tasks we require, we promise to secure this item for you. Additionally, we will offer a bonus based on the prevailing Deep Web rate for each successfully completed task."
With her words, the screen shifted to display a contract. The mentioned compensation was a sum that Lennok could not dismiss lightly.
It appeared she had meticulously prepared for this very moment.
"What are your thoughts?"
Her smile exuded confidence and certainty, as if she had perfectly grasped what Lennok desired. Her extensive explanation and resolute demeanor were all derived from this understanding.
However, there was no denying it.
A magical artifact. Furthermore, a consumable item that could address Lennok's significant mobility limitations.
Whether by coincidence or not, it was currently the most advantageous equipment and a clue for delving into Unique magic.
Upon confirming its authenticity, Lennok found it impossible to outright reject the proposition.
All he could do was request some time to contemplate.
? ? ? ? ? ?
"Has he left?"
"Yes."
From behind a glass window, Panua silently observed Lennok as he walked out of District 10 on foot—a stark contrast to his unassuming demeanor, like someone who had never harmed a fly. Yet, the records and numerous testimonials from the Deep Web revealed a different truth.
The extensive amount of information Panua had gathered to create the most compelling offer was substantial. Van, the Lightning Wizard, though relatively new with fewer than ten completed tasks, possessed undeniably real abilities. This judgment was based on the documents and the conviction felt through their direct interaction. It was highly unlikely for both sources to be mistaken.
He was a talent worth paying attention to.
"But does it have to be him? We have wizards on our side too," Killian voiced his doubts.
As Killian pointed out, Dyke Corporation did have competent wizards. In the past, skilled wizards were confined to Magic Tower, but recently, they had begun joining various organizations to pursue their individual desires. Dyke Corporation was one of the companies that benefited from this trend.
However, when it came to the level of skill Panua sought, the answer was a resounding no.
"Killian, do you honestly think you could hold your own against Croken Asilus, even for a moment?"
"…That's not an easy task."
Ignoring his futile display of bravado, Panua pressed on.
"That wizard accomplished it on his first task, and he had only one capable companion."
"……."
"Moreover, it's strange that a wizard has been working alone until now. The fact that no other company has approached him is the peculiar part. Among the freelancers we can control, he will be the most cost-effective asset. I am certain of it."
As Panua spoke, she retrieved a cigarette from her pocket.
Normally, Dyke Corporation would never dare venture into the 40s districts, no matter how much it desired business expansion. The power dynamics there were far more complex than imagined, and those who controlled the profit chains were not easily dealt with. Countless individuals had foolishly entered the market and failed to recoup their investments.
However, Panua's decision to stake a claim in the 40s districts this time was driven by the treaty with the Philenom Autonomous Region signed two days prior.
Eventually, Vulcan would have to prepare for war, and as a result, the arms industry would enter a prosperous era. To be ready for that time, it was necessary to ramp up production in advance and acquire new customers to absorb the increased weapon output. Furthermore, with the government's focus on the autonomous region treaty, there would be relatively less pressure from the authorities, making the timing nearly perfect.
"If we play our cards right, we can monopolize the flow of military supplies in one fell swoop. Going ‘further inside' is not an impossible feat."
The world was changing.
One had to respond thoughtfully, assessing the currents around them and their own capabilities. Yet, those who moved boldly had the potential to claim more than their fair share.
Panua's smile sharpened.
"Enough with the small talk. Bring him in."
"Who?"
"…I told you to bring in the next candidate."
"Ah, so that’s what you meant by securing the resume? I only printed out the ones I received by email."
"…….."
Observing Killian scratching his head with a foolish expression, Panua couldn't help but let out an involuntary sigh.
Perhaps it was a mistake to seek his cooperation on this project based on rumors of his keen intuition. A werewolf was clearly ill-suited for office work.
? ? ? ? ? ?
Lennok summarized his conversation with Panua during the meeting and relayed it to Jenny. Since they had already been exchanging requests through her, it was difficult to avoid cooperation in this matter.
"Hmm," Jenny pondered after hearing the entire story, coming to a simple conclusion.
"Both risks and benefits are fairly large."
"…….."
"I have a general idea of the value of the Five Fingers of Enakphil. It's one of those consumable artifacts that high-ranking politicians can't do without. And if they're offering such an item as a reward, it's natural to assume that the risks they expect you to take will be significant."
Jordan, who had been silently listening, added his thoughts. "I can guess why Dyke Corporation approached you separately and had this conversation. They must be aiming to minimize the animosity that would arise from this request. If it becomes known that Dyke was directly involved, things will get complicated. They probably want to control the variables as much as possible. At least, it seems like Dyke Corporation is sincere in their intentions."
Jenny looked at Lennok with a serious expression and spoke. "If you accept this request, it won't be easy to distance yourself from the situation."
"…….."
"Until now, if you've been dealing with organizations or some kind of plan, Dyke Corporation's ultimate goal is to take someone down and create a situation that benefits them. It's inevitable that animosity will arise."
"….I suppose you're right."
This request was different from what Lennok had done before.
Jenny expressed it gently.
Lennok understood.
Most of the requests he had undertaken so far didn't differentiate between light and shadow, had straightforward objectives, or had minimal fallout from their execution.
Even if he got caught up in a major incident, there had been no instances where the fire spread to the point of endangering Lennok himself.
But this time was different.
Dyke Corporation was meddling with the arms dealers in the 40s districts, which held significant weight in the complex profit structure of the outer districts.
Anyone would be furious if their money flow was threatened.
Unlike before, where tasks were completed, rewards were received, and that was the end of it, the likelihood of further retaliation or being dragged into deeper power struggles was clearly high.
"Are you prepared to take the risk to get what you want, Van?"
"……Prepared?"
Perhaps Jenny was saying this out of concern for him. Lennok was aware of that.
To Jenny, he was merely a wizard who had come from the countryside.
But Lennok couldn't help but emit a hollow laugh at her words.
When did he ever have the luxury to prepare in this place?
The environment around him was always harsh, and Lennok consistently made choices to keep moving forward.
From the moment he pulled the trigger aimed at the supervisor's forehead, he had resolved not to stop.
Even if he had to bear the contradiction of risking death to survive—
"Once you start running, you have to see it through to the end."
"…..Van?"
"Tell them I'll accept the request."
The encounter with the Ascendant, whether willingly or unwillingly, had significantly altered Lennok's mindset.
It was nearly impossible to obtain what Lennok desired by prioritizing safety and minimizing risks.
Valuable relics, rare elixirs—these were not things that could be obtained solely by having money.
In the end, he would have to ascend higher at some point, and all Lennok needed was an opportunity.
He desired greater prestige and credentials.
Increasing animosity, diminishing time, looming danger.
There was too little time to ascribe meaning and fear to all these things.
Don't overthink it. If the stakes are greater than the risks, dive in.
That was the only rationale he needed to consider on these streets.
Had Jenny and Jordan gleaned something from Lennok's expression?
Neither of them uttered another word.
(TO BE CONTINUED on Jun 5{MON})
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