Chapter 52: Dragon (1)

You said you would forgive, didnt you?

These were the words from Rin, who was looking at Kim Hyunwoo with an expression as if the world had crumbled.

But why is it impossible?

At that sorrowful muttering, Kim Hyunwoo made a peculiar face and thought.

In fact, he was very curious about many things.

However, despite a few unresolved questions, there were definitely facts Kim Hyunwoo could infer from her immediate actions.

That was, the Absolute Ruler of Darkness before him wanted to return to Lartania.

From Kim Hyunwoos standpoint, it was undoubtedly good news.

After all, obtaining a 5-star hero right now would be greatly beneficial.

However, despite such merits, the reason he couldnt accept Rin was,

Honestly, its impossible because your infamy is too high.

It was because of her relationship chart in other words, her infamy.

Infamy?

At the Absolute Ruler of Darkness puzzled question, Kim Hyunwoo nodded.

In fact, Kim Hyunwoo hadnt planned on discussing her relationship chart with her.

After all, explaining this relationship chart, which only he could see, to a hero seemed not that easy a task.

However, seeing her seemingly harboring a huge misunderstanding, he felt compelled to explain.

To Kim Hyunwoo, her current expression seemed how should he put it?The most uptodate novels are published on n0velbj)n((.))co/m

A little dangerous.

Honestly, it looked like she could commit some terrible deed without it being the least bit surprising.

Kim Hyunwoos gaze briefly caught on the long sword at Rins waist. Somehow, it looked exceptionally sharp today.

Hmm.

After a moment of contemplation, Kim Hyunwoo opened his mouth, pondering how to discuss this relationship chart with her.

First off, it seems youve had a hard time. Although I cant know the details, you must have had your reasons. At least, as far as I know, you dont recklessly take lives.

!

Kim Hyunwoo, cautiously praising her because of her slightly dangerous look, seemed to bring a faint color to Rins face, but,

However, while I can understand that, I cant accept you.

Uh!

Her expression darkened again at the following words.

Your infamy is essentially poison to Lartanias territory.

Kim Hyunwoo continued.

You said youve been watching me, right?

No?

! Ye-yes! I, I have indeed been watching you!!

Then you must know well. Lartanias territory has just begun to grow, and a proper structure has just been established to function as a territory. But your infamy could ruin everything Ive built up so far.

If youre afraid of those who bear grudges against me seeking revenge-

If that were the only issue, I might have considered recruiting you.

Kim Hyunwoo, scratching his head as if pondering, continued.

The demerits of employing you arent just that, Rin. The Labyrinth city Ive created ultimately relies on the influx of territory residents and diplomacy. But what if I recruit you, with your infamy piled high?

Uh

Rins breathing visibly halted.

Anyone but a fool would understand what Kim Hyunwoo was saying, and Rin was no fool.

First off, the mercenaries footsteps will cease. Naturally, the territorys revenue will decrease. The merchant groups and territory residents wont come because of your presence. In a stagnant territory, the residents will leave. Then? We end up back at square one. Besides-

Kim Hyunwoo went on.

-Even if we ignore all those demerits and recruit you, could you alone fend off everyone hostile to Lartania? No, it would be impossible.

Kim Hyunwoo roughly guessed the strength of the Absolute Ruler of Darkness.

Moreover, great heroes not affiliated with any nation, holding much in their hands, would not want to engage in fights with other great heroes and suffer losses.

Especially since the disappearance of the Blue Merchant who used to roam the world a few years ago.

Of course, even considering all that, the fact that four great heroes were humiliated by just one woman without a fight breaking out is something worth pondering.

Ultimately, thanks to the woman, who was recommended by the Swords of Calan to enter the grand auction, being too strong, Rapengan was able to get by with minimal damage.

After all, everyone knew that it was impossible to avert a disaster capable of overpowering four great heroes in a commercial territory.

But Adria, you dont need to worry about it. After all, the original purpose was achieved.

Moreover, the fact that the Execution Sword was sold in Rapengan territory and, fortunately, the woman purchased it for a vast sum meant that, ultimately, Rapengan did not suffer significant damage compared to what it gained.

In fact, it could be said to have benefited in a way, beyond the damage.

Ultimately, her participation in this grand auction, recommended by the Swords of Calan, revealed her identity.

She is the hidden power behind the Calan Kingdom.

Berta could easily tell that she was the monster who had grown the kingdom, which, ten years ago, seemed about to be consumed by Norba Kingdom.

Of course, spreading that information around was impossible, but just knowing it was a great help, so she was satisfied.

If thats the case, Im relieved.

After Adrias words and a bit of conversation,

I should be going soon.

Oh, are you leaving already?

Yes. I have a destination I need to visit now.

A destination?

I need to return to my Guardian.

Ah, I see.

After a brief conversation, they parted ways.

Uhm, there were some issues, but its not too bad considering.

Adria checked the Gold Coins loaded in the carriage once more,

Then, should I propose to visit my Guardian while delivering this?

Thinking this, as she left Rapengan territory and was working in her office, Adria sent her secretary away and took out a small crystal orb as the territory grew distant.

Today was the day to report in advance to her Guardian.

Therefore, after taking out the red crystal orb, Adria placed it on the desk in her office, gently infused it with magic, and bowed.

Woong-!

The crystal orb shone brightly, and something similar to a hologram window appeared in front of Adria.

I greet The Great One.

Adria immediately bowed her head as the hologram appeared.

However, the woman with red hair like Adrias, appearing in the hologram, did not say anything.

I will report.

As if accustomed to her response, Adria began the report on her own.

Despite the start of the report, the woman with various scars on her neck just looked at her with an empty gaze.

A little while later.

That concludes the report on the Merchant Group

After finishing the report on the Merchant Group, Adria continued,

May I introduce a person to you, if you permit?

The woman looked down at Adria with an indifferent gaze.

However.

Its just that, perhaps, that person might possess what you desire, so I dare ask.

The item I desire?

At Adrias words, she responded.

Yes. So, if its alright with you, Great Guardian, I wish for you to see this person with your own eyes through your power and make a decision.

At Adrias continued words,

Alright.

The dragon answered.