Chapter 313: I Can Understand (2)
Upon arriving at the office, Kang Chan and Gérard comfortably enjoyed some coffee together. Kang Chan then headed to the DI office with Gérard.
It would feel awkward to greet Michelle inside the office. Hence, Kang Chan asked her to come out for a moment.
“How have you been?”
Michelle awkwardly greeted Gérard.
“Let’s go somewhere without motorcycles today,” Gérard brazenly responded.
“Thanks, Michelle,” Kang Chan said.
“Don’t worry about it.”
After uttering a short phrase in Korean, Kang Chan turned around.
“See you in the evening, Cap.”
“Don’t cause any trouble today,” Kang Chan replied without turning his head.
A chuckle soon escaped him. He felt like he was dropping off a kid at an international kindergarten and telling him to listen to his teacher.
Having gone up to the office, Kang Chan called Kim Hyung-Jung.
“Manager, I’m at the office. When would be a good time for you to meet?” Kang Chan asked.
- Can you come to Samseong-dong now?
“Sure. I’ll leave right away.”
Who's with him?
Kim Hyung-Jung sounded different than usual.
I don’t have to worry about this right now. I’ll find out once I get there anyway.
Kang Chan and Choi Jong-Il headed to the Samseong-dong office.
“Did you spend the night at home?”
“I was at the villa on the third floor yesterday.”
In terms of security alone, a villa was certainly significantly better than an apartment.
The two exchanged various stories until they arrived at Samseong-dong. Once out of the car, Kang Chan immediately headed to the fifth floor.
Click.
Kim Hyung-Jung opened the door before Kang Chan could even ring the bell, which was really convenient.
“Please come in. The director is inside.”
Following Kim Hyung-Jung into the office, Kang Chan saw Hwang Ki-Hyun standing in front of a table.
“Hello, sir,” Kang Chan greeted. “Seeing you here makes me feel strangely welcomed.”
Hwang Ki-Hyun reached out and shook Kang Chan’s hand.
“Have a seat.”
“Thank you.”
Drinks, bottled water, and cups were set in front of Kang Chan.
“Have you gotten some rest?”
“Yes, sir.”
Hwang Ki-Hyun nodded. He then said, “We plan to issue fake passports to ten members of the special forces team. Captain Cha Dong-Gyun will be the one selecting and commanding them. They’re scheduled to depart tomorrow morning.”
Kim Hyung-Jung slid a list toward Kang Chan.
“Cha Dong-Gyun and Kwak Cheol-Ho are still heavily injured, aren’t they?”
“Captain Cha Dong-Gyun is currently their highest-ranking member, so we chose to trust his judgment. Would you like to call him?”
Considering Cha Dong-Gyun had become pragmatically cold enough to give up on the Libya operation, his judgment could certainly be trusted now.
Kang Chan shook his head. “No. We can trust him.”
“Assistant director,” Hwang Ki-Hyun called.
“Yes, sir?”
“As you predicted, Abibu has requested a meeting with you under the pretext of meeting the key figures behind the Eurasian Rail project,” Hwang Ki-Hyun said with a stern expression. “If you’re okay with it, it would be best to meet with Director Song Chang-Wook and Chairman Kim Gwan-Sik in advance, maybe even tomorrow.”
“Got it. I’ll be sure to do that”
It was only natural for him to meet the two people he had specifically arranged appointments with anyway.
Everyone in the room had a heavy expression. Just as Lanok had mentioned, Abibu's request to meet with Kang Chan served as proof that the Mongolian base was at a high risk of being attacked.
"We also have several other issues we’d like to discuss," Hwang Ki-Hyun confessed.
"The last operation in Afghanistan had solid national support, so the parliament approved it afterward. However, not only the opposition but also some members of the ruling party have concerns regarding the operation in Libya."
Kang Chan was not well-versed in this area. Hence, he knew it would be wise for him to listen intently.
"Members of the National Defense Committee are talking to the families of those who fell in Libya to verify our men’s deployment. Although nothing has surfaced yet, these matters will inevitably come to light."
"That does seem likely."
Hwang Ki-Hyun looked directly into Kang Chan’s eyes. "We plan to negotiate with the National Defense Committee if necessary, but in the worst-case scenario, I might have to step down.”
"The Korean Peninsula is the most strategically important location in Asia. The reason China, Japan, and the United States have been rejecting our unification is because of their desire to control the strategic pivot of Asia."
Kang Chan squinted.
He’s not about to give me a lesson on geopolitics, is he? That would just be going too far.
Seemingly reading Kang Chan’s mind, Hwang Ki-Hyun continued, "Significant funds are flowing into North Korea."
"The United States is leading economic sanctions against North Korea. Even though it's through unofficial channels, the fact that funds are flowing in means the US has either consented to or at least turned a blind eye to this."
"What does the US have to gain from this?"
"The creation of tension in the Korean Peninsula, or even war."
Kang Chan snorted. "I'm sorry. I mean no offense, but this is insane. Do you know who sent the funds?"
"On paper, the sender is a company that uses a Swiss bank account."
Could this be the work of the Star of David?
Recalling the stories that he had heard at the French embassy, Kang Chan wondered if they were supporting North Korea because they couldn't bankrupt South Korea itself.
A heavy silence filled the office.
"Eight agents dispatched by the four country have started their activities on the floor below. If not for them, we wouldn't have acquired this information. I am ashamed to say this, but I have a request for you," Hwang Ki-Hyun said.
After glancing at Kim Hyung-Jung, he continued, "We urgently need to cooperate with the intelligence bureaus of China, Japan, and the United States. The moment North Korea launches a missile toward Seoul, this situation will spiral out of control."
Kang Chan couldn’t help but sigh. Curious, he asked, "Can North Korea even do that?"
"The regime is weakening. If North Korea was alone, it would have been impossible. However, the external support they’re receiving changes things. Right now, there is a good chance they would provoke us. After all, increasing their supplies and solidifying their hostility toward 'South Korea and the Yankees' would help maintain the regime."
"What if we retaliate?"
"War would break out. All oil-producing countries that didn’t get development rights to the next-generation energy would gladly support North Korea."
"The US would be thrilled."
"Japan wouldn't dislike it either."
It was an utterly laughable statement.
They felt as if Mount Everest had just started to show itself even though they had already been climbing strenuously for quite some time now.
"Director, Is the NIS capable enough to resolve this? If the actual backers are in Saudi Arabia, then we won’t be able to go to war with them. Moreover, the US’ involvement will only make this even more problematic.”
Hwang Ki-Hyun shook his head. "Unfortunately, our agents aren’t skilled enough to deal with this yet. That's why we're seeking advice and help from neighboring intelligence bureaus before this situation escalates."
Kim Hyung-Jung lowered his gaze, his expression heavy.
Hwang Ki-Hyun added, "The president’s rushed announcements about our negotiations with Japan for the undersea tunnel were also part of the efforts to deter war. The larger their investment, the less likely they are to stand on the side of conflict.”
Kang Chan let out a soft sigh.
Politics had intriguing aspects. Who would have thought that behind such a sudden announcement lay deep calculations?
"Moreover, false information is also slowly spreading. They seem to be trying to sow fear among the people by making them believe that the next-gen energy project will lead to war."
"Is that why Abibu is visiting South Korea?"
"We believe he will disseminate information while contacting the lawmakers. It’s a leap, but he might be prepared to offer compensation as well. If so, then the lawmakers would be able to prevent war and get paid for it, which would be a win-win for them. If North Korea ends up firing a missile at an uninhabited island, it could provoke public opposition."
That bastard’s trying to inflate the economy while we’re still busy with the Libya case!
"Assistant director."
Suppressing his anger, Kang Chan looked at Hwang Ki-Hyun.
"North Korea just has to fire a missile to reap substantial rewards. Even if war were to break out because of their actions, they would have strong nations to back them up. Our country can’t withstand the influence of the United States and other oil-producing countries. I humbly request that you ask for help from our allies.”
Even though Kim Hyung-Jun, who had averted his gaze, was in the room with them, the director of the National Intelligence Service still asked Kang Chan a favor.
"We've already had this conversation before. I will meet and discuss this with Ambassador Lanok."
"Thank you."
Hwang Ki-Hyun let out a soft sigh and looked at Kim Hyung-Jung.
"Manager Kim, you have to work as hard as you feel ashamed right now, if not more. Don’t forget that the benefits from the Eurasian Rail and next-gen energy facility include the development of our National Intelligence Service."
His words sounded more like a retirement speech from someone about to step down.
"Assistant Director, I will be taking my leave now.”
Kang Chan and Kim Hyung-Jung stood up, following Hwang Ki-Hyun.
"Okay."
Kang Chan shook Hwang Ki-Hyun’s hand.
No words were exchanged. With a regretful smile, Hwang Ki-Hyun simply held Kang Chan's hand tightly.
***
When meeting the heads of intelligence bureaus, Vasili had always used the special forces’ barracks due to the strict security it offered. If someone attempted an assassination here, they could immediately retaliate. Lanok, Yang Beom, Sherman, and Ludwig wouldn’t dare kill him here unless they were prepared to get shot to death on the spot.
For that reason, he had never had to worry about his safety when meeting leaders in this place.
Ethan had visited too. However, Vasili didn’t consider him a threat. Ethan was nowhere near his level.
Vasili opened the door to the barracks.
"It’s been a while," a young Englishman greeted in fluent Russian. He had his curly hair cut short, causing him to closely resemble the ruthless Vasili.
He stood up from the sofa. "Has the real deal finally shown up?"
Vasili squinted at the man, then silently walked to the wall-mounted bar.
"If you have vodka, that would be great.”
"Why not sit over here instead?"
"Sure."
As the Englishman moved over, Vasili put a bottle of vodka and two glasses on the table.
Clink. Clink.
After filling the glasses, he sat down across the bar from the Englishman.
"What about Ethan?"
"He's always liked doing nonsensical things that are unnecessary."
When Vasili smiled, the man raised his glass. Both men simultaneously finished their drinks.
"Josh, since you started to move, Lanok and Romain must be losing some sleep, huh?"
Clink. Clink.
"I've come for a different matter today," Josh said.
Vasili, pouring them more alcohol, raised his eyebrow at Josh. Before Kang Chan appeared, Josh had been set to become the next head of the information world. In the same way France gained strength from Lanok, the next generation speculated that Josh would be the reason behind the increase in British influence.
The reason Lanok entrusted France to Kang Chan and even Vasili paid attention to stop him from becoming the head of the British intelligence bureau was because of his recognized abilities.
Under Vasili's gaze, Josh remained steadfast.
"I don't like wordplay,” Vasili said.
"I'm aware."
Vasili set down the vodka bottle and straightened up. "What are you really here for?"
"It's about Korea."
Vasili briefly laughed, but it was cut short by Josh’s unexpected proposal.
"I will give you half of the shares of the next-generation power facility,” the Englishman said. “As you know, a Blackhead only appears maybe once every few decades. The nutrient-depleted rock we had went over to America."
Fiddling with his glass, Josh continued, "The God of Blackfield gave the one he found in Africa to Lanok. And then there's another treasure that Abibu has."
"So you’re aware that there's one more?" Vasili asked.
Instead of denying it, Josh just laughed in amusement. "Russia's intelligence bureau is certainly frightening."
"So, where did this amazing offer come from?"
"From our plan to start a war on Korea."
Vasili blankly stared at Josh.
"That should eradicate all their plans to build the Eurasian Rail and the next-generation energy facility."
"North Korea isn't stupid enough to fall for that. South Korea won't easily fall for such provocation either."
"There certainly won’t be any war if South Korea can turn a blind eye to three missiles exploding in the middle of Seoul."
Just as Vasili shook his head, John continued, "One of them will be equipped with a nuclear warhead."
Vasili's eyes suddenly glinted.
"You know about the nuclear warhead that Sergey Karakayev, also known as Sergey Gee, smuggled out, don’t you?"
"Was it the British intelligence bureau that killed him?"
Vasili looked as if he was about to draw his weapon.
"How could Ethan, that bungler, kill someone under the surveillance of Russian intelligence? He probably still doesn't even know about it."
"Josh, I acknowledge your ability, but you should know better than to behave insolently in front of me."
"I know, I know. Finding out about Sergey Karakayev was also a coincidence for me."
Vasili let out a soft hum. "Hmm."
"The world really is small, isn't it? Or is it the circle that's small?"
"Is this connected to Gerard de Mermier?"
"Honestly?"
"Josh,” Vasili called, causing Josh's expression to turn serious.
"Believe it or not, this part is also difficult for me to understand. He should have died in the plan to smuggle out the Blackhead. Just another name on the list of casualties. However, right before the operation, he was sent somewhere else."
Vasili just listened.
"After that, I got preoccupied with resolving the nuclear warhead issue. Since he was part of the Foreign Legion's special forces team, I assumed he'd die sooner or later."
Josh laughed, seemingly astonished. He then added, "Although the plan was to kill him before he’s discharged, he has stubbornly survived every danger thrown against him.”
"The Foreign Legion's special forces commander?"
"Yes. He's gained quite a reputation, hasn’t he?"
"The fact that he holds that position means his efforts are being acknowledged."
Josh nodded in agreement.
"I was wondering if it was coincidence or if Lanok was trying to keep us in check through the God of Blackfield."
Puzzled, Vasili frowned.
"Contrary to the plans made, he was unexpectedly sent to Mongolia. He was then targeted by snipers during a civil war but ended up in Afghanistan. Now, just as we were starting to think that he would finally be eliminated in Africa, he fought his way through six hundred Quds. That last one is the most surprising feat he has done so far."
Vasili shook his head in disbelief.
"As you know, we also planned to use the Congo civil war, but he suddenly requested leave."
"That would be for his recent trip to Korea."
"Exactly."
Josh couldn’t help but laugh due to how ridiculous the situation was.
"I thought he’d just keep embarrassing us if we kept using the same tactic, so we planned to give him a heart attack on the plane instead. Guess what? The man switched flights, again on the God of Blackfield's orders."
Vasili’s laughter sounded quite eerie.
"Josh,” he called, abruptly cutting his own laughter. His expression sharpened. "Is the Star of David finally making its move?"
"It's not unrelated."
Josh held a steady gaze on him.
"You know what result my words can bring about here?"
"Are you considering forsaking Russia's significant interests for the sake of your loyalty to Lanok?"
"If you think a few words will shake me, you better prepare your last words here."
Vasili downed the vodka in one gulp. He then leaned over the bar and reached out his hand.
Click.
In Vasili's hand was a Gsh-18 pistol.
"You can use the nuclear warhead Sergey smuggled as you like. However, we have already put too much investment in the construction of the next-generation power facilities and the Eurasian Rail to back out now."
"If Russia joins us, the Middle Eastern oil-producing countries will reduce their oil production."
"Do you plan to keep playing games until the end?"
Clink.
Vasili refilled his glass with his left hand. His posture remained perfect, leaving no room for Josh to act carelessly.
"Do you know that famous Russian song that goes, ‘Before the cold vodka burns the throat...’"
Vasili nodded, gripping the glass with his left hand, his gaze as cold as a serpent's. "... red blood will soak the floor."
"If Lanok dies, would you consider joining hands with us?"
Vasili's serpentine gaze intensely lit up.
"Is Gabriel also involved with the Star of David?"
"He died a moment ago."
Vasili's eyes narrowed.
"He suffered a heart attack in the bathroom. He has always had a weak heart."
"How do you plan to eliminate Lanok?"
Josh’s lips curved into a sardonic smile.
"I trust you're familiar with the nature of intelligence bureaus. You may question the outcome, but it's impolite to inquire about the process."
"Are the funds sent to North Korea also from the Star of David?"
"From what I’ve heard, Sherman had a part in it."
Incredibly, Josh answered and raised his glass.
"If a nuclear bomb goes off in Seoul, North Korea won't be safe either."
"They won't know that the missile will have a nuclear warhead. It will be launched from a submarine we provided."
"What about the sacrifices of the US forces?"
"They have a rock that has been depleted of all its energy, yet they still dream of becoming the main players in this vie for the ownership over the next-gen energy. A suitable sacrifice seems required to secure shares of the Korean Peninsula later on. They have already secretly joined hands with Japan anyway."
“If I kill you, will the war still happen?"
Josh downed the vodka and spoke.
"It has already begun."
A moment of silence passed.
"A large force is moving toward the Mongolian base as we speak."
Vasili frowned.
Josh continued, "Just when Russia is distracted by a nearby local conflict."
"Are you planning to destroy the base?"
"We plan to kill all personnel left in it. There will be no survivors."
Vasili sighed. He then downed his vodka.
"Hmm."
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