President Kang Min-ki meticulously and repeatedly read the report in his hand, not missing a single letter before placing it on the desk. He then stroked his chin and became lost in thought.
After a brief silence, he suddenly turned to his secretary and asked, "How long has the meeting been going on?"
The secretary promptly replied, "It's been a little over twenty minutes."
An audio conference was underway between diplomats in Beijing and Seoul. The matter at hand was so grave that the President had decided to listen in. Typically, he wouldn't attend such diplomatic working-level meetings, opting instead for later reports.
But given that this concerned that wizard, he sought real-time updates.
The President inquired further, "Which line is it?"
"They're on line number one," the secretary responded.
The President picked up the phone, allowing him to listen to the interpreted conversation between the two countries' diplomats.
"Hence, the People's Republic of China has formally requested the release of flight records and communication logs with the air traffic control tower for flight KE2815, which took off from Shanghai Hongqiao Airport at 16:00 on XX, 20XX." The voice of the Chinese official could be heard over the phone.
Suppressing a sigh, the President realized he had momentarily forgotten it was a listening-only line. Although he could hear the conversation, he couldn't interject.
Turning to his secretary, he asked, "Are they still discussing this topic?"
The secretary nodded in confirmation. The President re-engaged with the ongoing meeting.
An official from the South Korean Ministry of Foreign Affairs countered China's demand. "Our investigation shows that Flight KE2815 was a civilian aircraft. We have found no concrete evidence of any violation of the Aviation Act or Aviation Security Act. Requesting such information from a private company without any charges is baseless."
China's sudden scrutiny of the flight was transparent; they had smelled something. This made President Kang Min-ki frown.
"We have substantial evidence indicating that the aircraft did not land at Gimpo Airport as scheduled," the Chinese official insisted.
"In that case, let's begin by disclosing this evidence."
However, the Chinese diplomat failed to produce any evidence. Still, persisting in their argument implied they had noticed something amiss. To persist without evidence suggested they might have acquired it through illegal means.
It was more likely the latter-a kind of evidence that couldn't be confidently presented to the Korean government, possibly gathered through espionage, such as hacking.
The Chinese government had little choice. After flight KE2815, on which Yoon Min-joon had been traveling, entered Korean airports' control, all flight records were tampered with and partially concealed by the Korean government.
An official from the South Korean Ministry of Foreign Affairs commented, "We're struggling to comprehend why China continues to demand excessive information about a Korean civilian aircraft."
"We've already conveyed our stance. The plane's violation of China's Civil Aviation Law during takeoff from Shanghai Hongqiao Airport is evident. Failure to cooperate with the investigation could lead to the suspension of all flights to China by the airline, the largest passenger transporter in your country. This is a natural and lawful response."
The diplomats' voices seemed to escalate, the same arguments cycling. Eventually, the audio conference concluded without reaching any conclusions.
The President hung up the phone, his expression darkening. Almost immediately, his chief secretary approached and reported, "The Chinese ambassador is persisting with requests for an audience."
"Continue to decline politely, using reasonable excuses, as we've been doing," the Presiden instructed. At times, inaction was the most effective response. With a stern expression, the President asked, "Isn't it obvious why China is being so forthright?"
The Senior Presidential Secretary for Foreign and Security Affairs, who had been following the meeting, nodded in agreement. "Perhaps, lacking physical evidence, they are already convinced based on strong conviction alone. They must have noted our government's attempt to contact Yoon Min-joon through that flight."
"Even if they had concrete proof, it might be worse." President Kang Min-ki noted.
"That's right," the Senior Presidential Secretary for Foreign and Security Affair continues, "our government could have concealed the fact that China was aware. Yet, they continue to openly target the plane and protest, suggesting they're still unaware of Mr. Yoon Min-joon's whereabouts."
"They're pressuring us because they can't locate him. Ultimately, it's an indirect threat," the President concluded.
"Indeed."
China was delivering a message behind the diplomatic working-level meeting. They already knew the Korean government had played a trick with the plane.
Moreover, they likely had identified Yoon Min-joon, who had been on the plane. Yoon Min-joon's departure records would remain vividly recorded in the Chinese government's immigration bureau's digital records, an area the Korean government couldn't access.
"The Chinese government hasn't secured his personal information yet. That's why they're approaching our government, believing we've already made contact with him."
"Quite likely." President Kang Min-ki offered a bitter smile. "They're smart."
In reality, the Chinese speculation held some truth. The Korean government had no idea where Yoon Min-joon was at that moment. However, the means to contact him again rested with the government.
"This is why China is so desperate to find him." The President shifted his gaze to the document on his desk.
Based on the information gleaned from Beijing's intelligence channel, an unexpected incident had occurred within the People's Liberation Army unit deployed to the Shanghai Channel. A mysterious entity had interceded in the skirmish between the extraterrestrial race and the People's Liberation Army. Detailed information had yet to reach the Korean government, however this had thrown the Chinese government into disarray.
The world beyond the Shanghai Channel was known to house creatures vastly different from those on Earth. Strangely, one of these magical beings observed in the extraterrestrial race village had taken on the guise of an earthly animal.
President Kang Min-ki sat upright and inquired, "A tiger?"
This gigantic tiger had abruptly materialized from thin air, wreaking havoc among the People's Liberation Army before vanishing like an illusion, despite enduring numerous shots.
Moreover, during the interrogation of the extraterrestrial race following the battle, the Chinese government had uncovered the involvement of a human wizard. Surprisingly, based on the description of appearance and behavior provided in the testimonies, this wizard appeared to be of Earthly origin.
An unidentified independent wizard had effortlessly traversed the Channel under Chinese jurisdiction and initiated contact with the extraterrestrial races. Equipped with this knowledge, the Chinese government had been fervently searching for this enigmatic wizard.
Meanwhile, it appeared that an unsettling incident involving the Korean national carrier at Hongqiao Airport had reached the upper echelons of the Chinese government. Despite the Korean government's best efforts, they had been unable to elude the watchful eye of the Chinese surveillance network.
Korea and a mysterious wizard of unknown identity-these two concepts were unquestionably intertwined. The Korean government had already discerned that certain footage from the Busan incident had found its way to China.
It wouldn't have taken long for the Chinese government to investigate the passengers on that flight and narrow down the suspect to Yoon Min-joon.
"Excuse me, sir. Washington is on the line," the secretary said.
President Kang Min-ki abruptly snapped back to the present and directed, "Patch them through, those two were persistent."
As he picked up the phone, the voice of the U.S. Secretary of State greeted him. These days, they speak nearly every day.
After exchanging brief pleasantries, they dove straight into the matter.
"As an ally, Mr. President, I would like to offer some sincere advice. The United States is always ready to cooperate with the Korean government for a more extensive investigation. It has been several months since the Busan incident, and it appears that meaningful progress has yet to be made."
It was a familiar proposal. Since the Busan incident, the U.S. had repeatedly proposed forming a joint investigation team when feasible. While they likely conducted their own investigations via U.S. intelligence channels, formal proposals from both China and the U.S. persisted.
The underlying message was clear: they sought to extract information while collaborating with the Korean government.
"The United States has already deployed a significant number of public and private aid teams for the reconstruction of Busan. We appreciate that support," President Kang Min-ki acknowledged. "Furthermore, a substantial aid effort from GIBW, a U.S. private organization, arrived this week."
"Aid and reconstruction are undoubtedly vital. However, we must uncover the true nature of the entity responsible for this situation to prevent a recurrence." the Secretary of State replied.
If this were a typical extraterrestrial race crisis, the United States would have provided far less assistance than they had. Their sustained involvement indicated suspicions that the responsible entity might not fit the mold of a typical extraterrestrial race.
Recognizing each other's intentions, they conversed for some time. President Kang Min-ki concluded the conference call by once again declining to send additional investigation teams.
However, just before concluding the call, the Secretary of State offered a carefully chosen remark. "Be careful, Mr. President. Intelligence from the Chinese side suggests they may take covert actions out of impatience, not openly."
The President's expression darkened in an instant. The implication was clear: China might resort to non-diplomatic means.
"Impatience?" President Kang Min-ki asked.
"It seems that significant developments have occurred on the Shanghai side recently. I lack all the details." the Secretary of State explained.
It was a blatant fabrication. When it came to China, the United States likely possessed more information than South Korea.
After throwing the bait, the Secretary of State continued, "Based on the information we've gathered and analyzed, it's conceivable that the Chinese government may attempt to contact foreign wizards through less-than-peaceful means."
President Kang Min-ki weighed the gravity of the situation. It had always remained an implicit taboo until now.
"That's how urgent China is. And, if I may offer some advice as a friend..." the Secretary of State began cautiously.
Kang Min-ki's eyes grew more cautious in response.
"Wizards who have already been identified may pose a greater threat, even if they aren't China's ultimate goal," the Secretary of State warned.
That's how the call concluded.
Setting the phone aside, President Kang Min-ki speculated on the meaning of what he had just heard. For now, there was only one conclusion he could draw.
Since tracking down Yoon Min-joon's whereabouts proved challenging, the Chinese government appeared to have devised an alternative plan.
"Are they already in contact with a known Korean wizard?" the President mused aloud.
Currently, only one wizard, serving the Korean government, remained active.
The list of wizards in each country, akin to strategic assets, was among the most tightly held secrets. However, through intense espionage activities, some personal information had been leaked. What if China also possessed information about Kim Kyung-hwan?
"It can only mean they're attempting to reach out to Wizard Kim Kyung-hwan. Are they clutching at straws?" the President pondered.
"Nevertheless, there's no record of contact between Yoon Min-joon and Kim Kyung-hwan. Our government has already investigated this," the secretary reported.
"We're not certain of their intentions," the President muttered
"Could it be that they're clinging to this slim possibility simply because he's a Korean wizard?" another official speculated.
The President's concerns deepened, prompting him to raise his head and ask, "Where is the contract you obtained from Wizard Yoon Min-joon now?"
"We're sending it to Wizard Kim Kyung-hwan for analysis," the secretary replied.
"Have the results come in?"
"Not yet. Wizard Kim Kyung-hwan expressed reluctance, saying he couldn't get his hands on it..." another staff member informed.
President Kang Min-ki briefly organized his thoughts. "Regardless, that's our only means of contacting Wizard Yoon Min-joon."
It was the sole advantage the Korean government held over other nations.
"The contract states that if someone within our government signs it, we can establish contact with him. However, we haven't verified its authenticity." A staff member offered his thoughts.
An unknown contract, likely a magical object.
"There's something peculiar about China. Despite the risks, we might be better off trying to reestablish contact this way," the President responded.
The staff members collectively voiced their objections.
"Ah, but sir! We can't predict what kind of magical effect might occur after signing it," one warned.
"And the question of who should sign it!" another exclaimed.
The President met their gaze one by one and stated firmly, "Then, please summon Wizard Kim Kyung-hwan to the Blue House with the contract. I'd like to speak with him for a moment."
***
After some time, in a private area near Gyeonggi Province.
Kim Kyung-hwan opened his mouth, his excitement fading, as he observed the NIS employee approaching him.
"Are you going to sign here?" Kim Kyung-hwan asked when the NIS employee mentioned the contract.
"I believe that's the direction this is heading. But first, the President wishes to have a brief meeting with you, Wizard," the NIS employee replied.
Kim Kyung-hwan frowned and examined the contract before him. He re-evaluated the mana pattern emanating from it, causing another shiver to run down his spine. Goosebumps covered his body.
Yes, those devoid of mana, couldn't fathom the terror he felt.
He muttered to himself. Besides, this mana pattern feel hauntingly familiar.
"I don't suppose the President intends to sign it, does he?" Kim Kyung-hwan asked.
"It seems unlikely. But for now, please come with me," the NIS employee suggested.
Kim Kyung-hwan nodded and rose from his seat. As he did, thoughts raced through his mind. Is Eraser attempting to rule the country from the shadows? He's human, but what in the world is he? Is he truly a wizard who has been manipulating humanity throughout history for centuries?
Kim Kyung-hwan hadn't yet received all the government's information. While contemplating various theories, an ominous feeling overcame him, further muddling his complexion.
President Kang Min-ki meticulously and repeatedly read the report in his hand, not missing a single letter before placing it on the desk. He then stroked his chin and became lost in thought.
After a brief silence, he suddenly turned to his secretary and asked, "How long has the meeting been going on?"
The secretary promptly replied, "It's been a little over twenty minutes."
An audio conference was underway between diplomats in Beijing and Seoul. The matter at hand was so grave that the President had decided to listen in. Typically, he wouldn't attend such diplomatic working-level meetings, opting instead for later reports.
But given that this concerned that wizard, he sought real-time updates.
The President inquired further, "Which line is it?"
"They're on line number one," the secretary responded.
The President picked up the phone, allowing him to listen to the interpreted conversation between the two countries' diplomats.
"Hence, the People's Republic of China has formally requested the release of flight records and communication logs with the air traffic control tower for flight KE2815, which took off from Shanghai Hongqiao Airport at 16:00 on XX, 20XX." The voice of the Chinese official could be heard over the phone.
Suppressing a sigh, the President realized he had momentarily forgotten it was a listening-only line. Although he could hear the conversation, he couldn't interject.
Turning to his secretary, he asked, "Are they still discussing this topic?"
The secretary nodded in confirmation. The President re-engaged with the ongoing meeting.
An official from the South Korean Ministry of Foreign Affairs countered China's demand. "Our investigation shows that Flight KE2815 was a civilian aircraft. We have found no concrete evidence of any violation of the Aviation Act or Aviation Security Act. Requesting such information from a private company without any charges is baseless."
China's sudden scrutiny of the flight was transparent; they had smelled something. This made President Kang Min-ki frown.
"We have substantial evidence indicating that the aircraft did not land at Gimpo Airport as scheduled," the Chinese official insisted.
"In that case, let's begin by disclosing this evidence."
However, the Chinese diplomat failed to produce any evidence. Still, persisting in their argument implied they had noticed something amiss. To persist without evidence suggested they might have acquired it through illegal means.
It was more likely the latter-a kind of evidence that couldn't be confidently presented to the Korean government, possibly gathered through espionage, such as hacking.
The Chinese government had little choice. After flight KE2815, on which Yoon Min-joon had been traveling, entered Korean airports' control, all flight records were tampered with and partially concealed by the Korean government.
An official from the South Korean Ministry of Foreign Affairs commented, "We're struggling to comprehend why China continues to demand excessive information about a Korean civilian aircraft."
"We've already conveyed our stance. The plane's violation of China's Civil Aviation Law during takeoff from Shanghai Hongqiao Airport is evident. Failure to cooperate with the investigation could lead to the suspension of all flights to China by the airline, the largest passenger transporter in your country. This is a natural and lawful response."
The diplomats' voices seemed to escalate, the same arguments cycling. Eventually, the audio conference concluded without reaching any conclusions.
The President hung up the phone, his expression darkening. Almost immediately, his chief secretary approached and reported, "The Chinese ambassador is persisting with requests for an audience."
"Continue to decline politely, using reasonable excuses, as we've been doing," the Presiden instructed. At times, inaction was the most effective response. With a stern expression, the President asked, "Isn't it obvious why China is being so forthright?"
The Senior Presidential Secretary for Foreign and Security Affairs, who had been following the meeting, nodded in agreement. "Perhaps, lacking physical evidence, they are already convinced based on strong conviction alone. They must have noted our government's attempt to contact Yoon Min-joon through that flight."
"Even if they had concrete proof, it might be worse." President Kang Min-ki noted.
"That's right," the Senior Presidential Secretary for Foreign and Security Affair continues, "our government could have concealed the fact that China was aware. Yet, they continue to openly target the plane and protest, suggesting they're still unaware of Mr. Yoon Min-joon's whereabouts."
"They're pressuring us because they can't locate him. Ultimately, it's an indirect threat," the President concluded.
"Indeed."
China was delivering a message behind the diplomatic working-level meeting. They already knew the Korean government had played a trick with the plane.
Moreover, they likely had identified Yoon Min-joon, who had been on the plane. Yoon Min-joon's departure records would remain vividly recorded in the Chinese government's immigration bureau's digital records, an area the Korean government couldn't access.
"The Chinese government hasn't secured his personal information yet. That's why they're approaching our government, believing we've already made contact with him."
"Quite likely." President Kang Min-ki offered a bitter smile. "They're smart."
In reality, the Chinese speculation held some truth. The Korean government had no idea where Yoon Min-joon was at that moment. However, the means to contact him again rested with the government.
"This is why China is so desperate to find him." The President shifted his gaze to the document on his desk.
Based on the information gleaned from Beijing's intelligence channel, an unexpected incident had occurred within the People's Liberation Army unit deployed to the Shanghai Channel. A mysterious entity had interceded in the skirmish between the extraterrestrial race and the People's Liberation Army. Detailed information had yet to reach the Korean government, however this had thrown the Chinese government into disarray.
The world beyond the Shanghai Channel was known to house creatures vastly different from those on Earth. Strangely, one of these magical beings observed in the extraterrestrial race village had taken on the guise of an earthly animal.
President Kang Min-ki sat upright and inquired, "A tiger?"
This gigantic tiger had abruptly materialized from thin air, wreaking havoc among the People's Liberation Army before vanishing like an illusion, despite enduring numerous shots.
Moreover, during the interrogation of the extraterrestrial race following the battle, the Chinese government had uncovered the involvement of a human wizard. Surprisingly, based on the description of appearance and behavior provided in the testimonies, this wizard appeared to be of Earthly origin.
An unidentified independent wizard had effortlessly traversed the Channel under Chinese jurisdiction and initiated contact with the extraterrestrial races. Equipped with this knowledge, the Chinese government had been fervently searching for this enigmatic wizard.
Meanwhile, it appeared that an unsettling incident involving the Korean national carrier at Hongqiao Airport had reached the upper echelons of the Chinese government. Despite the Korean government's best efforts, they had been unable to elude the watchful eye of the Chinese surveillance network.
Korea and a mysterious wizard of unknown identity-these two concepts were unquestionably intertwined. The Korean government had already discerned that certain footage from the Busan incident had found its way to China.
It wouldn't have taken long for the Chinese government to investigate the passengers on that flight and narrow down the suspect to Yoon Min-joon.
"Excuse me, sir. Washington is on the line," the secretary said.
President Kang Min-ki abruptly snapped back to the present and directed, "Patch them through, those two were persistent."
As he picked up the phone, the voice of the U.S. Secretary of State greeted him. These days, they speak nearly every day.
After exchanging brief pleasantries, they dove straight into the matter.
"As an ally, Mr. President, I would like to offer some sincere advice. The United States is always ready to cooperate with the Korean government for a more extensive investigation. It has been several months since the Busan incident, and it appears that meaningful progress has yet to be made."
It was a familiar proposal. Since the Busan incident, the U.S. had repeatedly proposed forming a joint investigation team when feasible. While they likely conducted their own investigations via U.S. intelligence channels, formal proposals from both China and the U.S. persisted.
The underlying message was clear: they sought to extract information while collaborating with the Korean government.
"The United States has already deployed a significant number of public and private aid teams for the reconstruction of Busan. We appreciate that support," President Kang Min-ki acknowledged. "Furthermore, a substantial aid effort from GIBW, a U.S. private organization, arrived this week."
"Aid and reconstruction are undoubtedly vital. However, we must uncover the true nature of the entity responsible for this situation to prevent a recurrence." the Secretary of State replied.
If this were a typical extraterrestrial race crisis, the United States would have provided far less assistance than they had. Their sustained involvement indicated suspicions that the responsible entity might not fit the mold of a typical extraterrestrial race.
Recognizing each other's intentions, they conversed for some time. President Kang Min-ki concluded the conference call by once again declining to send additional investigation teams.
However, just before concluding the call, the Secretary of State offered a carefully chosen remark. "Be careful, Mr. President. Intelligence from the Chinese side suggests they may take covert actions out of impatience, not openly."
The President's expression darkened in an instant. The implication was clear: China might resort to non-diplomatic means.
"Impatience?" President Kang Min-ki asked.
"It seems that significant developments have occurred on the Shanghai side recently. I lack all the details." the Secretary of State explained.
It was a blatant fabrication. When it came to China, the United States likely possessed more information than South Korea.
After throwing the bait, the Secretary of State continued, "Based on the information we've gathered and analyzed, it's conceivable that the Chinese government may attempt to contact foreign wizards through less-than-peaceful means."
President Kang Min-ki weighed the gravity of the situation. It had always remained an implicit taboo until now.
"That's how urgent China is. And, if I may offer some advice as a friend..." the Secretary of State began cautiously.
Kang Min-ki's eyes grew more cautious in response.
"Wizards who have already been identified may pose a greater threat, even if they aren't China's ultimate goal," the Secretary of State warned.
That's how the call concluded.
Setting the phone aside, President Kang Min-ki speculated on the meaning of what he had just heard. For now, there was only one conclusion he could draw.
Since tracking down Yoon Min-joon's whereabouts proved challenging, the Chinese government appeared to have devised an alternative plan.
"Are they already in contact with a known Korean wizard?" the President mused aloud.
Currently, only one wizard, serving the Korean government, remained active.
The list of wizards in each country, akin to strategic assets, was among the most tightly held secrets. However, through intense espionage activities, some personal information had been leaked. What if China also possessed information about Kim Kyung-hwan?
"It can only mean they're attempting to reach out to Wizard Kim Kyung-hwan. Are they clutching at straws?" the President pondered.
"Nevertheless, there's no record of contact between Yoon Min-joon and Kim Kyung-hwan. Our government has already investigated this," the secretary reported.
"We're not certain of their intentions," the President muttered
"Could it be that they're clinging to this slim possibility simply because he's a Korean wizard?" another official speculated.
The President's concerns deepened, prompting him to raise his head and ask, "Where is the contract you obtained from Wizard Yoon Min-joon now?"
"We're sending it to Wizard Kim Kyung-hwan for analysis," the secretary replied.
"Have the results come in?"
"Not yet. Wizard Kim Kyung-hwan expressed reluctance, saying he couldn't get his hands on it..." another staff member informed.
President Kang Min-ki briefly organized his thoughts. "Regardless, that's our only means of contacting Wizard Yoon Min-joon."
It was the sole advantage the Korean government held over other nations.
"The contract states that if someone within our government signs it, we can establish contact with him. However, we haven't verified its authenticity." A staff member offered his thoughts.
An unknown contract, likely a magical object.
"There's something peculiar about China. Despite the risks, we might be better off trying to reestablish contact this way," the President responded.
The staff members collectively voiced their objections.
"Ah, but sir! We can't predict what kind of magical effect might occur after signing it," one warned.
"And the question of who should sign it!" another exclaimed.
The President met their gaze one by one and stated firmly, "Then, please summon Wizard Kim Kyung-hwan to the Blue House with the contract. I'd like to speak with him for a moment."
***
After some time, in a private area near Gyeonggi Province.
Kim Kyung-hwan opened his mouth, his excitement fading, as he observed the NIS employee approaching him.
"Are you going to sign here?" Kim Kyung-hwan asked when the NIS employee mentioned the contract.
"I believe that's the direction this is heading. But first, the President wishes to have a brief meeting with you, Wizard," the NIS employee replied.
Kim Kyung-hwan frowned and examined the contract before him. He re-evaluated the mana pattern emanating from it, causing another shiver to run down his spine. Goosebumps covered his body.
Yes, those devoid of mana, couldn't fathom the terror he felt.
He muttered to himself. Besides, this mana pattern feel hauntingly familiar.
"I don't suppose the President intends to sign it, does he?" Kim Kyung-hwan asked.
"It seems unlikely. But for now, please come with me," the NIS employee suggested.
Kim Kyung-hwan nodded and rose from his seat. As he did, thoughts raced through his mind. Is Eraser attempting to rule the country from the shadows? He's human, but what in the world is he? Is he truly a wizard who has been manipulating humanity throughout history for centuries?
Kim Kyung-hwan hadn't yet received all the government's information. While contemplating various theories, an ominous feeling overcame him, further muddling his complexion.
