Being less fortunate does not automatically make one a good person.
"What occupies your thoughts?" I inquired.
"I'm immersed in my own musings. Frankly, I merely intend to substantiate my earlier assertion to you," I confessed, my amusement breaking forth uncontrollably.
'What wealth...'
I was now torn about the financial implications of recruiting this variety of people. I was now unable to pay my bills on a regular basis with the money I earned from my alchemical endeavors. Even though I didn't have a dire financial position right now, I knew those funds may have been used more wisely.
I did, however, see a bright side to this financial problem. This situation offered a suitable setting for clinical studies that were affordable. Furthermore, the satisfaction gained from refuting Sun Hee-young's position justified the financial outlay. Business benefits may in fact appear in a variety of ways.
Why did I go to such trouble to undermine her perspective? One could enquire. The goal of this extensive effort was to convince her to join my party.
'I have been stationed here for three years. It was two years ago that I adopted the sobriquet "Saint of the Forsaken." My journey commenced as a member of the temple, forsaking allegiance to any clan or guild. Upon my departure from the temple, I persisted in dedicating myself to voluntary undertakings. For the past two years, I have rebuffed propositions from prominent guilds as well as mid-sized and minor clans.'
Such was the well created background. She had chosen the route of the temple despite having the means to pursue a privileged course similar to mine. I understood why she made the decision she did given how she was raised. Those who claimed to be "saints of the forsaken" were devoted to easing the suffering of the poor.
Sun Hee-young's unwavering unwillingness to enter into agreements or form alliances with any guilds or clans during the previous two years is tangible proof of her dedication. It was mind-boggling to consider how many proposals she must have received in this time frame. It's possible that some of the requests involved significant reduction for the poor. However, she had already turned them down, and her reasoning was clear.
Her justification was based on the fact she felt personally accountable for improving their situation. I was still perplexed by her strong bond with these people, whom she hardly knew, but I had no urge to analyze this occurrence at the time. My main goal was to get her away from the area's underprivileged residents.
I noticed people working diligently as I looked in the direction I was facing. Among them, some of them showed greater tenacity. Admittedly, this development might have endangered my plan, but at this point, I was unconcerned.
"Some individuals within the slums are still without occupation... Will you not employ them?" she queried.
"Patience is warranted. The opportune moment shall arise for me to act." I said it loudly.
""Do you have any more comments? It's just a simple matter of moving rocks in this case. Even though it may be hot outside because of the sun, these sweat drops will be quite valuable to them because they are so uncommon after a lengthy absence. I feel motivated to participate in this work of moving rocks alongside others who understand the true spirit of labor because I see them.
"
"Your words resonate as a taunt."
"Your interpretation is amiss."
Granted, her support for my position was at most muted. If I were in her position, I think I would be the same way. She held very different beliefs than mine, giving me the advantage. My strategy worked because it stood out in stark contrast to the strategies she typically encountered.
"By what rationale do you posit that I have succeeded in subjugating them?"
"Take my statements at face value. Despite being able to work, some people avoid doing so." she said.
"Do you not see their current efforts?" I asked her.
"In fact, the current scene is clearly within my authority. The real question is, "Are you aware of it?" She replied.
"How so..."
"In the Free City of Lindel, such labor assignments are ubiquitous."
'Although... yes, it poses some peril.'
"Granted, working with me has definite benefits. However, similar initiatives to this are common. The eastern sector has undergone redevelopment, and the Red Mercenary Guild is recruiting workers needed for the upcoming skyscraper building. There is also more... Have you heard about the extensive work that is taking place close to the tutorial? Even these residents might not have forgotten this knowledge."
"I roused their motivation for today's undertaking. Their fervor emanated not from negative incentives, but from positive ones. Nonetheless, I uphold my initial assertion."
"Clarify your intent behind asserting that the Saint of the Forsaken has transformed them."
"Interpret it as stated. These individuals are fully capable of labor; their reluctance derives not from incapacity but disinclination."
"Are you blind to their present labor?"
"My acumen regarding the present scene is not amiss. The crux is... does this hold true for you as well?"
"How so..."
"Considering their circumstances in the Free City of Lindel, such occupations are commonplace."
'Nevertheless... yes, the risk factor looms.'
"While there are benefits to aligning with me, there are many opportunities for similar work. The Red Mercenary Guild is now looking for laborers necessary for building the tower in the eastern precinct, which has undergone reconstruction. There is also more... Are you aware of the significant construction being done close to the tutorial zone? These people themselves might possess this knowledge." She said,
"Then…?"
"Their disquiet is evident. Admittedly, I probably didn't instigate their unrest through negative means, but my influence remains consistent. Nonetheless, my assertion holds true."
"The principles of human nature are not easily avoided. Although their passion may be on fire right now, our attention is focused in the same direction. But after a month, this enthusiasm will fade away. These people would eventually yearn for the luxury of the slums rather than suffering long hours in the sun. They will have a craving for free relief supplies rather than working to support themselves. The weight of never-ending work and the associated exhaustion is rarely welcomed."
"I am well aware of your perspective. However, it isn't unfeasible for individuals to evolve."
"Yet, by your own admission, is it not I who has catalyzed this transformation among the Saint of the Forsaken's charges? In the end, these are naught but parasites siphoning vitality from ordinary individuals."
"You!"
'Maybe I have ventured beyond acceptable bounds?'
I felt a feeling of fear go through me as Sun Hee-young stood in front of me, her body trembling. Her large eyes bulged with welling tears.
I wondered if I was improperly pressuring an unmarried lady. But I thought that this encouragement was crucial. Even though she thought I was foolish, I was able to plant doubts in her mind.
'What
if that man's assertions hold true?'
Even while she might have momentary concerns, her skepticism was dangerous for someone who was committed to helping others and recognizing their worth.
"Your strategy will be useless. These efforts are characterized by conceit and self-righteousness. Rarely does the world adopt your preferred viewpoint." Sun Hee-young said.
"Such Things are beyond my comprehension" I said.
"Remain patient. You'll have to adjust your viewpoint as their true colors emerge." She gave me a prompt.
"Is there a warrant for this viewpoint?"
"Such revelations become evident through a pragmatic outlook."
Her silence spurred my continuation.
"...Familiar with the notion of the 'underdog effect'?"
"It refers to the mistake of dividing good individuals from evil forces based on their relative strength."
"In essence, financial privation does not inherently denote moral virtue."
" Perhaps the person in front of you seems kind and unpretentious. Taking on the role of the ill often appeals to kind-hearted, more powerful people. However, they also come from less respectable backgrounds. Angelic beings don't live in the slums as a haven. Within the framework of the culture that we live in, they exist. a culture rife with countless repugnant and inexplicable acts." She said.
"Should societies embody your perception.."
"They fester with decay. Where humanity flourishes, strife is inevitable. Should you harbor skepticism, a brief experiment could prove enlightening."
"What endeavor..."
"Put yourself in the position of the poor. Not as a savior, but rather as a resident of their environment. Such an experience will reveal a lot. Why not set out on a weeklong journey? No, just one day would be sufficient."
"I... cannot..."
"Apprehensions perhaps arise regarding those who might endure hunger in your absence. Yet, a day's seclusion should pose no lasting harm. Are your cohorts in this philanthropic venture not reliable comrades?"
'Of course, a coterie that trails merely in your wake.'
I raised my brow in anger as she stumbled, a smirk spreading across my face.
"Or is your self-confidence lacking?"
"Admittedly... it falters."
"Our preparations commence here."
"You are indubitably... despicable."
"What was that? Might your rejoinder bear greater assurance?"
"Be it a resolute or wavering response, both carry weight. This situation, in your view, augments your potential to assist the less fortunate. In this, you are not amiss."
"Mark my words, remorse shall visit your doorstep."
"The verdict remains uncertain... It is you, not I, who will be left lamenting."
Sun Hee-young, engulfed in an aura of doubt, averted her gaze and turned. Her contemplations echoed audibly. 'I'm undeniably... naive...' I discerned the workings of her cognitive processes.
Indeed, retaining such innocence within this realm was a boon, particularly for one who hailed from Earth.
Looking back at the scene in front of me, I could see those people working hard to move the stones, drops of sweat dotting their faces.
Likewise, with Sun Hee-young's departure, Jung Hayan hastened towards me, a palpable concern etched upon her features. Her swift embrace afforded me a modicum of solace.
Clutching a notepad in her hand, she had evidently dedicated herself diligently to her assigned task.
"Kee Miyoung."
"Are your pursuits yielding success?" Jung Hayan asked.
"Indeed, they are."
"Pray, proceed with your account."
"Of course! Um..."
"What do you bring to my attention?"
"Test 13 appears exasperated, recurrently succumbing to ire... Numbers 7 and 8, on the other hand, exhibit earnest diligence."
"A tumultuous clamor reached my ears earlier."
"Such commotion ensued between numbers 56 and 75. My attention was diverted, regrettably."
"Rest assured, awareness of an issue suffices. How does the number 38 fare?"
"Ah, number 38 displays fluctuating motivation. His resolve wanes and an inclination to relinquish his role surfaces. Numbers 93 and 95 align their views with number 38."
"Ahh, I deem this outcome favorable."
"Certainly Kee Miyoung"
"Though your exertions were substantial, you have alleviated my burden."
"I-It was but a small effort, Kee." Jung Hayan said.
"Is there magic that allows for face alteration?" I ask, hoping to stop any further questions
"Indubitably."