"Ah! Can we begin with our requirements first?" I inquired eagerly.
"Of course, go ahead," replied Lee Jihye.
"We'd like you to make an official statement," I stated.
"Could you elaborate further?" Jihye asked.
"We simply need you to announce that you've received a sincere apology from Jung Yura of the Black Swans and that we've successfully resolved the misunderstandings. You should also emphasize that you've never been physically threatened. I'd be deeply grateful if you could include all of that. As for the rest, you're free to craft your own message, as long as it helps ease the situation," I explained.
"Hmm... Regardless of what you say, I don't think it will be that straightforward," Jihye responded thoughtfully.
"Additionally, I'd like you to comment on the positive changes within the Black Swan," I added.
"Are you using me as your publicity vehicle?" Jihye inquired.
"Indeed we are. Many people now associate your name as a symbol of resistance. In time, you might even acquire a title. I understand your desire to maintain a certain image, so we won't ask for more details. It's as if you've changed an entire guild. You've emerged victorious; that sounds appealing, doesn't it?" I asked.
"Victory, huh..." I couldn't help but smile at the thought.
"Due to the exposure of various political issues, The Black Swan had to undergo reform. Though the exact reason is unknown to me, I doubt they would have pushed reform in the absence of internal concerns. What really matters is that you convey your victory," Jihye said.
"That's why I feel hilarious," I replied.
"We won't take any action that endangers your current position. We're only asking you to consider our guild in return," Jihye assured.
"I understand. I'll give it some thought," I replied.
"Please remember our time in the tutorial dungeon" Jihye reminded me.
My face broke into an amused smile. "I couldn't care less about that. Is there another requirement?"
"Yes, though this one might be beyond your authority. I'd like you to promote a Red Mercenary, Black Swan, and Blue alliance. We're actively pursuing this possibility, and I want you to officially announce it. It could be a positive narrative, don't you think?" Jihye suggested.
"So, you want to use this to expand your influence within the guild?" I questioned.
"Exactly. You don't need to announce it immediately, given the current chaos. However, I'd like you to hint at a friendly atmosphere, indicating that you maintain a good relationship with the Black Swans. That should suffice," Jihye explained.
"You seem to be making quite a few demands. I hope you have suitable rewards in mind," I remarked.
"Yes, indeed. All items, materials, and goods obtained from the Garden of Terror will be allocated to you individually, not to the guild. Similarly, the spoils and dungeon land documents from the recent attacks will be yours," Jihye assured.
"I shudder to think of the public's reaction when they learn I'm receiving all of that," I said.
"Officially, we'll present it as a donation to you," Jihye replied.
"Ah, I see," I acknowledged.
"The actual contents you receive won't be disclosed to the public," Jihye added.
I was surprised by Lee Jihye's thorough planning. The public would likely be outraged if they discovered they had used media power for personal gain.
"Regardless, even if the truth surfaces, you have the ability to manage public opinion," Jihye pointed out.
She was right. Several media outlets were already on my side. Even if the truth emerged, I could handle the situation. Besides, with Lindel supporting Red and Blue, it was natural for the Black Swans to seek a way to mend the situation.
"In addition, our guild will provide definite support to your party," Jihye continued.
"Aren't you being overly generous?" I questioned.
"Is it? I believed it to be fair. If we wish to impress or build rapport with someone, we must be prepared to make sacrifices," Jihye replied.
"I wasn't expecting this, to be honest," I admitted.
"Although unexpected, it shouldn't be surprising. Our interests are intertwined. If your position rises, so does mine. It's a mutually beneficial relationship. While not the healthiest, it's not necessarily a bad one. There's much to gain from it," Jihye explained.
"If you have any other requests, let us know, and we'll consider them," Jihye offered.
"You can think about that on your own. There are limits to what a guild can offer, and its direction is shaped by its members. I'll leave that in your hands," I replied.
"Sounds like you're testing us," Jihye commented.
"No, not at all. I just find it a bit excessive. While the Black Swans' behavior needs justification, I'm not the only one who should be compensated, right? The Red Mercenaries are also involved in this matter," I pointed out.
"It's intriguing because of that," Jihye replied.
I fell into a thoughtful silence. Jihye's expression remained unchanged, and there was no sign of embarrassment on her face.
Then, unexpectedly, she began to speak calmly, catching Kee Miyoung's off guard. "Do you remember what I told you before?"
"What...?" I was puzzled.
"I like ambitious men," Jihye declared.
"Don't joke around," I responded.
I gazed at her with a firm look, but then had to do a double-take. Despite her smile, Jihye didn't seem like she was joking.
"Do you think I'm joking?" she asked.
"Go on, tell me your interesting story," I said.
"Have you ever heard the anecdote about former US President Clinton? It's entirely fictional, but it's quite intriguing..." Jihye began.
"No, I haven't," I admitted.
Jihye continued, "Bill Clinton and Hillary Clinton once stopped at a gas station during his presidency. Rumor has it that Hillary had a passionate affair with someone from that gas station."
"That's an interesting story," I acknowledged.
"As it turns out, the man from the gas station was Hillary's ex-boyfriend... On their way back, while discussing him, Bill Clinton made a somewhat spiteful remark. He said that if she had still been dating him, she would have been working at a gas station..."
I was intrigued, "And what was Hillary's response?"
"What do you think she said?" Jihye asked.
"I have no idea,"
"She told him, 'No, that person would have become President of the United States, not you.'"
I straightened up. "Now, that's definitely an interesting story. What are you trying to say with this?"
"I'm indirectly saying that you could achieve much more with me by your side," Jihye replied.
I was left pondering her words. Lee Jihye had indeed acted differently, and I couldn't quite figure out why.
"Why me, though?" I finally asked.
"Oh, it's time to come up with a reason..." Jihye teased.
I was intrigued. "What's your reason?"
"If you need one, I haven't forgotten what you told me about us meeting again," Jihye said.
Though she was very close, I knew she wouldn't attempt a kiss.
"And that's it?" I asked.
"The story ends here. Please consider not only what you've offered in this situation but also what we've discussed personally," Jihye urged.
"I'll think about it, Jihye," I replied, a slightly puzzled expression on my face.
As I contemplated her words, Jihye inched closer and began to stroke my hair.
"Why me, though?" I asked again.
"Oh, it's time to come up with a reason..." Jihye teased once more.
I couldn't help but feel a bit embarrassed by her words.
"As you wish," I replied.
"The world is wide, with many women to choose from," Jihye remarked.
Nevertheless...
I couldn't help but wonder why I had to deal with these two, unconventional women.