《Chemistry》
Chemistry Prologue
Chemistry Prologue
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Chemistry is colorful and present everywhere.
Processes such as trees growing, snowkes forming, and water boiling are like chemical reactions taking ce in our daily lives.
Its a feeling that most people would have when they hear about it.
Whats the point of all this?
They are everyday phenomena that we have seen without paying much attention to.
At first, I thought the same way.
But things changed as I learned more, even with just a simple pill.
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Chapter 1
Chapter 1<- Once in a blue moon(1)
AN General Hospital Main Building
The young man got out of the taxi, his eyes were full of tension. At the entrance of the hospital, he took out his phone and carefully checked the text message he had received that morning:
[KG Chemical Dietary Supplement Phase 1 Clinical Trial: December 9-10, 2-day trial, 4th floor Pharmacy Support Center]
With a deep breath, the young man threw his shoulders back and confidently walked through the door.
Just 3 seconds, thats all it took.
As he passed through the automatic doors, his pupils shrank slightly. The smell of the hospitals disinfectant made him feel even more nervous than he already was.
Hey, Han Jeong-woo. Dont be nervous. Its just a simple task of taking nutritional supplements and earning some money.
The receptionist who met him in the lobby gave him a look as if asking if there was anything ufortable. Jeong-woo gave a faint smile, indicating that he was okay, and quickly walked through the corridor to the elevator.
While waiting for the elevator, he looked at himself in the shiny door with a silvery sheen.
He was a tall young man in his mid-twenties, with a muscr build and a rtively tall stature. His eyes were mostly brown.
Today he was participating in a clinical trial recruitment that he had stumbled upon while browsing job sites. The problem was the additional conditions listed below:
[Have experienced aa for more than a week.]
[Suffer from both insomnia and excessive sleep disorder, alternatingly.]
[Sometimes I feel like someone who I cant see is talking to me.]
[There are many things that feel like Ive already experienced them even though I havent.]
There were several unusual conditions, and even one of them matched, which made it even more chilling.
Its not like theyre selecting people with mental illness. But still, I
Who would have thought that having experienced being hospitalized after a traffic ident would be helpful in this way?
Ding dong.
As I got on the elevator that arrived, there was a man who came running and shouted, Wait a minute!.
Junwoo, who naturally nced at him, was slightly surprised. The man was of simr build and looked somewhat pale, fitting the external conditions of the recruitment notice. The man asked Junwoo.
Are you going to the clinical trial?
Yes? Oh, yes.
Phew, thank goodness. This is the right ce.
The man, who had put his hands in his armpits and shrank his body because of the cold, nced at Junwoo. Then he asked, Is it your first time?
Yes?
Neers usually get nervous. Clinical trial. Its a scary word, to be honest. I dont even know what strangers might do to my body.
Thats true.
The man said it as if there was nothing new.
I went to test high blood pressure medicine once, and they gave me axative first and then told me to run on a treadmill all day, saying they had to check my blood pressure changes under extreme conditions.
Ugh, that sounds terrible.
Well, thats for medicine. When I was testing an erection enhancement drug, they would y porn and tell me to masturbate all the time
Masturbate?!
They asked me if I wanted them to use a syringe to extract the semen or if I wanted to do it myself. But then they said something like, just ask the nurse to help you, and I got corrected right away.
!
Anyway, there are all sorts of strange things when you wander around clinical trials. But it pays pretty well.
He seemed like a specialist in clinical trials. Im not sure if he was trying to calm me down or make me more anxious.
Ding dong.
At that moment, the elevator stopped and the doors opened. As soon as I stepped out into the corridor, I saw about six other participants standing there.
There are a lot of people who are as nervous as I am.
I found a spot and waited for the clinical trial that would take ce shortly. Soon, a voice called out my name. I entered the room and found myself in a space that looked like a scientificboratory filled with various medical equipment. Many people dressed in white gowns caught my attention. A woman approached me.
I am Dr. Moon Chae-eun, a senior researcher at KG Chemicals. Please call me Dr. Moon, she said in a clear voice that matched her neat, tightly tied hair.
Follow me, she gestured, leading me to where the test would be conducted.
On the table, there was a vialbeled AF-12 and a syringe with a needle. I was momentarily confused.
Am I supposed to take this orally? Its a dietary supplement, right?
Dr. Moon replied coldly, The administration method was stated in the consent form you signed, wasnt it?
A stack of papers with dense text shed through my mind. Though I read through them carefully, I couldnt remember the technical terms.
Dr. Moon, noticing my surprise, continued speaking in a business-like tone, apparently having encountered many participants like me before.
Each applicant has a different testing method. To properly confirm their bodys ability to tolerate it, we need to diversify the administration methods. Cream, patch, pill, aerosol, suppository
Suppository?
Injection was very favorable.
Dr. Moon took out a blood pressure monitor from the medical equipment on the cart and ced it on the table.
Ill start with the basic test. We need to figure out if the side effects are due to other conditions.
If its a side effect?
For a moment, there was a look on Dr. Moons face that seemed to say, This doesnt mean were going to waste a million won.
After that, it was a familiar sight to Junwoo as well.
Checking blood pressure and electrocardiogram, measuring external size such as height and weight, were not much different from the physical examination he had in school.
30 minutester.
Current time is 16:05. We will start administering the AF-12 diluted solution to the subject Han Junwoo.
Dr. Moon took the syringe to Junwoos arm. Junwoo witnessed 0.1mg of liquid disappearing rapidly from the syringe with a slight sting.
Done.
Already?
Perhaps because the amount of administered solution was small, it was easier than getting a flu shot.
Please wait in room 407. You need to observe your bodys reaction for 12 hours, so please refrain from any movements that may strain your body.
Junwoo nodded with an alcohol swab on his arm as he left the room. A man who was a specialist in clinical trials approached Junwoo and pretended to know him.
How is it inside?
Nothing special.
Is that so?
Junwoo flinched as he saw a new, pointed pill-shaped AF-12 being set up on the table. It looked like it could fit into a hole somewhere.
Fighting.
In room 407, several other subjects who had received medication before Junwoo were sittingfortably.
After exchanging a brief eye contact, Iy down on the empty bed.
Its nothing special.
Despite the freezing experience of being admitted to the hospital, it felt like nothing had happened at all.
It was almost shameful to leave after spending such peaceful time and earning one million won.
A whileter, a man entered while Jeong-woo was enjoying his free time. He stumbled as if he had something stuck between his legs, making him look quite ufortable.
Hey~ Mr. Han Jeong-woo!
He sat on the next bed as if it was his own and started talking to Jeong-woo.
Isnt Doctor Moon a joke?
Yes, shes quite tough, almost scary.
Oh, but isnt she beautiful? I thought my ointment was melting in my arms when she applied it to me~
Watching the man act as if he was applying ointment to his arm, Jeong-woo could only scratch his head.
He knew everything, but he wouldnt say a word.
As he silently nodded his head, the man suddenly switched to chatter mode.
Its Doctor Moon, you know. I asked the nurse, and she said shes a current doctor. Shes pretty and smart. I have to apply for KG Chemicals clinical trials from now on. Do you know if I can get her number?
Do you really find this kind of job attractive?
Ha, youre making fun of me. Its more practical than just seeing you, Jeong-woo. Still, with such a goddess, I have to apply for KG Chemicals clinical trials no matter what, dont you think?
If he had also been a specialist in clinical trials like that man, he might have been able to enjoy the test with a beauty like Doctor Moon.
Maybe I should try to get closer to her, or else I might wither away.
People started to gradually fall asleep in the hospital room.
After eating the makeshift hospital dinner that was lukewarm and nd, time passed quickly and it was already night.
During this time, a researcher wearing ab coat with KG Chemicals logo on it came in and checked everyones blood pressure quickly.
Hmm?
Jeong-woo, who was fiddling with his phone, raised his head. Suddenly, the room felt dead silent as if someone had squeezed the air out of it.
Not only the man next to him, but also the other participants who were in the middle of talking all closed their eyes.
Looking at the clock, it was 10 PM. It was time to sleep.
Jeong-woo thought that he would also soon be ovee with drowsiness and rested his head on the pillow.
Alright, since they said to rest until tomorrow.
Despite closing his eyes, sleep did note easily.
It was 11 PM, then 12 AM. Even at 1 AM, he was still wide awake.
This is strange. Is it because Im in a different bed?
He was not only bored, but also hungry. On top of that, he was worried about how this hospital room could be so quiet, to the point of eerie silence. How could not a single person snore or make any noise at all?
Sigh.
While fiddling with his phone again, the door of the hospital room suddenly opened.
Thunk.
Was it because the inside was too quiet? Without even realizing it, Jeong-woo held his phone to his chest and held his breath. If he didnt follow the instructions to rest like everyone else, he would lose his part-time job and that would be disastrous.
Two men in white coats opened the door and entered.
Keep quiet.
Isnt this almost aa state?
I always feel like Im seeing a scene of a mass suicide when I enter the hospital at this stage. Its eerie.
The conversation between them was unsettling.
Anyway, its another failure this time, right?
Yeah. Dr. Moon will be disappointed again.
Isnt it just a bad medicine? Were not doing anything and getting paid, so its not so bad for us.
Out of ten thousand drugs that are developed, only one might seed.
stomach growling
Jeong-woos hunger signal interrupted their conversation.
Huh? Did you hear that?
Which side?
Jeong-woo, who caught the attention of the conversation, raised his hand as if he couldnt help it.
Excuse me.
As soon as he stood up, the two who had entered were surprised.
Can I go down to the convenience store and have some cup ramen? Im hungry and cant sleep.
Smiling coolly and patting his stomach, the two mens faces turned blue and they rushed out.
Why are they so scared?
What was even more terrifying was that the two men had run out with such a loud noise, but the other participants in the hospital room did not react at all.
Jeong-woo, who was shivering, approached the clinical specialist on the next bed.
Hey.
The man who was deep in sleep didnt seem to have any intention of waking up even after his shoulder was lightly shaken.
A sudden sense of anxiety arose.
Clinical trials that pay unusually high amounts of money. Illegal procedures. Side effects. Stealing organs fromatose patients to sell them.
All sorts of thoughts were passing through his mind at that moment.
He heard the sound of several deer running down the hallway. Then, two men who had run ahead and the pretty researcher he had met earlier in the day entered the room.
Doctor Moon?
Youre really awake now.
Doctor Moon stopped in front of Jeong-woo and looked him up and down before swallowing her saliva. She then turned to the men who came with her and said,
You two can go back now. Thank you for your hard work.
The men bowed their heads and left with their mouths tightly shut.
Doctor Moon approached Jeong-woo, trying to keep a calm expression on her face.
Can I talk to you for a moment?
Why arent these people waking up?
They took a sleep-inducing drug.
What about me?
Jeong-woo gave her a questioning look. Doctor Moon calmly opened her mouth.
One of the protein cells that make up AF-12 is a powerful sleep inducer, and the other contains apound infused with specific knowledge information.
Im not sure I understand
The reason for this dual structure is to target people like you. However, I didnt expect to find a sample that actually responds so quickly. It was predicted that only one out of ten thousand people would react this way, given that there were only participants who couldnt even reach this area for three months. I apologize for theck of a smooth response.
Jeong-woo was taken aback by the unexpected excuse.
Im sorry, Dr. Moon. My major is in humanities.
You didnt even take it as an elective course?
Should I have?
Dr. Moon nodded immediately, showing an attitude of exining it so that it can be easily understood withmon sense.
Jeong-woo suddenly became annoyed at such a reaction.
Thinking back now, I really regret not taking a pharmacy-rted course as a business major student.
Its molecr biology.
Thats what I meant!
As Jeong-woo muttered under his breath, Dr. Moon suddenly opened her hands, as if feeling awkward.
AF-12 is structured with two molecules facing each other like a mirror. This is called chirality or optical isomerism.
She flicked her fingers as if reflecting each other in a mirror.
The principle is simple. Even if your hands look simr, your left glove wont fit on your right hand. These people have been affected by a sleep-inducing substance, but for Han Jeong-woo, its a knowledge-informationponent thats at work.
The exnation continued in Korean, leaving the listener confused.
Do you know about chirality?
I dont know about chirality, but I feel like talking nonsense.
As the conversation continued without any clear direction, Jeong-woos headache began to worsen. So why did you put all these people to sleep and keep me awake?
Well, only Han Jeong-woo himself would know better. Cant you think of anything?
This woman is real!
Dr. Moon maintained an indifferent attitude despite Jeong-woos serious tone.
Why are you doing this to people? Its one thing if the sleep-inducing substance was in the injection I received. But optically activepounds? Knowledge information embedded in molecules? Does that make sense? Recording information on a molecr level requires technology that involves gic engineering and genome projects in biology. Moreover, its impossible to understand the gic encryption of knowledge without a base sequence analyzer in your head.
Its usually impossible.
Thats right, impossible. Gic encryption trantes RNA into amino acid sequences. Without aplex molecr recognition process where transport RNA attaches to amino acids, its
Jeong-woo paused.
Why am I saying this kind of stuff?<
Chapter 2
Chapter 2<- Once in a blue moon(2)
As knowledge that he never knew before was mentioned naturally in the conversation he had unwittingly pulled out, Jeong-woos eyes widened.
Now you understand, right? Dr. Moon asked, looking at the spot where he had received the injection. A small tremor that started in his arm spread throughout his body.
What the heck is this?
It was like knowledge was automatically transmitted through his nerves as if it had been loaded into his brain like a specialized book. Jeong-woo had never taken any sses rted to chemistry before.
What did you do to me?
Just what you see.
Dr. Moons face showed a hint of a smile, confirming that the treatment had actually worked on Jeong-woo.
So, you can just inject someone elses knowledge and transfer it to me?
Thats not exactly the method, but the concept is simr.
This was insane. Despite a reflexive chuckle, Jeong-woo was unable to continue speaking due to the shock of actually experiencing it.
The knowledge thates to your mind, Han Jeong-woo, is only a small part of it. Its at the level of a book that anyone can pick up at a bookstore.
Dr. Moon pointed outside.
Shall we finish the rest of the conversation in the VIP lounge at AN Hospital, where the car is ready?
Dr. Moon ced her document bag on the table and took out a medicine bottle from inside. She opened the lid and put one pill on the makeshift table.
Jeong-woos gaze became wary when he saw the blue jelly-like substance in the transparent capsule.
What is this?
You could call it the original AF-12 that was administered during the day. You can get much more stable knowledge than the dilution solution. Oh, and its also excellent in terms of nutrition.
Jeong-woos expression changed as he briefly thought about the reason for the existence of the blue pill.
It seemed like a recruitment notice to find a specific person. This was definitely not an ordinary clinical trial.
So, what do you want me to do with this dangerous pill? Is this a human experiment? Anatomy, perhaps?
Dangerous? Not at all. AF-12 is 100% safe. If youre worried about any potential side effects, I can attach a document guaranteeingpensation for any pharmacological side effects through the legal team.
Regardless of any guarantees, Im not the kind of person who can ept such a chilling experience so easily
We want to hire you, Jeong-woo.
What did you say?
He thought he might have misheard.
Please join KG Chemicals, Jeong-woo.
It was a magical proposal that immediately deted Jeong-woos enthusiasm to run out of the lounge.
This clinical trial was conducted to hire a practical researcher for KG Chemicals research project. The sry is specified in the contract, so please check it. However, the position starts from an intern since you have no relevant experience in this field.
Employment. Hiring. Sry.
As a first-year university graduate, these were words that couldnt help but make Jeong-woos heart flutter.
It had been a busy year with job interviews. In the end, he hadnt been able to ovee the big wall of getting a job.
In fact, was this even a part-time job he had found to relieve his mothers burden as he faced joining the ranks of job seekers, where every day felt like a war?
Jeong-woos mind was racing faster than ever.
After all, in negotiations, the one holding the knife has the upper hand.
Even though it was an employment offer from a bigpany like KG Chemicals, if it was a contract position, it only had meaning in terms of building experience.
Without even looking at the documents that Dr. Moon had handed him, Jeong-woo said, Contract position? What about my future? Do you know how much time I have left to do whatever you ask me to do?
Actually, if he couldnt get a job next year, he still had time.
Maintaining his poker face with a Im too busy attitude, Jeong-woo waited for Dr. Moons response with his heart pounding.
Well, its an offer that didnt consider Han Jeong-woos circumstances. Im sorry about that.
Did I go too far?
Well raise the proposed sry by 20%. This is the best condition we can offer. What we need is someone special who can actually absorb AF-12. Youve just proven that you can do it. But you must remember that because of the nature of the work, if you cant adapt and withdraw early, the legal team will make a im for damages. Including the cost of conducting the suspended clinical trial.
Jeong-woos gaze turned to the contract as the words 20% increase caught his attention.
I havent epted yet, but
As he looked for the sry use, Jeong-woo had to swallow his saliva.
100 million.
Come in as an intern! they said.
The sry was a whopping 100 million won.
With a 20% increase, they would receive an enormous monthly sry of 10 million won.
This was not the amount a newbie just entering thepany would receive. Even if they received a supply of chemical knowledge through medicine, wouldnt there be many doctoral and masters degree holders in argepany?
This blue pill is for stable knowledge supply. What does that even mean?
Will you understand if I exin it?
Dr. Moon held out the blue pill to Jeong-woo. After looking at her once, he was conflicted.
Should I take it?
He kept ncing at the sry use in the contract.
Theres no business like money, fear, and greed. And so, Jeong-woo epted the blue pill.
He swallowed the blue pill without water.
Did about ten seconds pass?
Huh.
He tried to endure it boldly, but the fierce heat that dug into his stomach made his heart sink.
Why is this happening? It feels like I swallowed boiling water.
Its just a simple exothermic reaction that urs as the pill is absorbed. Theres nothing to be surprised about.
The process of the molecules inside the capsule finding their own way and scattering throughout the body, transmitted through the nerves and delivered to the senses, was a strange and new experience.
Suddenly, the continuous heat in his stomach disappeared.
How do you feel?
Dr. Moon casually asked for his impression.
What kind of medicine did you take to make you feel so energetic?
DNA molecules containing specific information have spread throughout his body. A chemicalwork has been established on a cellr level.
As he objectively analyzed this phenomenon, his own mind was bewildered and yet fascinated.
Um, Im not sure. I feel like some knowledge I didnt know ising to mind, but as for a big feeling
As Jeong-woo answered, he witnessed a strange sight.
It feels like looking at a precise microscope as Dr. Moons face rapidlyes closer. Is it because of the feeling of being sucked into her transparent and deep-looking eyes?
Jeong-woo blinked and refocused his eyes, wondering if he saw wrong. He had to swallow a groan when he realized that her skin was now being observed even more intricately, instead of improving his vision.
This was a phenomenon that couldnt be exined simply by having good eyesight. Jeong-woo tried to make a rational conclusion that it might be an illusion.
Whats going on?
But this was only the beginning.
Dr. Moons skin, which was expanding as if being sucked in, now upied the entire field of vision like watching arge TV screen. It was as if it would overwhelm Jeong-woos sight like the screen size of a movie theater.
Ah
Jeong-woo was captivated by the awe-inspiring sight.
The sky viewed from the giant earth of the skin texture.
Something shining like a star up there.
When he realized that it might be information about an atomic nucleus rather than something sparkling, he even forgot that this was a strange phenomenon caused by taking AF-12.
What would a space astronaut feel when he first reached the unknown space stretching out above him?
Meanwhile, Dr. Moon pulled out another document and handed it to Jeong-woo.
This is a security-rted agreement. Please read it carefully. Ill point out the parts you mustply with.
Dr. Moons approach.
Thanks to her, her skin felt even more vast like an open space.
Mr. Han Junwoo?
The element information of iron [Fe] was added to the star that continued to shine on her skin. Oxygen [O], another element, approached it, and they began to orbit each others paths in harmony.
Elemental. Thats probably what it should be called.
Mr. Han Jeong-woo. Why are you like that? Did something get on my cheek?
Dr. Moon cocked her head at Junwoos gaze, which stared at himself intently.
At her repeated call, Jeong-woo witnessed the spectacle taking ce in a very small world, bing semi-transparent and connecting with the real world.
Um
Jeong-woo, who suddenly came to his senses, hastily replied.
I see something strange on Dr. Moons skin.
What do you see?
Fe, O.
What did you say?
Dr. Moon gave a cold nce, as if she had found a pimple.
Thats what I see.
The fascinatingbination shown by the two elements was only the beginning. In the world above the skin surface, there were countless stars. These elements had their own orbits and followed certain rules.
The trajectories of Fe and O look like iron oxide. Si is paired with two O, so its silicon dioxide. If there are two C, four H, and three O, its glycolic acid?
Jeong-woo started with the visiblebinations. Dr. Moons face showed confusion as she listened to the answer.
Isnt that a cosmetic ingredient?
A cosmetic?
In the midst of the confusing feeling of looking into the universe, one thing he could be sure of was that Dr. Moons skin was glowing white due to the shining elements.
I see. Oh, I understand.
The chemical information oveid on Dr. Moons facial contours. Jeong-woo could read it intuitively, like looking at a traffic sign on the street.
.Iron oxide and silicon dioxide are attached to the wrinkles next to the eyes, scattering light. Oh, it covers the creases seamlessly.
Dr. Moons face turned red with embarrassment as Jeong-woo talked about the chemical action of wrinkle cream, as if it were not a cosmetic.
I didnt apply any!
I can see it.
What do you see? Dont make strange remarks just because some knowledgees to your mind. And do you know the skin condition of a woman who worked overtime for two days after returning the carst weekend, Mr. Han Jeong-woo?
Dr. Moons eyebrow trembled in a confused manner at the seemingly applied but not applied makeup technique. She had thought it wouldnt be noticeable.
At that moment, Jeong-woo was more interested in the reaction of the other worlds rather than Dr. Moons reaction.
Its amazing no matter how many times I look at it.
Dr. Moon raised her eyebrows at Jeong-woos muttering.
What exactly are you looking at?
Im not sure. This seems like something that Dr. Moon should know better?
Not everyone can experience the effects of AF-12 like Jeong-woo does.
While watching the sight of glycosan particles gently enveloping the skin, Jeong-woo asked Dr. Moon.
What exactly is this gic knowledge contained in the drug?
It can be considered the personal knowledge of a certain authority figure in molecr biology.
Like Dr. Moon?
No, Im just a doctor who deals with rted matters, not a chemist. However, its true that the owner of that knowledge is a very special chemist, who is quite different from ordinary people.
As she spoke, Jeong-woo became even more curious.
Id like to meet the source provider of this drug.
Thats unlikely to happen. Just follow the contract and achieve results. Please make sure to check the contract.
Are you not working for thepany?
I have no obligation to exin others circumstances. Jeong-woo doesnt need to understand those circumstances either.
Dr. Moons polite and business-like tone made Jeong-woo feel like he couldnt ask again.
He shifted his gaze away from her cheek that he had been focusing on and watched as the trajectories of the elements, which had looked like a fantasy, disappeared like melting snow.
What should I call this? A chemists insight?
It was an experience where his perspective on the world changed through the eyes of a molecr biologist. Just that alone made Jeong-woos heart beat heavily.
He couldnt exin it, but he felt like he could do something great and amazing with ease.
Dr. Moon.
Yes?
Where should I sign?
Jeong-woo picked up a pen and signed his name in the visible signature field.
Did you not read it carefully?
Ill check itter. Its not like its a ve contract. Wait, am I enved?
You were acting like a new person earlier.
Right. Did my liver grow because of the drug?
Jeong-woo was interested in Dr. Moons hidden wrinkles and added a word based on the knowledge that came to mind.
The problem of rough skin cant be covered just by the scattering effect of light. Dont we need a more fundamental solution? We need to remove the aging keratin the skin wastnd, ah, no, I mean
Crunch.
Jeong-woo paused at the sound of the stic pen cap breaking.
Stop there.
Smooth skin is a womans pride. In the terrifying gaze of Doctor Moon, who was not like before, Jeong-woo had to cough and turn his head.
Application form, non-disclosure agreement, hundreds of rted contracts and agreements.
After finishing what seemed like an endless pile of documents, Jeong-woo asked with only the final signature left to go, When do I start?
As soon as possible, if you could.
Jeong-woo nced at one use at the end of the contract.
This contract takes effect immediately upon signing.
Although there were countless other uses that he needed to ponder over due to his limited understanding, one thing was clear: the sooner he started, the sooner he would get paid.
Starting today would be fine?
Sure, if thats okay with you.
Doctor Moons questioning gaze suggested concern for his fatigue. Jeong-woo didnt want to appear weak in front of her, especially after working overtime for two days straight over the weekend.
Since its already Monday, lets start fresh.
After signing the final contract with flourish, Jeong-woo handed it to Doctor Moon.
Here you go. Should I start at nine?
Doctor Moon scrutinized the signature and put the contract in her briefcase. Then she spoke quietly.
Eight.
Excuse me?
Jeong-woo asked, thinking he may have misheard.
Its already five in the morning, and its going to be tight to get back home in time Have you ever seen apany where interns arrive on time? It may be a different workce, but when I was an intern, I had no concept of going home.
Her answer was merciless.
Jeong-woo tried to console himself with the thought that it was the end of the situation, but he wasnt sure if his attitude had changed.
Ill give you a ride before its toote.
Doctor Moon quickly finished organizing and stood up from her chair.
Jeong-woo hastily picked up the pile of contracts stacked on the table and followed behind her.
Code: AF-12
Case: A Chemists Insight
Research: When activated, the neurons in the brain are reconstructed to match the DNA of a molecr biologist. Knowledge and senses are heavily influenced.<
Chapter 3
Chapter 3<- A Day in the Life of a Chemical Company Intern(1)
The dawn had yet to break.
A small sedan with a modest appearance departed from AN Hospital and drove along a deserted road by the river. Seated in the passenger seat, Jeong-woo was a little surprised as he looked around at the decorations inside the car.
Dr. Moon, your taste is unexpectedly?
There was a pink seat cover with flower patterns and a cute character doll near the front windshield that bobbed its head in sync with the cars movements.
Jeong-woo nced at Dr. Moon briefly, sensing her icy demeanor, and quickly turned his head. Was it that human warmth and femininity were different dimensions of chemical reactions?
Mr. Han Jeong-woo.
Dr. Moon suddenly spoke as she was driving, making Jeong-woo slightly tense up.
People may not have a favorable impression of you since you were hired through a special recruitment process. Some may be curious about your background.
Ill have to ept that, wont I?
No, you dont.
Then, what should I do?
You need to silence them with your skills. And I believe you have that ability, Mr. Han Jeong-woo.
Her words didnt sound forceful, but there was a sense of power emanating from her.
Dr. Moon, Im notpletely familiar with the confidentiality uses in the contract. All facts rted to this agreement are considered confidential within thepany, right?
You must strictly abide by them, especially with regards to AF-12.
If someone asks me how a business major undergraduate knows about chemistry knowledge that rivals that of a professional researcher, what should I say?
Tell them you learned it from Dr. Cheon Seung-guk.
Dr. Cheon Seung-guk?
Thats enough for KG Chemicals.
Dr. Moon didnt say anything more and focused on driving. Jeong-woo instinctively felt that he might be the owner of the knowledge rted to AF-12.
As their conversation came to a halt, the car fell silent once again.
Not even a minute had passed when a chime sounded.
Jeong-woos phone ringtone broke the silence.
He habitually pressed the button and held the phone to his ear.
Mom?- Han Jeong-woo, if youre not going toe home, at least leave a text message. Youre living alone, right?
Well, thats - Hey, Mom. If my brother is out all night and not saying anything, hes probably just drinking and passing out somewhere. Did he go out to do some business?
His mothers annoyed voice, along with his younger brothers nervous voice, came through the phone in rapid session.- Jeong-woo, you drinking Hey, Han Jeong-chan, Mom said not to drink straight from the bottle!
- Okay, I got it. Hey, stop hitting me in the back!
Jeong-woo had to be careful not to let the noisymotion on the other end of the phone reach Dr. Moons ears.
Im on my way home now, so lets talk then, Mom.- What, what? Are you the only one with work? Why are you pretending to be busy somewhere? I went to the market early this morning and opened the restaurant, so you can eat by yourself.
I got it.- Oh, and put out the recycling. Its piled up in the yard.
I got it, I got it.- But I got a call this early morning. Was it you? By any chance, did you drink until morning and now lost it, Jeong-woo?
No, I didnt!
Click.
The phone call was cut off.
Jeong-woos expression after the call was full of injustice. Dr. Moon gave him a questioning look.
It was, um, my home. Dont worry about it. Haha.
An awkwardughter kept escaping him.
He couldnt tell them that he had taken a job as a medication dispenser just yesterday. It would be difficult to exin to Mrs. Hong, who didnt even know what a clinical trial was, and it could have led to a heated argument.
I cant just say whats on my mind. For the time being, Ill just say I started working a part-time job.
Dr. Moons car came to a stop in front of a neighborhood where vis and detached houses were densely packed together. Jeong-woo turned his head towards the drivers seat and bowed his head.
Thank you for the ride.
Mr. Han Jeong-woo.
Doctor Moon handed a small envelope to Jeong-woo, who was about to get off.
Whats this?
Its a clinical trialpensation. There doesnt seem to be time to give it to you separately.
I see.
Vroom
The car left.
Jeong-woo only felt the reality of what had happened at the hospital after confirming the twenty 50,000 won bills inside the envelope.
Hopefully, it went well?
The contract period was one year. He briefly looked at the use that stated he could be cut if he didnt perform well. Judging from Doctor Moons attitude in the negotiation, the reason for the high sry was probably valid.
Ill endure it unless its a matter of life and death.
If everything went well, he could umte a considerable monthly sry, but after repaying his student loan and his mothers debts from opening a restaurant, there wouldnt be much left.
Still, his heart was proud that he was lucky enough to join the ranks of working people who wake up and go to work in the morning.
Jeong-woo whistled as he walked up the hill where his house was visible.
Creak.
As he pushed open the old and worn-out door, a palm-sized yard weed him.
A small but charming two-story house where he had lived since birth. He had learned to smoke his first cigarette from a local unemployed man in the narrow alleyway next to the wall, and he had even had his first kiss with Eun-sil under the streetlight at the three-way intersection. Now, everyone had moved out, and he didnt even know the news.
Creak
Lost in thought, he was startled by the cold wind blowing, causing the door to rattle.
Ugh, its giving me chills. I need to spray some WD-401.
Jeong-woo walked through the yard with quick steps and opened the front door.
Mom, Im back.
He peeked into the living room, where a pile of newspapers was stacked on the floor, but his mother was nowhere to be seen.
The kitchen was dark, indicating she had already gone to the market.
Chan-a!
There was no sign of his younger brother in his room either. He must have gone to school early since the final exams started today.
I made this much money from my part-time job, but theres no one to show off to.
As soon as I got home and confirmed that no one was there, I felt a bit empty. I had a heartwarming thought that even in a small house, living closely together is a good thing, but his movements stopped in front of the tracksuit hanging on the kitchen chair.
That kid stole my jacket again.
Jeong-woo was angry.
If it were any other day, he would have followed his brother to school and pinned him down until the end, but it was time to change. From today on, he was no longer an unemployed older brother preparing for a job but a mature working adult.
A working adult.
He needed to prepare for work
The Monday morning subway ride on Line 1 was truly a nightmare.
Excuse me, please!
Caught in the waves of people pouring out, Jeong-woo barely managed to step onto the train that had just arrived.
Phew. I almost missed it.
He had prepared in advance, but was a littlete due to rushing to put on his stiff, newly-pressed suit.
Shouldnt have to worry about my style with this kind of outfit, right?
It was a high-priced suit he had worn when he went for an interview. Jeong-woo was adjusting his clothes using the subway window as a mirror when his gaze stopped on his sleeve.
Oh, theres still some dust on it.
As he carefully brushed it off, he absentmindedly grabbed the handle next to the door.
Then, with a snap, static electricity shot from his fingertips.
Ow!
It hurt even more because he was in a dry subway car with the heater sting. Jeong-woo rubbed his palms together to alleviate the pain.
Huh?
As his eyes lingered on his fingertips, they suddenly grewrger. It was as if he had a high-powered microscope between his eyes and his hands.
Countless stars were swirling around in their own orbits above my hand, each with its own translucent symbol [-] oveid on it.
There were so many of them that the faint light felt like a cloud of dust.
Its not like Im experiencing some virtual reality thing.
The group of dusty stars wanted to flee somewhere, but there was no way to do so, so they reluctantly stayed on his hand.
When Jeong-woo grabbed the metal handle again, the group of dusty stars yearning for freedom quickly scattered and moved to the surface of the metal inside the train.
Go, go. Dont go causing static electricity for no reason by clumping up like that.
The group of dusty stars climbed up the handle and scattered on the metal surface inside the train.
However, it was only for a moment, as the dust particles in the air began to gather around his empty hands as if wrapping around them.
Do these guys have free souls? Theyre just wandering around aimlessly.
Although no one was watching, since the act of conversing with free electrons itself felt like something only a crazy person would do, Jeong-woo stopped paying attention and looked out the window.- This next stop is Jongno 3-ga, Jongno 3-ga Station.
The subway stopped.
Perhaps because it was a transfer station, people poured out more energetically than the dust particles.
Jeong-woo held onto the handle and leaned against the door to avoid being swept away by the moving crowd. In the meantime, he witnessed groups of dust particles colliding with each other all over the subway.
In one mans hand, there was an umtion of electricity that could spark at any moment, and in one womans sweater, there was a dance of free electrons that seemed to rustle with just a brush.
Ouch.
Because the sudden jolt of static electricity just now was unexpected, Jeong-woo avoided it and weaved around to avoid it. As a result, he was pushed from the door to the aisle between the cars.
He first counted the remaining number of stops since if he stood too deep, he might miss his chance to get off.
Eight stops? I can wait a little longer.
As Jeong-woo tried to grab the handle in the corner to bnce himself on the shaking subway, he stopped in his tracks. Then he snickered towards the creatures that lingered on his fingertips.
Am I going to get hit again? Hurry up and disappear!
Jeong-woo shook his hand and scattered the massive amount of dust particles that had gathered around him as he brushed past people.
About a second passed like that.
The dust particles, which had left his hand, flew inward like being sucked into a vacuum cleaner. A strange flow.
Jeong-woo followed it and turned his head, then his gaze stopped towards the aisle of the subway.
What he first discovered was the white back of an A4 document. Then he noticed a girl who was staring at it intently.
Her sparkling eyes, which could be glimpsed beyond the document, were very beautiful, and Jeong-woo couldnt take his eyes off them for a moment.
Although only her small forehead and eyebrows were revealed, they shone so brightly that his heart pounded.
<
Chapter 4
Chapter 4- A Day in the Life of a Chemical Company Intern(2)
Huh?
The strange flow of dust particles had umted on her coat.
Due to the phenomenon of the free electrons sticking to her clothes in all directions were pouring in, the dust particles she had brought along were swept away with them.
Wow, too much has umted.
Whether she knew that she was in a state of electrostatic saturation or not, she seemed to have no intention of escaping from her reading session.
Judging by her appearance, if she touched metal, she would experience an electrostatic shock about three times more painful than what he had felt earlier.
Although it couldnt be attributed solely to the dust particles that he had blown away, Jeong-woo felt a moral responsibility. It was definitely not because she was overly beautiful for a woman he had identally met.
Um. Thats a Defcon 1 situation in the electrostatic world. Its very dangerous.
Jeong-woo briefly coughed with a sense of crisis as he looked around.
Thud. Thud.
The subway was running calmly and familiarly on the track, making a soothing sound.
.
Jeong-woo focused on finding a solution.
The unique insight of a molecr biologist, whichbines chemical information imprinted in brain cells and the visual neurons, began to erge the molecr structure of the electrostatic bomb coat.
Constetions of elements entwined like chains over the fibers appeared in Jeong-woos field of vision.
If the amide bond is this dense, such as CO NH CH, the probability of charge coalescence due to friction is high.
The material was from the nylon family, which was simr to the phenomenon in which skirts stick to stockings due to electrostatics when women wear stockings.
Still, theres no reason for it to be an electrostatic bomb. Wait. Na O Si?
Jeong-woos eyes lit up as he discovered a transparentpound that was stuck in the molecr structure of the fiber. A dust particle passing by trembled as if it could explode at any moment when it stuck to thispound.
Was it you?
The name of thepound that easily captured free electrons was sodium silicate. If it could be made to undergo an ion reaction to the alkaline side by sticking to clothing with an abundance of thispound, it would be an excellent catalyst to lure free electrons. And since it was involved in the fiber molecr structure, it would naturally make the clothes stiffer, so it could only be an electrostatic bomb coat.
Ion neutralizationes first. If its sodium silicate, you can see some effect just by spraying water right away
While thinking about how to present the solution to someone who is seeing this for the first time and needs to reduce the electrostatic discharge level from level 1 to level 5, she lifted her head briefly from the document she had been focusing on.
Hmm.
Her clear, eyelidless eyes were fixed on him as if to say, Why are you staring at me like that?
Well even though I was lost in thought about the chemical world, its true that I was staring so intently that it could be considered rude. Jeong-woo stammered, pointing to the womans hand.
Be careful of static electricity.
What?
When you get off the subway, sprinkle a little water on your coat and shake it out. Ah, your clothes are too stiff
The frantic movement of people began as the train pulled into the station. Jeong-woo was also caught up in it and pushed through the crowd.
What did he say?
Song Boyeong felt bewildered by the strangers words. She looked around, trying to find him, but it wasnt easy to spot someone she had just met in a crowded train.
Bzzz-
Trying to turn off her thoughts and read the document again, her phone rang from inside her bag. It was her senior colleague at work, Lee Dong-gil.
Hello, senior.- Where are you? Are you on your way to work?
Im on the subway.
I used to take the subway every day in Munich.- Now that youve started dressing up like amoner, my grandfather is probably telling you to start taking management seriously
Senior
Song Boyeongs eyebrows shot up in frustation.
If youre just going to make small talk, please stop. Im busy.- Oh! Wait, theres a huge news.
Song Boyeong responded with a look of disinterest.
What is it?- I just met the head of the greeting department and heard shocking news. They recruited a high-level researcher in theb as a parachute hire.
Isnt recruiting researchers something that happens from time to time?- Dont be surprised. It was scouted by none other than Dr. Cheon Seung-guk himself.
Despite the warning not to be surprised over the phone, Song Boyeongs eyes widened.
Dr. Cheon? Hes been on sabbatical and out of touch for six months. When did hee back?- Oh, shoot. I didnt ask about that. Should I go to the personnel department and try to find out more? Then lets go for brunch at the cafe down the street and talk
Its okay. I can ask him myself.
Click.
Putting her phone back in her bag, Song Boyeong looked down at the A4 document she had been reading.
[Next-generation Bio-code]
The paper written by Cheon Seung-guk during his tenure at the Heidelberg Center for Biochemistry in Germany was still a groundbreaking theory even after a decade.
The person Dr. Cheon scouted himself? I have to meet him.
Song Boyeong felt even more motivated to study, with the anticipation that Cheon Seung-guk might return someday.
She focused on reading the next paragraph of the paper.
Then, as the subway shook, she reflexively touched the wall and was startled by a crackling static electricity spark.
Ouch.
Pain shot through her elbow.
The sound was loud enough to startle the elderly woman sitting in the priority seat.
Are you okay, student?
Im okay, grandma.
Song Boyeong couldnt help but smile at being referred to as a student, although technically she still was one.
At 26, she could still be considered a graduate student. However, it had already been a year since she became a respectable researcher.
She bowed her head to the concerned grandmother and put her finger, which had received a sharp shock, in her mouth.
Thats why I hate winter.
She unconsciously looked at her hand and had to shake her head at the thought that the man predicted this and warned her.
It cant be true.
Song Boyeong shook her head.
And she quietly began reading the paper again. However, not long after, she was disturbed by a loud voiceing from beyond the crowd.
Ah! I dont want to! Lets go home, Mom!
Oh,e on! Lets be quiet.
A crying child. Other passengers were agitated because of it. The noisy voice that broke through the gap of concentration continued throughout the next station.
Song Boyeong decided that she couldnt read anymore and just took a screenshot of the paper. Trying to force herself to read something so difficult only gave her a headache.
She briefly lowered her head to organize her bag and saw a text message on her phone.
[Ask me instead of the HR manager. Lets have a cup of tea. How about the break room at 10 oclock? Oh, and this is a parachute badge.]
A picture that looked like it was taken from the personnel record book was attached.
Hmm? This face?
Jeong-woo was looking at the little child who was crying sadly. Was he around five years old?
Im sorry. My child has atopic dermatitis.
The little childs mother kept apologizing and scolded the child not to scratch his arms because it was itchy and he kept scratching.
The child cried and scratched, while the mother tried to stop him from getting scars. The child kicked and screamed, while the mother scolded him.
Is that what a troublemaker looks like?
Jeong-woo couldnt say anything about the child who couldnt adapt to the atmosphere in the subway. Anyway, the cause of the noise was that child.
Ahem!
An old man who was sitting next to them and reading the newspaper sent an obvious look of displeasure.
Whats so great about atopic dermatitis? You should know public ethics as an adult. Damn government officials, why did they get rid of the moral education textbooks? Ugh, tsk tsk.
He then spread the newspaper as much as possible, as if to show the passengers on both sides, pushing them away. This behavior didnt look good either.
The crying child fortunately stopped crying, but his face froze slightly at the old mans voice.
Jeong-woo absentmindedly looked at the child and saw the dust particles gathering above his head. The cause was the furry hat made of fur.
As he was already suffering from atopic dermatitis, he thought he should prevent static electricity, and reached out to shake his hand above the childs head.
Oh. If you want to go, go bother that grumpy old man next to you!
He didnt consciously think about his actions.
However, the dust particle actually wrapped around his palm and flew away into the distance. The problem was that the old mans few strands of hair reacted to the dust particle and stood up.
Thats strange. How did it affect him?
Wondering about the principle, his hand fluttered and stayed in the air above the old mans head. The old mans hair stood up like it was hit by lightning as it moved along with his hand.
Wow.
Jeong-woo moved his hand to the side, thinking he might have seen it wrong. The old mans hair moved along with it.
As the old man reading the newspaper noticed something strange and looked up, Jeong-woo quickly put away his hand. The old man, who had been making ufortable to the crowd, soon lowered his head.
Ah, my heart is racing.
The little boy sitting next to him watched the whole scene with frozen expression, so Jeong-woo put a finger to his lips and whispered shh.
The little boy nodded his head vigorously, as if this was some kind of secret.
Jeong-woo turned his gaze with his hand.
Whats going on? Why are free electronic souls listening to me? My hands are not covered in sodium bicarbonate.
He tried to find the answer from his emerging knowledge of chemistry.
It could be said that just now, the palm of his hand was momentarily reced by a [+] pole and then changed to a [-] pole.
In theory, it was possible.
Watching a horror movie and getting a goosebump was also a kind of biological electrical reaction transmitted to sensory organs.
If it were possible to control this electrical signal even slightly, could it be possible to induce ion concentration in the palm of the hand?
Lets try it.
As he stretched out his palm, the dust particles gathered like a whirlwind. No one could see it, but it was a sight that Jeong-woo could not help but admire.
Should I call this chemical sense control?
The experience of peeking into the molecr world was too shocking, and the possibility of being an electrostatic master was just as mysterious.
After roughly understanding it, Jeong-woo turned his eyes to the little boy. His eyes were full of anticipation, and he kept ncing at him as if his atopic itch had subsided.
Shall we try it again as an experiment?
Jeong-woo reached out his hand over the old mans head. Soon, he felt as if the nerves in his palm were gathering [+] ions.
As the [-] charged dust particles from all sides rushed in and stirred up a storm in the nano world, the old mans hair reacted as well. Just then, amercial song yed on the subway broadcast.- Nana~ What to do~ Seoul City Hall, Good Neighbor Dental Clinic.
Shall we dance with DOC?
It was not intentional, but the music was so lively that Jeong-woos shoulders slightly shook, and as a result, a huge storm hit the world of dust particles.
The old mans hair started to wiggle and dance along to the music.
Chapter 5
Chapter 5- A Day in the Life of a Chemical Company Intern(3)
You guys are dancing well.
Jeong-woo was admiring the free electronic dance that the stardust was showing, but he reacted quickly when the old man raised his head.
Other passengers who happened to be watching this burst intoughter at the old mans hair, which had just been stretched out to the sky.
Whats that sound? The old man looked around, but no one was talking about his hair, probably because of his mischievous behavior just now.- This is Yongsan Station, Yongsan.
Ahem!
The old man stood up with his newspaper, wondering if he should get off.
How about you go out and look at the mirror, grandpa?
The train doors opened and the old man disappeared. He would probably causeughter as he passed by on the street.
The little boy who was watching burst intoughter and looked at Jeong-woo.
Hey, youre not crying anymore.
Yeah, magic is fun.
Magic?
Jeong-woo didnt mean to show him, but he involuntarily straightened his shoulders when the little boy looked up at him.
Ahem. I dont usually do this kind of thing, but I showed you something special.
The little boys eyes sparkled with admiration.
Whats your name?
Eun-soo.
Where are you going?
Im going to my aunts house with my mom. Were going to eat something delicious.
During the conversation, the little boys mother sent a grateful nce at Jeong-woo. The boy seemed to have adapted well to the unfamiliar subwayndscape and had be much morefortable.
A momentter.
Jeong-woo waved goodbye to Eun-su and walked towards the exit. He looked at the subway map and checked the time, which was 7:45.
I might bete if I transfer and take three more stops. I should run as soon as the gate opens.
Jeong-woo was about to run as soon as the gate opened, but suddenly felt a fierce flow of dust particles, so he turned his head in surprise.
The woman in the electrostatic bomb coat from earlier was approaching right next to him.
Oh no.
Jeong-woo pretended not to see her and only looked outside, but her cute face reflected in the ss window startled him.
A in appearance with no makeup. She was as pretty as expected, but looked younger than he had thought.
She stood right next to Jeong-woo. Jeong-woo reflexively stepped back.
Excuse me.
Huh?
Jeong-woo pointed to himself with his finger in response to her call.
Me?
Yes, you.
She nodded her head and took a step closer.
While he was thinking that he should apologize for staring at her unnecessarily a few minutes ago, she asked an unexpected question.
How did you induce the static electricity just with your hand?
What?
She covered her mouth and whispered quietly.
Just now. You were moving the old mans hair with your hand.
Oh, that.
The subway train gradually slowed down. Jeong-woo said apologetically with a regretful expression.
Im sorry, I have to get off here this time. I dont have time to exin.
Im getting off too.
I see. But I have to transfer quickly.
Im transferring too.
Jeong-woo was slightly scared at the moment.
What is this? Is she part of a cult or something?
If someone with that kind of beauty asks, Do you know the way? he would be willing to follow her. He shook his head nervously at the thought.
Meanwhile, she asked.
Are you going to the KG Chemical Central Research Institute?
A real chill ran down his spine. These days, it seemed like the cults knew everything, even their personal information and how to approach them.
How did you know that?
Dont misunderstand.
She quickly pulled out her ID card from her coat.
Song Boyeong from KG Chemical Central Research Institute.
Jeong-woo, who was reading the name, had to swallow his groan. Thepany was certainly big. Even if it was nearby, he didnt expect to run into a colleague on his first day of work.
Do you know me?
After taking off her name tag, Song Boyeong quickly said.
I asked someone I know in the personnel department, so dont be too surprised. I work for the samepany as you.
It had been several hours since he had signed the contract. Jeong-woo calmed his flustered heart and offered a greeting.
Hello, Im Han Jeong-woo.
Yes, nice to meet you, Mr. Parachute.
Parachute?
Isnt that right?
Uh, yes.
Jeong-woo nodded, remembering Dr. Moons warning.
Han Jeong-woo kept examining Song Boyeong closely, which made her feel burdened. Because she looked like a freshman who needed to do well, it was hard to believe that she was actually apany employee.
While he was thinking that even Dr. Moon might prioritize a womans appearance when selecting a female researcher at KG Chemicals, Song Boyeong asked a question.
Earlier, you warned me about static electricity, didnt you?
Me?
Yes, you did. Definitely.
Click.
As the subway doors opened, people began to pour out, and Jeong-woo was pushed out along with them.
Song Boyeong naturally followed suit.
Come on, tell me. Why did you say that?
On the way to the transfer gate, Song Boyeong urged him with a gaze full of academic fervor.
Its hard to grasp.
The principle was simple, it was just about detecting the movement of free electrons and reporting it as it was.
However, convincing someone who has apletely different perspective on chemical phenomena was another problem.
If I start talking about dust particles and so on, they might think Im crazy.
Was it like trying to exin what color and shape an apology is to someone who cant see?
Jeong-woo nced briefly at the static bomb coat and spoke.
Thats a bomb coat.
Jeongwoo picked at Song Boyeongs coat with his finger.
Theres a lot of sodium carbonate stuck to it. So, static electricity would have umted excessively.
Sodium carbonate? What are you talking about?
Jeongwoo narrowed his eyes and scrutinized her coat even more.
Theres optical brightener in polycarboxylic acid, and zeolite residue too. Wait, if they alle together, it would be a cleansing agent, right? Oh, right. It was a detergent.
At these words, Song Boyeongs eyes widened even more.
Hey, parachute guy. Are you saying theres detergent powder on my clothes now?
Its not enough to be noticeable.
Ridiculous.
As Song Boyeong looked at Jeongwoo incredulously, she flicked her coat, causing white detergent powder to fly into the air.
Huh? There was more in the lining. No wonder.
Jeongwoo nodded his head as if he had solved a puzzle.
I make mistakes when I doundry too. Like identally putting in detergent when I spin dry. Then I get a good scolding from my mother.
Even though Jeong-woo didnt seem to care much, Song Boyeongs pupils shook like an earthquake. She looked at Jeong-woo nervously several times before looking at the area where the powder fell.
The two of them passed through the transfer gate and boarded Line 9. Since it wasnt as crowded as Line 1 and the fare wasnt as expensive, Jeong-woo was able to take a seat with some ease.
And what about your hands? Did you purposely induce that static electricity or was it just a coincidence?
It was just a coincidence, replied Jeong-woo.
Ah, I see.
Thinking that her curiosity was now satisfied, Song Boyeong immediately asked another question.
Mr. Parachute, did youe rmended by Professor Cheon Seung-guk? Are you his disciple too?
Dr. Moon had told him to use the excuse of being rmended by Professor Cheon Seung-guk, so Jeong-woo nodded his head. When he gave her a definite answer, Song Boyeongs eyes sparkled more than ever before.
Where is he now? Is he in good health? Even though I suddenly wanted to see him, I couldnt find him anywhere.
I dont really know much about that.
Why not?
I dont know.
He couldnt reveal any details rted to the contract, and he really didnt know anything else.
Can you keep it a secret?
Song Boyeongs eyes widened.
Just tell me one thing.
Even if you beg me
Just tell me where he is.
Well, hes probably doing well somewhere.
As he continued to refuse, Song Boyoungs cheeks puffed up as if she had been offended. She couldnt get any news out of Jeong-woo, so she decided it was enough and turned her head sharply.
Oh well, something seems strange. He alwaysins about there being no space, even when he appealed so hard to be chosen for the project. Isnt it because hes trying to fill that position with his rmended disciple, Mr. Parachute? The talk about that detergent earlier was just like Professor Cheons style. He really surprised me. Who is his disciple and who is being ignored? Its frustrating, really.
Uh, Song Boyeong, Im still right here.
I said it so you could hear it.
Why do I have to hear that?
Because were rivals.
Jeong-woo didnt know how to react since he didnt know why they were rivals.
Song Boyeong now remained silent, as if she had sealed her lips shut, and looked out the window as if nothing had happened.
Is she angry?
Her eyes were round and adorable, making her seem cute instead of scary when she was angry. It felt like he was looking at a pet dog that had be sullen because it hadnt received any treats.
The subway arrived at Yeouido station.
Jeong-woo looked at the clock on the information board and was surprised. It was 7:57 am. There were only three minutes left until the interns limit for arriving at work.
Jeong-woo hurriedly told Song Boyeong as they got off the tform, We need to hurry. Theres only three minutes left.
Three minutes? Song Boyeong replied. The start time is until 9 am.
Jeong-woo saw Song Boyeongs expression, as if he had misunderstood something. He quickly got on the esctor and turned his back.
No, thats not it.
He had been trying to talk about the positive impression of his first day as an intern, but he was taken aback when he saw her coat. People passing by, and before he knew it, dust particles had gathered around her like clouds.
Defcon 1.
What?
As Song Boyeong put her hand on the esctor handle, she let out a short scream at the crackling static electricity spark.
Ouch. Againoh
Annoyed, she shook her hand and suddenly lost her bnce. Jeong-woo reached out to her unconsciously.
Snap.
Their hands touched, and static electricity sparked.
The two looked at each other for a moment as the silence lingered.
Thank you.
Youre wee.
Jeong-woo looked at her hand that he had unintentionally grabbed, and flinched. A lot of free electrons were flowing out of her coat from his fingertips.
Dont touch me, Whoo.
Jeong-woo quickly let go of her hand and said, When you go outside, solve that static bomb first.
Song Boyeong was slowly taking off her coat and nodded her head.
Yeah, I should do that.
And leave theundry to the professionals.
I guess I should Youre so funny!
Song Boyoung suddenly lifted her head up.
Ziiing.
Jeong-woos phone in his pocket rang, and he took it out. It was a message from Dr. Moon.
[I contacted the personnel department, so go there first.]
Hes like a knife. Its already 8 am.
Jeong-woo said to Song Boyeong as they arrived at the end of the esctor.
I have to go in quickly. Nice meeting you, Song Boyeong.
You too, Mr. Parachute.
Jeong-woo ran towards the exit.
Song Boyeong watched his back in silence.
Chapter 6
Chapter 6- A Day in the Life of a Chemical Company Intern(4)
* * *
Standing in front of the newly-built and imposing twin buildings, Jeong-woos mouth dropped open.
KG Chemicals.
[A global chemicalpany with 14,000 domestic employees and 11,000 overseas employees. Designing the foundation of almost all products produced by KG Group, ranging from thetest materials for batteries and disys to daily necessities such as household goods, fibers, and healthy beverages.]
Recalling the article he had found on the inte about KG Chemicals, Jeong-woo walked into the building.
He stood in front of the visitor reception desk after passing through the lobby.
My name is Han Jeong-woo. Im an intern starting today.
May I see your ID, please?
The employee quickly checked theputer and issued a temporary ess pass. Jeong-woo showed it to the security guard and passed through the ss door.
KG Chemicals building was divided into two parts: East and West. The East housed the Central Research Institute, which was filled with state-of-the-art facilities, while the West was packed with the sales, finance, and business departments. Jeong-woo checked the internalyout and stood in front of the elevator on the West side to go up to the 7th floor where the HR department was located.
There were ten elevators in operation, and Jeong-woo was keenly aware of the people waiting in line to go to their respective workces. Im starting to work at thispany from today on.
Ding dong.
As the door opened, Jeong-woo entered confidently.
The cafeteria operates on a system where employees pay with their ID cards and the amount is deducted from their monthly sries. Simrly, most of thepanys convenience facilities can be used with an ID card.
In a spacious meeting room located within the HR department, one of the employees sat Jeong-woo down and exined the overall usage ofpany facilities. This is your research building ess card. It has different grades than your ID card, and if its lost, you need to write a statement, so please be careful with it.
It was a story that was usually directed toward arge group of people hired through open recruitment or internship, but since Jeong-woo was the only one today, the atmosphere in the meeting room was a bit awkward. Its strange. They usually dont allow interns to ess research buildings. Well, I guess you were hired through a special process?
The employee smiled and handed Jeong-woo his ID card and ess card. Do you have any more questions?
No, Im good.
Well call your supervisor, so please wait for a moment. Would you like some mixed coffee?
Yes, thank you.
Jeong-woo had learned about how the research department operates from Dr. Moon the night before. For almost an hour, it was like he was attending a ss. Fortunately, he was unable to sleep, which turned out to be a blessing.- Its an internship program for research employees hired through open recruitment until the end of the year. Get used to the atmosphere by spending time with them.
Although he had forgotten most of it, he vividly remembered thest words.
It was a period of about two weeks, excluding weekends. This period was probably going to be used to determine whether he would be of any help to KG Chemicals research project while taking AF-12.
Five minutester.
Mr. Jeong-woo?
Jeong-woo, who was sipping on the mixed coffee that an employee had handed him, turned his head at someones call.
Standing at the door was a clean-cut, mid-thirties, bespectacled employee who looked like he had studied hard in his student days.
Congrattions on joining thepany. Im Lee Dong-gil, the team leader of Team 1 in the Central Research Institute.
Jeong-woo was surprised that someone at the rank of director hade to pick him up and quickly got up, bowing his head.
Hello.
Dong-gil pointed to the door of the Personnel Department, smiling at the tense Jeong-woo.
Shall we go?
Yes.
They walked towards the elevator.
Dong-gil looked at the new hire, who had an intern ID card hanging around his neck, and spoke as if testing him.
You dont have to be so tense. I came to see who the new guy is. Besides, your major on your resume its business management, right?
Yes.
Have you participated in any research projects?
No.
Have you done any internships at chemicalpanies or anything like that?
N, no. I have no experience.
How about personal research or patent achievements? Overseas training? Relevant certifications?
Jeong-woo was bombarded with questions that made him lower his head.
Dong-gil sighed for a moment and asked, Then what can you do? There must be something you can do.
The suspicion in Dong-gils eyes seemed to be part of his warning like Dr. Moons unsightly gaze.
I didnt major in it, but I have studied molecr biology.
Since it was also Dr. Cheons major, he had to answer like this.
Dong-gil turned his head as he pressed the elevator button.
Cell biology? Genome?
Its not that academic. Its more like molecr recognition.
So youve only studied molecr recognition personally?
Jeong-woo didnt know if Dong-gils smirk was mocking or disappointed.
Mr. Han, please dont misunderstand. Our research institute has a very free atmosphere. Most of us are not bosses and subordinates, but we are like seniors and juniors. If you work on a project for a long time, you have to sh with each other for almost a year.
Dong-gil continued as they entered the elevator.
Thats why responsibilityes with this freedom. Do we have a researcher who cant pay for his own food? Do we need to carry an unstable researcher who could be fired at any time?
Dong-gil made a gesture as if his neck was being cut.
I agree with you. I know that Dr. Cheon is not ying games with personnel. But we cant introduce a researcher who suddenly tumbles in as someone we trust.
Dong-gil looked at Jeong-woo, who seemed to be seeking agreement, and nodded his head.
Thats right.
So, I hope you can appeal to Jeong-woos charm a bit in the uing open recruitment research idea nning evaluation.
The nning evaluation?
Jeong-woos eyes widened at the unexpected offer, but Dong-gil replied as if nothing was wrong.
Why? Cant you do it? Well, I guess other new hires have been preparing for more than three months to enter in the fall. I understand if youre not confident.
Jeong-woo felt a strong feeling that he couldnt refuse here.
No, I can do it.
Really?
If the nning is selected, will it develop into an actual project?
Of course.
Then I should do it. I joined thispany to work.
As the hesitant new employee responded confidently, Dong-gils face showed a hint of interest.
You seem confident.
Its not that.
Do you think you can handle it?
Ding dong.
The elevator arrived on the first floor as if in response to Dong-gils question.
Okay. Ill tell the training manager that youve epted. Keep in mind that you are responsible for the risks, as autonomy is guaranteed.
While walking out, he spotted a man running from the lobby to the main building and shouted out to him.
Ki-tae!
The man of the same age as Jeong-woo stood tall and turned around swiftly upon spotting Jeong-woo.
Senior!
The name on the badge around the mans neck, who hade running from a distance, read Bae Ki-tae.
Good morning.
Yeah. Youre still energetic today.
Seeing you, Senior, gives me strength! Haha.
Stop ttering me.
Yes!
Bae Ki-tae exuded an atmosphere that he would do very well in social life.
I should learn from his attitude.
Jeong-woo observed Bae Ki-tae with a studious heart.
Bae Ki-tae, who was chatting loudly with Dong-gil, turned his head to Jeong-woo.
But who is this?
Mr. Jeong-woo, this is Bae Ki-tae, a top recruit. Ki-tae, this is Han Jeong-woo. He is the intern who will use the desk next to yours starting today.
An intern? Oh, I see. Its almost summer, so KG Chemical will be offering internships.
No, we dont do that. Were too busy.
Dong-gil looked at Juong-woo and smiled strangely before saying, Han Jeon-gwoo is a special hire, just like you. Although he is called an intern, he is no different from you. Show him the ropes.
Dont worry.
I have a brunch appointment, so Im going out for a bit. Jeon-gwoo, follow Ki-tae.
Dong-gil waved and left for the lobby.
Bae Ki-tae respectfully bowed to the departing Dong-gil and raised his head.
Nice to meet you, Jeong-woo. The central office is on the second floor.
Bae Ki-tae pointed towards the stairs and started walking.
At this time, a special contract for non-regr workers is fresh. Excuse me, but which university did you graduate from?
It was a question that could cause one to hesitate for a moment.
From Myeong-Woon University.
Myeong-Woon University?
Bae Ki-tae looked perplexed, as if wondering if such a university existed, so Jeong-woo exined first.
It exists, its in the outskirts of the capital.
What was your major?
Business.
Bae Ki-tae had expected one of the familiar fields of chemistry to be mentioned, so he was taken aback. The sudden special hire and the cement of a non-major in a research institute. Bae Ki-taes expression turned serious, having concluded that this was an appointment influenced by thepanys top brass.
By any chance
Yes, thats right. A parachute.
Bae Ki-tae didnt know what to do as soon as he heard the answer.
Did he sound too confident?
His inner thoughts were written all over Bae Ki-taes face, wondering how he should treat him if he was the son of the CEO.
Jeong-woo quickly spoke up, worried that there might be any unnecessary misunderstandings.
Just treat me as your junior, senior.
Senior? Yes, of course. I am the senior, right?
Bae Ki-tae, who reluctantly epted it, suddenly became quiet.
Now that he thought about it, meeting his colleague on the subway and receiving a heads-up beforehand was a big help.
In this way, Jeong-woo unintentionally silenced his counterpart and climbed the stairs.
Oh.
As he arrived on the second floor, his eyes first caught sight of a transparent outer wall that seemed to go on forever. The entire floor was divided by this wall, and the dustless hallway was not visible at all.
On one side was a Basic Materials Center where all kinds of chemical reactions were observed and experimented with, while on the other side wererge and small offices partitioned off.
Here we are.
Bae Ki-tae, who had moved to the office section, stopped in front of the smallest and narrowest space.
This was the personal space used by the researchboratorys bottom-mostyer, with about ten shabby desks that looked like a reading room.
Just use any empty desk. And since theres nothing to do until the weekly meeting.
Bae Ki-tae left a message to just take a break and hurriedly disappeared.
Jeong-woo ced his bag on the empty desk and looked around the office. He saw other desks with signs of someone already working, but no one was sitting there.
At what time is the meeting?
He hade early, but he did not expect such a rxed atmosphere. There was no senior to keep an eye on him, nor any other new hires to exchange greetings with.
As he sat there free of charge, he heard movement from the office next door.
Oh, youre here. Why the break room so early in the morning?
A man with curly hair entered the office. He was talking to someone on the phone and hung his coat on a chair when he saw Jeong-woo and nodded his head in greeting reflexively.
Jeong-woo also greeted him awkwardly, and the man looked surprised and asked, What?
I see. Ill go now.
The man hurriedly left the office.
Later, another person came into the office, checked their phone, nced at Jeong-woo, and then left.
A new hire researcher who came to work disappeared several times, terrifyingly. Jeong-woo could only make a bitter smile.
Would you gossip with me in the lounge?
He didnt expect kindness, but he didnt want to be ostracized either.
I should give a good impression, but I dont even have a chance to greet them.
He felt someone approaching with the sound of clicking heels. Jeong-woo thought it was the new hire researcher who would run to the lounge again and didnt pay much attention.
Where did everyone go?
Jeong-woos gaze turned to the womans voice because it was familiar.
But theres still Mr. Parachute.
Ms. Song Boyeong?
Song Boyeong, wearing a new white gown representing a researcher instead of a coat that carried static electricity, discovered Jeong-woo and approached him.
Where are the others? I heard almost everyone came to work.
They might be in the lounge.
Lets go and see if we can find one person No, one will be enough. Follow me.
When Song Boyeong gestured, Jeong-woo stood up with a look that said, Where are we going?
We need to prepare for the weekly meeting.
Me?
No, me. Mr. Parachute is helping with that.
Song Boyeong made a gesture of carrying something in her arms. Jeong-woo finally understood and followed her.
As they passed through the maze-like corridor of the office area, Jeong-woo asked, Are you also preparing for the nning evaluation next week?
Why do I have to? Im a year senior.
Arent you a new hire?
Song Boyeong chuckled.
Why are you like this? Im a year senior.
I see
Im often misunderstood. They think Im too young.
Song Boyeong looked up at Jeong-woo with a confident expression.
Dr. Cheon used to make fun of me saying I look like a doll.
Jeong-woo nced at her soft-looking cheeks and replied, I see.
Oh, by the way, who was the first inst years nning evaluation?
Was it Ms. Boyeong?
Correct! Dr. Cheon was so impressed with my work~
Song Boyeong continued to appeal that she was closer to Dr. Cheon than anyone else.
Hmm
Jeong-woo didnt think much of it on the subway in the morning, but her interest in Cheon Seung-guk seemed to go beyond a normal level. It was as if she considered herself a rival to him, even though she had just met Jeong-woo for the first time.
Now that I think about it, as of today, the newest in theboratory is not a regr employee but Mr. Jeong-woo. Its a feeling of passing the baton fast, but the regr employees have also worked very hard for three months.
What kind of difficulties?
There are things like that.
Song Boyoung put on a meaningful expression and walked forward.
Chapter 7
Chapter 7- A Day in the Life of a Chemical Company Intern(5)
The ce where Jeong-woo arrived with Song Boyeong was muchrger than the cramped office they had just left. The official namete read Research Room 1.
Nice. The personal space is wide. Do we get to use a ce like this when we be official researchers?
Song Boyeong went in and came out with a file from the desk piled with documents.
Its the weekly meeting materials. Make 70 copies and put them up in the research hall. And.
Song Boyeong turned her head and shouted into the office.
Senior Seung-ju! Whats the experiment were doing today?
The new project at the Metal Center.
Right.
Song Boyeong snapped her fingers.
Get the connection pipe and ten beakers from the tool room. Bring the electrolysis device and low-pressure gas discharge device from the machine room. Get magnesium and calcium samples for catalysts from the warehouse.
Jeong-woo looked at Song Boyeong with the expression of a newly enlisted soldier who had misunderstood the instructions.
Hurry up. Theres only 30 minutes left until the meeting.
Thirty minutes?
Jeong-woo couldnt even tell if everything could be done in that time, but Song Boyeong urged him to move.
I have additional data to organize. Good luck, Mr. Parachute.
Thud.
The door of thefortable-looking Research Room 1 closed.
Was this why they brought me here? Jeong-woo thought, overwhelmed by Song Boyeongs instructions. He didnt even know where the copier was, and the list of tools he had to prepare was already blurry.
Asking again would hurt his pride, so Jeong-woo started wandering around the office area, searching for the copier.
This is the senior researchers private room. This is the audio-visual room, this is the equipment room
Jeong-woo found two copiers near the equipment room and stood in front of them. He removed the clip from the document Song Boyeong gave him and put the first page into the copier.
He typed in [70] and pressed the copy button, and the document came out quickly. Seeing the paper stack up silently gave him a sense of relief.
Of course, the youngest members work is just errands.
Jeong-woo thought as he looked at the meeting material for a while. The weekly meeting on Monday morning seemed to be a ce where researchers evaluated the progress of projects that had been carried out in theboratory over the past week and discussed their opinions.
Jeong-woo wasntpletely ignorant of how the research institute worked, so he felt he could adapt quickly.
He put the next page in the copier and looked at the detailed information.
9:25 am.
Jeong-woo, who had wandered around thepound warehouse on the outskirts of the research center, finally found the sample room and took the catalysts needed for the preliminary experiment in the icebox and came out.
Here it is.
Turning his head at the familiar and melodious voice, it was indeed Song Boyeong.
Where should we open it?
Looking through the samples in the icebox as if inspecting them, Song Boyeong looked at Jeong-woo with surprise.
Youve got everything properly. Youre adapting quite quickly, Mr. Parachute.
Thanks to the seniors quick and urate instructions.
Jeong-woo emphasized the words quick and urate and began to lift the sturdy icebox while grunting.
Watching him, who seemed quite tired, without any particrints, Song Boyeong looked at him as if she was looking at him again and soon shook her head. You should look at the weaknesses, not the strengths, she muttered quietly, scolding herself.
Jeong-woo, who had been walking ahead, smiled inwardly but didnt express it.
Phew.
Jeong-woo put down the icebox in the corridor near the meeting room to catch his breath for a moment. Then he asked Song Boyeong, who was following him closely.
Senior, are you going to keep talking about that parachute incident?
Dont want to hear it?
Not necessarily, but I thought we could talk about it from a different perspective. Ive been hired, and I havent caused any harm to you either.
Did you cause any harm?
Song Boyeong, who had confidently raised her head, nced at the sweat on Jeong-woos forehead, then stepped back as if she felt sorry.
Well, since there will be things to do in the future, I guess its like that. Dr. Cheon is famous for not working with many people. Since you are his disciple, it puts me at a disadvantage.
Anyway, hes not in the research center right now.
It was a valid point, so Song Boyeong couldnt make any more excuses and bit her lip.
Carrying the icebox again, Jeong-woo entered the conference room located in the central part of the Basic Material Center.
One of the walls was made of clear ss, allowing a panoramic view of theboratory. Equipped with a video conferencing system with regional research institutes, the room also served as the centralmand center of the central research institute.
Song Boyeong, who entered the room, looked around the conference room.
Youve prepared everything
The neatly stacked conference materials and the prepared experimental tools were immacte, demonstrating exceptional efficiencypared to the newbies who struggled with simr tasks three months ago.
Jeong-woo ced the samples on the table and turned to Song Boyeong.
Senior.
Startled by the sudden call, Song Boyeong looked at Jeong-woo.
Why, whats wrong?
Its almost nine-thirty, and people arent showing up. Should we call them separately?
Oh, about that.
Sensing Jeong-woos confusion, Song Boyeong suddenly pulled out a can of coffee from her coat.
Actually, the meeting is at 10 a.m.
What?
I passed on all the preparations for the weekly meeting to the youngest. If they couldnt do it properly, I wanted to show my seniority, but anyway, Im sorry. Drink this and take a break for the remaining thirty minutes.
Upon seeing Jeong-woos astonished expression, Song Boyeong shook the can of coffee in her hand, with a yful smile on her face
I had no idea youd be ready so quickly.
Since he could sense that she was trying to tease him, Jeong-woo sighed briefly and epted the coffee can.
After confirming the experimental readiness again, Song Boyeong stuck out her tongue and said,
I have to admit, youre really good. You must have had some experience working in a research institute, right?
I just guessed.
Just guessing couldnt have gotten you this far. Where did you meet Professor Cheon? Heidelberg Research Institute? Daejeon Chemical Research?
Im not sure.
Really, you cant even say this?
Avoiding her gaze, Jeong-woo said,
Thank you for the coffee. Ill be going now.
The meeting is about to start, where are you going? Your seat is over there.
Pointing to a makeshift chair in the corner of the conference room, Song Boyeong urged him to sit down.
Dont you have anything to do, senior?
No, I dont. Youve done everything, Mr. Parachute.
I see.
Jeong-woo was considering how to escape from answering more questions about Cheon Seung-guk when he saw Song Boyeongs twinkling eyes.
Her positive energy seemed contagious, as it felt like just being next to her would make anyone feel more motivated and upbeat.
Come to think of it. She felt jealous, but at the same time, she acknowledged that he had natural talent simply because he was trained by Cheon Seung-guk. Just how much does she trust him?
Just then, the door to the conference room opened, and a group of people entered. Jeong-woo turned his head and saw six newly hired research fellows led by Bae Ki-tae.
I feel awkward seeing them now.
Feeling a bit concerned because she had talked about them behind their backs in the break room, Song Boyeong stood up, but she acted like she knew nothing when they entered.
Hello, juniors!
All the new research fellows bowed to Song Boyeong as they entered.
Are you preparing for the meeting? Can we help you with anything?
When Bae Ki-tae approached them, Song Boyeong shook her head and said that they should take a break because Mr. Parachute had finished everything.
When Song Boyeong tantly referred to him as Mr. Parachute and pointed to Jeong-woo, Bae Ki-taes expression changed.
Uh is he Han Jeong-woo?
Jeong-woo met Bae Ki-taes gaze, who was looking at him with a face that could either beughing or crying. Judging by the unnatural reaction, he seemed to be unsure if Jeong-woo was the son of the CEO or not.
Since it was his first official meeting, Jeong-woo first greeted the other seniors.
Nice to meet you. My name is Han Jeong-woo, and I will be working as an intern at the Central Research Institute starting today.
Jeong-woo was approached by a curly-haired, plump man named Cho Sung-hwan, who had his name written on his employee ID.
I heard from Ki-tae that your major is management Is that true?
Yes.
Did you apply for the policy nning team or the general affairs and welfare team?
Not knowing what those departments did, Jeong-woo shook his head.
Ah! How about the HR team?
No.
Then?
For now, my goal is to be a full-time researcher.
Upon hearing Jeong-woos response, both Cho Sung-hwan and the other new research fellows were left speechless.
Jeong-woo couldnt help but sigh inwardly. He couldnt even offer much help with his newfound knowledge of chemistry due to the pills he had taken.
He decided it was better to be bold here, so he expressed his aspirations as a male protagonist of a new employee that he had seen in a drama.
I want to be a researcher who can help the Central Research Institutes project. Please take care of me, seniors.
Sure, do your best.
Cho Sung-hwan awkwardly patted Jeong-woos shoulder with a smile.
Song Boyeong, who had been listening quietly, raised her head in surprise.
What? Youre a parachute major in management? How is that possible?
She started firing questions without hesitation, always curious since their first meeting.
A double major? Did you meet Professor Cheon through a research project?
Jeong-woo scratched his chin.
The meeting still had 27 minutes left. He had to endure in silence. After that, he avoided Song Boyeongs gaze as much as possible and quietly sipped on a can of coffee.
Executive-level researchers sat around a U-shaped table.
The weekly meeting begins.
The senior, supervisor, and general researchers sitting on makeshift chairs began to review the meeting materials that Jeong-woo had copied.
Chapter 8
Chapter 8- A Day in the Life of a Chemical Company Intern(6)
Jeong-woo turned his gaze to Song Boyeong, who was reviewing meeting materials with her passionate eyes among the regr researchers.
During the break, while trying to maintain silence as much as possible and listening to her and the new researchers chattering, Jeong-woo learned some facts.
For example, Research Room 1, where Song Boyeong was located, was a ce used by the aces of the central research institute.
She was a research fellow who graduated from a famous university in Germany. Of course, the universities that other new recruits graduated from were not to be taken lightly either.
What, you dont know Myeong-Woon University?
In this ce, where each person who considered it a ce with its own history had their own exnation, it would be a hit to their pride if they didnt know about it.
Well start from Team 1.
As Dong-gil started his speech, the PT materials appeared on the wall.
Our perovskite sr cell, which our team is working on, has received an evaluation of 18.1% conversion efficiency from the renewable energy research institute. Currently, it is the second-highest record in Korea. We n to improve efficiency by 3% and aim for a ce in the global ranking.
The meeting proceeded rapidly in a calm atmosphere, from inquiries about doubts about research progress, presenting new opinions, to discussing them. It truly exuded the feeling of a space where intellectuals gathered.
Our team 3s process involves the contact dposition of heavy naphtha using a fluidized refining
This was a situation where yesterday, the technical terms of professional researchers would have sounded like an aliennguage, but now they were stuck in the ears like a mothers nagging. Jeong-woo unknowingly adjusted his tie and posture. He also had the knowledge and abilities to work in this atmosphere.
Dont be intimidated.
After about ten minutes, Team 4 leader Jeong Sang-sik, responsible researcher, took the microphone.
The research on natural-tasting condimentsmissioned by KG Food Business Unit has reached its final stage.
On the PT screen, familiar condiment products, such as dashi, which has a taste like a mothers touch, appeared.
The research team concluded that consumers feel difort from the artificial taste of various food additives, so they focused on developing vor enhancers that do not interfere with the sense of taste.
The chemical forms of the resulting food additives appeared on the screen.
The product, which applied a new nucleotidepound and received a test from the evaluationmittee, received an evaluation that it has less artificial taste than otherpanies products.
Just like team 1, the report seemed to end smoothly, but suddenly a researcher sitting in the front row grabbed the microphone.
The research was sessful, but didnt KG Foods criticize it?
Y-Yes, thats correct.
The expression on Jeong Sang-siks face darkened at this question.
This is a problem that we need to think about regardless of the results. Can we really call it a sess when the client is not convinced by the project?
The voice that echoed throughout the conference room had a feeling of being higher up in the ranks than any other researcher present. As soon as he opened his mouth, the atmosphere that had felt like a gathering of intellectuals quickly turned into that of a congressional hearing.
Jeong-woo looked at the name tag in the middle of his chest.
Senior Researcher Shin Yoon-seok.
Ah.
He vaguely recalled the conversation the new hires had earlier about the highest position one could attain at the research institute. Shin Yoon-seok was considered an executive-level personnel in thepany.
Shin Yoon-seok scanned the conference room and his gazended on where the new hires were seated. He briefly made eye contact with Jeong-woo who was sitting there.
Oh man, what a poker face.
Perhaps it was the dignity of experienced researchers, but Jeong-woo felt a significant pressure just by making eye contact.
The new hires, do you know why?
Weekly meetings were a time of learning for inexperienced researchers.
Bae Ki-tae, who had been pondering, was the first to raise his hand.
Rivalpanies like CJ Cheil Jedang and Pulmuone use sodium glutamate as a base in their products, but KG Food uses nucleotides. Wont it have a less stimting taste? After all, what consumers are looking for is MSG, not natural ingredients.
Bae Ki-tae, did you graduate from KAIST?
Yes, I did.
Your analysis is valid. Does anyone else have any other opinion?
Thanks to the reduction of food additives, the affinity of sweet molecules is weakened, and that is the cause of the reduced ptability.
That could be it. Whats your name?
Cho Sung-hwan.
Cho Sung-hwan also expressed his opinion in quick session. As each of them utilized their chemical expertise, other new hires also continued to speak up.
It seems that everyone ispetitive during the training evaluation period.
As they went in order, Shin Yoon-seoks gaze alsonded on Jeong-woo, who was the seventh person in line.
Youre a new face. Who are you?
At this question, Lee Dong-gil smiled slightly and replied, Hes an intern who started today, Dr. Shin.
An intern?
Jeong-woo bowed his head and replied, Im Han Jeong-woo.
Would you like to say anything?
With Shin Yoon-seoks gaze not expecting much, Jeong-woo tried to shake his head. The chemical knowledge floating in his head did not add more opinions than what other new hires had said.
Huh?
Jeong-woo unconsciously turned his gaze to the PT screen and had to swallow a groan.
The chemical form of the seasoning that the fourth team had newly created began to look like a constetion with several elements connected like stars.
Is this insight just possible with chemistry?
Constetions floating above the PT screen like a 3D video.
Thats a coagnt inhibitor, thats a preservative, a food coloring, an antioxidant, a metal remover.
Food additives gathered and formed a massive constetion. Should we say its a universe inside the seasoning?
The strange thing was that the orbit of the gxy,posed of these things that were gathered together, was truly chaotic.
It wasmon for stars and sr systems to collide with each other and with constetions, losing their light.
And at the center of it all was the existence of the nucleotide, which destroyed all bnce, just like a ck hole.
If I keep seeing things like this ovepping with reality, I might not be able to distinguish between the false and the real, thought Jeong-woo reflexively, blinking his eyes to narrow the gap between reality and his current state of mind.
No opinion?
No, sir, Jeong-woo replied.
Unconsciously following the chemical signals seen in this amazing sight, Jeong-woo muttered to himself.
It was destined to fail from the beginning.
The head researcher Jeong, who had been crestfallen by the new recruits painful criticism, looked at Jeong-woo as if he was amazed by his words.
Hey, intern. Havent you heard that the research was sessful?
Really? Thats strange. It couldnt have seeded.
Jeong-woo spoke with a serious expression, pointing to the PT screen.
The other responsible researchersughed as they watched Jeong-woo, who seemed to take it seriously.
Team leader Jeong. He probably doesnt know what hes talking about yet.
Well, I like his confident attitude.
The already frustated team leader, asked Jeong stared at Jeong-woo as if he were reprimanding him.
Tell me, intern. Do you have a reason for thinking that way?
Jeong-woo opened his mouth calmly and honestly, saying exactly what he thought.
The interaction between additives is unstable. Thats because the nucleotide is interfering.
Jeong team leader swallowed a sigh and asked in disbelief.
Are you saying that the newpound we developed for four weeks is the problem?
The end product itself is excellent, but what about theposition? They dont really fit together.
Why are you suddenly saying this?
Well, you see.
When everyones attention was on him, Jeong-woo realized that there was no turning back and stood up.
Can I touch that PT chemical form for a moment?
Jeong team leader turned his head to Shin Yoon-seok, who had been silently watching, and he nodded.
Go ahead.
Jeong-woo stood next to the researcher who was manipting the PT and quickly began adjusting the chemical form values, entering them.
Because the task takes some time, Jeong-woo opened his mouth at the same time.
Human perception of taste is simply a chemical reaction. For example, if you order pork stir-fry at a restaurant.
Jeong-woo spoke, recalling the menu actually sold at his mothers restaurant.
The sound of meat sizzling in the pan, the fragrant smell, the vor thates out of the seasoning when you eat it, the juice of the meat itself, and the melting texture. Generally, we call thisbination of factors taste.
Tap-tap.
Enzyme-dposed beef powder makes the concentration stronger. Concentrated meat vor particles spread more evenly, and defatted soybeans and corn gluten are absorbed faster
All adjustments to the numerical values of thepound forms werepleted.
Seasoning is a purely chemical reaction that imitates all of this. Now, look.
With the new chemical form, the universe of seasoning rose into the air, along with the nucleotide ck hole, and yet it did not lose any light.
Jeong-woo watched the food additives that were doing their job and spoke.
In the end, it all starts with the problem of how to properly react the chemical structure that determines this taste on the tip of the tongue.
Who doesnt know that? So what is this dish?
It is an artificial seasoning that will greatly enhance the taste when added to stir-fried pork.
Efficient restructuring of the molecr structure to properly deliver the taste. To Jeong-woos perspective, it seemed like a very simple task.
How can you guarantee that based on your scribbles? I made something that tastes simr to natural vors because consumers want it. The feedback is positive. Is this wrong from the beginning?
Jeong-woo felt momentarily frustrated with the person who couldnt see what he saw. The judgment was only possible by looking at the actual result.
How should we describe the shape of an apple to a person who cant see?
Chemicals are harmful to the body because they are chemical, while natural substances are inherently safe and good, and this is a mindset that belongs to chemical-phobics Oh, this is not what Team Leader Jeong said.
Hey, intern!
Thanks to Team Leader Jeongs raised voice, the meeting room fell silent in an instant. The faces of the new hires sitting next to Jeong-woo changed as the atmosphere became tense.
Youre an interesting one.
Shin Yoon-seok was the one who broke the silence.
Jeong-woo looked at Shin Yoon-seok, then hesitated. There was nothing more eerie than a person who had been expressionless all along suddenlyughing. Especially since he was not exactly an approachable person.
Team Leader Jeong red at Shin Yoon-seok with a fiery face.
You heard him, Dr. Shin. What he said.
If its not appropriate, why dont we make a sample and test it?
This was written by an intern. How can we consider it a formal project?
Shin Yoon-seoks eyes sparkled.
Hey, Jeong Sang-sik!
Team Leader Jeongs eyes widened at the lightning-fast shout.
How many years have you been researching? What opinion can you give on a puppy-level topic? My point is right, and your opinion is wrong.
Sen senior?
If I were to follow up on the criticism you received at KG Foods without verification, what would you say?
Looking at Shin Yoon-seok, who was smirking, Team Leader Jeong became dumbfounded. Then he immediately turned to the researchers of Team 4 and gave orders.
Bring a sample right away.
Team Leader Jeong said, simmering with anger.
Itll take 10 minutes to verify. In the meantime, lets move on to the next agenda, Dr. Shin.
Jeong-woo swallowed hard as he watched Shin Yoon-seok nod his head.
That Dr. Shin has a tremendous personality.
The temperature difference between being angry andughing was so great that it felt even more daunting.
The other researchers were not as unnerved by Shin Yoon-seoks behavior as the new employees sitting next to him, who turned pale.
Chapter 9
Chapter 9- A Day in the Life of a Chemical Company Intern(7)
Afterwards, discussions and preliminary experiments continued about the new project, but everyones attention was still focused on the synthesis work that was going on in thepound storage room.
As the preliminary experiments under the supervision of the responsible researcher came to a close, Cho Sung-hwan whispered to Jeong-woo, looking concerned.
Jeong-woo, you might not know this yet, but the project team leaders have huge egos. Its no joke. Maybe you should apologize before they get even more angry?
But I didnt do anything wrong.
Bae Ki-tae interjected as if he couldnt believe what he was hearing.
What, are you some kind of genius or something? How could you change theposition ratio just by looking at the chemical form once?
I didnt just look at it once. I checked it roughly while copying the meeting material.
What the!
Bae Ki-tae bit his tongue, looking incredulous.
Cho Sung-hwan continued to express his concern, worried about a major ident.
Its not just Team Leader Jeong whos the problem now. Dr. Shin Yoon-seok is also paying attention. If we rank the most demanding senior researchers in the research center, Dr. Shin is definitely at the top. If you get criticized by a senior researcher, your life in theb will be miserable.
Jeong-woo just smiled faintly, as if to say dont worry. He was confident that he wouldnt be wrong, although he didnt know what the results would be.
If I didnt have this level of ability, I wouldnt have been able to join theb in the first ce and would have been kicked out ording to the contract.
Jeong-woo turned his head and made eye contact with Song Boyeong, who was sitting on one side. She was also watching him with sparkling eyes.
Hmm.
Suddenly, he thought that the most demanding person he had to deal with might be that woman, who seemed to have a great interest in Dr. Cheon Seung-guk.
Oh, looks like its here.
Cho Sung-hwan raised his head and looked towards the center of theb. As the preliminary experiments wereing to a close, the meeting room door suddenly opened wide.
Weve brought it.
Everyones attention was fixed on the small icebox held by the 4th teams researchers. The box was ced on the table and a test tube containing fine brown powder was revealed.
As if waiting, Team Leader Jeong approached and dipped his finger into the seasoning sample. He tasted it immediately by putting it on the tip of his tongue.
How is it, Team Leader Jeong? Do you like the taste?
Team Leader Jeong, who looked slightly puzzled, turned to Jeong-woo.
Well, say something.
Other responsible researchers rushed to the table with curious faces. They tasted it and shook their heads several times.
This taste is very familiar.
Yeah, its just a regr seasoning we usually use, right?
Its weird. Even if we just sprinkle this, the meat will taste good
One of the responsible researchers looked at Team Leader Jeong and trailed off his words. Another responsible researcher who took out the existing sample from the icebox and tasted it stuck out his tongue and looked at Team Leader Jeong.
Uh, Team Leader Jeong. Its not that this has no taste. Its just a little nd and dull.
No.
Team Leader Jeong looked at Jeong-woo.
Thats how it feels.
R-really?
As the result seemed almost determined, everyones attention naturally turned to Jeong-woo, who was sitting between the gaps of the interns.
Hey, intern.
Jeong-woo stood up at Team Leader Jeongs call.
How did you know how to modify this?
Jeong-woo had no words to answer this question. He couldnt possibly exin the intricacies of seasonings, the universe, and ck holes to such high-level researchers.
With an awkward smile, Jeong-woo replied, Y-Yes, I guess I just knew it?
Team Leader Jeongs face became disappointed. He could tell immediately upon seeing the result after working on it for almost four weeks. The taste that stimted the tip of his tongue was rxing. This was the epitome of MSG, and it was a magic powder that was as good as ramen broth.
Im speechless because its so good. How can an intern have such a sense of taste
The faces of the responsible researchers around him became surprised at the deration of defeat.
Jeong Sang-sik looked at Jeong-woo with a face that admitted his talent.
Ill make a new sample using the chemical form you changed and send it to KG Foods. If it gets adopted, Ill put your name on the list of project researchers. Lets calm my irritation with this.
Team Leader Jeong, is it really that good?
This is insane. Right after being hired. Who rmended him?
As the conference room became increasingly noisy, one of the researchers sitting in the stone seat spoke up.
Alright. Since the meeting is over, lets not gather here like this and move to our workce.
Dr. Kim, this intern changed the direction of Team Leader Jeongs 30-day research in just 30 seconds.
Why are you suddenly like this? Thats why were supposed to coborate on research. And you were familiar with these situations when Dr. Cheon was here.
Amidst their murmurs, Shin Yoon-seok stood up.
As he moved, the researchers gathered around him scattered like a stream. As he assisted Shin Yoon-seok, Lee Dong-gil whispered something to him.
Shin Yoon-seok stopped abruptly and turned his head to Jeong-woo as he walked closer to his location.
Did you say your name is Han Jeong-woo?
Yes, thats correct.
Youre participating in the nning evaluation next week?
Thats
Jeong-woo met eyes with Lee Dong-gil, who grinned and raised his thumb.
Yes, I will participate.
Im looking forward to it.
Shin Yoon-seok patted Jeong-woos shoulder and walked out.
Jeong-woo also lowered his head as he saw the new recruits doing the same.
The lunchtime at the central research institute was much more sophisticated and leisurely than Junwoo had imagined.
There were researchers who managed their health in the in-house gym, equipped with exercise equipment, and also those who read books or had tea time in the book cafe where calm music flowed.
Of course, Junwoo was in a position to head to the cafeteria with a hungry stomach, unlike the formal researchers who enjoyed their lunchtime elegantly.
He had just been released from the tedious work.
I think being a researcher at the institute requires morebor than I thought. Oh, Im so hungry.
After the weekly meeting, Junwoo was dragged by his senior from team 3 to do the job of observing and recording the solution rotating in the centrifuge, every 10 seconds.
It was a task that required perseverance more than expertise, so he had to check obsessively until the shift changed.
Can I have one fried dish, please?
Junwoo, who had filled his tray with rice, soup, and some side dishes, looked around for an empty seat in the cafeteria.
After a satisfying meal, Song Boyeong walked out of the cafeteria entrance with a smile of contentment on her face. It was a pleasant time that confirmed that there was barely half a days work left. She hummed a tune while walking towards the elevator when her phone rang and buzzed in her ear.
-Hey!
Hello, senior.
-You havent eaten yet, have you? I found a restaurant that makes great spaghetti.
Song Boyeongs expression turned into one of annoyance at Dong Kyungils voice.
Im on my way out after having lunch.
-Already?
I can finish my lunch in 5 minutes if I have to.
-Youll get indigestion if you eat too fast.
Senior.
-Sorry, sorry. Haha.
As Song Boyeong walked down the corridor, she saw a man with a te moving around inside the cafeteria.
It was Han Jeong-woo, the intern who couldnt even get a word in with the senior researchers who surrounded him after the weekly meeting.
-You didnt even have brunch this morning. Do you want to grab coffee together?
I have something urgent to take care of. Enjoy your meal!
-Hey, Boyeong
Thunk.
Song Boyeong hung up and rushed to the entrance of the cafeteria.
After tasting a spoonful of doenjang soup, Jeong-woo nodded his head with satisfaction. He felt a sense of dignity that could not bepared to the back-to-basics meals in the university cafeteria. The atmosphere of this ce, which felt like a sophisticated cultural space, also contributed to the feeling.
Is lunch going to be like this every day?
He couldnt help butugh at the thought that he didnt even need to worry about choosing a menu when a te was ced in front of him with a thud.
Were you eating alone?
Jeong-woo looked up and became guarded when he saw Song Boyeong sitting opposite him.
Why are you so surprised?
Dont misunderstand and think that Im following you around. I just saw that you were alone, Mr. Parachute. Food tastes better when you eat it together, so lets eat together.
Song Boyeong smiled brightly as she lifted her spoon. After taking a bite with a determined look on her face, she looked at Jeong-woo and didnt lose her smile.
Its awkward. Very awkward.
It wasnt a job fair, and it was just the two of them having a meal facing each other. Jeong-woo could vaguely guess her intentions.
Thinking that he would be bombarded with questions about Cheon Seung-guk just like in the morning, Jeong-woo quickly stirred his utensils to finish eating and leave.
Excuse me.
Sure enough, as Song Boyeong nced at him, she made her move. Jeong-woo opened his mouth before she could put him in a difficult position.
Senior.
Dr. Cheon, yesy? What?
Song Boyeong, who missed the timing due to the sudden call, blinked her eyes quickly.
Why do you want to work with Dr. Cheon so much?
Jeong-woo looked at Song Boyeong with a look that said, Lets hear the reason.
Do you have to ask that? If a Nobel Prize winner in chemistryes out in Korea, it must be Dr. Cheon.
The word Nobel Prize seemed too far away for Jeong-woo to grasp.
When receiving the award, up to three co-researchers can also be awarded, you know?
I see.
Song Boyeongs face lit up when the topic of Cheon Seung-guk came up.
Among the papers published by Dr. Cheon, some are still a mystery in the German chemical industry.
A mystery?
There are many in the academicmunity who cannot even understand the theory itself. But I read them all. Am I the only one in Korea who did?
With a cough and a shroug, Song Boyeong continued.
I even managed to grasp some of the principles.
Very impressive.
Upon Jeong-woos praise, Song Boyeong smiled widely. Meanwhile, Jeong-woo quickly put the remaining fried food in his mouth and swallowed it.
Its okay
It seemed like Song Boyeongs intention to make a scene alone was fitting. Jeong-woo had thought that he could just say hello and leave, but he couldnt help but notice that she seemed upset.
Is there something bothering you? he asked.
No, not at all.
Song Boyeong looked like she was on the verge of choking, and her response seemed forced.
Maybe the food at the restaurant doesnt agree with you.
No, thats not it. I and Dr. Cheon both love the food at this restaurant. We used to eat here often together.
I see, Jeong-woo said, noticing how Song Boyeong seemed to be forcing herself to eat.
If you dont like the food, you dont have to eat it all
Jeong-woo trailed off as he noticed something strange. Song Boyeongs lips seemed to have expanded, almost like using a magnifying ss.
Whats going on?
It wasnt a special chemical reaction, but he could see some residue that looked simr to what he had seen in the food additive constetion during the weekly meeting.
Thats lenthionine.
What is it?
You have some on your lips.
Song Boyeongs eyes widened.
You can get it on your mouth while eating!
Wiping her mouth with a napkin, Song Boyeong furrowed her eyebrows when nothing came off.
Are you kidding me?
Its strange, though. If it was lenthionine, the food would have had the scent of shiitake mushrooms, but theres no such thing in the side dishes that the senior brought.
Song Boyeong was taken aback.
Chapter 10
Chapter 10- A Day in the Life of a Chemical Company Intern(8)
This is unbelievable. How could you know that?
Oh, theres also cucumber alcohol. And you didnt eat cucumber seasoned vegetables, right? Maybe are you going to have lunch again?
Song Boyeongs expression faltered as she struggled to control her emotions at Jeong-woos question.
Finally understanding the situation, Jeong-woo was momentarily at a loss for words. Song Boyeong had purposely brought her te to talk to him.
Its because Im hungry, thats all.
At her awkward response, Jeong-woo chuckled before covering his mouth.
Im sorry. I didnt mean to catch on purposely.
Whatever.
As she looked at him with her mouth shut, Jeong-woo had to hold back hisughter. When she started ying with her spoon and lifting the rice to her mouth again, Jeong-woo raised his hand to stop her.
Stop eating. Its going to make you sick.
So what?
Jeong-woo didnt want to force her to eat if she didnt want to, so he cleared his own te and took Song Boyeongs te away.
I was considering getting another bowl, but this works out perfectly.
What are you doing?
If you want more, go ahead and get some.
As Song Boyeong watched him enjoy his meal, holding her spoon in her hand, she remained silent.
A momentter, Jeong-woo wiped his te clean and patted his stomach.
Ah, that was delicious.
Amazing, Mr. Parachuter.
After a while of sitting quietly, Song Boyeong asked with curiosity.
Assuming you could tell I ate first just by passing by. But how did you urately guess the side dishes? Did you install surveince cameras here or something?
I saw it on your mouth.
I mean, how? Just now. It was really like Professor Cheon.
Jeong-woo replied as he stacked the two tes together to clean up.
I dont need to tell my own tricks that I learned from Dr. Cheon to my senior. Especially when we are my rivals. Whats the point? Its a Nobel Prize research. They only give credit to a maximum of three people, right?
Well, thats true, but
Song Boyeongs expression rapidly turned gloomy. Her senior had a truly diverse charm, making her smile andugh one moment and suddenly surprising her the next.
Herundry skills that gave birth to an static bomb coat, and her strangely humorous talent.
Without realizing it, Jeong-woofelt that the moment hade for him to move on. If he stayed here any longer, he would have to suffer through questions he couldnt answer until the end of lunchtime.
I had a good meal, senior.
As Jeong-woostood up, Song Boyeong also got up as if there was nothing else to do.
Mr. Parachute, what are you going to do this afternoon?
The senior members of team 3 asked me to continue assisting them, taking turns for an hour.
Well, then.
As he had to keep an eye on the reaction all the time, Song Boyeong realized that she had no time to call him separately.
Thinking that she could only aim for another opportunity tomorrow, her shoulders drooped.
With a dry throat, Jeong-woolooked at the liquid swirling inside the automatic analyzer.
The mixture spinning on the tray, shaped like a disk, was a catalyst for better breaking down the hard olefin thates out when refining oil.
So, this olefin is used to make stic, right?
Today, he had a bright understanding of the process he didnt even know existed yesterday, but the repetitive work that was being done under the guise of research only caused him to yawn.
As the rotation reached a certain speed, the catalyst passed to the sample part and reacted, with the result being quantified on the monitor.
After recording it, Jeong-woowaited another ten seconds, even yawning in the meantime, which he had been doing every five minutes all afternoon.
Boring. Its so boring.
The automatic door of the analysis room opened, and a man stuck his head in.
Good job, Jeong-woo.
Is it time to switch?
Its time to go home, so you can go now.
The researcher in the contact dposition catalyst development department of team 3, after looking through the statistical table that Jeong-woohad recorded, nodded his head.
Theres nothing to hand over. Have you tried this experiment before?
Not really. I just guessed
It was more of a hunch. Besides, this level of experiment did not require recalling numerous chemical information that was dormant inside cells.
You have good instincts. Ill count on you from now on.
Ah, from now on?
The researcher raised his thumb in response to Jeong-woos answer.
Hmm.
He thought that if he wasnt actually going to contribute to the performance, he should avoid this kind of support work as much as possible. After all, he didnte to the research center to earn an annual sry of 100 million won for this.
Excuse me, have a good day.
Jeong-woo stretched himself outside and headed towards the office, which looked like a chicken coop where he left his bag in the morning.
Ah, Im tired.
Still, he felt a little proud that he had smoothly adapted to the research center life.
As he opened the door to his office, he saw several new hires sitting there. They were all concentrating on studying something at their desks.
Is it not time to go home? Oh, theyre probably preparing for the nning evaluation.
Since Jeong-woo agreed to work with them next week, he sat down without much thought. He took out his old notebook that he used throughout his four years of college from his bag and ced it on his desk.
Huh?
There was a lifeless desk with hardly any sockets to plug anything into. As this was a temporary office with partitions installed in a corridor, he couldnt see any ce to plug in electricity.
My battery is almost dead.
Jeong-woo sighed deeply and looked at the new hires working vigorously on thetestptops.
Anyway, there was no way to work here, so he got up, thinking that he would have to go home and work. Then, his phone in his pocket beeped.
[Is it time to go home? Just a moment, please.]
It was Dr. Moon.
Jeong-woo took his bag and stood at the entrance of the office.
Ill go first, seniors!
The new hires turned their heads at his cheerful shout, but their reactions were cold. Still, Sung-hwan was the only one who greeted him briefly.
I guess things will get better.
Jeong-woo pressed the button for the 10th floor where Dr. Moon worked in the elevator.
Pharmaceutical Bio Center.
Information was posted on thepanys homepage that KG Chemistry has recently established a new research institute and is conducting aggressive research.
Didnt they say it was a research institute that leads the era ofprehensive medical care in an aging society?
As he arrived on the 10th floor and walked down the hallway, he saw Dr. Moon standing on the other side of the corridor. She was dressed casually, preparing to leave work, which gave a different feeling from the early morning.
Because of her hair tie being loose, her long hair flowed naturally over Dr. Moons shoulders.
Jeong-woo called out to her, Dr. Moon.
Under her elegant eyebrows, her deeply intellectual eyes looked at Jeong-woo. He felt like his eyes were being purified as he stood in front of her.
Wee.
Wow, such a warm greeting. This is the first time Ive received one since I entered thepany.
Dr. Moons expression changed to one of questioning, but then immediately moved on to the matter at hand, as if it was not that important.
You received your ess card for the research building, right?
Yes.
With that, you can enter Dr. Cheon Seung-guks personal researchb.
This one?
Jeong-woo took out a red card from his pocket.
But what does that mean?
Youll know when you get there. All the research data that Dr. Cheon has been working on or nning to work on will be there. Check and familiarize yourself with them when you leave work from now on.
Are you saying that I will be conducting the research instead..?
Thats right. Understand it properly so that you can start immediately after the adaptation period ends.
Dr. Moon watched as Jeong-woo stepped out of the elevator. When he tried to follow her, she raised her hand to stop him.
I have to go down. Theb youre going to is on the 25th floor.
Are you noting with me, Dr. Moon?
Why should I? Im a doctor, not a chemist. If we end up working on a medical research project, we might work together.
The elevator doors closed.
As he stood there absentmindedly, Jeong-woo realized that Dr. Moon had just thrown work at him, assuming that working overtime was a given.
Unbelievable.
Signing the contract must mean that I wont stop working Jeong-woo tried tofort himself with uncertain thoughts once again.
Beep beep.
As soon as he swiped his card, the opaque ss door opened automatically.
With a curious gaze, Jeong-woo stepped into Dr. Cheon Seung-guks researchb. The first thing that caught his eye was the sight of a room that resembled a miniature version of the variousbs in the Basic Materials Center.
So, this is the personal space used by executive-level researchers?
It was both vast and spacious.
Upon opening the door on the opposite side and stepping inside, he saw an office space where one side of the wall was filled with specialized books.
There was a glossy leather sofa that looked good for hosting guests, a wooden desk with a namete that read [Chief Researcher Cheon Seung-guk] and a chair that looked extremelyfortable, just like the kind a CEO would have.
Jeong-woo briefly leaned back in the CEO chair.
Wow.
A sense offort that he had never experienced before enveloped Jeong-woos back and butt. He thought to himself that this was why expensive chairs were worth using.
Theres even aputer. I dont have to prepare for the nning evaluation in the general affairs office. I should do it here.
Sitting on the chair, Jeong-woo pushed his feet towards the cab. He opened it, and there were piles of documents recording Dr. Cheon Seung-guks personal research. He pulled out a file with the most recent date on it.
The Omnipotent factor project?
It was a title that included unfamiliar words in the field of chemistry. Moreover, there were only nk pages inside the document. It seemed that they had only decided on the outline and had not even started yet.
The date of the document was from June of this year, and there were no records after that. Dr. Cheon Seung-guk must have gone on retirement around that time.
Since there were piles of research information that he needed to be familiar with, Jeong-woos attention quickly turned to other documents.
How much time has passed?
Jeong-woo looked at the clock on the wall and stood up in surprise.
It was already 10 pm.
Theres no need to overdo it from the first day.
Considering that he hadnt slept at allst night, tomorrow could be a day when he might copse.
He was trying to put the documents piled up on his desk back into the cab, but a note fell from one of the documents.
Huh?
He picked it up and read it immediately.
[The production of organicpounds using AF-5 must be carried out carefully. Even a partial urrence of this groundbreaking chemical reaction can shake the foundation of society]
It was a note that had been stuck in the Omnipotent factor Project file, which had been nk research records.
AF-5?
Jeong-woo cocked his head as he saw the code name simr to the blue pill he had taken in the early morning. The term omni-factor didnt bring anything to mind unlike other chemical information.
Could there be other pills besides the one I took?
As he left Dr. Cheon Seung-guksboratory, Jeong-woo yawned heavily. There were other researches that he had to learn and memorize right away, instead of worrying about the nk research records.
Ah, I feel stiff. Lets just go home for now.
Just like the excitement of the first day of work, the first day of leaving work was also exciting.
Upon arriving home, taking a shower, drying his wet hair, and contemting his hard day with a can of beer.
I feel good just imagining the small everyday routines thate with working. Its something that I havent experienced until now, the daily urrences of the world.
Jeong-woos footsteps became lighter.
He felt like he would sleep very well tonight.
code: AF-12
case: Static Electricity Master
research: When sending an electric signal to the nerve fibers in the palm, it is possible to exert some influence on the world of free electrons by promoting ion reactions.
Chapter 11
Chapter 11- Old steel(1)
Beep-beepTak!
Jeong-woo abruptly turned off the rm before it could startle him and rubbed his eyes before shaking his head vigorously.
Darn it. I overslept again.
It had been his fifth day at KG Chemical, and he felt like his sleep cycle had been disrupted since he started working there. The fact that he had been working overtime until yesterday was also taking its toll.
Dr. Moon is so cruel.
The only constion was that tomorrow was Saturday.
If I can just hold on for today, I can sleep all day tomorrow Oh, wait. Does Dr. Moon expect us to work on weekends this week too?
He couldnt bring himself to ask. He raised his head and opened the door.
He had eagerly run up and down the stairs when he was younger, but now he had to hunch over slightly to descend the narrow stairs to the ground floor.
Something smells good.
He turned his head to follow the tempting aroma that stimted his appetite and saw his mother cooking in the kitchen.
What are you making?
Muguk. (a Korean soup made with radish and beef)
With lots of beef in it? Awesome!
Im making it for Chan to eat, not for you. For good luck on the uing exams.
His mother was famous for being generous with meat when cooking at Jisook Restaurant, there was no way there wasnt enough meat in the soup.
What rank is he aiming for this time?
Jeong-woo picked up the water bottle on the dining table, about to take a sip, when Hong Ji-sook came up like a gust of wind and pped his shoulder roughly.
I told you not to drink straight from the bottle.
Ah! I havent drunk from it yet.
Dont drink it!
She snatched the water bottle away, leaving Jeong-woo with a disappointed expression as he sat down at the dining table.
Youre so mean. When I was preparing for the college entrance exam, you only gave me in rice to eat.
I fed you in rice because you were only getting fifth ce in your ss. And what about you? I spent a lot of money to send you to college, but what are you doing now?
Umm working part-time?
Jeong-woo responded naturally, and Hong Ji-sook picked up an egg and was about to throw it at him. He quickly raised both hands in surrender.
I like mine sunny-side up.
Go wake up Chan and tell him toe down. He wont get up even if I call him.
Okay.
Jeong-woos mother had a strong habit of taking care of her smart little son who showed potential in his studies since he was young.
Jeong-woo wanted to say that he felt like he had be quite smart in the past few days, but he barely managed to suppress the itching sensation in his mouth.
He opened the door to his younger brothers room and lightly tapped him with his toes as hey upside down on the floor.
Hey, wake up.
Umm.
If you dont get up quickly, your hyung will eat all your eggs.
At this, Jeong-chan lifted his head suddenly.
Dont eat them. Ill spit on your food.
Open your eyes and speak.
The method of waking him up all at once by stimting hispetitive spirit was effective again today. Jeong-chan, who yawned, emerged from under the nket and asked Jeong-woo.
Why do you wake up so early these days, hyung?
I told you. The part-time job is tough.
Even if he were one of Jeong-woos friends, his brother, with his old-man-like appearance, could be trusted. Maybe because he ate well, their heights were simr.
Jeong-chan, who was wearing sweatpants, asked Jeong-woo.
Youre still doing it. Is the pay good? Can you buy me a Pentawatch skin box during winter break?
Jeong-woo, who had thought of the sry he would receive in a month, had a serious expression on his face. Game items cost a lot of money.
If it goes well, there will be good results. Dont wear my clothes. Clean my room and the living room thoroughly on the weekend.
Thats it? No problem! I promise!
Did I raise you to be so gullible?
The two friendly brothers finished their transaction and entered the kitchen. Hong Ji-sook served rice and soup on the table one by one and spoke to her two sons.
You know its not for free, right?
Um, we know. This eldest son will repay everythingter.
I think I will be in the top five in this exam. Sang-beom and Joon-cheol didnt do well.
While Jeong-woo was talking, Jeong-chan interrupted.
Top five?
At that, Hong Ji-sook pushed a soup bowl with a different amount and quality of beef at her younger son.
Jeong-woo saw Jeong-chan, who was blowing the soup, with an expression of disbelief.
Can our familys fifth-ranked make it? Not behind, but in front?
Yeah.
Mom, who does he look like? I dont think he looks like you.
Jeong-woo closed his mouth as he saw Hong Ji-suk, who was holding the soup spoon tightly. Jeong-chan, who was casually looking at Jeong-woo, said,
I dont know, but you look just like Dad. Even the way you go around causing trouble is just like him.
This little punk.
When stories about his bad father who left the house came up, Jeong-woo didnt know what to say. It was true that he was a vendor of fish-shaped bread.
Although he didnt be a delinquent like his father, he enjoyed imitating him until he barely came to his senses in his senior year of high school,pared to which his younger brother was a model student who enjoyed studying. He was the darling of the house.
Still, with Hong Ji-sooks second-best affection as she served him half-fried egg on his rice bowl, Jeong-woo chuckled and ate his meal.
Just wait a month and youll be surprised.
Jeong-woo carefully checked his appearance in the mirror by the entrance and adjusted his clothes. One suit wasnt enough, so he had almost used up all the money he earned from clinical trials to hastily order a new suit and several dress shirts two days ago.
Ill be back!
Jeong-woo pushed the front door energetically as he passed through the yard.
As soon as it opened, the noisy sound of thetch ringing startled the neighbor who was walking on the street, and he turned his head.
Jeong-woo, whats wrong with that door? Every time your mom goes to the market in the morning, it feels like a ghost ising out.
Im sorry. Ill oil it up this weekend.
While Jeong-woo carefully closed the door, the neighbor looked him up and down and asked.
You look sharp. Are you going for an interview?
Its a part-time job. Its gotten cold, so I even got a stylish scarf to go with my suit. How does it look? Is it a good match?
The neighbor nodded as if it wasnt too bad, and Jeong-woo smiled with satisfaction.
Thats good. You have a good eye.
He may be retired and living quietly now, but a few years ago, the neighbor was apany employee. At that time, Jeong-woo didnt know how great it was to work for apany long enough to retire.
By the way, Im going to treat you to meat at next months gathering, so look forward to it.
Really?
You cant always mooch off of others. Ill buy the soju, too.
Yay, thats great!
Jeong-woo shook his hand and walked down the hill.
If I can make it through the next four weeks, no, three weeks, Ill get my first paycheck.
Trying to fit in like a corporate employee, Jeong-woos financial situation wasnt great yet.
As he headed to the subway station, he imagined what he would do next month. A new tablet, luxury sunsses, and expensive watches came in and out of his mind.
Oh well. I should start paying off the loans piled up in the house first.
He had no idea what he might face in the researchb tomorrow. If he didnt n his expenses carefully, short-term happiness might turn into long-term sadness.
Still, I can buy a gift or two
Jeong-woo chuckled, imagining his mother and younger siblings surprised faces when they saw the new coat he bought. He knew that he would soon be able to walk with more confidence in this neighborhood.
Thump thump.
Jeong-woo held onto the subway handle and dozed off, only to wake up startled. He had briefly visited dreand, intoxicated by the warm air blowing from the heater.
Where am I?
He roughly estimated that he had passed Yongsan Station. Luckily, he regained consciousness just before the transfer station.
He checked his clothes that were crumpled and torn by the crowd, feeling relieved. But then he noticed the subways speed was slowly decreasing.
Huh? This isnt a stopping ce?
-Ladies and gentlemen, we apologize for the inconvenience. Due to a part of the upper structure of the Hangang Railway Bridge falling off and blocking the rails, we are now slowing down.
The passengers groaned at the announcement from the train conductor.
-We would like to rify that the structure is a rainwater collector and is unrted to the condition of the bridge. It will take about five minutes to remove the structure from the rails. Thank you for your understanding. Once again, we apologize for the inconvenience
Jeong-woo was surprised and looked towards the front of the subway, but he could not see the bridge.
Off all things.
Seeing the train passing by quickly towards Uijeongbu, he thought it wasnt a big problem. However, waiting for too long was unbearable.
He spent five minutes surfing the web on his phone.
With a ding, the train started moving again, and the anxious passengers quickly regained theirposure.
The train passed over the Han River Bridge slower than usual, perhaps as a precaution for potential idents.
Jeong-woo looked out the window to see where the structure had fallen.
A rainwater collector falling
Was it because he had been paying close attention to it? The phenomenon that had not been visible for the past few days suddenly came to Jeong-woos attention.
As he looked closely at the metallic structure on the top of the Hangang Railroad Bridge, his vision was greatly magnified as if he were using a microscope.
As the surface of the painted structure approached the size of a movie screen, the ground of the smooth, greenish-yellow-coated iron surrounded by a smooth film appeared before Jeong-woos eyes.
Wow, this is dizzying while moving.
It was like the motion sickness he had experienced when he tried virtual reality video on his phone. While feeling nauseous, Jeong-woo examined the chemical information in the erged world.
The dark green film, which was attached to the ground like oil, turned out to be paint.
Due to the coating function of the paint that bounced off droplets of water, nopound that scratched the ground of the iron was visible.
Clunk clunk.
The small world that Jeongwoo was looking at also started to shake as the subway gradually began to elerate.
He looked at the part where therge bolt was hammered in and saw it being shaken violently, then he saw it being further erged.
You free electrons, causing trouble even over there?
He could now see the dust speck that seemed like a neighborhood friend.
Those things that were eagerly moving back and forth between the bolt and the iron frame, gradually eating away at the surrounding ground, were indeed the crazy guys in this area.
Fortunately, the free electrons were only the size of a handful of sandpared to the bolt, which was the size of a 63-story building.
Even if they caused chaos for decades, it would be difficult to scratch the surface of the bolt. It was like digging in a mountain, but the mountain would not disappear right away.
I dont think we have to worry too much.
Jeongwoo, who was turning his gaze, blinked and looked at the opposite window, then flinched. The surface of the bolt there was considerably worn and rough.
Thats quite dangerous, isnt it?
If that structure falls, the train heading to Uijeongbu wille to a stop. The probability of that happening may be low, but if there is a problem when hes going home, hell have to wait again. He might have to wait longer at night.
Jeong-woo nced at the Seoul Metro Customer Center phone number attached to the subway entrance.
Um.
After much consideration, he picked up his phone.
The signal went through, and an automatic response voice came out. After following the guidance and pressing the button to connect with other counselors, a signal to wait came out. It seemed that there were manyints from customers because the subway was dyed.
-Seoul Metro Counselor Kim Hojeong here.
Eventually, the call was connected.
Its nothing. Im passing through the Han River Bridge, and there seems to be a crack in the upper structure of the top.
-Yes, a crack Yes?
The bolt is severely corroded due to therge potential difference between the iron frame and the metal. The rain gutter may fall off again, so I think you should check it out.
-Can you tell me the exact location, sir?
It was the southern end of the Han River Bridge. Its above the subway heading to Uijeongbu.
Jeongwoo revealed the exact location he remembered in detail. When the counselor asked for his information, he gave his name as well.
-Thank you, Mr. Han Jeong-woo.
Dont mention it.
-By the way, can you exin the cause once again?
Well, you see, electrons move from weakly conductive metals to strongly conductive ones
Even after exining it again, it was clear that he didnt understand. The counselor was probably just as surprised as anyone else. After all, he was probably the first person to call and report a dangerous situation due to rust on a specific structure on the bridge. Its a relief that it wasnt a prank call.
At least I did what I could.
Anyway, satisfied that he had fulfilled his civic duty, Jeong-woo got off at the transfer station.
Friday morning at KG Chemical Research Institute.
The door of Research Lab 1 opened and Research Supervisor Oh Seung-ju walked in.
Pay attention for a moment.
The ten or so researchers sitting in their seats turned their heads.
The Electronic Materials Center needs two senior researchers. There are vacancies due to the year-end vacation. Jeong Hee and Yoon Jae will go. Just work hard until the weekend.
The two senior researchers got up from their seats.
Thats what Team Leader Park Gil-soo said. The Metal Center is still recruiting new project researchers, so they are asking for support from Research Lab 1
The researchers who had no relevant schedules lost interest and began to focus on their own work.
Song Boyeong, who was sitting on a chair near the entrance, smiled as she opened her bag, thinking that she could spend the day reading papers.
Bo-young.
Uh-huh.
But she had to get up immediately at Oh Seung-jus call.
You participated in the Quasi-crystal coating research in the summer, right? The one that wasmissioned by Korea Railroad Corporation.
Yes, senior.
They are looking for that researcher at City Hall right now. They say theres a seminar on corrosion-rted issues.
Me? What about Team Leader Park?
Hes busy with the new project. Oh, and when you meet Kim, the head of the railway construction, please give him my regards.
Anyway, Song Boyeong had to move right away, so she closed her bag and put it on her shoulder.
Take a few new recruits with you. It will show them how to work outside.
Should I do that?
Song Boyeongs eyes sparkled at Oh Seung-jus instruction.
Chapter 12
Chapter 12- Old steel(2)
Oh, whos that person?
Is it a new recruit, Joongyeon?
Seated on a resting chair in the hallway, tapping away at hisptop keyboard, Jeong-woo smiled and exchanged nods with passing researchers from other departments who gave him odd looks.
Dont mind them, just keep walking.
He upied one outlet next to a vending machine and continued working on his oldptop. It was embarrassing, but it was better than just sitting idly in the new employee office. During the day, he couldnt even use Dr. Cheons researchb.
Jeong-woo nced towards the end of the hallway where the new employee office was located. No senior researcher who hade to summon the new employees was around in the morning.
I have nothing to do, so I have this much free time.
He focused again and continued working. From Monday night to yesterday, Jeong-woo had been organizing the data necessary for Dr. Cheons research during his free time.
Following Dr. Cheons instructions, he nned to start with research that could quickly gain recognition. The nning evaluation for next week would be the starting point.
Tap tap tap.
As he was writing his presentation draft, someones head suddenly popped up behind him.
What are you doing?
Jeong-woo was startled. The round eyes of his self-proimed rival, Song Boyeong, which he had almost never met during hismute on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday, were looking at him just an arms length away.
Oh,posite material? Are you aiming for the Basic Material Center project?
Song Boyeong closely scrutinized the data on Jeong-woosptop screen. He moved back slightly, feeling her white cheek was too close, and replied.
Im still considering it.
How about giving my opinion asst years first ce?
Herrge eyes without double eyelids were still overflowing with vitality.
Ill dly take it if its free.
Lets just pretend that was never said.
Jeong-woos cheek smoothly touched hers as she sent him a warm smile. Looking at her sending him a gentle smile, Jeong-woo couldnt help but feel his heart racing instinctively.
Pull yourself together. That smile is not a friendly one, its a sly one.
Reminding himself that he would be very annoyed if he was carried away by Song Boyeongs enthusiasm, Jeong-woo closed hisptop.
Did youe to have coffee from the vending machine?
No, thank you.
Jeong-woo gave a questioning look, wondering what was going on. Song Boyeong, who was hopping forward, smiled and said,
Im grabbing my luggage because I have somewhere to go.
Where to?
A good ce.
Just for seniors?
Song Boyeongs expression looked as if she was about to shout out the answer. I thought that maybe, as the youngest researcher in Lab 1, she might have a hands-on role.
I wonder how could I slip by unnoticed.
Jeong-woo pulled out theptop cord next to the vending machine and put it in his bag. Song Boyeong, who had been watching silently, opened her mouth as if disappointed.
Do they still discriminate against parachute hires? Should I say something?
Please dont misunderstand. I just left because the public office because it was ufortable.
Ugh. I feel like I have to say something.
Song Boyeong walked towards the public office.
Its okay, really!
Jeong-woo put his bag on his shoulder and quickly followed. After all, the problem of being left behind had to be solved by oneself for a neat solution.
Senior
Juniors!
Before he could stop her, Song Boyeong shouted inside towards the corridor.
Im being sent to a seminar event at the City Hall and Im looking for someone to go with me. Does anyone want toe?
What?
Jeong-woo realized he had been fooled and stood still.
Dont interfere. This seniors pace is not in the realm of normal.
Even with Song Boyeongs call, the public office was quiet. Everyone seemed to be watching out of the corner of their eyes, as no one had been specifically called.
It seems like everyone is busy.
Those who were busy with their nning and evaluation preparations were in front of them. It was understandable that they didnt want to do any assistant work until next week.
Sensing the mood, Song Boyeong spoke up loudly as she passed by.
I was going to share the know-how ofst years top nning evaluation on the way, but I guess its not needed.
The new hires all nodded their heads at her words.
But you still dont know. Alright, firste, first serve! One, two.
Song Boyeong counted with intensity and the six new hires jumped up and rushed forward. After a physical struggle, Bae Ki-tae emerged victorious and raised his hand.
Im first ce!
Okay, the rest are eliminated.
Bae Ki-tae let out a cry of triumph and danced for his fellow colleagues.
Senior, cant we have one more person?
Only up to third ce!
Watching the chaotic scene in the new hires office, Jeong-woos face turned pale.
Song Boyeong, who caught his eye, smiled and said, Lucky parachute, huh? Not just anyone can attend this seminar.
Can I give this opportunity to the new hires seniors?
He threw out the offer, but Song Boyeong firmly shook her head.
Its toote. I already reported that were going together.
Jeong-woo felt like he was drowning in his decision to not interfere. He stood next to her, determined to just go with the flow.
Bae Ki-tae, who was excitedly leaving, came to a stop when he met Jeong-woos eyes.
Are you going too, Jeong-woo?
Thats right.
Song Boyeong shouted Lets go! and led the way out. Bae Ki-tae followed without saying a word, and Jeong-woo followed with a passive attitude.
Am I so tired because I didnt get enough sleep? Please dont let this day feel too long.
Jeong-woo lowered his head and silently hoped for the day to go smoothly.
Three people walked out onto the road in front of the twin buildings with the KG Chemical logo on the exterior wall.
Song Boyeong looked at her phone and said, I called a taxi. Itll be here in three minutes.
While waiting for the call taxi, Bae Ki-tae cautiously approached Jeong-woo with a curious look on his face.
Mr. Jeong, I didnt see you this morning
I was near the break room.
I thought you were with Team Leader Jeongs project.
Team 4 Leader? I didnt even see his face after the weekly meeting.
Jeong-woo shook his head as he recalled the face of Jeong Sang-sik, who had seemed irritated.
Its strange. Seong-hwan said your name was on the list for Team 4.
Really?
The sample of the seasoning we changed that day was adopted. Didnt you hear the news?
Jeong-woo made a nk expression, as he heard about it for the first time. Song Boyeong, on the other hand, became surprised and interjected.
KG Food approved it? Really?
She looked at Jeong-woo. Howe?
I dont really know well, somehow it got approved. We changed it properly, so
Jeong-woo showed an indifferent attitude, and Song Boyeong scolded him with a frustrated face.
Wow, look at your overflowing confidence.
Its not confidence
You dont know how strict the Food Department is, do you? To fix a team project that was rejected by the client with the effort of just one person, thats really impressive
Song Boyeong unintentionallyplimented Jeong-woo, and then looked embarrassed for a moment.
She spoke to Jeong-woo with a look that said, This isnt right.
It was the decisiveness of Team 4s leader. The bold passion that tackled a failed research project again with the Food and Drug Administration. That was truly remarkable.
Whether it was praise or ttery was unclear.
Thats right. This isnt how it should be. Bae Ki-tae,e here.
Song Boyeong, feeling stung by her forcedpliments, hurriedly changed the subject.
Ill tell you the tips for nning evaluation as promised. Mr. Overconfident Parachute, you probably wont need it.
Song Boyeong, whose eyes were filled withpetitive ambition, moved away with Bae Ki-tae.
Come to think of it, they were ranked firstst year and were this years top.
It felt like being challenged by the next generation of the researchbs aces, unintentionally causing a sense of pressure. But Jeong-woo had no desire topete.
A bad feeling crept over him.
No, were going to City Hall. What could possibly go wrong?
A yellow taxi stopped on a one-way street and parked on one side.
Air purification task, is it?
From the beginning, our goal was to set public interest above profitability, and thats what made us different. Seoul has an incredibly dense poption. Yellow dust, fine dust, aerosol particles Thank you, driver.
Even after getting out of the car, Song Boyeong and Bae Gitae continued to talk aboutst years nning evaluation. Jeong-woo quietly followed behind them, listening to their conversation.
Dr. Cheon, who saw the dust collector filter I proposed, eximed, Good posture. Its the size of the particles that makes the difference. It was truly moving that he recognized the essence of my research at once.
Excuse me for asking, but if youre talking about Dr. Cheon
Oh, the new employee wont know him well since he joined through a public recruitment in the fall. Dr. Shin Yoon-seok is also a legendary figure who has gone into retirement.
As Song Boyeong was talking like this, she nced at Jeong-woo. Jeong-woo smiled and gestured for them to continue their conversation.
Turning her head with a hum, Song Boyeong continued to tell Bae Gitae about the story from a year ago.
Jeong-woo thought it would be more positive to just let them chat instead of struggling, so he looked for the city hall and turned his gaze to it.
The 15-story building near Deoksu Pce.
This ce, where the ancient stone walls and the modern elegance of the tall building were well harmonized, was the annex of the city hall called Seoul Metropolitan Government Seosomun Building.
As he entered the city hall, he immediately saw seminar information.
[Facility nning and Public Structure Improvement and Repair Seminar / 2nd Floor Conference Room]
It was a seminar on an unfamiliar topic hosted by an unfamiliar department.
Making it to a regr position within a year of being a senior and through open recruitment isnt really that impressive, is it?
Anyway, Jeong-woo became curious about what a deep discussion about public facility management could be.
Were here. Lets go up.
After boasting about their connection with Dr. Cheon Seung-guk, which they called transferring knowledge, the conversation ended, and Song Boyeong stepped forward.
On the second floor, there were civil servants receiving visitors.
Were from KG Chemical.
Song Boyeong approached and revealed her affiliation. When the civil servant at the city hall saw her face, he looked puzzled and asked, Are you the person in charge?
Yes, thats me.
Perhaps because she looked too young, the civil servant seemed unimpressed.
You look like a student
Whether it was due to age or seniority, the civil servants gaze fell on Bae Ki-tae, who was standing behind them.
Bae Ki-tae cleared his throat, and Jeong-wooughed at how amusing it was.
Song Boyeong pulled out her ID card and handed it to the civil servant. Team leader Park Gil-soo couldnt make it. Im the second-ranked researcher for the preliminary coating project with the railwaypany.
I see
I dont wear much makeup, so I often get misunderstood. Thank you for understanding that Im young.
She bowed her head slightly. The civil servant seemed a little taken aback by her blunt tone, which was the opposite of the delicate atmosphere emanating from her slender figure.
KG Chemical is in twelfth ce.
The civil servant handed her a temporary name tag and couldnt take his eyes off her.
Song Boyeong took a seat at therge square table in the conference room. She looked back at Jeong-woo and Bae Ki-tae after receiving her name tag from the civil servant.
You can sitfortably at the back.
Jeong-woo sat on a folding chair and asked Song Boyeong, What is the railway construction project about?
We conducted researchst summer. We were looking for a coating that could withstand extreme corrosion environments. We applied it over paint.
An anti-corrosion agent?
Yes. Its a coating that can be used on railway tracks and bridge structures. Of course, the railwaypany was very satisfied with the results.
Song Boyeong drew a V with her finger and turned her head.
As Song Boyeong searched for materials and prepared for the seminar, she didnt look as young as she did before. Jeong-woo had to doubt her once before he could feel the aura of a brilliant researcher.
Shes serious when she needs to be.
As Jeong-woo watched Song Boyeong quietly, she turned around to put her bag down and their eyes met.
What?
He couldnt answer that she suddenly seemed intellectual, so Jeong-woo coughed. Song Boyeong understood and smiled.
Unfortunately, Dr. Cheon was not there at the time, so I didnt receive any otherpliments. But dont ignore it. The center director was satisfied, and it was a project that I contributed enough to make it sessful.
This woman is always linked to Dr. Cheon. Jeong-woo had to swallow a bitter smile because he was admiring her to some extent instead of ignoring her.
Chapter 13
Chapter 13- Old steel(3)
After a while, the number of people taking their seats in the conference room started to increase. Jeong-woo looked around and took note of the positions of some of the people sitting nearby, feeling nervous.
There were experts with high positions in various fields, such as a professor of architecture from a famous university, the head of the technical department at a railway constructionpany, mid-level executives fromrge construction and shipbuildingpanies, and logistics warehousepanies.
The atmosphere was academic and serious, and Jeong-woo felt overwhelmed just by being present in this room.
Chan must have seen this scene. He was surprised that his little brother was doing so well in his social life.
What does it matter to be fifth in the ss?
Jeong-woo felt a bit jealous of the rankings he had never experienced before.
A government official approached the center of the conference room. He was wearing sses and appeared to be in his forties. After checking the microphone, he spoke immediately.
We will now begin the seminar. For those who are still outside, please enter quickly.
About ten experts with speaking rights sat around the central table. With the exception of Song Boyeong, who appeared to be the youngest, most of them were in their fifties and had experienced appearances.
I am Yang Gi-cheol, in charge of social facilities nning. On behalf of the mayor, I would like to thank all of you who havee from various fields.
Starting with Yang Gi-cheols greeting, Professor Hwang Soo-gon, a permanent consultant at the City nning Department, continued with his keynote speech.
They are like cancer cells in nature, melting bridges, making it impossible to use the materials stored in warehouses, and making homes, cars, fuel tanks old
Jeong-woo scanned the seminar materials that had been distributed to everyone while listening to the speech.
Its a staggering fact that the amount of loss caused by maintenance work rted to greenery in Seoul for a year is enormous. To prevent this, reinforcement work is being done, numerous anti-corrosion agents are being used, and paint is being repeatedly applied.
This could be a business model that could generate tremendous profits for constructionpanies or chemicalpanies like KG Chemicals, if looked at from the opposite perspective.
Next, we will hear a presentation on the results of aprehensive survey of Han River bridges management.
As Yang Ki-cheol finished speaking, Lee Sang-seok, the head of bridge safety, stood up.
As you can see, 22 of the bridges on the Han River are managed by Seoul, and 8 are managed by other agencies. Lets look at the bridges with maintenance priority first.
Jeong-woo paid attention to the part about the Han River Iron Bridge that he passed by this morning on the screen shot by the BIM project.
That yellow paint was from Yujin Chemicals.
It was apany name as familiar as KG Chemicals. He couldnt help but pay attention to the cost and effect of thepetitors chemical products.
There will be a question and answer session. Please speak freely.
First to speak was Kang Young-tae, who identified himself as a professor of architecture and structural engineering.
Excuse me, Manager. Will you only paint a few priority bridges next year?
We n to supplement at a simr level since we do not n to increase the budget next year.
Its frustrating. The lifespan of the corrosion inhibitor coated in a humid ce is at most one year. Even if we have long rainy seasons in the summer, will Jamsu Bridge get rusted right away? They dont even have the budget to repair all the bridges with problems, so what kind of management are they doing?
Jeong-woo was slightly surprised to see Professor Kang, who expressed hostile opinions towards the city from the start. He thought that Professor Kang was too critical, as if he would make the city employees sweat.
This is the time for long-term structural improvements. If we use high-performance steel to improve the bridges at once, they willst for at least 30 years. The budget needed for the next 30 years will still leave us with plenty of money. We can also reduce wasteful spending of taxpayers money.
The city is considering all opinions.
Especially that Han River Iron Bridge. It worries me every time I see it. Do you really need to paint the bridge that was opened in 1994 repeatedly? Its not that, they said something fell off today, didnt they?
Peoples attention turned to the railwaypany representative sitting on the opposite side as Professor Kang asked the question.
Im Kim Dae-cheol, the head of KORAIL technology. We dealt with the ident this morning, and there were no major damages.
What was the cause of the problem?
We believe it was due to a deterioration in durability caused by an increase in railway traffic, rather than a structural defect. Also, we have adopted a new coating system using the coating material that was researched in coboration with KG Chemicals to prevent corrosion on the Han River Bridge
When they talked about the coating material, Song Boyeongs eyes sparkled.
Mr. Kim, thats not the point Im trying to make. Just because something can be painted doesnt mean it bes sturdy when its at risk of corrosion.
Well
Im Song Boyeong, a researcher at KG Chemicals. Let me exin that part.
As the young-looking woman spoke into the microphone, the people outside the table felt a murmur.
Go ahead and speak.
Professor Kang looked at Song Boyeong with a confident face, ready to refute any logic.
Wow, this pressure is no joke.
Jeong-woo felt tension just from watching. Witnessing the spectacle of Professor Kang shutting down the city officials and even the railroad construction personnel made him worried about Song Boyeong.
Song Boyeong opened the materials she had prepared and said, The result of this study is a quasi-crystalline coating material that is smoother than Teflon and harder than stainless steel. The minimum expected lifespan is not one year, but three years. The production cost is half. Contrary to Professor Kangs concerns, it is expected to bring a significant cost reduction.
Quasi-crystalline? Its the first time Ive heard that. I dont even know if its true
Yes, it is true. Experts from the KG Chemical Research Center participated in the project to verify the results. Thepound, made with thetest chemical processes, is a reliable basic material just like steel.
As she spoke, government officials, construction and shipbuildingpany representatives, and officials from other agencies showed interest and started to examine the materials.
I see, said Professor Kang, momentarily speechless, effectively putting a halt to his argument.
The head of the railwaypany nodded appreciatively towards Song Boyeong. She shrugged nonchntly and nced briefly at Jeong-woo with a quizzical look.
He apuded softly. Not bad, you know. You held your own among the experts.
Song Boyeong was in Research Room 1, which was known for its aces. Unlike herself, she had studied hard and umted a level of chemical knowledge that was above average.
Bae Ki-tae, who was sitting next to him, was watching her with a look of admiration on his face as she spoke.
Moderator Yang Gi-cheol said, If theres nothing else to discuss, lets move on to the next Q&A
Just a moment.
Just when it seemed like the argument over the Han River Bridge had been settled in Song Boyeongs favor, someone raised their hand to speak into the microphone.
I have something to say about the bridge.
A man in his mid-forties, wearing a sophisticated suit, turned to look at the audience. Jeong-woo looked at his name tag and was taken aback.
Director of the Yujin Chemical Research Center.
Compared to the general researchers sent by KG Chemicals, thepetitors on the other side had significant personnel attending the seminar.
Hello, Professor Kang. Its Yoon Jaegil. You fought with mest year, but this year youre fighting with a prettydy. Youre still a fighter, as expected.
Professor Kang turned away from Yoon Jaegils gaze with an annoyed expression.
The concentration of the people in the conference room turned to Yoon Jaegilsment, which was filled withughter.
Yoon Jaegil pointed at the beam projector with momentum and said, Lets start by looking at the prepared photos. Please, this section chief.
A slideshow of rusty iron, columns, and corroded steel beams under the elevated highway followed in session.
This is from a few years ago. This is the current appearance after cleaning with ourpanys rust remover and painting, one yearter.
A partial photo of the Han River iron bridge appeared on the screen. The appearance of clean legs with green paint was visible. Yoon Jaegil lightly joked as he watched it.
As you can see, it perfectly prevents corrosion from the outside. What about the inside? ording to the precise investigation carried out by Yujin Chemical, only 0.1% of the thousands of rivets became loose, and there was no corrosion at all.
Yoon Jaegil turned his gaze to the head of the railway construction department.
Numerous traffic on subway and railways in the metropolitan area. This is also while experiencing tremendous vibrations and impacts every day. I want to ask the head. Adding a new coating to a perfect iron bridge like this, isnt it a waste of budget?
Its for safety, so I dont think excessive investment is a waste.
Even if it receives a higher safety score than other bridges?
Kim Dae-cheol, the head of the department, could not continue his speech as controversy intensified in this regard.
And that prettydy over there.
As Yoon Jaegil kept calling her prettydy, Song Boyeongs eyebrows twitched.
You mentioned the Department of Corrosion Management earlier. Do you know the story behind how it was created?
I dont know.
Song Boyeong could only shake her head.
The steel structure in New York, which can be said to be a symbol. Do you know the story of how the Statue of Liberty was almost copsed due to corrosion?
Yoon Jaegils tone was so skilled that he was digging into the parts that Song Boyeong didnt know, and he had the power to lead the discussion.
The method that corrosion experts around the world used to remove and restore the rust on the Statue of Liberty. We followed that method and carried out a major construction project on the Han River Bridgest year, and the subway has been operating without any problems to this day.
Yoon Jaegil began to tell his story, unfolding a logical argument that Song Boyeong could not refute.
Yujin Chemicals zinc paint is remarkable. They borrowed a patent developed by NASA. It has been recognized for its performance even in Hawaii, which is very humid and has a lot of salt. Because of its cost-effectiveness, we now have many more buyers cing orders with us.
The conference officials began to thoroughly examine Yujin Chemicals data.
However
Song Boyeong could not provide a proper opinion. They had only conducted research on their own coating products and had not prepared to identify the pros and cons of thepetitors products.
The quasi-crystalline coating material. Its good, and cheap. But its not suitable for the Han River Iron Bridge. This is a ce where corrosion is already rampant and requires total management by specializedpanies like ourpany, Yujin Chemical.
As the discussion, which began with Professor Kang Young-tae, seemed to turn into a battle of pride between the twopanies, both Yang and Ju, who were in charge of the meeting, grabbed the microphone.
Please calm down and provide constructive opinions.
When you say constructive, it makes me more curious. Why did KG Chemical send such an inexperienced researcher to this important meeting? At least, shouldnt there be a senior researcher attending?
You are being too harsh.
If youre going to me me for telling the truth, then I have nothing to say.
Yoon Jaegil raised both hands and made a gesture, indicating that he was calm. Song Boyeongs eyes widened as she looked at him. Yoon Jaegil had been consistentlyposed throughout the meeting, and his ss in debating was evident.
Because our understanding of our products is intertwined, there is no room forpromise.
Thanks to Yoon Jaegil, Song Boyeongs angry eyes had turned into eyes full of frustration and helplessness.
What can I do? They are not even saying anything wrong Huh?
Jeong-woo had to swallow a groan as he looked at the image of the Han River Bridge on the projector screen.
The reason was that with the unfamiliar chemical forms, constetions of elements suddenly came to mind like a 3D image.
The sight of the entire conference room floating in space was strikingly simr to that of the weekly meetings. In addition, interesting molecrpounds caught his eye.
What should I do?
Jeong-woo scratched his chin as he saw Song Boyeong trembling under the table with her fists clenched.
This seminar is not about winning or losing, but Song Boyeongs defeat would also mean KG Chemicals defeat.
I have a question, sir. Jeong-woo raised his hand.
Chapter 14
Chapter 14- Old steel(4)
Yoon Jaegil turned his gaze to Jeong-woo and gestured for him to speak.
Is the responsibility for managing the Han River Railroad Bridge with the city or with the railway constructionpany?
Why do you ask?
That picture over there.
Jeong-woo pointed to a slide where a close-up image of a section of the Han River Bridge was shown.
Im curious about who would clean up if there was pigeon droppings. Is it the responsibility of the city or the railwaypany?
Perhaps because the conversation was too non-technical, people in the conference room began to snicker.
Song Boyeong was startled and turned her head towards Jeong-woo. Jeong-woo raised his hand to signal for her to calm down.
Yoon Jaegil stared at the picture for a long time before lowering his head.
Well I dont see any pigeon droppings.
Theyre there.
Where?
Jeong-woo watched as the imaginary orbits of various elements floating in the air converged to form a constetion that looked like a pigeon, and spoke.
The molecules fluttering around Ah, if you look at the part that has been scratched by a strong acidic substance, you can easily infer it. Its pigeon droppings that have even prated the paint of Yujin Chemicals.
Jeong-woo walked towards the screen and pointed to a specific spot. Finally, Yoon Jaegil, who had found a tiny trace the size of a fingernail in the corner of the screen, looked at Jeong-woo with a puzzled expression.
How did you find that?
Its chemical reasoning. Im a chemist.
In any case, Yang Jumugwan, who judged that Jeongwoos words were true, answered the initial question.
Its a part where the railroad passes through, so its managed by the railroad constructionpany. There are also many wires above that the general public cannot touch. The Seoul city only provides budget assistance. But why are you asking about this?
Well, unless it rains, the pigeon droppings over there cannot be cleaned up. Even if a strong protective coating is applied with paint, it cannot suppress the inherent nature of iron.
Inherent nature?
It has a passionate desire tobine with oxygen. Even zinc paint cant separate it.
Some peopleughed at the fairy tale-like logic that spoke of elements as if they were living beings. Yoon Jaegil was among them.
This young man has a good sense of humor.
When Jeong-woo made a remark, subtly ncing at the Yujin Chemical paint, Yoon Jaegil couldnt resist and took the microphone right away.
Pigeon droppings? Cant they just cover it up? And we paint threeyers even anticipating the scratches that appear on the screen.
There are ces where even threeyers of paint are missing.
How can you be so sure?
Because I saw it.
Recalling the yellow-green ground he had seen on his way to work on the subway, Jeong-woo continued his statement.
The part where the bolt is tightened. The ce where the screw and the iron frame are joined. There is no paint at all.
Isnt that a part that cannot be painted?
Thats right. Thats why there must be a hole in Yujin Chemicals total management. Arent bolts part of the bridge structure?
Yoon Jaegil snickered.
We only investigated the rivets and bolts for two weeks. How can you know that when you havent even looked closely at the connection points?
I saw it passing by.
Liar.
Jeong-woo felt frustrated looking at the opponent he couldnt convince.
How can I exin this?
Lost in thought, Jeong-woos gaze fell on Yoon Jaegils chin.
Is it becausepounds that look like reality and constetions are mixed together that Jeong-woo was able to read what was written on Yoon Jaegils chin intuitively.
You must have had a hangover yesterday.
What?
Jeong-woo immediately responded to Yoon Jaegils gaze, which asked how he knew he had been drinking.
Theres a little vomit on your chin.
Yoon Jaegil, who was reflexively wiping his chin at the mention of being vomited on, looked incredulous.
What are you talking about?
There are ethyl alcohol and non-sabinenepounds, so I figured it out. The scent feels quite luxurious. Did you drink expensive liquor?
Yoon Jaegil red at Jeong-woo, as if to tell him not to joke around.
Are you kidding me?
Its not a joke. Wait theres also citric acid and ascorbic acid mixed in. Oh, its bitter. Is the appetizer oranges? Lime? Its a strong liquor with a fruit appetizer. Its upsetting, really.
Yoon Jaegil looked puzzled. Even if he had identally guessed that he had been drinking, it was impossible to urately describe the ingredients.
It was a statement that could only be made because of his confidence in his chemical knowledge, which had a nuance of looking at molecules.
Are you looking down on me?
Not at all. Im worried.
Yoon Jaegil snapped at Jeong-woo as if he was screaming, his anger rising.
How did you know that?
Well, its simr to when I witnessed the site where the rainwater receiver fell on the Han River iron bridge this morning. Do you know that if two different types of metals are in contact for a long time, corrosion urs at the contact area?
Am I supposed to not know about galvanic corrosion?
You know about it.
Isnt thatmon sense?
As the conversation continued, Yun Jae-gils logic began to subtly heat up, and he retorted slightly in response to Jeong-woos argument.
So what? What can you prove with your story that a perfectly good bolt has rust on it?
Some of the bolts seemed to have a slightly differentposition. It seemed to have a potential difference of about 0.1 volts, and it couldst for ten years if it progresses slowly. However, if its exposed to strong winds, lightning, or rain.
Thats ridiculous.
Im not really cut out for humor, but its surprising. If I make a bad joke, my mother just throws thedle shes holding at me. I have scars from when I was hit by it when I was young.
Jeong-woo lowered his head and showed the back of his head, causing Yun Jae-gil, who had been calm during the discussion, to turn red and purple.
This son of a b****.
When Yoon Jaegil, who had been rxed all along, had an expression on the verge of swearing, Professor Kang on one side covered his mouth andughed.
Is this enough?
Jeong-woo confirmed the fading of the constetion in the molecr universe that had looked like a fantasy and said, For now, thats my opinion. Director, can I leave now?
Sure.
Jeong-woo looked at Song Boyeong, who was looking at him with a worried expression, and their eyes met. She whispered, What did you do?
Dont worry. I just told the truth.
Thats not what Im asking.
As Jeong-woo left to took his seat, Song Boyeongs tense expression eased and she breathed a sigh of relief.
Stop right there!
But Yoon Jaegil, who thought they couldnt lose like this, couldnt stay still.
Youre just going to say what you want and leave?
Come on, calm down and express your opinion, the moderator said into the microphone, appealing for calm.
Jeong-woo gestured to Yoon Jaegil with his hand. You dont believe what I saw anyway, so I have nothing more to say.
Wait, do you have Mongolian eagle eyes or something? Where are you from anyway?
Im Han Jeong-woo, an intern at KG Chemical.
What, what, an intern! Yoon Jaegil eximed indignantly, feeling as though he had been made a fool of.
As Jeong-woo faced the intense reaction of the other person, he found himself unable to respond and kept his mouth shut. Even if he exined the situation urately, there was no helping it if the other person couldnt understand.
Communication is a two-way street.
Anyway, it didnt seem like the atmosphere was bing one where Song Boyeong and KG Chemical were being ignored, so Jeong-woo was somewhat satisfied.
Stop, stop!
Director Yang raised his hand.
Please refrain from speaking, Director Yoon. Would the representatives from Dongho Construction like to share their opinions?
Since there was more than one public structure that needed improvement in Seoul, the seminar moved on to discussions about other regions.
When Jeong-woo returned, Bae Ki-tae spoke to him with a slightly frozen expression.
Jeong-woo, do you know who that person is?
Hes the director of Yujin Chemical.
Hes a Ph.D. with a lot of influence in the society. Even if theyrepetitors, theres nothing good about having a bad rtionship with him.
Really?
Jeong-woo didnt think it was a big deal since he didnt have any grand goals of building up awork in the chemical industry. This made Bae Ki-tae even more incredulous as he shook his head.
Song Boyeong nced at Jeong-woo before quickly turning her gaze to the people in the midst of the discussion.
The seminar held in the City Hall Annex ended at 2 p.m. as everyone packed up and left. The talk of the town was about the discussion between Yoon Jaegil and the KG Chemical intern that ended up with Yoon losing his temper.
Mr. Parachute.
Song Boyeong, carrying her bag, approached Jeong-woo.
You followed me for this?
I didnt follow you. It was the senior who brought me here.
Ah, I see.
As Jeong-woo stood up, Song Boyeong looked up at him with a big smile.
Earlier too. How is it that you look so much like Dr. Cheon? I envy you so much.
Really? Do I look that much like him?
Yes, you do. Ive always wanted to learn that chemical talk.
Jeong-woo felt like he had be someone who knew a lot about Cheon Seung-guk after hearing so much about him.
I want to see him too.
Song Boyeong hesitated for a moment, then looked away as if she was looking at a distant mountain.
Ill take note that you helped maintain KG Chemicals status.
Jeong-woo smiled at her ambivalentpliment.
Damn it, embarrasing.
Yoon Jaegil sighed deeply as he looked at the two people across from him who wereughing and chatting away.
KG Chemicals, the top domesticpany that was like a thorn in the side of Yujin Chemicals, who was always ranked second by a very small margin. However, they were particrly unwilling to lose to any otherpany.
However, he showed a poor performance at todays seminar. Moreover, it was in the area that can be regarded as the mainstay of Yujin Chemicalspensation.
Sigh.
Yoon Jaegil, who was trying to calm his boiling insides, took out his cellphone from his pocket as it rang. It was his secretary calling.
Whats up?
-Theres been a fire, sir.
What? Where?
In response to Yoon Jaegils irritated question, the cautious voice of his secretary continued.
-Um 20 minutes ago, there was another structure copse ident at the Han River Bridge.
What did you say?
Yoon Jaegil was startled and stood up abruptly.
-There were no casualties, but two cars passing under the bridge were damaged and the drivers are injured.
Damn it. We were so prepared for this
It was an incident that marred the Total Care System, Yujin Chemicals pride and joy.
If this continues, we wont have any room to talk about railway construction. We just received notice that they will be using our newly developed coating instead of our paint next year. Gather the safety inspection team right away!
-We also received a strange message. A passenger who warned the Seoul Metro customer center about this situation this morning had the exact predicted location of the copse.
What does that mean? Predicting the location?
-We have their contact information, but
Get their number right away and have the mobile research vehicle on standby.
Yoon Jaegil immediately entered the number and pressed the call button.
The signal beeped and the other person answered the phone.
-Whos this?
Oh, excuse me. Im Yoon Jaegil, the center director of Yujin Chemical.
-What? Why?
What? What do you mean why?
Jeong-woo approached Yoon Jaegil, who was holding his cellphone.
So why did you call me?
Because you reported it this morning while crossing the Hangang Iron Bridge
Yoon Jaegil froze as he spoke into his cellphone.
You!
Your personality is quite unique, Director Yoon. Youre right in front of me, but you didnte and talk to me directly. Although we may have had an awkward rtionship at the seminar, this is a bit
At this moment, Yoon Jaegil felt like he was going crazy, thinking that everything that Jeong-woo, an intern from a rivalpany, had said at the seminar might be true.
Whats going on? Why did you call me?
With no sense of understanding, an umted resentment, and an unbelievable situation, Yoon Jaegil half-opened his mouth and looked at Jeong-woo.
By the way, how did you get my number?
Jeong-woo became puzzled by Yoon Jaegils silence.
Mr. Parachute.
Song Boyeong followed Jeong-woo.
Why are you just standing there instead of leaving?
Director Yoon called me.
Song Boyeong lowered her voice and asked.
Phone call? To fight? Shall we fight together?
Thats not it, I dont think What? Why would you hit someone?
Well, it just seems he has a bad temper.
He can hear you.
Yoon Jaegil, who had barely regained hisposure, spoke to Jeong-woo.
You said your name was Han Jeong-woo, right?
Yes.
Lets talk for a moment.
Chapter 15
Chapter 15- Old steel(5)
After walking out in front of the Seosomun Government Complex, Yun Jaegil gave a detailed ount of the ident he just heard from his secretary.
Jeong-woo was surprised to hear that the rain collector he saw in the morning had fallen down.
Can youe with me? I have something urgent to ask.
Jeong-woo looked embarrassed.
Well
Looking at Song Boyeong and Bae Ki-tae, who were curious about what they were talking about from a distance, Jeong-woo shook his head.
Its still working hours, and Im on a business trip.
If it hinders your work, wellpensate you ordingly. Our research center vehicle will arrive soon.
He couldnt help but be suspicious of those words.
Compensation?
Well pay you the equivalent of a research consulting fee. Since we have a good rtionship with the director of KG Chemical, we can get your understanding.
The fact that someone who seemed so strict suddenly changed his attitude meant that the situation of this ident was serious.
Jeong-woo didnt know exactly what research consulting meant, but he thought he could help for a while and earn some money like a part-time job.
My wallet is not exactly overflowing. But wait, how much do they pay for consulting fees?
After getting permission from Yun Jaegil, Jeong-woo walked towards Song Boyeong. With a curious expression, Song Boyeong asked him right away.
What did you talk about?
He asked me for help.
Now? What is it?
He seems to want advice from me about an ident that happened on the Han River Bridge.
Bae Ki-tae, who was listening from the side, had to doubt his ears.
You? Jeong-woo?
The fact that a key employee of Yujin Chemical was asking for advice from an intern at KG Chemical was a big deal.
Upon seeing Yoon Jaegil standing still on one side, Bae Ki-tae lost his words. But seeing how serious Jeong-woos expression was, Bae Ki-tae felt chills down his spine.
Jeong-woo asked Song Boyeong, How long do we have to stay until we can go back?
Until before the end of work.
Can we ept? I told Yoon Jaegil that we would let him know. Well have a car too.
Of course, we have to. The Han River Bridge is an important facility for KG Chemicals as well. If we want to smoothly continue with the railway construction and next years business, we should help with rted issues in good faith.
At the same time, Song Boyeong stuck close to Jeong-woo.
And I have to stay close to escort Mr. Parachute, right?
Its okay. Im not a three-year-old child.
Oh, youve only been here for five days. Seniors should take care of their interns.
Jeong-wooughed at Song Boyeongs subtle desire to follow him, pretending to be considerate.
Since when have you been taking care of me like this? Why didnt I know anything about it?
Song Boyeong poked his side and whispered, Stop talking and lets go. She seemed embarrassed.
Meanwhile, arge white bus equipped withmunication equipment arrived in front of the Seosomun Court. It looked like a special purpose vehicle even at first nce.
Bae Ki-taes eyes widened. Isnt that the Yujin Chemical Mobile Research Center? Looks like things went well.
Since it was notmon to see advanced equipment from otherpanies, Bae Ki-tae approached Jeong-woo and said, Jeong-woo, is there any space in that car by any chance?
When Yoon Jaegil shouted, Lets go! in front of the bus, Jeong-woo didnt even listen to Bae Ki-taes words and ran towards the bus.
Ah, Bae Ki-tae.
Song Boyeong called Bae Ki-tae, You go first and tell Senior Oh that the seminar went well. Ille backter and tell her the details.
Shouldnt I alsoe with you, senior?
Mr. Parachute, lets go together! She followed Jeong-woo without waiting for a response, and Bae Ki-taes shoulders slumped.
Chi-iik
The door of therge bus opened and Yoon Jaegil, who had gotten on first, beckoned Jeong-woo, and Song Boyeong.
Come in.
Jeong-woo couldnt help but admire the special equipment vehicle where even the external door was sealed off.
Wow, theres even a car like this in the world.
The inside was filled with experimental equipment and machinery, creating an atmosphere of a makeshift researchb. Jeong-woo walked inside the bus, admiring the expensive equipment tightly arranged all around. Then, his eyes met with a woman in her mid-thirties who was already standing in her ce.
Hello.
He reflexively greeted her, but her returning gaze was chilly.
Who are these outsiders, Director?
Oh, team leader. They are the people who will help us deal with this ident. Theyre from KG Chemicals.
KG Chemicals?
The woman looked surprised as she looked at Yoon Jaegil. Her gaze conveyed that she couldnt understand why rivalpany employees were here, especially when the incident was severe enough to cause serious damage to Yujin Chemicals reputation.
Mr. Han Jeong-woo. This is Joo Hana, the team leader of Yujin Chemicals Total Care.
Even Song Boyeong, who was standing behind Jeong-woo, nodded her head, but Joo Hana seemed to be listening while also turning her gaze to the monitor.
Team Leader, since youre busy, shall I pulling up the data for the Han River Bridge?
The results of the safety inspection of the Han River Bridge conducted in Octoberst year appeared on the monitor. Joo Hana raised the structure near the ident site taken with X-rays.
At around 1:40 pm this afternoon, a rainwater collector whose bolt had loosened fell toward Gangbyeon North Road. The length is about 10 meters, and it seems that the loosened bolt could not withstand the weight, causing it toe off.
Yoon Jaegil, who was examining the results of the metal fatigue and durability tests, looked at Jeong-woo.
Is this the ce you discovered this morning?
Im not sure. Are there any ordinary photos avable? Preferably ones that are clear.
Jeong-woo asked, and Joo Hana turned her head.
You can see something with the naked eye?
I think I would know if I saw it.
Joo Hana looked at Yoon Jaegil with an expression that questioned who he was.
Trust me. Hes not an ordinary guy.
Finally, a high-resolution picture appeared on the screen.
Jeong-woo watched the screen and nodded as he discovered a bolt amidst the rampant free electrons.
Right here. Im not sure when this photo was taken, but the corrosion seems to be less progressed than in the morning.
Corrosion? The rain gutter fell off because it couldnt withstand the shock apanying the increase in railroad logistics.
Is that so? It wasnt like that in this photo, but the bolt was quite damaged.
Hey, take a look at the durability test data.
Seeing Joo Hanas sharp gaze, Jeong-woo thought it was not necessary to fight and took a step back.
Are you a bridge expert?
Just as you see. And what about you?
Well, I cant really say Im an expert.
Joo Hana had an air of not believing anything he said. Yoon Jaegil, who was standing silently, seemed to be urging Joo Hana to be persuaded, but he didnt say anything.
As expected. Chemicalmunication is the biggest problem in times like this.
Jeong-woo nced briefly at Yoon Jaegil and recalled what had been effective in the seminar. He was gaining a little more confidence now.
Let me give it a try.
Thinly opening his eyes, Jeong-woo scanned the face of Joo Hana. He could see traces of typical makeup ingredients, food, bread crumbs, and coffee. And a peculiar molecr structure that she discovered, it was someones saliva.
It seems like you like kisses.
What did you say?
In Jeong-woos eyes, a cute molecule with legs and a tail like a cat appeared. Watching the creature lick its front paws, Jeong-woo spoke.
Your mouth and cheeks are covered in cat saliva.
Joo Hanasplexion changed as she covered her cheeks with her hands. But then she remembered that the man couldnt have known about her kissing Kiki, Toto, and Bubi just before leaving for work.
Dont hit other peoples affairs like that.
Joo Hanas gaze sharpened since the man who imed that there was a hole in their total care system made this guess.
It seems like there are two of them. The enzyme, lysozyme, is subtly different between the two. One of them shows more active behavior. Is their personality also like that?
Thats
Joo Hana looked at Jeong-woo with a gaze that said, How on earth?
Chemical inference. Something like that.
As Joo Hana seemed to acknowledge this endless inference, Yoon Jae-kil smirked. Suddenly, he wondered if there was any chemist who could resist Jeong-woos brilliant chemical knowledge.
Team Leader Joo, living alone, huh?
Yoon Jae-kil looked at Joo Hana as if pitying a 33-year-old spinster who kisses her cat every day.
Dont misunderstand, Center Director.
No misunderstanding. Its just unexpected that Team Leader Joo has a cat.
Joo Hana sighed. She had only been living like this because she loved her job more than meeting men, but she felt unfairly defensive and wanted to keep justifying herself.
Thats a misunderstanding.
Oh, sorry, sorry.
Joo Hanas face turned red as she felt embarrassed about her personal preference that she didnt want to reveal in front of her boss. She looked at Jeong-woo and asked, How could you tell?
I dont think theres a need to tell the rivalpanys team leader about my own chemical expertise. Lets go back to talking about that bridge
Taking advantage of Joo Hanas brief distraction, Jeong-woo quickly spoke up, Its not that the research data from Yujin Chemical is wrong. There is a usible exnation for the phenomenon that has already urred.
Jeong-woo filtered his chemical knowledge that came to mind and expressed his opinion in anguage suitable for this world rather than intuitive logic through eyes that peer into the molecr world.
Just because you use good ingredients doesnt guarantee that you will make delicious food. The timing of processing and cooking the ingredients varies from person to person, so you cant necessarily say that the data or chemical forms are a perfect structure. Wait a minute, can I have the mouse?
Jeong-woo took the mouse from Joo Hana and began to freely examine the screen.
As far as I saw this morning, there are significant differences in the metal materials of some bolts and rainwater gutters. Bolts with a high potential difference and bolts without. Of course, the side with therger bolts will corrode more.
The bolts looked the same on the surface.
There may be variations that even ordinary people can easily find
Jeong-woo scanned the picture for a while and then flicked his finger. After erging a certain part as much as possible, he pointed to it with his mouse pointer.
This is the chemical reaction I detected. Not all bolts have the same metalposition.
Two bolts with slightly different colors appeared on the screen.
See?
Chapter 16
Chapter 16- Old steel(6)
The color drained from Joo Hanas face as she looked at the screen. She turned her serious gaze towards Yoon Jaegil and asked, Could it be that the color looks different due to a simple spoofing?
Yoon Jaegil was also paying attention and immediately responded, Its impossible for bolts used for this kind of bridge to have their surfaces peeled off due to external corrosion. And we did apply coating materials during the construction this year.
Right. So that means.
Joo Hana and Yoon Jaegil spoke almost simultaneously.
There might be a problem with the bolt manufacturing process.
It was because defective bolts with different levels of iron content were mixed in from the beginning.
Joo Hana began typing on the keyboard to find thepany that supplied the bolts, while Yoon Jaegil immediately picked up his phone and called the head of the railway construction technology department.
Watching the two busy individuals, Song Boyeong tapped Jeong-woos shoulder.
Mr. Parachute.
What?
Have you found the cause?
I found it in the morning. And those two are now convinced.
Well, congrattions. Pat yourself on the back.
Jeong-woo smiled contentedly, thinking that all he had to do now was calcte the consulting fee.
Song Boyeong, who had be very quiet since getting on the bus, stood quietly next to Jeong-woo and watched Joo Hana and Yoon Jaegil work.
Has it been about five minutes?
Jeong-woo, who had been waiting patiently, asked Song Boyeong.
Senior, what do you usually do at the research institute?
Just this and that.
What do you mean by this and that?
I surprise the team leaders with innovative ideas at weekly meetings and work on various projects like a chief research scientist Oh, if youre curious, why dont you share one secret too, Mr. Parachute?
I wont ask.
But youve heard everything already!
At that moment, Yoon Jaegil, who was on the phone, suddenly raised his voice.
A press conference?
Yoon Jaegil, who had a surprised look on his face, whispered into his phone, holding it with both hands.
Im trying to find the cause and analyze it. To conduct a full inspection, we need at least a week for the results. Its impossible right now
Yoon Jaegil turned to Jeong-woo, who was standing still, and said,
Please wait. Mr. Han Jeong-woo, can you identify any problematic bolts on the site right away?
Probably.
How long will it take?
Just walking past it shouldnt take more than 30 or 40 minutes.
The movement of Joo Ha-na, who had been typing, froze. Someone was expecting a week and making hasty ns, but it was only 30 minutes. Yoon Jaegil also suppressed a groan and spoke into his phone.
Ill go there. Ill see you at the entrance, sir.
Yoon Jaegil, who ended the call, looked at Jeong-woo.
Mr. Han Jeong-woo, could you apany me to Yongsan Station?
Jeong-woo turned to Song Boyeong. Boyeong realized that the situation had be even more serious with the mention of a press conference, and swallowed hard.
Its okay. I already reported it to Jeong-yeon.
When Boyeong gave her approval, Jeong-woo asked Yoon Jaegil.
But isnt finding the problematic bolt irrelevant to the consulting work?
If the job is sessful, Ill give you 10% from the Total Care Teams operating expenses.
From consulting fees to operating expenses, negotiations are essential in any deal.
A little more than that its cold outside. We might catch a cold walking along the Han River with the cold wind blowing.
15%. This is the best we can offer for external contracts.
It was hard to tell how much it was, but it seemed reasonable. Jeong-woo nodded. Since Boyeong was present, it wouldnt be appropriate to ask Exactly how much more are you going to give me?
Lets go.
When you get to Yongsan Station, youll be guided by the KORAIL inspection team to enter the Han River Railway Bridge right away. There might be cable journalists out there, so they might ask for an interview.
An interview?
At the main entrance of Yongsan Station, several reporters were standing in front of a makeshift podium installed above the stairs. The fact that cable broadcasting vehicles were parked there suggested that the ident was significant enough to make the news, even if it wasnt breaking news.
As Jeong-woo looked out the window, he was startled by Song Boyeongs sudden exmation as she came up behind him.
Wow, this is real. Mr. Parachute will be on TV. Even the seniors from the Research Room 1 havent been on TV yet.
Jeong-woo tensed slightly as he asked Song Boyeong, who had been looking outside with him, We shouldnt do anything to harm KG Chemicals image, right?
Of course not. Dr. Cheon has been on TV several times, and he was really impressive, you know? Just be confident and talk to the reporters!
Be confident?
Here too, I ampared to Cheon Seung-guk.
Jeong-woo, lets get off.
At the sound of Yoon Jaegils voice, Jeong-woo approached the bus door.
As soon as he got off, the officials who had gathered around them approached. He recognized some of them from the seminar, such as the city hall officials and railway employees.
Yoon Jaegil looked at Yang Gi-cheol with a disappointed expression. Director Yang, were managing several bridges that are causing us losses, and now youre putting pressure on us like this?
Well, the mayor is interested, so we couldnt help it. Especially since its his first year in office, hes sensitive to every ident. And I heard from the head office that you found a solution?
Its not my doing. Here. Its thanks to this guy.
Yang Gi-cheol looked at Jeong-woo. He was surprised to realize that this was the same young man who had insulted Yoon Jaegil during the seminar.
Youre Han Jeon-gwoo, from KG Chemical?
Yes.
Please take care of this for us.
Yang Gi-cheol took Jeong-woos hand in both of his and shook it politely. Then he turned to the other officials and said, If the operation of the Hangang Iron Bridge is suspended, public transportation in Seoul will be paralyzed. Please inspect it thoroughly to prevent another ident like today.
It was a heavy burden for Yang Gi-cheol to ask this, but he had no choice.
After talking with the railwaypanys director Kim, Song Boyeong approached Jeong-woo with a sparkling, expectant expression.
Jeong-woo scratched his chin nervously, thinking, Im a little intimidated. Did I do this for no reason?
Sitting in researchb 1, Oh Seung-jus eyes widened as he listened to Gong Chae-baes story.
Han River Bridge?
Yes, I heard hes going to help with that problem.
Coincidentally, rted news was being broadcast on a t-screen TV on one side, breaking news.
Turn up the volume a bit!
News Channel JVN
Today, just before the weekend, two incidents of structure copse urred on the Han River Bridge. Although there were no casualties, there were subway dys in the morning, and in the afternoon, two cars were damaged while trying to avoid falling debris on Gangbyeonbuk-ro.
As the anchor spoke, an interview with one of the victims appeared on the screen.
-After the subway passed, something suddenly fell in front of my car. I was startled and turned the steering wheel.
Lets connect with our reporter on the scene for more details. This is Reporter Son Seung-ho.
[Yes, this is Son Seung-ho. Im here at the site where the safety management team of Eugene Chemical, which has been delegated the maintenance work on the Han River Bridge from Korail and Seoul City, is stationed. Eugene Chemical is known to be managing a total of 20 bridges nationwide, including this one]
As soon as Yu Jin Chemical was mentioned, other researchers also showed interest and gathered in front of the TV.
That bridge repair was a major project. Was it Total Care?
Yes. The team leader there is quite famous. Even though she could have gone to the Chemical Research Institute, she chose Yu Jin Chemical.
Is it your junior colleague, Joo Hana? Shes a total drama queen.
But she was popr in college because shes pretty.
Osungju turned her head towards the noisy people.
Can you guys be quiet? Our colleagues might be there.
What? Why would our colleagues be there?
At that moment, a slender woman appeared on the screen.
Its Joo Hana.
[The interview with the relevant personnel has started. Lets listen to the live broadcast.]
-First of all, we apologize to the drivers who suffered from the unfortunate ident. In addition to the efforts of the local authorities and the railwaypany, Yujin Chemical will alsopensate sincerely, and we n to start inspections quickly to prevent such idents from happening again.
[Citizens have great concerns about inadequate safety inspections. What measures do you have in ce?]
-Fortunately, we expect that swift action can be taken with the help of experts.
[Who is the expert?]
-Lets meet him in person. Mr. Han Jeong-woo.
-What? Me? Oh, okay. Can I speak into this microphone? Hello, I am Han Jeong-woo from KG Chemical.
Hey, isnt he our intern? We saw him at the weekly meeting.
Look, isnt Boyeong also there?
What are they doing there?
-The inspection process is simple. Its just corrosion that urred only in a specific rainwater collector, so you can tell right away after seeing it once.
[Is it true that Mr. Han Jeong-woo can find the ces that even Yujin Chemical couldnt find in their two-month thorough inspection?]
-Well, honestly, Im not so sure about it myself.
[Are you saying that such idents will happen again?]
-Im confident that I cant find them.
At that moment, the faces of all the researchers in Research Room 1 froze.
Chapter 17
Chapter 17- Old steel(7)
* * *
A safety inspection team wearing green helmets with the mark Safety First climbed up onto the Han River Railroad Bridge main line.
The lead member held a walkie-talkie in his hand.
Click.
Department head, we are entering the bridge.
-For Line A, adjust the train interval to 10 minutes for the next hour. Move for 7 minutes and wait for 3 minutes.
Understood.
The railway inspection team leader shouted to everyone.
Be careful until we enter Noryangjin Station! Everyone, depart ording to my signal!
Jeong-woo stepped onto the railing and climbed up to the outer part of the bridge.
The bridge stretched across the Han River along four tracks.
Does it look old? It feels like walking on an old road.
The scenery of this moment, walking in step with the rail tracks he had only ever ridden on a train before, was unfamiliar yet brought a new feeling to Jeong-woo.
In the distance, even the flowing water of the Han River appeared different than usual.
Ah-choo!
Song Boyeong sneezed loudly from behind, waking Jeong-woo from his thoughts, and he was now faced with a practical problem.
The view is nice, but its cold here.
Upon Jeong-woos words, Song Boyeong, whose nose turned red, nodded her head.
Yes, it is. It wasnt this chilly in the morning. Its getting colder as the evening approaches. Ugh.
You didnt have to follow me, though.
How could I not follow Mr. Parachute? Plus, I am a senior.
Even if you catch a cold?
Ill catch a cold.
Jeong-woo shrugged and noticed Team Leader Joo Hana climbing up behind him, fully equipped with a thick padded jacket.
She was prepared.
It was apletely different outfitpared to Song Boyeong, who wore a thin suit.
Senior.
Song Boyeong, who had just climbed up the railing, looked up at Jeong-woo when he called her.
Take this, at least.
Jeong-woo handed over the scarf around his neck to Song Boyeong.
How about Mr. Parachute?
Its cold for me too. But, Senior, you seem like youll lose your nose right now.
Taking the scarf that still had some warmth, Song Boyeong looked at Jeong-woos back, who was staring at the Han River, and smiled.
Now that I think about it, Mr. Parachute and Dr. Cheon have one big difference.
What difference?
I guess youre a bit more kind?
Jeong-woo looked at Song Boyeong, who was putting on the scarf with a bright smile.
Dont get snot on it. Its a new one.
Ha, thats funny! I wont!
Following the inspection team leader, everyone started moving.
About 7 minutester, a subway train passed by.
Standing in the safety zone under the bridge and on the metaldder, Jeong-woo nced briefly at the upper structure and focused on the bolts that were being magnified.
Ah, they look good.
Feeling relieved that he didnt have to worry about the mayor inspector noticing him, Jeong-woo breathed a sigh of relief.
Team leader.
Jeong-woo spoke to Joo Hana, who was holding a high-performance camera.
Please take a picture of over there.
Where?
Over there Oh, Ill take it. Just press the shutter button, right?
Holding a DSLR camera with a telephoto lens, Jeong-woo began to search for areas where corrosion of the bolts might be suspected.
5 PM. Noryangjin Station staff waiting room.
The door opened with a creak, and a woman with a Rudolph-red nose entered.
As soon as she saw the warm electric heater, she rushed over and put her face close to it, shivering with delight.
Ah, warmth. Feels like Im alive again.
Did you just return?
Yoon Jaegil, who was waiting with her, asked Song Boyeong, who nodded in response.
What about the others?
Theyre talking to the reporters in the hallway.
Yoon Jaegil, who had been looking out at the noisy outside, asked Song Boyeong,
What were the inspection results?
There seem to be about three areas of danger. Theres a possibility of copse within 10 days. Oh, my ears almost fell off.
Were there a total of five defective bolts? If thats true, the recovery process will be simple.
Yoon Jaegil muttered with relief.
Song Boyeong rubbed her flushed cheeks and ears before turning her head to speak.
When we start using our semi-crystalline coating material next year, we wont have to worry for the next three years. Weve adjusted the particle size to be able to seep into the gaps between the bolts.
You sound very confident.
I didnt exactly develop it but I contributed a lot.
Showing two fingers, Song Boyeong grinned, finally finishing the bragging she didnt get to do during the seminar.
Im looking forward to KG Chemicals new product. Even so, Yujin Chemicals ranking in the paint industry wont be shaken.
Just wait and see!
Having finished his work well and thinking about the awkward sh during the morning seminar, Yoon Jaegil opened his mouth.
I was a bit harsh in the meeting room, Boyeong.
Dont you call me a pretty youngdy anymore?
Seeing Boyeongs disappointed expression, Yoon Jaegil asked.
You didnt like that title back then, did you?
I was upset because I got scolded by the center director. But pretty is pretty. You should eptpliments humbly.
Boyeongs lively tone and temperature were out of the ordinary, and Yoon Jaegil chuckled at her words.
The passion for chemistry that the young researcher had was overwhelming, almost overflowing just by watching her.
Yoon Jaegil even envied her a little, as he had mainly worked with a team leader who was sharp and extremely realistic.
I wont lose in the next discussion.
As much as you want. But does that next include Han Jeong-woo?
Thats well
In that case, Im a bit worried. Ive never seen someone with such excellent chemical intuition as that young man.
Ahem, I have.
With Yoon Jaegils curious gaze, Song Boyeong only gave a meaningful smile.
Tiririk.
Upon her phone ringing, Song Boyeong apologized to Yoon Jaegil and moved towards the window.
Hello?
-Song. Where are you?
It was the voice of Lee Dong-gil, a senior of Jeong-yeon.
Im at the office at the station.
-Were having a party with our team in the research room 1, and we want you toe back here. Senior Seung-ju is also here.
Right now?
-Bring Han Jeong-woo with you. We have something to ask him.
In front of the station office.
Five journalists surrounded Jeong-woo with a recorder.
Except for those three ces, there is no immediate danger, right?
Yes.
Are you sure?
Im sure.
In response to the journalists skeptical eyes, Joo Hana, who stood next to Jeong-woo, spoke up.
Based on the discovered risk factors, a second precise inspection is scheduled for the night. We have prepared to be able to conduct the construction during the time when there is no traffic. We believe that we can prepare for urgent risks by utilizing ourpanys total care system and through continuous safety checks in the future
Joo Hana skillfully appealed to the advantages of Total Care and even indirectly advertised.
Is crisis an opportunity? Wow, this woman is scary.
The interview continued for a while. Unlike at Yongsan Station, there were no broadcast cameras, so Jeong-woo felt morefortable with the journalists.
Mr. Han Jeong-woo. As an expert on corrosion, can you tell us a story that will raise citizens awareness of this situation?
Oh, Im not that kind of expert.
Journalists holding notepads and eagerly jotting down anything. They looked like hyenas wandering around looking for something that could be an article.
People were disappointed because they thought there wouldnt be any idents.
In terms of disappointment, Jeong-woo felt the same. He didnt notice it because he was in a hurry at Yongsan Station, but he didnt see any famous newspapers around.
Later, even if his friends or Chan wanted to brag to him, saying I was featured on the inte news on page 13, it was a bit funny. He had even done an interview, but that was all he could say.
Jeong-woo saw Song Boyeong, who had entered the office, raise her head in a gesture that indicated there was no more time.
Journalists, I think I have to go.
Mr. Han Jeong-woo! Just one more thing to say before you go!
Since he didnt have much to say, Jeong-woo was about to decline, but then he saw Joo Hana boasting about theirpanys products and raising their stock price.
Well, they paid me to help, so why not pretend to be a real expert?
Jeong-woo thought of some chemical information rted to this ident. He could quickly recall several analogies.
Um Old iron is like that. Most of them have a weakness of corrosion. The metal that makes up the Han River Bridge is strong, but in fact, it is living a life that is destined to die someday. It quickly ages, weakens, and bes an unreliable existence. Painting it wont cover up its wrinkles either.
As Jeong-woo spoke about the bridge as if it were alive, Joo Hana and the journalists who were interviewing him turned their heads in interest.
The bolt that fell off at noon today was weakened to the point where it couldnt withstand the active movement of free electrons. Storms, cold, heat. Its hard to endure the storms of the world with just our naked bodies.
Joo Hana, who was in the middle of an interview with the journalists, looked bewildered when she saw them all writing down or recording Jeong-woos words.
Song Boyeong held up her watch as she approached Jeong-woo. After looking up at her, Jeong-woo spoke.
When ites to corrosion, we cant turn back time, but there are ways to stop the clock. Like the quasi-crystalline coating developed by KG Chemical. Now, Im really leaving. Thank you for your hard work, Team Leader.
Jeong-woo said goodbye to everyone and followed Song Boyeong, disappearing down the corridor.
The reporters whispered among themselves.
Wont what Han Jeong-woo said just now be enough to earn him a headline?
Being a chemist feels different from being a doctor orwyer, but he sounds strangely professional.
He said hes from KG Chemical, right? He looks young, but he speaks well.
As Song Boyeong walked away, she covered her mouth with her hand and quietly asked Jeong-woo.
You even advertised the quasi-crystalline project?
The team leader suggested it too. Did I do well?
Very well.
For once, youreplimenting me a lot. Huh? Wait a minute.
Jeong-woo pointed to the scarf Song Boyeong was wearing.
Is it dirty? Youd better wash it tsk tsk. But you cant doundry.
Oh, no!
As they were about to walk down the stairs in the station, a man approached Jeong-woo and Song Boyeong.
Are you leaving?
It was Yoon Jaegil. Jeong-woo bowed his head and pointed to Joo Hana.
Weve talked about what we found. Oh, how about the operating costs
Well process it properly after the detailed inspection is over.
There was no need to confirm it again, but Jeong-woo nodded his head. Then, he was about to say something like Do you want my bank ount number? but he had to swallow his groan at Yoon Jaegils next words.
Our management support team and KG Chemicals finance team should have left for the day, and its the weekend tomorrow, so well pay you on Monday. Is that okay?
Ahthats fine.
To thepany? That 15% is not my money.
Some of the consulting and operating expenses that Yoon Jaegil promised to provide was money that couldnt be received in the name of Han Jeong-woo. Looking at it, pursuing personal ie during work hours is not tolerated in apany, so it is impossible to receive such money under his name.
I hit the jackpot, no, thepany did.
Jeong-woo said bitterly to Yoon Jaegil.
Ill go, Director.
Mr. Han Jeong-woo.
Yes?
When your internship at KG Chemical is over, consider Yujin Chemical as well. I will strongly rmend it.
Thats
Song Boyeong, who was next to him, widened her eyes at the sudden scouting proposal.
As he said goodbye to Yoon Jaegil and walked out of the station, Song Boyeong asked Jeong-woo urgently.
Are you really going after your internship?
He might not be able to go, and he didnt want to go right away. Jeong-woo was about to answer no, but his mischievous side was activated.
A rival disappearing is something you should like, isnt it?
Wellthats true, but
Song Boyeong hesitated, touching the scarf still hanging around her neck, then decided.
I have to admit it. Right now, Mr. Parachute is a little bit ahead of me. Its frustrating, but I have to learn what I need to.
Teach you what?
Ha ha.
Song Boyeong walked away with her cheeks puffed out.
This senior is cute when shes sulking.
Song Boyeong, who was standing on the street calling a taxi, turned to Jeong-woo.
Oh, theres apany dinner, soe along.
Apany dinner?
Chapter 18
Chapter 18- Old steel(8)
* * *
A taxi stopped in a shopping area near Yeouido.
After paying and getting off, Song Boyeong looked around and pointed to a chicken and beer ce with a sign that read The End of the Pig.
There, thats where the team dinner is.
Jeong-woo, who followed behind her, asked, Can I join in?
Of course. Dong-gil Senior said to bring Parachute.
I see, if the team leader called you, it means he trusts you.
Song Boyeong hesitated, What trust?
There is a senior colleague at the research institute who, whenever they ask to follow them, strange problems arise that I havent thought of.
Oh?
Uh, is that senior you?
Feeling Jeong-woos sharp gaze, Song Boyeong avoided his eyes and opened the door to the chicken and beer ce.
Jeong-woo followed in, smelling the savory fried batter and feeling his appetite stir.
Theyre in there.
Inside, about twenty people were sitting around arge table.
They all seem to have high seniority.
It was understandable since this gathering was a meeting of the gship project team and the top researchers from Research Room 1 of the central research institute. Jeong-woo greeted them with a straightened waist since he had not had the opportunity to have a proper conversation with any of his senior colleagues.
Hello, Im intern Han Jeong-woo!
Everyone who had been chattering away with full force turned their heads to him.
Isnt that the intern from the news earlier?
Thats right, that intern.
Amidst the murmurs, Team 1 leader Lee Dong-gil raised his hand.
Song Boyeong! Come quickly with Han Jeong-woo!
Sure thing, Mr. Parachute.
Jeong-woo, who had ended up sitting next to Dong-gil, cautiously looked around wondering what was going on. Research Room 1 director Oh Seung-ju was also sitting next to him.
Why did they call me? There arent even any public recruits.
Dong-gil, who was smiling slyly, gave off the feeling of looking at someone who had followed an elite course and had steadily risen to sess within the upper ss.
Jeong-woo had heard rumors that he had even earned a PhD from a famous American university.
Dong-gil asked Jeong-woo, who had taken a seat, Soju? Beer?
Oh, I havent eaten yet, so
Then just get beer. We dont force anyone to drink at our gatherings, so drink within your limit. What about Boyeong? A bomb?
I need to fill my stomach first. Ill just have beer too.
Jeong-woo was taken aback by Boyeongs appearance, which made it seem like she should be drinking carbonated juice instead.
While staring nkly at the beer being filled in his ss, Dong-gil asked, Did you work well with Yujin Chemical?
Yes.
I know Director Yoon Jae-gil a little bit. It couldnt have been that easy, could it?
Since Dong-gils question was directed at Jeong-woo, he answered without much thought, It wasnt that difficult.
Dong-gil chuckled and took a sip of soju before turning to Oh Seung-joo sitting next to him. What do you think about Seung-joo senior? You were really surprised earlier.
A man in histe thirties with shaky eyes looked at Jeong-woo once and casually replied, He did well.
Wow, youre cool. If this intern had made a big mistake, wouldnt Seung-joo senior have been in trouble too?
Jeong-woo was taken aback by the mention of trouble. Oh Seung-joo put down his soju ss and turned his head to Dong-gil.
Dont scare the intern with unnecessary words. Boyeong must have taken care of it properly. She didnt do the research alone.
Song Boyeong looked out the window and took a sip of beer, pretending not to hear anything. Despite her im of being helpful, she had only followed Jeong-woo around.
Mr. Han Jeong-woo, listen without misunderstanding.
The warm smile on Dong-gils face suddenly turned cold as he spoke.
What you did today was a pretty risky thing to do. Even if we ignore the absurd assurance you made at the press conference, there must be a clear reason to put KG Chemicals name on it. But I didnt see that justification in you.
Youre saying I shouldnt do anything that I cant take responsibility for, right?
Thats right. You catch on quickly. I hope you will be more careful in the future when you do something like this.
Jeong-woo nodded his head.
Despite whatever reason there may be, he was somewhat confident that he had worked with Yoon Jae-gil today.
With the eyes that can see the microcosm, he can push forward with confidence no matter what he does.
I can see things that they cant seefortably.
This is a tremendous power for a chemist.
The atmosphere of thepany dinner became deeper as it approached 8 pm.
Senior research colleagues had also joined Jeong-woo at his side.
Jeong-woos story during the weekly meeting was really funny.
Team Leader Jungs temperament is no joke, but he bes a yes-man in front of Dr. Shin.
Jeong-wooughed along with his seniors and took a sip of beer. He had probably drunk four bottles without realizing it due to the intoxicating atmosphere.
They say thatpany connections start frompany dinners.
He now somewhat understood theints and bragging of his university ssmates who had sessfullynded a job this summer.
However, the good thing was that his senior colleagues in thepany seemed to have little prejudice, unlike the new hires who had kept an eye on him.
Perhaps the fact that they had sessfully finished their work with Yujin Chemicals today had shown that he was a reliable researcher.
Hey, Boyeong is drunk. Someone stop her. She was carried outst time.
Jeong-woos gaze turned to Song Boyeong as his senior colleague next to him mentioned her. She was chatting happily with female researchers around the table and seemed to have drunk quite a bit.
Sure, Song Boyeong here! Ill sing a song.
No one asked you to.
One, two~ please give me a beat!
Quiet down, will you! Youre being obnoxious.
Jeong-woo bit his tongue silently. Although it was usually right that the youngest member would leave first after being forced to sing a song under the influence of alcohol, the senior colleagues here were begging them to be quiet.
Jeong-woo, how is the nning evaluation going?
At the senior colleagues question next to him, Oh Seung-ju, who had been quietly tilting his soju ss on the opposite side, also looked at Jeong-woo with interest.
Im just thinking about simple items. Probably rted to synthetic resin
The list of research that he had organized on hisptop crossed Jeong-woos mind. His answer was straightforward as he had entered all the basic materials in the field, which was the main job of thepany.
There are many interesting products made of polyurethane provided by KG Chemicals. From mattresses, adhesives, bicycle saddles to ski boots and artificial heart valves.
Oh, artificial heart valves. Wasnt that the project that Senior Seung-ju did?
At the words of the senior colleague next to him, Oh Seung-ju nodded briefly.
Jeong-woo was surprised by Seungjus behavior throughout thepany dinner. Seungju usually became quiet after drinking alcohol.
When the most senior colleague at the table stepped back a bit, the atmosphere became more rxed. It was a drinking party where they didnt have to worry about their bosss judgment.
The colleague sitting next to Jeong-woo tapped him on the shoulder.
Good luck with your project. But, from my experience as a neer, just having a bright idea doesnt necessarily mean it will be developed into a project. Upper management prefers more practical ideas, so dont be too disappointed if it doesnt work out.
Isnt itmon for an idea to be adopted?
Almost never. Can you present a new research topic in front of PhDs? Oh, I heard that a researcher named Moon Chae-eun at the pharmaceutical bioscience center started her research as soon as she joined. Shes so talented that even the responsible researcher cant criticize her.
Jeong-woo chuckled and said, I know how that feels, but the colleague didnt seem to catch on.
Thinking of something, Jeong-woo sent a message to Dr. Moon, asking if he had to work tomorrow.
[ording topany regtions, working on weekends is restricted unless its for a specific research project.]
Oh!
When I asked the senior colleague next to me, I learned that it actually looks suspicious when a researcher who is not participating in the project walks around the research center on a holiday.
They say that when you work, you should work, and when you rest, you should rest, because it leads to more creative results or something like that.
Its a satisfying end to a surprisingly productive day.
Jeong-woo smiled happily and sipped his beer. Then he casually looked to his left and flinched.
Song Boyeong was staring right at him, and he didnt even notice when she came.
Oh, its a surprise. Werent you singing just now?
Senior Jeonghee said he would kill me if I continued, so I ran away.
Jeong-woo looked at the table in the middle and saw Senior Researcher Sim Jeonghee gesturing to him that Boyeong was talking too much. Jeong-woo picked up a chicken wing from the oven.
Are you hungry, senior?
Nomunch.
Boyeongs eyes widened as she ate the chicken that Jeong-woo handed her. Having sessfullypleted his mission, Jeong-woo gave a thumbs up to Sim Jeonghee.
Song Boyeong, who was gnawing on chicken wings, squeezed herself in between Jeong-woo and another senior and ced an empty beer ss on the table.
Can I have a drink?
Havent you had a lot already?
Todays drink is particrly sweet. And Im a strong one, you know?
She sent a warm smile. In the morning, he thought it was a fake smile, but now it seemed like it was just Song Boyeongs natural smile.
I always drink alcohol intensely until the end. Im afraid Ill feel down if I drink half-heartedly.
Despite having had a lot to drink, her pronunciation wasnt slurring, so Jeong-woo poured her a beer.
As he started pouring, Song Boyeong suddenly lifted her ss and eximed, Oh!
You have to leave room for soju.
Are we going to keep drinking soju? The alcohol is really strong.
Mix it in moderation.
Okay.
As Jeong-woo poured soju into the ss, he was surprised. The transparent liquid in the ss gradually expanded, revealing the innerpounds.
Theposition of soju is simple.
Mostly alcohol and water. He tried to lose interest since the molecr structure wasnt that fascinating. However, he was captivated by the movement of onepound that was connected like a chain.
Aspartame.
An artificial sweetener that produces a sweet taste.
It was floating in the soju, shaking as if it were speaking to him.
Jeong-woo guessed that the molecules of aspartame shook because of the force of pouring the soju. However, the otherpounds were still stable.
Why is it showing off like this?
Did it hear his thoughts?
All the aspartame molecules in the ss vibrated at once. It was like a temptation, saying, Have another drink.
I cant get too drunk here since there are many seniors around. If I get too drunk, I act like a dog a little bit. I take after my dad.
As he pretended to convey his intentions by tapping the ss with his fingers, something happened.
Most of the aspartame molecules vibrated in the body and transformed their structure in an opposite form, as if being reflected in a mirror.
What, what is it?
Oh my, why arent you following?
Song Boyeong poured the soju ss onto the beer ss. She stirred it and immediately raised her hand.
Cheers!
Song Boyeong clinked her ss with Jeong-woos beer ss and took a sip of the shandy.
And then,
Puu! She spat out what she had just swallowed on the floor with a scream.
Ow, why does it taste like this? Why is so bitter?
Jeong-woo tilted his head as he looked at the aspartame molecules mixed with the beer.
Did I just move the molecules for real? Am I drunk?
Aspartame is an isomerposed of two amino acids. The left form tastes sweet, while the right form tastes bitter.
There were clearly many right-handed aspartame molecules in the shandy, making it bitter.
Jeong-woo recalled this fact and tapped Song Boyeongs beer ss again, just in case. The aspartame molecules that had changed structure quickly reverted to their original form.
Is, is it real?
The senior colleague next to them grimaced as Song Boyeong spit out her drink.
Boyeong, are you drunk? Take a taxi and go home quickly. Do you want to embarrass yourself in front of your junior?
No, senior. The alcohol tastes strange.
You cant me the drink for your strange behavior.
But its really weird.
Let me see.
Song Boyeong poured some of her beer into her seniors ss. After taking a sip, heughed and said, It tastes good.
But its not. It tasted strange.
Song Boyeong tasted it again.
Oh? Its not bitter?
Youre out of your mind. Go home quickly.
Jeong-woo cleared his throat after seeing the scene. There was evidence that the molecules had indeed changed.
Once again.
He poured some soju into an empty ss and touched it with his finger before sipping it.
Cough.
Unable to swallow the bitter taste, Jeong-woo grabbed his throat. The alcohol woke him up instantly.
If soju tastes like poison, the liquor industry in our country is in big trouble.
Why are you acting like a paratrooper?
No, its nothing. Sorry, senior.
Song Boyeong looked at Jeong-woo with a puzzled expression, not understanding the reference to a paratrooper.
See you all on Monday!
The dinner ended exactly at 10 pm. As they said their goodbyes at the entrance of the pub, Song Boyeong walked out onto the street to catch a taxi.
Hey, Song. I called a driver, can I give you a ride?
As Lee Dong-gil approached her, Song Boyeong lowered her head.
Senior. I know about everything grandfather asked you to take care of. Its all just a burden, so please stop.
Wow, you only know one side Song and not the other.
What do you mean?
What the chairman said is correct, but what Im doing is not showing concern, its showing interest. You know, between a man and a woman. Cant you feel it?
Song Boyeong widened her eyes.
No way. We have a 10-year age gap.
Is that a problem?
You should date someone whos not generations apart. And why would I, who has more money than you, date an old guy?
Wow, youre straightforward.
I have no intention of dating anyone right now. Lets just forget this conversation.
Dong-gil shrugged, knowing he had been rejected.
I think youre not making a good judgment because youre drunk. Lets talk about it next time.
I wasnt that drunk. The taste of the alcohol was just weird, so I stopped drinking in the middle.
Okay, forget it. The driver is here. Im going.
As Dong-gil waved and hurried away, Song Boyeong looked at him with a puzzled expression. Then she noticed Han Jeong-woo, who was standing among the other senior colleagues.
Jeong-woo, your interview was really funny. You should have seen the other seniors faces turning stiff. They were clearly worried.
Im sorry. I was trying to be confident.
No, no. I like that kind of enthusiasm. We need researchers at Jungyeon who are that confident. Most of the others are too inactive because theyre always stuck in theb.
Song Boyeong touched her scarf, realizing she still had it on and had not returned it.
Listen well and do well in the nning evaluation.
I received a lot of help from the senior colleagues. Thank you!
As Jeong-woo greeted with a bow, Song Boyeong approached him quietly and spoke.
You seem to have be close with the senior colleagues quickly.
Jeong-woo turned around and looked at Song Boyeong.
You havent left yet? I thought you went home because Senior Jeonghee chased you out earlier.
That was just a joke.
No, it wasnt. His eyes werent joking.
I did apologize to him when I went out.
Jeong-wooughed and his cheeks turned red, indicating that he had had a bit too much to drink. Looking up at his tall stature, Song Boyeong spoke cautiously.
Um About that strange senior you mentioned earlier.
Oh, him.
If he asks you to go somewhere again, will you go?
Ill see.
Oh, and this.
Song Boyeong took off her scarf and handed it to him.
You used it to keep warm. Ill treat you to a cup of coffeeter.
I like coffee. As long as you dont have any other intentions.
Oh, should I treat you to a meal instead? I think I should.
Coffee is fine.
Okay.
Song Boyeong had given up on asking about Dr. Cheons story by now.
As they waited for a taxi, Jeong-woo asked her.
By the way, Senior. Do you have any samples left of the preliminary coating agent? I want to paint the front gate. Its an old iron gate thats severely corroded.
There are no more in theb, but there might be some at the Cheongju factory No, wait. I might have brought some home for research purposes. Do you want me to give it to you?
Jeong-woo nodded his head. Meanwhile, the taxi arrived and honked its horn on the street.
If you give me your address, Ill send it to you by courier. Please give me your phone number.
After taking down the number, Song Boyeong said goodbye and got in the taxi.
Where are you headed, miss?
Near Hwagae Station.
She entered the just-gotten number into her phones address book and named it Han Jeong-woo, deleting the earlier Mr. Parachute nickname she had given him.
Come to think of it, were the same age, right? Twenty-six. The generation gap wouldnt be too big
As Song Boyeong pondered to herself, she watched Jeong-woos figure recede into the distance outside the window.
code: AF-12
case: Molecr Communication Network
research: When a certain stimulus is received in the body (e.g. alcohol), particles that affect other molecules are generated at the fingertips. It is estimated to be colorless and odorless.
Chapter 19: Snowflake Serenade (1)
Chapter 19: Snowke Serenade (1)
Saturday Morning.
Jungwu had his eyes closed, but he was simply in the middle of rolling about the Living roomzily.
Its great that I have weekends now, but
It was a leisurely morning for once. But beingpletely alert from early in the morning due to disruptive sleep schedule made him slightly peeved.
He was always drowsy and sleepy in the morning when he was unemployed and had nothing better to do, but now that he was employed for once There was only one answer he could think of for why he had a worse rest than usual.
Work Addiction. Doing whatever it takes to advance my career, ruthlessly seeking my own advancement I must have entered a new chapter in my life.
Jungwu made some exaggerated ims about himself that would have been embarrassing to utter in public, and ended upughing.
Click
What did you say? You weirdo.
He looked up in reaction towards the voiceing from the direction of the kitchen. Jisook was starting up the fire in the kitchen while yawning.
Ah, mom. Good morning.
Why are you sprawled out in the living room? Have you drunk yourself to stupor and fell asleep there?
I didnt drink that much. I couldnt sleep in the morning so I watched some TV. Mom, Im hungry. Im craving some warm soup.
I dont care.
Although she said that, she took out some bean sprouts which she had trimmed ahead of time. She must be preparing to quickly make some Hangover Soup*.
My mom is the best! shouted Jungwu and then he continued to enjoyzing about the floor of the living room as he swept it with his back. At that moment, he heard the mobile go off on the floor next to him.
Who is it this early in the morning?
He grasped the phone, praying it wasnt Boyoung or Doctor Moon. Luckily, the sender of the short text was a childhood friend he was close with since Elementary school.
[Sleeping?]
[Nope]
The moment the text was sent, the phone began to ring. The name Soochan Park came up on the screen.
Hey, Soochan, what? You wanted to drink tonight?
The hell you mean drink? Im busy as hell because its weekend. Do you wanna work part-time? You told me to call you if anythinges up.
Part-time?
Jungwu couldnt help butugh. He had been desperate at the time, but now he finally got an upstanding ce of employment. Although he wanted to brag to no end, he couldnt do that.
Jungwu snuck a nce at the kitchen before walking over towards the bathrooms.
Im not in such a position anymore.
Hmm? You work now?
I work, of course. I worked hard during the weekdays, doing overtime, so isnt it only right that I take the weekends off and rest like a proper member of the society?
Do you even realize how recently you cried to me about your unsessful job hunt? So what job is it?
Dont be shocked by what I say.
Since the fact that he works at KG Chemicals would be revealed sooner orter, Jungwu revealed everything except for the pills he had taken.
Wow, what the hell, you work for KG Chemicals?
I was lucky. I shall tell you in greater detail in the future.
About a yearter.
Although Soochan was a close friend with whom Jungwu had shared the same Elementary, Middle and High School, he could not vite the Non-Disclosure Agreement.
I guess it cant be helped then. I was going to go help set up the stage at Yeondeungpo TS, but I guess Ill have to go alone.
You mean that job where you have to move materials and chairs, the intense physicalbor one? Hey, I was always against hardbor to begin with.
Today is the finale of the event, so I made an exception. I guess because its the weekend event, the list of participants is amazing. It even has that, what was the name, the group you like, Girlfriends.
Jungwus expression transformed in an instant.
What did you say?
Girlfriends.
IIll be able to see Yulhwi up close? If I go help set up the stage, can I get an autograph too?
It should be possible. You just need to be careful about the manager. Only the staff are allowed close to the rehearsal room so there should be plenty of chances.
It was a very tempting offer.
If youre lucky, you might be able to take a picture with them. Do you remember the picture I took with Punky Line and posted on group chat?
That caused amotion I remember. The girl doing the V sign next to you was so pretty. How envious.
You dont even know Osora? You North Korean Spy*
I was too busy trying to be employed and didnt have time to watch TV.
But you still somehow know about Girlfriend. Those guys are still new.
Actually, I only know about Yulhwi. I went to the Celebrity forum and, is it called selfie? I saw one and instantly became a fan.
Once his friend began a conversation about celebrities, Jungwu who was already fully alert felt his mind be even clearer.
Although he didnt have much interest in Idols, the one and only Album he had ever purchased was Girlfriends 1st release. He fell in love at first sight.
Although he had leaked a tear when he got a random photocard that contained the image of a different member than Yulhwi anyway whenever he saw images of her gently smiling, he felt like all his troubles had melted away.
If Im lucky, I can even take a picture with her?
He would be given an opportunity one couldnt buy with money, not to mention he didnt have much money on hand for the near future either.
Where do I need to be?
The struggle was long, but the decision was quick.
Ha, I knew youd want in. Come to the Yeondeungpo TS Shopping Mall by 8. And if you bounce during the middle, it will make my position really awkward. The guy managing the staffing is really strict.
Hey, Yulhwi is going to be there, no worries. Just wait for me, Ill be there quick.
7 Am
Jungwu boarded the City Bus while humming. Because it was early in the morning on a Saturday, there were plenty of empty seats.
While he was absentmindedly watching the scenery outside the window, he quickly became bored.
Oh yeah, I wonder if there are any articles about me yet.
Jungwu took out his phone. Once he entered Jungwu Han a bunch of individuals with the same name appeared in the results.
Hmm.. not there.
He even added KG Chemicals, and after a long time of scrolling around, he finally discovered a snippet from a small no-name news site.
Found it!
[Meanwhile, Jungwu Han from KG Chemicals left the words Metals have a limited lifespan to raise awareness about corrosion.]
Another article
[One Corrosion Expert warned time cannot be rewound, the clock can be stopped and urged preventative measures against rust.]
There was no name mentioned, but Jungwu was ted on seeing himself be attributed the title of Corrosion Expert.
Ill add that to my collection.
He took a printscreen of his phone and left a reply [Thank you for the article]. Being called the expert and having an article written about him, although his name was not revealed, felt good.
Now that I think about it, its been exactly one week.
It was the day he had been looking forward to, being able to earn 1 million Won (Roughly 900 dors) for taking some pills. He didnt imagine even in his wildest dreams that he would act as a Chemist upon taking those pills. He thought about the Human Test Subject Specialist and wondered if he was doing well.
Once he was done checking articles and ran out of things to do, Jungwu entered amunity sites forums humor section and began reading through the entries.
Jungwu was giggling over Funny photos, pictures of grumpy cats, stories from the Army, Embarrassing Celebrity pranks and the like when he finally reached the 9th entry in the Popr Today list.
Hmm?
[A Magician lives on the 1st Line]
It was certainly an attention-grabbing title. When he clicked on it, a video began to autoy.
Jungwu had to swallow back a groan pretty soon.
The video was a closeup of an old man reading a newspaper, and someones hand hovering over him. The video showed the sight of the old mans hair moving and dancing to the motion of the hand, with a lively music ying in the background.
Thats my hand!
It was just the hand, and the image quality was so poor that not even the old man could be easily identified, but Jungwu was certain.
The replies were filled with a ton of []*
Is he performing a magic show?
Thats interesting. Did he use a ma? Is there a string we cant see?
Cant you tell? He must have put a pencil board or something in his palm with static
Why is he bothering that old man?
Its written in OP. It was because he yelled at a sick kid to shut up and resumed reading his newspaper.
That old man got off like that. Hairstyle so crazy
Jungwu checked to see when this was recorded and searched around. But the uploader was just a reposter.
Its not like my face has been exposed.
It didnt seem like he would have to take this very seriously, considering that the views werent that high on the video. Jungwu closed the screen and shook his head.
I should leave it be. Its not like Im going to be sent this video with a threat.
Jungwu redirected his attention out the window.
In the distance, he could see the red morning sun rising between the tall buildings. He felt warm andfortable despite it being winter; he felt that today would be a good day.
Shhhz
He heard the static as the bus driver scanned the radio.
December 16th, Morning Radio! How is everyone doing this weekend morning? We will start the day with a song. The first song is a seasonal one that rises up the ranks about this time of the year. Performed by Isul Yoon and Friends, Winter ising~
The song opened with the clear, optimistic sound of bells as the bgm.
It was an extremely uplifting music. Not to mention that the main vocalist was so full of life that it even seemed like someone was singing it live next to him.
They said it was winters seasonal song?
It was the first time he had ever heard this tune.
Now that he thought of it, he had almost no interaction with pop culture in thest two years.
The problem was his preparation for employment. He almost couldnt recall thest time hes even been to the cinema. But a preview of the 3rd installment of the action movie he watched was being yed on the Bus monitor.
Yeah, lets take it easier next year.
We should sometimes run without looking back, so we can count our steps on the snow-
Jungwu who was humming and snapping his fingers to the music looked up into the sky.
It wouldnt snow today.
Although it would be great to be able to walk through thick snow on a weekend like this.
8 AM, TS Shopping mall before opening hours.
Jungwu waited at the Terrace shared by a Cinema, Department store, and Restaurants for his friend to appear.
I have heard that this was the Yeondeungpo Districts mainndmark. It sure is huge.
The giant evergreen tree erected in the za was not lit up yet, but it still carried a very wintery atmosphere.
Jungwu!
When he turned his head in response to the deep voice, Jungwu saw a highly muscr young man who jogged up to him while waving.
Back in senior year of highschool, he had picked a safe Business Administration college, whereas Soochan had picked HanYaeJin* or whatever to major in Stage Preparation. The pay was low but it was a very fun job, Soochan had said thest time they met for a drink.
Jungwu scanned Soochan up and down before saying
You must work out nowadays. Your body is all chiseled up.
This is what you call upational muscle. What about you, why are your dark circles sorge?
Ugh, is it that obvious?
Jungwu rubbed his eyes as he replied.
I worked 5 days so far but did overtime on 4. I got so tired I couldnt even sleep.
Thats crazy. Are allrge corporations like that? Do they treat Interns badly?
I entered as a Parachuter, so I have to work extra hard.
Wow. How did Jungwu Han be such an upright citizen?
Jungwu shrugged at Soochans reaction.
I recently had a thought, maybe I was originally smart.
Yeah right.
Dont be surprised at my asional acts of amazingness.
Jungwu was already aware of what Soochan ate for breakfast, what shampoo he had used, and what was the chemicalposition of his toothpaste. He just didnt mention it thinking it would shock his friend.
Soochan handed a name badge which read Temporary Staff to Jungwu and motioned to go inside.
Our eventpany doesnt use outside help very often, but I put in a good word for you with the director, saying that you already have work experience. Keep it a secret that youve helped out just once during college and thats it.
Will I really be able to get Yulhwis signature?
Just trust me. If there really isnt an opportunity, Ill speak with the director. I am known to be sensible and have some sway in thepany.
Wow~ if you can do that, then thanks.
Jungwu trembled when he thought of being able to get his next years diary signed by Yulhwi.
You dont want anyone elses autograph? TOTs teenage groupsst participants are really something.
Not really? I dont really know any, and I refuse any male celebrities.
Agh, you stubborn donkey, do you even know whosing today?
Who?
You dont know the National sister Isul Yoon?
Jungwu thought that the name sounded familiar and dwelled on it when he realized that it was the name of the main vocalist for the song he heard on the bus.
Ah, I did hear one song. Winter is Coming was it?
Soochan sighed when he heard that.
Do you have any idea how old that song is? I cant believe Jungwu Han is a Pop Culture Eunuch. Dont act friendly with me around here; youre an embarrassment.
Hey, I have my reasons. Do you realize that your sportswear was treated with Diphenyl Ether and Thio Bisphenol tobat odor-causing bacteria?
Di? Psy? Gangnam star?
I give up. I also refuse to associate with a Chemistry Eunuch.
Did you lose your mind?
The old friends bickered for the first time in a while as they headed towards the back doors of the shopping mall.
TL Note
*Hangover Soup
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Haejang-guk
Its called Haejangguk (guk meaning soup, so Haejang soup) also known as hangover soup, and is believed to help with dealing with a hangover. It consists of cabbage, vegetables, meat in a thick soup. It sometimes includes congealed blood or blood sausages. The name/type of soup originated from as far back as 14th century or before, so it is a soup with an extremely long history in Korea.
*North Korean Spy
It ismon to say someone is a north korean spy if they are unaware of what people consider to bemon knowledge
*
is the korean alphabet for the K sound, and basically sounds like someone snickering (ku ku ku ku ku), so its kr version of LoL I suppose.
*HanYaeJin shortened name of Korea Broadcasting Art School
*Isul means morning dew and is a very very feminine and cute name.
Chapter 20
Chapter 20
Behind the building, the work was already underway with sound and light equipment being unloaded from the truck.
Soochan! Move this next to the stage!
Yes, Sir!
Soochan began to run so Jungwu followed suit.
The equipment was inside dark metallic containers and it did not take even a minute to fill up a cart with them.
Soochan, doesnt it seem like the pace is a little fast?
How can you say that from the start? We have to finish at least the basic setup before 2 o clock. The singers will arrive before then.
Jungwu pushed the cart as Soochan held onto the containers to ensure that the containers wont fall off the carts. Once past the busy back doors, Jungwu had aplete view of the interior.
This ce, called Atrium, was a circrposite mall space designed with a ss ceiling; it was possible to get a refreshing glimpse of the sky from anywhere within the building.
Jungwu directed his gaze to the center of the wide open 450 pyung (16000 cubic feet, 1500 cubic meter) space. A stage was in the middle of being constructed there.
Seeing the size of the area roped off against shoppers, it looked like they were also going to set up enough chairs to seat 500 people.
If I want to sit here, do I have to buy tickets?
Its the benefit of being a VIP customer. Normal customers arent allowed here either.
Since the stage was visible from anywhere in the shopping mall it wouldnt be difficult to watch the show, but Jungwu asked just in case.
Would I be able to watch from up close during the show?
As long as youre wearing that.
Soochan pointed at the badge Jungwu wore. Jungwu stroked and cuddled his badge as if it was some sort of treasure.
Youre just a spy that doesnt even know who Isul Yoon is, why are you so happy.
Is she really that great?
Just watch the live showter. Youll realize why people are so crazy for her.
If she turns out to be fugly
Or you can just search her up.
For visual and audio surprise factor, Ill pass for now.
Soochan who was walking ahead of Jungwu motioned for him to stop.
Lets put this down here. Oh yeah, I am in charge of the equipment today so we dont need to move the truss.
Okay
Jungwu saw another staff member move a heavy metal support structure, and couldnt help but respect him. He tried moving onest summer; That thing was incredibly heavy.
Hey, Soochan. called out the Director as he looked up while setting up the soundboard.
Is the guy next to you the friend that you mentioned?
Yes, Director.
Soochan quickly whispered thats the Director to Jungwu. Jungwu bowed deeply and gave his greetings.
Im Jungwu Han.
Ah, I see. Im the Chief Director, Mujin Kim. My first impression of you is that you look like a hard worker. Could you please go grab the cables from the equipment truck?
Ill unload these things first and then go.
Jungwus well-trained obedience that he had practiced while working with the sunbaes at the research station impressed Soochan and made his eyes grow wide.
Jungwu ran off to find the cable box and brought it back, setting it down next to the Director.
Here you go.
Thank you.
As if he had nothing else to add, Director Kim wordlessly resumed setting up the soundboard with the other audio staff.
Soochan who was moving boxes turned to try and get a glimpse of Jungwu who was on the stage. Soochan raised his eyebrows when Jungwu walked towards him.
You really reformed huh. Were you always so on point?
Anyone listening might think I did nothing but ck off. The only reason why no one noticed my earnest work ethic is because I was too busy with preparations for getting employment.
Wow, shit, wipe your tears. It seems like yesterday you and I snuck out of the evening ss* to go y at the PC bang**.
Jungwu smiled as he lowered the rest of the metallic containers onto the stage.
It took over four hours to move the main equipment. Meanwhile, the metallic skeletal frame of the stage was more or lessplete.
When Jungwu was watching the other staff members piece together the speakers, he saw Soochan carefully bring a box out.
Is that the machine that shoots fireworks?
Yeah. You have to be careful. And wear gloves.
Jungwu put on the symbol of hardbor, the industrial strength gloves, and gazed at the box nervously.
Soochan undid the boxs lock and took out the device and then suddenly shouted Wah! as he pushed the device onto Jungwu.
Jungwu flinched and took a step back when he saw something red pop out for a moment.
Soochan snickered.
Ha, scared ya.
You little
The device he had imed would shoot fireworks was actually a simple air blower that would make red cloth flutter to imitate fire.
Go put it up there. I have to grab the petal airgun.
Once the devices he had received from Soochan was ced on the stage, another staff brought electrical systems and began to set things up.
Jungwu observed as CO2 blowers and the fog machine was installed, but because of how rudimentary it looked, he didnt feel all that excited for the uing concert.
Hey, does this thing really make the mood?
Soochan who was carrying a device with a row of round bins which looked likeunching tforms,ughed when he heard Jungwu.
When the beams and the lights sh and the music booms, it gets wild.
Meh, I cant tell. Maybe it gets better when its dark.
This one should get you going right away though.
Soochan put down the item before the stage.
Flower of the event. Fireworks.
Fireworks?
The fireworks that go in here is set up by the Director himself, and hes really something. In this industry, hes an expert in pyrotechnics and can win bids purely with this.
Jungwu directed his gaze towards Mujin Kim when he heard this. The Director was still conversing with the sound team in a tent.
The only thing we have to check is to see if the spark flies when we press the button. You go rest.
After he said this, Soochan squatted before the firing pad and took out a palm-sized container.
Whats that?
Explosive powder for test use. Ive been told its the same material as matches.
What came out of the container was a fingernail-sized bundle of paper. Soochan ripped one open for each of the openings of theunchpad and inserted them.
Hmm?
Jungwu was watching the contents enter theunchpad when he felt his sight zoom in on them and prepared himself mentally for the sudden change in perspective.
What he saw first was a particle of soot, the atomic-star of carbon. And floating around it were the smelly atomic-stars of sulfur. And among them were special star formations which seem to give off a purple light.
So this is the pyrotechnics mini gxy.
Once Soochan finished putting in the powder and pressed a button, a small spark flew from theunchpad.
Jungwu scanned the opening of theunchpad and discovered evidence of previous fireworks.
The atomic star formation which explodes with a bright re was in a form simr to fountain fireworks. And in another opening, he found evidence of apound that leaves streaks as it flies through the air.
Ooh
Jungwu let out a sound because it looked rather nice.
Why are you getting impressed by this? Youll be surprised when you see the showter.
Jungwu couldnt help but smile inwardly because he had not been impressed because of Soochan. He just found it endearing that Soochan was getting confident because Jungwu was reacting to everything so positively.
Soochan, when can you start preparing your own stage?
Im still far from it.
Youve already done it for three years. When will it be the day I can watch a show in the VIP seat thanks to a friend?
Theres too much to learn. Especially with these guys. Performance firework techniques is not a skill that you can pay someone to learn. Its not something someone like me can do just yet.
When Soochan indicated theunchpads, Jungwu tilted his head.
Is it that difficult? Cant you just put in the powder?
Are you insane? Do you want to set the stage on fire?
Jungwu inspected theunchpad when Soochan spoke as if the device may explode like a bomb.
A fire is caused when there is an abundance of burnable material. And this only uses a small amount ofpletebustion powders. It looks like the base of the firework is Strontium with sh Powder mixed with Nitrous Cellulose. All of these were added so that the fireworks burn cleanly. It will burn for about 1 second before it burns out.
Stron what?
Soochan blinked a few times. Jungwu considered for a moment before adding.
If you know which powder does what, its not that difficult.
And how do you know that?
I met a great teacher and studied a bit. Its one of the reasons why I was chosen as an intern. And arentpletebustion material the norm anyway? The ones that produce no soot as long as there is enough oxygen and the right temperature. You know, even the Gas oven uses
Jungwu noticed Soochan blink with a nk expression and decided to ask.
Did you fall asleep during Common sciences ss?*
Every lecture! Even though you slept through all of them too
Soochan fanned his sweaty shirt as he made his way to the tent before reemerging with a boxbeled fireworks.
These are the ones I use for practice. Chinese fireworks.
Those look like ones you can buy at the mart. The ones with unimpressive mes.
I ordered them from a manufacturer. Its different from the cheap ones.
Jungwu asked Soochan who took the cheap looking fireworks and was in the process of attaching them to theunchpad.
What are you doing? I thought you said you werent going to be in charge of setting up the stage?
This is for rehearsal use. If we dont get the singers to get used to the fireworks during rehearsal, there are times when they flinch on stage.
So are you allowed to just use any firework you bring then?
Its a type of setup where you can put in any kind of firework you bring. And I do actually have enough experience for this much!
Since Soochan was also confident enough to go as far as to promise that Jungwu could get Yulhwis autograph, Jungwu said sorry and gave in.
Anyway, lets go have lunch. Wait just 3 minutes.
Ok
While Jungwu was quietly watching Soochan insert the fireworks, his eyes caught the sight of one that was empty and left open.
He was able to see the mini firework gxy here as well.
I still get the feeling its of a cheap quality, but at least the ingredients are the same.
Jungwu turned to look at Soochan.
Hey, Soochan.
Hmm?
Can I set up one of the barrels myself?
Heh, you wanna try one?
I just want to see if I can do it.
Do what?
Oh, theres something.
Soochan made a look as if his patience was being tested, but he pointed at the barrelbeled number 3 out of 10.
Well go ahead and try it then. This will go off on the 3rd guest, so when its time for Girlfriends rehearsal, the one you attached will go off. Its great, right?
Oh, thank you.
So among those over there the most expensive
Soochan!
Suddenly a voice calling for Soochan could be heard from the tent.
Yes, Director!
Where is the box with cables for connection type A to Mic?
Where the boxes are stacked
Soochan turned to Jungwu.
Ill be back. Wait here.
Mhm.
Jungwu searched around the fireworks box and took out just the empty containers. While he was looking through the various mini fireworks gxies, he finally found ones with the same packaging.
Jungwu tore open the packaging without hesitation and checked the contents.
Seeing the actualponents, he was able to see the pyrotechnics more clearly.
When charcoal and sulfur undergoesbustion, they heat the calcium nitrate, and the resulting oxygen from this reaction feeds the mes during the explosion.
Depending on the ratio of theponents the reaction speed could change drastically. And the different types of metallic dust used could control the color of the light.
These are silver rocket style.
He opened up another package.
These are turquois debris.
When he thought of mixing Aluminium and Calcium powder, he saw the form mix and a new chemical reaction emerge.
He opened the lid to thergest firework.
This one has almost all the colors. Is it a multistage round? Great, lets use it.
Once Jungwu made an estimate for the reaction speed, he removed the fuse and the propent from the multistage rocket and installed it into theunchpad and began mixing powders that were wrapped in paper to prepare the rest of the fireworks.
Dust-stars, you stay where you are.
Jungwu controlled the + and ionic reactions in his palm and blew away the uselessly wild free electrons.
Ssst
While chasing the image of the reaction he saw in his mind, he ended up opening and using almost all the fireworks from the box.
Click
Just as he finished wrapping up and closing the lid, he saw Soochan approach from afar. Jungwu who had been strangely focused on his work turned his gaze to the fireworks box.
Did I use them all? When I was thinking of Yulhwi I just
Although he had made excuses like this in his mind, it was closer to the truth to say that it was like a childs curiosity ying with fire for the first time.
But will it go well? It should right?
Because the world of Chemistry he could see through his special vision had never let him down, Jungwu was able to be a little confident in his work.
Did you install it?
Soochan asked as he approached. Jungwu quickly closed the box and pushed it aside.
Yeah, kind of
Lets go. Time to fill our stomachs before we resume working.
Luckily he didnt seem to notice. Jungwu followed Soochan but nced back at the box that was filled with nothing but empty containers.
Soochan. How much did you pay for everything in that box?
300,000 Won was it? (250~300 dors)
If it was around 50,000 Won, he could have just repaid him with his pay for today. Jungwu made a promise to himself Ill repay you next month and apologized in his mind.
TL NOTE:
Korean high schools (and some middle schools) have what is literally calledte night sses. It is not umon to have school from 7 am until 9 pm in Korea. No school, or no night ss? Then it was perfect time to be going to cram school (sses you pay to take extra, administered by an educationpany)
PC Bangs are LAN party rentalputer shops, and some ces (like rural ces) are as cheap as 10 cents an hour, whereas famous orrge-well established ces in the city may go as much as 1 dor an hour.
Instead of teaching each of the three major sciences separately (physics chemistry biology) all are taught in one ss. Its a more generalized and simpler version of science.
Chapter 21
Chapter 21
So full
Jungwuy across the top of a wooden box.
This was the storage area of the shopping mall, andpared to the chaos outside it was rtively quiet and peaceful.
How did you find a ce like this?
This is already my 3rd time setting up an event here.
Soochan plopped down next to Jungwu and handed over a canned coffee.
Jungwu, its so nice chatting with you while working again. It sure makes time fly.
My joints hurt. Who is Yulhwi anyway? And why am I doing this?
But you said her gentle smile washes away all your worries.
Im not so sure about that now. What good is an idol when my body is in pain?
The singers are on their way to the prep room. Most of the heavy lifting is done so all we have to do is some light menial tasks and watch to your hearts content.
Okay
Jungwu rubbed the warmed up can of coffee against his cheeks as he asked,
How much longer do we have left on lunch?
1 hour and 30 minutes.
Wow, we still have plenty of time after rushing to eat our food. Let me just nap for half an hour then.
Here?
Jungwu yawned loudly.
I told you, I had to stayte too many times. I get so sleepy at random hours. I just need to pass out for a little while.
Soochan clicked his tongue when he saw Jungwu immediately close his eyes.
If you sleep like that your face will freeze. Do you want me to get you a hotpack?
Ooh, thank you. Soochan is such a great worker~
Jungwu was starting to slur and appeared to be drifting off to sleep already. Soochan shook his head as he left the storage unit.
Not too long after, he returned with two hotpacks and put them inside of Jungwus jacket. Although Jungwu was moved around, he was like a corpse and did not wake up.
Overtime? Wow, he must really be living like a normal member of the society.
Soochan checked his time and then said,
Ill be talking to the Director. Ille wake you up when its time.
There was no answer from Jungwu who had already fallen asleep.
Ouch, hot.
Jungwu felt hotnessing from somewhere around his chest and patted himself to find the source.
The two hotpacks were in the middle of giving off intense heat.
Hey, Soochan, you almost burnt m
He was in an empty room all alone.
Jungwu sat up and took a look around. It was a dark and quiet storage space filled with products. He didnt think of this earlier, but he could have frozen to death sleeping in here.
He checked his cellphone for the time. It was 1:15 pm and luckily, his break time was not over yet.
His friend who had left him with a long cold can of coffee and two hotpacks was nowhere to be found.
But why was I so tired?
The exhaustion he felt earlier was not something he could ovee with willpower. It was the second night in a row when he had fallen asleep as if passing out, making Jungwu worried if he was ill. He patted himself down to check.
Im not in pain anywhere. I wasnt like this even a week ago.
He could only suspect his symptoms to be a side effect of AF-12. But Doctor Moon had confidently dered that there was no such thing and went as far as to guaranteepensation for damages.
Jungwu resolved himself to give her a call after he is done with the part-time job here and picked up the canned coffee.
Cold.
He was just thinking that he prefers a warmed up can of coffee during winter when his eyes fell on the hotpack that was still giving off warmth.
Of course, he was able to immediately understand the chemical process of how the hotpack produced heat.
A reaction between fine powder of iron and oxygen
It was not all that different from the process of forming rust. It was just that it happened at a faster rate than usual, creating heat in the process. The mixture of salt and activated carbon in the solution further elerated the oxidation reaction.
Jungwu stared at his palm before turning to look at the hotpack.
Its usually warm for about half a day, right?
He wondered if it was possible to speed up the reaction even further and heat up the canned coffee. Jungwu ced one of the two hotpacks on his palm as an experiment.
Hya hya, gather, dust stars.
Half-jokingly, he gathered as many free electrons in the storage unit as he could into the hotpack.
Because of the free electrons kic energy, slight current began to run through the iron powder.
Great, good job! Keep going!
Perhaps his wish got conveyed? The free electron that was already swirling in the hotpack in his hand began to move even more rapidly.
Ouch
The heat became too much to bear with his hands, so Jungwu ced the hotpack on top of the wooden box.
Wow, it works.
With just a rough estimate, it seemed like it became 3 to 4 times hotter. Impressed that his hotpack reached temperatures fit for a heater, Jungwu ced his can of coffee on top of the hotpack. With this kind of temperature, it would be enough to heat the can and a bit more.
Stardusts, I didnt realize that you guys would be so useful. Great work. But.
They worked hard, but it wouldnt be good if they built up static electricity, so Jungwu quickly chased them all away.
It would have taken just 3 minutes for the can of coffee to be sufficiently warmed on the supercharged and improved hotpack, but the door to the storage unit opened up on the other side.
Jungwu assumed that the person would be Soochan and turned to look, but he froze in ce.
It wasnt his friend, but a small and slim youngdy with a guitar slung around her back.
She put her ears against the inside of the door and listened to the soundsing from the outside. Once she verified that there was no one else around, she quickly climbed and sat on top of the product boxes to the side.
Who is it?
Jungwu decided that he needed to make his presence known to thedy who seemed to be oblivious to the fact that he was there, so he stood up.
But
As if he was possessed, Jungwu stopped when he heard the song she began to hum out of the blue.
The sweet sound of her humming was producing an appealing melody.
It wasnt like he listened to much music recently, but even he could tell that just listening to this song was noticeably uplifting his mood. It was an experience he never felt before.
Diling~
Once she had her guitar out and added the guitar apaniment to the melody, her once quiet hum evolved into rich and powerful chords, filling the air of the storage room with her graceful tone.
This must be what people mean when they say it brought tears to my eyes.
The music of the unfamiliardy brought stimtion to his ears that were as surprising to experience as the first time he was able to see the atomic structure with his eyes.
Once her humming wasplete, she began another melody using only the ah sound. She changed octaves here and there and sang in various intensities as if she was warming up her voice.
Shes a singer, right? Well, itd be strange if she wasnt with that kind of skill.
Between the metallic shelving, he could see white sneakers bouncing up and down to the rhythm.
Jungwu who finally woke up from the sudden ambush of music and charisma immediately moved toward the shelves. Despite his footsteps, the guitarist was too focused on the music to notice him.
The profile view of a gracefuldy strumming away at the guitar with her pale fingertips entered his sights. She was wearing a baseball cap, so the bill was concealing her face. Her face was so small that only a small portion of her chin was visible underneath.
Excuse me
Once Jungwu opened his mouth, the guitar stopped immediately.
Jungwu sensed that she was startled so he quickly added,
I didnt mean to eavesdrop. I was taking a nap during lunch time on those boxes over there. Are you one of the participants in tonights mini concert?
Once she saw the staff badge around his neck, she seemed to breathe a sigh of relief.
I must have disturbed your sleep.
The sound of her voice had the same timbre as the voice singing the song. It was a neat and sharp voice. Jungwu felt that the mere suggestion that such a sound could be considered a disturbance ought to be considered a sin and waved his hand in denial.
No, I was already awake. And I dont know what song this is, but I really enjoyed it.
You dont know what song this is?
I havent been able to listen to much musictely. Anyway, Ill disappear right away. Please continue with your practice.
Jungwu had been speaking when he suddenly saw the position on the guitar touching her hand zoom-in as if his perception was sucked in. He had to stifle a groan.
At this timing?
He saw the strings made of Copper and Zinc twist and taut in a chain structure. They had a coating on it to keep away rust and foreign matters. Most of the coating on the strings were chemically sessful in providing the intended protection.
But among them, Jungwu noticed the lowermost string. As if there was a humid spot on the string, he saw free electrons glued onto the center of it causing a corrosive reaction.
It might snap anytime soon, I guess.
Jungwu felt that he should inform her, so he opened his mouth, but the canned coffee he had on top of the hotpack fell over on the side.
Oops
Jungwu ran over to the wooden box and caught the can that was rolling away. It was nice and toasty. He pulled the sleeve over his palm and also picked up the hotpack.
I was lying down here for about half an hour, and its cold here. Here, take this.
Jungwu ced the hotpack next to her and backed up.
I dont need it anymore. Make sure not to touch it directly; you might burn yourself. Its not a normal hotpack, that one. For about 2 hours the Activated carbon will vibrate and cause elerated oxidation reaction and well I guess thats unnecessary information. Well then.
Jungwu bowed and was on his way out when her hat moved up slightly.
Excuse me.
Yes?
I would like it if you could keep it a secret that I am in here.
AhSure thing.
Jungwu didnt even know who she was, so he nodded and opened the door.
Oh right. The bottom string on the guitar, it looks like it got rusty. Please inspect it. Unlike the other strings, it only has oneyer applied.
Click
Once he was in the hallway, he saw Soochan walking towards him.
Did you rest well?
Jungwu put his hands over his lips and pointed towards the exit.
Whats up? Why are you being so cautious?
There is someone practicing inside. Dont bother her.
Who?
I dont know. But I think its an extremely talented solo singer.
Soochan lurched when he heard.
The only solo artist today is Isul Yoon.
Really?
Jungwu turned to look at the product storage room.
Eey, no way. Why would such a famous singer be doing that in there?
Did you see her face?
I couldnt see because it was dark, not to mention it wasnt like it was the right moment to have a conversation either. Oh yeah, I did see that the guitar had the letter IS writt
Thats Isuls guitar!
Soochan exined as he opened the exit door.
An idiot who couldnt recognize a major star in person, not even thinking to ask for an autograph when he was so close, Jungwu couldnt help but smile at his friends manyints.
I only need Yulhwis autograph.
When Soochan saw Jungwu pop open the canned coffee and take a sip, he said,
Why didnt you give that to Isul instead? I bought that can you know.
Do you have any idea how I heated this up? Why would I give it to a random woman I met for the first time. Its super warm now. Wanna taste?
Im going to lose my mind. Staff who cant recognize a celebrity. I bet Isul was beyond shocked.
Dururum~
Isul who was going to practice the song for today began to look around when she noticed something warming her up.
Is it that thing?
The hotpack left behind by the staff member. Amazingly, the hotpack was warming up the entire space like a heater. Now that she looked at it, she thought back to what he had said earlier.
Just in case, she plucked the 1st string. Isul shook her head after listening to the clear sound of the string. 1st and 2nd string were the mostmon strings to break, but it hadnt been long since she changed the string; how could it rust already?
Ah well.
She grinned when she recalled being taken aback to hear that the man had never heard her hit song before. It was possible. No matter how famous or popr a song was, it couldnt possibly be loved by everyone.
Duru-ting
She messed up a note.
Did I really get that upset?
She shook her head to deny it when her cellphone gave notification of an iing text.
[Hey Is, where did you disappear to?]
It was a text from her manager Sungjae Ji.
She had no choice but to escape from her designated prep room due to the fact that it was right next to TOTs. The seven member all girls group that debutedst year is currently at the highest rank for their ability to mindlessly chat away.
When she thought of them sticking to her from morning until evening saying sunbae sunbae~ she had no choice but to escape to this ce before the rehearsal began.
[Im in the product storage unit. Pleasee quietly without alerting the TOT.]
She sent a text and resumed practicing her song. She was scheduled to y a minimum of four songs. She would need to sing additional songs if the audience demanded an encore, so she needed to focus much more than other events.
Knock knock.
The music stopped with the polite knocking on the doors.
Isul, are you here?
The door opened, and ate thirties and rather sly looking man peeked inside.
There you are.
Manager Ji entered and closed the doors behind him before walking up to Isul.
Hey Is, couldnt you just send TOT girls away if they bother you?
Isul smiled, knowing that TOT had not a shred of malintent, and shook her head.
Sunbae shouldnt do such things.
She had been the same at her debut. Shepletely and utterly understood the desire to stick next to her esteemed seniors and endlessly talk about music.
Isul you are too considerate for your own good.
If thats so, then you could just take care of me, you know?
Are you hinting that Im somehow not?
I wouldnt dare.
Manager Ji took a nce around the dark storage unit and shook his head.
How could I tolerate having Isul practice in such a ce. If your fans find out, theyll lynch me to death. In such a cold
He was about to continue when he noticed that it was warm around Isul. He made a puzzled look.
Its nice in here. Does this shopping mall have heaters in their storage units?
Isul paused from drinking water she took out from her guitar case and pointed at the hotpack.
Its probably because of that hotpack.
The manager made a quizzical look as he reached out to grab it when he flinched and withdrew his hands in a hurry.
What the hell! Why is it so hot?
Is it that bad?
Its crazy how hot it is.
I did hear that it was a special hotpack.
Who said that? A fan?
The manager poked it out of curiosity and yelped in pain.
Ah, he warned me not to touch it.
Its an amazing product. We should use this thing instead of a mini heater. Please ask that fan, where he got it from.
Isul recalled the man she had just seen.
Dont know the name.
Helle when you perform.
No, I mean mine.
The manager looked at her without understanding.
Isul took a moment to recall the man she had seen. Although he said some peculiar things, his eyes were clear, and his actions were earnest.
Man. Curiosity.
Words she had forgotten about.
What am I thinking, about an event staff.
But the subtle imbnce she felt in her heart, she didnt dislike it. For a singer/songwriter, emotional stimulus was absolutely necessary; she remembered her Sunbae Sangun Yi say to her.
Manager, prepare a spare string for the guitar please.
*
2 PM, TS Mall Mini Concert Rehearsal stage.
Chief Director Mujin Kim spoke into the loudspeakers.
We will now begin. Please have the first participant enter the stage. Sound, light, and special effect team, in your positions.
A dozen or so staffs raised their thumbs to indicate they were ready.
Director Kim!
The Public Rtions staff ran up to Mujin who was going over the list of participants and preparing the setlist for the first group.
We received a call that Girlfriends will arrivete. They were on their way from Gimpo international airport, but there seem to have been an ident somewhere in between, and the cars are backed up for miles.
Their estimated time of arrival?
About 40 minuteste.
Then please go request Isul Yoon ssi to go first.
Mujin calmly gave the order and swapped the setlist for 3 and 4.
Chapter 22
Chapter 22
30 minutester, it was in the middle of an 8 person all male early teen group Calgunmus rehearsal.
Jungwu and Soochan stood right at the base of the stage. Soochan who was wearing a staff-only radio set couldnt stop grinning.
Why are you so happy?
This is the first time I get to wear this equipment. The Director decided to do me a favor since I have my friend here.
Jungwu didnt really understand what was so appealing about a radio where nobody really spoke, but Soochan was ted.
Hey, what about me? When does Yulhwi get here? I waited since lunch, but I didnt get a single glimpse of her.
But you already got an autograph from the early teen group. Lead Junho is really popr.
When jets of CO2 was released on the beat with a particrly shy move, Jungwu flinched.
You think I wanted to get that autograph? I just happened to run into them, and they stared at me as if they really wanted me to ask for one. You told me that Staff members have to be considerate.
The celebrities really enjoy when fans go wild for them. Please make sure to go wild when Yulhwi gets here. Shell happily go as far as take a photo with you.
Soochan cheered loudly for the young boy group who danced perfectly in rhythm to theirplex choreography.
Amidst the booming sound of the speakers sting the music and ringing the eardrums, the second song was done.
Peww, pop!
A weak firework wasunched from theunchpad and decorated their finale.
Next is Girlfriends turn. Your chance is when they finish and climb down the stage.
Okay.
Jungwu was filled with anticipation with the thought that he would be able to finally see Yulhwi in person and watched the back of the stage with interest. But the participant showing up after the boy group was not the celebrity he had been expecting.
Onedy walked up with a guitar in hand.
Jungwu tilted his head. Soochan was also shocked when he saw the stage.
It isnt Isul Yoons turn yet though.
Isul in the bright open space waspletely different from one he had seen from the dark.
She appeared to be in her early twenties. And despite the fact that she wore ordinary clothes and a cap, the pure white skin which were visible here and there seemed to make her glow even without the help of a spotlight.
She really does seem like a doll.*
Soochan put his arm around Jungwu who was expressing his astonishment.
Heh, do you understand now what great fortune it is to be able to see Isul from the front of the stage?
Do you think Yulhwi is going to look that pretty in person as well?
Mmm, I wouldnt say that actually. People that work in this industry keep a tight lid on it but from what I managed to hear
Most of the female Idolspletely rely on makeup for their appeal. Few of them wear makeup that could be ssified as total transformative disguises. But Isul is different. Look at her un-makeuped face. She seems to be simply aglow.
But she does have makeup.
What are you talking about? Theres obviously no makeup on her.
Jungwu was about to list out every ingredient in Isuls cheeks, but he stopped himself. He didnt feel like breaking his close friends fantasy. And truth be told, the surface of Isuls skin was so soft it probably didnt even really need the makeup.
And no matter what, she was a singer with a voice that had enraptured him from the first time he had heard it, so he awaited the performance with anticipation.
She plugged the Guitar into the jack and then did a simple voice test before nodding to the music staff.
She sat before the mic and strummed away at the body of the guitar rhythmically, and the speakers let out a refreshing prelude.
And the humming began.
Eh? This song
Yeah, youve heard it before right? You must have heard it at least once even if you didnt know the artist. Any Korean should have heard it at least once.
Its the song she sang in the storage unit.
Oh my god. This is your first time hearing Once again too?
Jungwu was enthralled by the melody which made him forget about his day to day difficulties and exhaustion.
The spotlight blinked along to the music, and the floor was covered by fog. It was an uplifting song, but because the vocal was gentle, no drastic stage special effects were employed.
Im going to have to buy an albumter. Its a song written for a sryman like me.
Just how long do you think youve been a sryman for you to say that?
I nowpletely empathize with that life. You sure have it hard, Soochana.
Jungwu enjoyed the music while bobbing his head along to the music, and 3 songs were done before he realized.
For Isuls turn, the shoppers moving outside the boundary of the partitioned area stopped to listen to her song.
Once the three songs were done, even the people standing on 2nd and 3rd floor terrace apuded. Isul, who was startled at the sudden noise, bowed deeply which led to an even louder apuse.
Isul was slightly shocked, so she spoke into the mic.
Thank you. But there are people shopping so please lets be considerate of them.
Encore! Encore!
Listening to people shouting at the top of the lungs now, Isul narrowed her eyes as if she heard something funny.
There is still another song in the setlist, so calling for encore already is
A wide grin spread across everyones faces after hearing her joke which overflowed with innocence. Effortlessly suppressing the loud apuse, she soon began herst song.
Soochan snapped his finger as soon as the song began.
This is a hit song that came out this fall, Its so awkward.
What?
Its a fun title, right?
Isul sang a song that was neither nice nor naughty. Instead, the lyrics walked a thin line between the two, a rather quirky song with peculiar lyrics. And unlike the previous songs, the melody was made quite fun.
I wanna be alone, but its boring alone. Call a friend? But hes too chatty. Just what is it I want~
Ordinary emotions, rich sound, and the ability to make the audience bounce along to the music; Jungwu experienced first hand the reason why Isul was nicknamed the national sister.
Once two verses were over, the song came too soon to a conclusion. And the Director instructed the stage crew to fire the special effect fireworks to go with the flow of things.
[Isul ssi, the fireworks will be going off at this timing. Please do not be rmed.]
Text popped on the screen installed on the side next to the speakers meant for the performers.
-Number 3, GO!
When he heard that, Soochan said Eh? and turned to look at the control room. Jungwu also turned to look in the same direction.
What is it?
They pressed the one you installe
Tsss
The lid to theunchpad opened as soon as the sound of the fuse could be heard.
Babababababa-bang!
Thumb-sized rockets flew into the air and fanned out.
What appeared was so unexpected that Isul who had been mentally prepared reflectively reeled back. Soochan who was watching from the front row was far more surprised, reaching a point of disbelief.
Is it going as nned?
Jungwu felt his heart race with anticipation.
The various color of rockets rose to about Isuls eye level and began to undergo various reactions based on their ingredients. The embedded 2nd stage rockets were ones that glittered as it burnt in the air, forming letters.
[GIRLFRIEND]
The letters appeared for a fraction of a second before fading away leaving nothing but smoke.
It was squiggly, and some letters were flipped, but that brief moment of appearance was so spectacr that the audience who were nning on another round of apuse at the end of the song just stared with their mouths agape.
Seeing the quickly fading smoke left behind, Soochan read aloud the letters with a trembling voice.
GGirlfriend?
Yeah, but the D was too deformed and looked more like an O.
Soochan snapped his head towards Jungwu and retorted.
Hey, you crazy m
Wait a second. Huh, why isnt iting out?
What?
There is onest round remaining.
Thete firing round popped up as soon as Jungwu finished speaking.
Po~
Even the sound was cutesy, forming a heart shape before disappearing. The shoppers who had been watching transfixed until now began to snicker.
Wwhat the hell was that
Soochan became speechless. When he saw Jungwu walk over to the Launchpad and squat before it, Soochan asked.
What have you done?
Jungwu scratched his chin and answered nonchntly.
I tried to make the heart pink, but there was nobination that would have produced it.
Thats not what Im asking!
Ill pay you back for the fireworks next month.
Pay what back?
I used all of them trying to make that. Sorry.
Beeep
Hey Soochan!
Soochans radio that didnt seem like it would ever speak suddenly made noise.
-Get into the control room this instant!
The first call he had ever received over the radio. It was the forced summon by the Director Mujin Kim. Soochans expression transformed as he shouted while sprinting off towards the control room.
Jungwu, you f Well speak in a sec.
Jungwu shook his head after checking the residue left on theunchpad.
It wasnt because it was made in China. I was not skillful because this was my first time.
It seemed like learning to mix and time the reaction would need some practice like checking reaction speed of each powder and some experimentation.
It would have been perfect if it had gone off during Girlfriends rehearsal. But the order just HAD to be changed at thest minute.
Just when he was regretting what had happened.
Jungwus eyes met with Isuls, who was still sitting as if frozen in ce.
Whoa
If anyone were to ask just how pretty can a person be, Jungwu would want to answer it this way. That there exists someone who is so gorgeous that its breathtaking.
Um, Hotpackright?
Isul recognized Jungwu. Because Soochan had beenining all this time to Jungwu about acting like a fan, he quickly answered,
Youre right. Im sorry I didnt recognize you earlier. I am your fa
He knew too little about her to call himself a fan.
I am your fan starting today. Your singing was the best.
Jungwu lifted both of his thumbs, and then his gaze fell on her guitar.
It snapped.
Excuse me?
The string.
Isul then came to a realization and looked down at her guitar.
Ah.
Hello, Sunbae!
Isul Sunbae!
The members of the Girlfriend group who finally showed up for rehearsal surrounded Isul, jumping up one by one onto the stage.
Oh, hello gang.
Isul picked up her guitar and rose from her chair.
Jungwu! He said you need toe too!
Me?
Jungwu had to miss this opportunity to watch Yulhwi from up close and run to the control room.
Isuls Spokesperson walked up to her.
Isul, great live. You were in the best condition today.
I found out the name of the staff member who gave me the hotpack.
Really? Then Ill go meet themter.
And the Guitar It would have ruined the show tonight if it had brokenter, right?
Really? Wow, you really dodged a bullet there. Maybe its a sign that next year will even be better than this one.
The Spokesperson continued to speak in order to make sure Isul wouldnt fret.
The brand is Martin String, right? I told Manager Oo to go grab some.
Thats the right one.
Isul nodded, as her eyes remained fixed on Jungwu who was moving away from the stage.
Jungwu entered the tent next to the line of sound equipment and was startled when he saw Mujins sharp gaze. Soochan stood next to the Director looking like he head a great deal of things he wanted to say.
Hey, Soochans friend. I heard that you had set up those fireworks earlier?
Yes.
Mujin continued to stare with a piercing gaze.
Were you a participant in World Fireworks festival before? The stuff they do on Han River during summer.
No sir.
Have you graduated from a Stage Prep technical college?
Only Soochan has.
When Jungwu continued to shake his head at these questions, Mujin looked more and more curious.
I have done stage prep for ten years and never seen anything go off like that. Where did you learn to do that?
Well, its not really learning. A firework is an object used to observe light and fire caused by chain explosion of explosives and metallicpounds, right? I just measured thebustion reaction speed of the powders and modified the resulting
Jungwu noticed that Mujin and Soochan did not appear to be following his exnation at all, so he simplified his exnation right away.
It was a firework made with a chemically calcted form. I am a chemist.
For a moment, Mujin had to think if Korea Broadcasting Art School had a chemistry department.
Soochan, I thought you said he was someone from stage prep industry?
IIm sorry!
Soochan bowed very deeply. Mujin waved his hands as he said,
No, no, Im not mad at all. Im just amazed is all. Fireworks in an event is a double-edged sword. Its shiness shouldnt draw the gaze of the audience off of the singer, but it cant be done poorly either.
Mujin checked GIRLFRIEND who began their rehearsal as he continued to say,
Those fireworks earlier, it would have been amazing if it was fired with them standing there. Soochans frien I mean, you said your name was Jungwu?
Yes.
Do you want to set up all the fireworks for tonights show? And the thing you did with the letters earlier. If you could teach the Chemical form or the recipe to ourpany, Ill give you double of todays payno, triple. Thats about the same pay we give to the lighting staff.
Soochans face brightened up at his words. He gestured and indicated for Jungwu to quickly ept the deal.
Uh Its difficult for me to say this directly, but Im the kind of person that wants to bepensated a fair value of work done.
Go ahead and say. I think theres plenty of room for negotiation.
Thank you for offering bonus pay on par with a production staff. But Chemical form is not something thats easy to copy. Ill teach Soochan slowly over time, so please ask Soochan to do itter.
Mujin turned to look at Soochan.
Well, I was nning on having him set up the fireworks after he gets more experience anyway. Sure.
And one more thing. Please pay Soochan three times the rate for today as well.
What?
In return, I will add fireworks that will disy yourpanys logo. Its Ssing Company right?
Director Mujin couldnt help but grin when Jungwu made such an adventurous offer after acting very submissive earlier.
Soochan, now that I see him, your friend is really a fox.
Soochan replied with I guess he is, then turned to Jungwu and silently mouthed the words dude, why are you doing this?
Well screw it. If you can do that much, I shouldpensate you. Since hes a chemist whos going to dramatically raise the standard of ourpanys unique selling point.
Haggling sessful. Jungwu realized that he had sessfully managed to pay back his friend for identally using up all of his fireworks for fun, and smiled in relief. Soochan stared at Jungwu with an expression showingpleteck ofprehension of what was going on.
And Jungwu, take this too.
What Mujin handed Jungwu was a staff use radio.
Then get to work. Soochana, you go to my truck and get fireworks for Jungwu.
Yes, sir!
Jungwu and Soochan left the control room after receiving their orders.
Jungwu nced at Soochan and made a disgusted expression.
Stop looking at me like that. Gross.
Jungwu ya~
I said stop it.
My freng Jungwu han!
Dude! Stop it!
TL NOTE:
Look/seem like a doll is a phrase invented when western Porcin dolls were imported to Asia. It means the person had either an otherworldly (almost perfect) appearance or that they were incredibly cute. Korean, being an inherently ambiguousnguage in both word choice and grammar, probably means both are applicable.
Also having pure white skin is considered one of the most important beauty feature. Asians do not like tanned skin (makes them think you are a peasant).
Personal Anecdote: There was a white American woman who was engaged to a Korean man, and the mans entire family always praised her for her pure white skin. When the time for her marriage ceremony came, she did what a lot of American women do, which is to go to a salon and tan herself to look healthy and skinnier. The entire familymented saying she ruined herself.
If you would like to be a part of what we do then check out our recruitment page in menu.
Chapter 23: Snowflake Serenade (5)
Chapter 23: Snowke Serenade (5)
Inside the storage room.
Jungwu was lost in thought while looking at the array of fireworks on the groundbeled H Innovation.
Are you filming yet?
He turned towards Soochan. Soochan was holding a rather expensive looking camera he somehow managed to borrow. Soochan waved back at him.
Just a sec, the angle got it.
Soochan gave a bright smile once the camera was aimed at Jungwus face.
Wow Jungwu is so~ handsome~
Ack stop it. Focus on filming mostly my hands.
Its a 4k recording, so all of it shows up, dont worry about it and start working.
Jungwu, who was kneeling over the fireworks, asked,
Where did you get that camera anyway?
I borrowed it from a professional cameraman I know. I had a lot of run-ins with him during events like these, and we got along pretty fast. Although, I did introduce him to a bunch of people whenever the opportunity arose.
Soochan then focused on the image of Jungwu disassembling the fireworks and separating the parts and then muttered as if talking to himself.
I still cant believe you did the setup for these fireworks, Jungwu. Its really amazing.
Well, I surprise myself these days as well. Have you walked on top of the Han River Railway before?
Soochan took his eyes away from the camera to look at Jungwu directly.
Hmm? What do you mean?
Never mind then.
After boldly ripping the packaging for fountain fireworks, Jungwu calmly poured out the content onto a paper set on the floor.
I said that I would teach you, but I wont be exining the theory behind it in detail.
Wait why?
Because you wont understand even if I tell you. Just watch carefully, and memorize by repetition. Just memorize the location and the number of each and every grain of these gray firework powder.
Do you really think that would be possible for me?
Jungwu answered after arranging the powder into a T shape and rolling the paper up.
I dont know. This is going to be your source of ie. If you wont give it your all and tackle it with a do or die attitude, what can I say?
Youre absolutely right. Ill do my best to memorize it. But just in case, tell me the theory anyway. As long as it wont interrupt your work.
It wont.
I am nning on rewatching this couple dozen times. But simple terms only, please. I am a Liberal Arts Major.
So all youve got is enthusiasm
Jungwu pondered for a moment before continuing.
Making letters appear in the air isnt as simple as burning a letter shaped incendiary in the air. It uses a mixture of chemicals with varying burn times and trying to have thembust just once. Some chemicals finish their reaction in theunch pad, and somest just long enough to form letters due to being dyed by about 0.1 second.
Jungwu ripped up another firework and picked up a clump of powdered copper.
Try to imagine that this here contains an element and electronno, think of it as having a star.
A star?
Use your imagination. Element star and a dust-like satellite orbiting around it. When energy is transferred in from the outside, these dust stars guys start to run amok. When that happens, one of these guys go ugh so annoying and shoot a green light.
What the
Soochan snickered.
Focus. So when you burn these grains, you get a green light. And the rate the dust stars get annoyed, that timing determines when it gives off the bright light.
Wow, Jungwu were you always so well spoken? I didnt understand all of it, but you were like a chemistry teacher just now.
Really?
Jungwu let out a fake cough and continued to speak. And along with instructions, he continued to work on the fireworks.
Once 20 or so minutes passed, theunch pad for #1 wasplete.
So this is TOTs.
It didnt take too long.
It didnt?
This kind of speed was only possible because Jungwu was able to watch the mini gxy as he made his progress, but he still asked just in case;
I know it looked simple, but the only reason why it looks so easy is because I am avoiding the condition in which it begins thebustion reaction.
Jungwu checked the dust stars that he had pushed away to the corners of the room to prevent static discharge and continued.
You cant take this lightly. This is likeYouve thrown a grenade in the army before, right? The Sergeant probably told you that if you screw up throwing it, then its over. You should treat this the same way. If something goes wrong, throw your body over a barricade immediately.
Should I be getting a dangerous material handling license or something?
Licence?
What happens if the fireworks go off by mistake?
AhIll at least visit you in the hospital.
Hey! Wait. I am going to memorize thispletely and get recognition. For now, I am following around the Director and learning, but in 10 years, I will make a name for myself.
He didnt know whether his friend would actuallye to realize his dream, but Jungwu wished the best for him.
Dont forget my help in this.
Of course.
Jungwu made sure to remind others who to thank. Who knows what will happen in a few years.
After about an hour and a halfter, all four sets of fireworks for the stage wasplete.
Good work Jungwu. Lets relocate them and have our dinner.
Soochan hoisted the camera onto his shoulder and lifted up one end of theunch pad. Jungwu picked up the other end and opened the doors to the storage room when he noticed a mob of people running through the halls.
What are they doing?
Since theyre headed towards the standby room, Id guess they are fans running to ask for autographs.
As they moved towards the exit Soochan continued to exin.
When theyre doing that, usually its after the managers have given their permission. It means that the makeup for the stage isplete and the stars are ready to receive the fans loving.
Hey, what about me? Yulhwi?
Jungwu had forgotten about the autograph and photo and looked on as if he wanted to jump into the fray and join the mob.
It would be difficult for now since there are a lot of people, so Ill ask the Directorter. He already recognized your skill so it should be simple.
Dont ke out.
After firmly reminding his friend, Jungwu and Soochan put down theunchpad before the stage.
Jungwu was watching Soochan connect the ignition system when he noticed an unfamiliar man approach them. He was thinking that the man might be heading in their direction, and then finally their eyes met.
Jungwu ssi?
Yes?
The neatly dressed man in suit bowed and introduced himself.
I am the Head of Starpiece, Sungjae Ji.
The man immediately stated his business.
I wished to ask you regarding the hotpack you gifted to one of our singers, Isul Yoon.
The fact that the manager of Isul hade searching for Jungwu personally made Soochans eyes go wide with surprise.
Jungwu asked in response.
What about the hotpack? Did something go wrong?
No, I was just amazed at the effectiveness of it. So I was just curious about where did you obtain it.
Oh, that
When Jungwu was considering how to exin that it was a custom made product utilizing dust stars, Soochan who was listening snapped his fingers.
Youre talking about the ones I bought two of earlier, right? I got it at the convenience store just across from here. Is it really that good?
It was a product they sold here? Thank you. Isul ssi was very grateful for it. I dont know if youll need this but
Head Manager Ji handed over an autographed CD of Isul to Jungwu.
It was the official 2nd album scheduled to be released in the uing fall. The cover image had a picture of Isuls humble smile, but the image brought out the endearing quality befitting someone nicknamed the National Younger Sister.
Jungwu epted it out of reflex.
Then please take care.
Once he expressed his gratitude, the Head Manager turned and quickly left, leaving Jungwu slightly panicking. It also didnt feel right to chase down someone who was leaving only to try and exin the situation to him.
Wow, Jungwu Han.
Soochan gazed at Jungwu with an amazed look.
You drank your coffee alone, and gave away your hotpack meanwhile? You didnt seem all that interested, but you sure are good atworking.
Dude, why did you just say that to him?
What?
The thing I gave them isnt something you can buy. I modified it to increase the rate of corrosion. Making even one took a while.
Corrosion what? I mean, since you were hesitating you know? Since I was the one to buy it, I just told him the truth as is.
He couldnt really me his friend on this one. The only problem was that the dust stars were more effective than he had anticipated.
Soochan put his arms around Jungwu.
It was just a hotpack, but she sent her manager over to thank you. And you know how did you manage to make a connection with a major star in one shot? I feel like if you asked her to take a picture with you after the show, shed immediately ept.
Whats the point?
Who knows? Isul might develop an interest in you after this.
Jungwu shook his head after gazing into the pretty face on the cover of the album.
Dont give me false hope. How can she take an interest in one ordinary man when she has the adoration of a country.
Soochan sighed loudly, saying oh you.
Jungwu, you always seem like such a realist when ites to women. You were the same when Eunshil moved away.
Eunshil? Do you even realize how long ago that was? That was back in elementary school.
I rather live with my dreams. The Directors wife was originally a Model. They met during an event.
Soochan indicated the direction of the production room.
Lets report and eat first.
While walking, Soochan asked another question.
Dont you have a girl youre interested in at work?
No.
Any pretty ones?
The image of Boyoung and Doctor Moon appeared for a brief moment in Jungwus mind. Not only were they simply beautiful people, but they were also intelligent and charismatic.
Your face says yes!
I dont know. I am so busy at work I dont really have the leisure to be thinking about that kind of stuff.
Leisure? What are you talking about? Being together during hard times and helping one another, thats what it means to be in a rtionship. Try proactively helping them prettydies at work, like youve helped me out. I bet they wont be able to help but fall for you. Its not like you have a hideous appearance. Although youre not quite as
Soochana.
Hmm?
I just had a thought. I dont think this is a topic a lifelong single guy should be advising about.
Being hit where it hurts, Soochan made a very tight fist.
Yes, you bastard, Ive only learned about dating through literature!*
The Director who was undergoing a final sound check with the audio team turned his head when he saw Jungwu and Soochan walk up to him.
Oh Soochan, is it done?
Yes sir, the setup isplete.
Good work both of you. Go take a break until the show.
When Soochan realized that Jungwu was mouthing the name Yulhwi to him, he nodded to show that he understood.
Director, sir.
Hmm?
You know the manager for Girlfriends, right? Could Jungwu get Yulhwis autographter? And if possible, a photo as well.
Director made arge grin as he turned to look at Jungwu.
What, so you were Yulhwis fan?
Ahyes
Thats surprising, considering theyre still rtively new. Well, its definitely much better than Soochan who gets excited about every attractive star. Ill make it happen.
The Director nodded coolly after making a subtle but rather substantial diss against Soochan.
I was nning on going to dine with the managers after the inspection anyway. We should just go together then.
Really?
You can just go follow Girlfriends manager after finishing your meal. Ill have a word with him.
Jungwu was surprised at how easily the Director agreed. Soochan gave a I told you so look and smiled smugly with his eyes.
About 10 minutes passed since they began waiting to leave for dinner.
Mr. Representative is heading in.
Along with the voice, a middle-aged man entered the tent.
It was a tall man who wore an exquisite well fitted suit who didnt give the impression of being as old as he was in spite of the graying hair and facial features cing the mans age around the fifties.
The Director who was controlling the volume settings then had a sudden shift in his facial expression and ran up to greet him.
Mr. Representative! What brings you to this ce?
It was apletely different tone of voice from the one used to address Jungwu and his friend earlier, so Jungwu gave a quizzical look to Soochan. Soochan answered in a whisper.
Hes the sponsor of the event.
Wait, is he the Representative of the TS Mall?
Yeap. Chairman Daegil Yum. Ive heard that hes an influential man who runs major logisticspany aside from the mall.
Even his clothes seemed special. Perhaps due to finally seeing a fabulously wealthy man in person, Jungwus attention was naturally drawn to him.
Director, I have something to ask. Do you have any device that can simte snowfall?
Snow? Normally we use something called paper shower. We put a bunch of paper powder into aunch bin and shoot it up to give it the effect.
Ah. Exactly how does it look like?
Please wait a moment. Soochan! Go grab my tablet!
Soochan ran out like a bullet the moment the Director issued an order.
Excuse me sir, but why are you asking about the snow effect?
Its because of an event happening at the TS Mall.
The Representative pointed at the banner on one side of the za. Jungwu followed his gesture with his eyes and saw a familiar advertisement he could see during wintertime.
[If it snows in the month of December, Big sale! Lots of presents!]
As you can see, thats one of the events run by most of the malls during winter.
When the Representative muttered Vice President you idiot, the Director turned away and pretended he didnt hear anything. Most likely, the Vice President was the one to n the event.
Im not sure if youre aware, but in the month of December, there has not been a single day of snow. Weve had that banner up for half a month and werent able to actually run the event.**
Is that so? But whats the problem with that e
He looked as if he thought it was rather a good thing for the mall that there was no need to give discounts thanks to the fine weather.
The Representative made a knowing smile as he exined.
Winter sale also serves the purpose of cheaply reducing the inventory that piled up over the course of the year. Furthermore, if we can make customers happier during their visit to the mall, then it can increase the rate of their return visit. If it ends up snowing the entire month, it could potentially lead to some losses, but thats also not a bad thing since it will lead to an increase in potential customers. But now
Here it is!
Soochan arrived out of breath and handed the tablet over to the Director. Director immediately searched for a video of a show and showed it to the Representative.
Oh, so thats what it looks like. Not bad.
It can only appear like snow thanks to the lighting. It is greatly different from how real snow actually is. Especially since the paper has a rough texture to touch whereas snow is cold and soft.
As if to confirm his suspicions the Director asked,
Were you hoping to fire paper snow to try and run the event?
That is the case.
The longest you can sustain a paper snow effect is about 30 seconds. Although it can be used for a surprise effect for the stage, it wont be easy to try and replicate snow with it. And cleanup is a whole different matter entirely.
Is there anything we can do?
After taking a nce through the za, the esctor, and the stairway, the Director muttered,
Using paper shower as a basis, we could try spraying sugar powder to try and emte snowfall, and then use styrofoam granules to simte umtion? And then also apply snow spray periodically
So that will work, right? Thats excellent. The event today is quiterge. If we were to decorate the za as if it had snowed and prepared a surprise event, wouldnt it raise interest in the show? Having customers find snow on a day it didnt snow; it would be great for marketing purposes.
No sir, this would require a minimum of a day of preparation to pull it off. The event begins at 7 pm. It would be impossible to do it in just two hours.
Is that so?
Representative looked disappointed.
As a stage performance professional, at least you tried to answer me. Vice President keeps giving me meek answers like wouldnt it snow at least a day this month.
The Director was forced to make a bitter smile.
Ill keep an eye out for the weather forecast this week, and if it doesnt snow, Ill have to go ahead andunch the event. Ill cover the expenses. Please make it as realistic as possible. Ill leave it to you to alleviate my worry about the mall so I can enjoy my time with the family on the weekend.
I will make the preparations.
Secretary, please enter this into the calendar.
Yes, Mr. Representative.
The assistant standing at the back of the production office answered right away. As soon as he gave instructions, the Representative let out arge sigh.
We nned a When it Snows on Christmas eventst year and it did not end up snowing. The year before that, we nned a White Christmas event and saw no snow either. This year we nned for the entire month of December. If this one goes poorly as well, the customer forums will go wild. Of course, the Vice President will
Representative Yum motioned his finger across his neck.
While listening to the dilemma of a CEO that wasnt really a dilemma, Jungwu looked out of the gigantic ss wall. It was sunset, but there was not a puff of cloud. Just as he had observed this morning, there was no chance it would snow in this weather.
Snow, huh?
Perhaps it was due to wishing to see it? He noticed that the sky through the window suddenly expanded in size as if it was being zoomed in.
What the
A single cold reaction passed before Jungwu like a hallucination.
It was a cold looking Ice Star. And around it, water molecules began to stick and freeze around it.
The Ice star grewrger andrger until it created six winglike structures and grew into a transparent crystal. And it fluttered through the air until itnded on his cheeks.
Ooh coloh wait its not cold.
After he reacted to the artificial snowke and let out a chuckle, a chemical reaction form suddenly passed through Jungwus mind.
Shouldshould I be telling them?
Determining that there was nothing to lose from informing them, Jungwu made up his mind.
Um, Director.
Once Jungwu opened his mouth, both the Director and the Representative turned to look at him.
Oh right, you guys were waiting, right? Since were not done with Mr. Representative here, go ahead first.
Its just. I have something to add to this conversation.
Soochan grabbed Jungwus arm with a worrying look, but Jungwu patted his friends hands to reassure him and faced the other two men.
The Director asked,
So what is it?
What do you think, if we were to spread real snow around here?
TL note
*
Learn X through Literature = All theory, no practical knowledge
**
Snow in December iming there was no snow is hard for me to believe in. Korea has Siberian winter, making Korean winter one of the coldest in the sametitude. I vividly recall one meter of snow umtion in Seoul every winter in my childhood. So this is an author created situation.
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Chapter 24: Snowflake Serenade (6)
Chapter 24: Snowke Serenade (6)
Real snow?
Perhaps it was too unexpected. The Director repeated the words with a stunned look.
Are you suggesting that we use something like a Snow Blower and spray artificial snow or something?
Something simr.
Would that work? Its not like this is a skating arena, and there isnt any temperature control equipment necessary to maintain freezing temperature. How would you maintain the snow in indoor temperature?
Unlike the pessimistic reaction of the Director, the Representative showed interest in his gaze.
Director, who is this fellow?
Ah, this man here is the staff in charge of todays Pyrotechnics .
Wasnt that your area of expertise, Director?
Hes also highly skilled. For me, all I can do is choose the timing to fire off the effects, but Jungwu is able to manipte the fireworks itself and give it vor.
The Representative looked Jungwu up and down as if to inspect him.
Highly skilled you say?
Jungwu didnt get intimidated nor did he look overly confident, maintaining a calm look as he faced the Shopping Malls CEO. The Representative said,
I have considered using real snow before. Ive visited Dubai once and seen their ski resort. Why shouldnt it be possible to do something that they managed to do in that sweltering desert?
A question was posed by the Representative. Since Jungwu had never imagined anything so fancy as running a ski resort in the middle of a desert, he answered while scratching his chin.
Of course it will be easier than in the desert. Like the Director said earlier, cold temperature is necessary to form snow. But having bone-chilling coldness like a Skating Rink is also not necessary.
Jungwu thought about the snowke phenomena he had witnessed earlier in the room, and then started with the conclusion.
It will be made on top over there. If you open all the windows the top floor will get sufficiently cold enough. Its a method that will work even if it doesnt get below freezing. Its fine just reaching near freezing temperatures.
Near freezing? Hey Jungwuya, near freezing temperatures in winter isnt cold, it would be considered ratherfortably warm. Ice doesnt even easily form until you reach negative 5 degrees celsius. So wouldnt the Snow Blower just make rain instead?
Jungwu nodded to the Directors logical statements.
Pure water actually freezes at negative 39 degrees celsius or lower. But snow isnt simply frozen water. Ice staroh I should call it Ice Nucleus, as long as there is a material to maintain the Ice formation, the freezing point can be much much higher. Whether its an impurity like dust or a granule that water molecules stick to
He imagined the process of the Ice Nucleus transforming into a snowke star. Jungwu looked at the chemicalposition of molecules gently wrapping the surface of the Ice Star.
like a man-made proteinpound.
Proteinpound?
Did you know that when there is formation of frost in the fall, the nts form ayer of ice at mere negative 2 degrees celsius? Its caused by a microorganism called Pseudomonas. This Microorganism has protein on the surface that acts as Ice Nucleus needed for ice to form. And so crops freeze at rtively higher temperatures.
Perhaps it was due to the calm manner he was giving his ideas, even the Director became engrossed in the exnation. It was then the Representative who was wanting to grasp at straws finally looked pleased.
Soochan who had been viewing the situation nervously finally calmed down when he noticed the two mens reactions.
The ski resort built in the desert probably used this protein to mass produce snow that forms at a higher temperature, since its cheaper to do this than to use the air conditioner to reduce the temperature by even one degree.
So where can this protein be purchased?
The Representative asked without being able to hold himself back. Jungwu scratched his chin and replied nonchntly.
Pseudomonas doesnt have all that of aplex gic structure, so most chemicalpanies should be able to design a much more effective product
Jungwu suddenly stopped speaking.
Excuse me, Mr. Representative. Would you mind if I called ourpany KG Chemicals to see if they sell it?
KG Chemicals?
Because Jungwu was wearing a Sing Company entry tag around his neck, the Representative looked confused. Jungwu pointed towards his friend.
I came today to help out a friend. I actually work at KG Chemicals.
So you worked for a Chemicalpany. That exins why you speak so differently from other stage crews Ive seen. I would love to move ahead with the idea at the earliest convenience so please go ahead and give them a call.
Alright, please give me 3 minutes.
After leaving the control room, Jungwu found his cellphone and dialed the number.
Please answer.
The signal rang a few times, and luckily the person on the other end picked up the phone.
Yes
There was a sense of intelligence behind this womans voice.
Ah, Doctor Moon. Sorry for calling so suddenly.
Jungwu ssi? What do you need?
I think I just ran into an opportunity to raise my work performance.
Jungwu quickly summarized the events.
So what we need isrge amounts of specialized proteinpound, and so I was wondering if KG Chemicals would have them in stock, and what are the processes of obtaining it.
Youre making sales on weekends?
Doctor Moons puzzled tone of voice was apparent even through the phone.
I didnte here to make a sale per se. First step is checking if we have this material in the material library at the Central Research Laboratory. So, do you know anyone whos hard-working enough to go to work on weekends?
Tell me then.
Excuse me?
Im close to where I can ess the database so just tell me then.
Doctor Moon, did you head to work today?
I am in the middle of making progress on my project.
Jungwu swallowed back his groan of surprise. Last weekend, she had stayed awake all night with him, and even this weekend she decided to go to work. Recalling that he had beenining just this morning that he might be suffering from work addiction, he couldnt help but feel that he had been naive in the face of a real workaholic.
Feeling humbled, Jungwu said,
Its a protein made by a microorganism called Pseudomonas. I dont know how far the production stage has reached, but to begin, with we need Malonyl, Acyl Carrier Protein, and something that can act as coating for transacse
After searching based on the chemical information that Jungwu provided, Doctor Moon finally answered.
There is a record of producing a product called Super Snow Max. Whats this? Its listed as a product targeted for Ski Resorts.
Thats the right one.
Its quite expensive. Although it showed 89% increase in the volume of snow, the note states that it was put on hold due to high production unit prices. Theres raw material stored in Paju Factorys number 13 warehouse.
How can I obtain them?
Its a 24-hour production factory so as long as you ce an order, it should work.
I dont know how contracts work so
So why is a researcher involving himself in sales?
Ill exin when we meetter. 3 minutes are almost over. The Representative is giving me looks. I need the product within the next 2 hours.
Ill give you the phone number of R&D Sales divisions Deputy. Hes our project supervisor, so hes currently at thepany.
Jungwu guessed that the man was probably forced against his will toe to work because of Doctor Moon, but Jungwu didntment and gave her a reply.
Thank you!
After calling Sales Team 2s Deputy named Sangchul Jo, Jungwu was able to get the answer that the product could be provided within the time constraint.
The price was agreed to at a higher premium for being a weekend rush order, but considering the Representatives personality thus far, he probably wouldnt mind the total.
Soon after, Representative Yum and his secretary stood before Jungwu.
Its a verbal contract, but the preparations will be done on time right?
Yes. And please make sure to deposit the money if it works.
Jungwu thought of Deputy Jo who was rushing on his way with the materials for the artificial snow and said,
Please keep one thing in mind. The Clean up after spraying a ton of snow into the interior of the building My neighborhood gets chaotic when it snows every year. The neighbor across the street spends most of the time sweeping the snow, and when his wife came to nag once, she slipped and had cracked her hips. My mother is the head of Womens Club, and she always goes to meet a grandma who ims that all you need to do isy charcoal.
Mr. Representative gave a smile.
The value of advertisement for spraying real snow is much greater than the cost of cleanup. We alreadypleted the agreement for artificial snow. All I can do is wait and hope that things go as nned.
You wont have to worry about that. There is no such thing as fake or coincidence when the criterion for a chemical reaction is met.
Did you say you were a chemist?
Yes, sir.
I didnt notice it before, but when I look at you, I get the feeling that its a very interesting area of study.
I am experiencing that for myself recently.
Along with 3D VR mixing into my reality.
By 6 30 pm, the shopping mall became packed with customers who came to watch the mini concert. Jungwu leaned against the rails on the top floor to look down.
It was the stage he had been helping set up since the morning. Behind it were the VIP guests. And beyond that were what appeared to be thousands of regr audience. Seeing them from such a height made them seem small and tiny.
Oof so cold.
He was wearing a glove, but he still felt the chill from the wind that blew in from the open windows.
If I were to convert a hotpack with the corrosive process like thest time the snow wont form.
There was nothing he could do but endure it and wait. The employees who installed and were waiting on standby next to the snow-making machine were also shivering in the cold.
Bee beep
Jungwu ssi, when will Deputy Jo arrive?
Jungwu couldnt answer the question asked over the radio. The Deputy was supposed to arrive already but was caught in traffic. He asked instead,
Until when do we have to spray the snow?
Isuls entrance is the cutoff line. One hour from the start of the concert. If we dont then the customers wont be able to enjoy the event.
It meant the snow had to begin before 8 pm.
Eh? Are you Director Kim?
That is correct.
Why are you using elevated terms?*
Im showing deference. You just dont seem like someone I should be speaking inly to.
Its ok though. Im Soochans friend.
I think it was a good thing that Soochan decided to bring Jungwu ssi today. The Representative is looking forward to the event. If we fail, this will be thest time for me to run the show in this mall.
And if we seed?
Then, how do I say this. You save the life of a person with the title of Business Vice President. And I will probably be given monopoly over all events that happen in this giant shopping mall.
That sounds great.
If that happens, I will make sure topensate properly.
Once 7 pm hit, the Mini Concert began with a spectacle.
The Girlgroup TOT took to the stage and gave an energetic introduction and began with their hit song Go!, which raised the atmosphere of the mall in mere moments.
Jungwu couldnt take his eyes away from the stage despite stomping his feet to chase away the cold. The live show was definitely fundamentally different from the rehearsal.
The right thing for the right time, stage performance really benefits from support devices.
Lights and smoke; everything on top of the stage blinking and sparkling along to the rhythm drew in the audiences attention.
Once two songs were over, the first Fireworks went off.
It was short, but it created an unmistakable image of chrysanthemum flower with the letters [TOT] clearly written in the center for a brief moment before disappearing. The fireworks gave a refreshing feel as they popped and illuminated the image. It was wonderous, like a magic show.
Bee beep
Wow, what the. Jungwu ssi, just where did you learn to do that? I dont think even the H Innovation pyrotechnic experts can make something like that. And they are the ones who manage fireworks run by the City of Seoul during festivals.
Thats because theyre only a 5th rank Chemical Company in the country. I work for KG Chemicals.
Jungwu made a subtle inference at KG Chemicals 1st ce position and let him know hispanys greatness. He then resumed putting his attention back to the Girl groups enthusiastic performance below.
Thanks to the great intro, spectacle, and fancy fireworks, the apuse of the visitors of the mall reached fever pitch. He even saw that there were people at the entrance that couldnt enter and were watching from outside.
As an event, this was most definitely a sess.
And eventually, the 3rd group on the list came on stage.
Its the Girlfriends!
Jungwu shouted when he stopped himself.
Autograph
For one reason or another, he was unable to get Yulhwis autograph.
Oh my god, that was the most important thing.
Jungwu watched their performance from afar with a dull face. It wasnt like he was in the front row with the best seats, so Jungwu became even more wilted.
Let me see! Zoom in!
He couldnt closely perceive the events on the stage even with the chemical worldview. Too many Dust Stars were dancing along to the rhythm, making everything look wavy.
All of you guys go away!
He was waving his hand when his cellphone finally rang. It was the Deputy he had been waiting for.
Hello, Mister Deputy? Back door? There should be a staff named Soochan Park there waiting so just give him the materials. If you hand the purchase receipt to Secretary Jung, they should transfer the funds right away.
Although he didnt get any signature on paper, Jungwu felt confident everything was going to work out well. He quickly addressed the staff standing before the sedan-sized snow machine.
The additive is on its way up. Please begin the snow machine. And you can start shooting as soon as the material is mixed.
5 minutester, the Elevator doors opened, and Soochan came running while pushing a cart filled with boxes.
Jungwuya!
Hey, this way!
A box was opened, and they mixed the powder in the stic container with thebel Super Snow Max into the water tank, and Jungwu nodded.
Vrrroom~!
The Engine gave a rawr as it began to work, and the nozzle of the snow machine began to blow water molecules from the humidifier. Jungwu was worried that the energy from the Dust stars might raise the kic energy in the air and chased them even further away.
Ok, now freeze!
The humidity in the air first looked like white fog. But the water molecules began to freeze rapidly and gather around small particles as they floated around. Soon the reaction Jungwu had seen a few hours ago was repeated.
Its done.
Chasing away the Dust stars was very helpful. There were more particles than perfect snowkes, but this concentration of snow was still a sess.
Soochan who was watching haplessly from the side suddenly opened his mouth.
Itssnow!
What did I tell you?
A particle of snow became focused by Jungwus vision.
It was transparent and t. It was a more perfect six-sided wings than any other snowke he had ever seen.
Oh, you were made so well. Bye bye~
The perfectly pure and clean snowke gently floated down to the za below.
The Snow machine was connected to the fire extinguisher system of the building, so soon the snow machine began to bellow snow like a storm.
At the same time, on the stage.
[Isul ssi, please prepare to make ament during the interlude.]
Isul was in the middle of singing her third song Winter is Coming~ when she saw the message pop up from the Stage use monitor. She sent the control room a quizzical look when she noticed it.
What do they mean?
She had only worn an earpiece that yed the apaniment so she couldnt ask directly. Once the verse was over, it was time for the guitar solo. The message on the screen surprised her.
Why this?
Isul carefully opened her lips.
Everyone, do you like snow?
The crowd that had been listening enthusiastically answered happily with a Yes!
Umshall we look up at the sky?
Once thement was over, the lights moved as one and aimed at the Malls ceiling.
A brief moment of silence fell over the mall.
What is that?
My goodness
Isul also looked up hearing the murmur of the crowds and couldnt help but watch agape.
Snow.
Soundless snowkes.
The air was filled with them.
The snow gently fell upon the heads of the guests below, and all of them were shocked.
[Isul ssi, the interlude is over!]
Ah
We should sometimes run forward without looking back on days like this so that we can leave footprints upon the white snow
The thin ice melted the moment itnded on the outstretched hands. It was just an ordinary symbol of winter, but it seemed so tender.
Couples leaned on each others shoulders, and families grasped each others hands. The guests enjoyed the unexpected gift happily.
It looks like we are inside of a snowball globe.
Isul couldnt help but smile when she felt the pleasant sensation of something cold touch the hand she was strumming her guitar with.
Since its snowing, since its winter. Lets walk together through the whitened world
Once the song was over, everyone gathered in the mall gave a standing ovation. To Isul. To the miracle from the sky.
When Isul read the message on her monitor, she immediately began to speak into the mic.
Theyve turned off the heater. Please put on your coats. Ill begin the fourth song.
Zzzt PIIII
While Isul was speaking she suddenly heard a strange sound from the right speaker and flinched.
TL NOTE: Korean has various forms of thenguage. Rude, regr, elevated, super-elevated, deified, etc. The reason why its a form is because grammar and vocabry actually differs between them significantly (and it is obvious when someone switches form). Mostmon forms are rude regr and elevatednguage. And the people you use each of the forms for are fairlymon sense (rude for people you can afford to insult and dislike, normal form for people of the same standing or below, and elevated for people of higher rank or age). The fact that the Director used elevated form means that he perceives Jungwu as being higher standing than his own (because Director is for sure older) which is why Jungwu is shocked.
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Chapter 25: Snowflake Serenade (7)
Chapter 25: Snowke Serenade (7)
Director Mujin couldnt look away from the pouring snow as he muttered to himself.
I didnt think that Id get to see the first snow this way.
Anyone who runs stage prep would dream of being able to recreate such a miraculous sight. And he saw other people around him who were feeling the same way.
Jungwu, friend. Do you understand what kind of stunt you managed to pull off?
People were looking up as if they werent sure if they were indoors or out. Some were raising their hands up to touch the falling snow. Some giggling, some sharing this wondrous experience with someone over the phone.
Mujin felt proud because even he couldnt help but feel the same way as those people out there.
I can afford to be impressed since we went this far.
Director sir! The Sound team is calling urgently
Just a second, let me make a wish.
Mujin made a personal wish Please let me have a daughter by next year before he turned on the radio.
What?
We dont know if it is because of the snow, but the left speaker is beginning to make noise. It might be short-circuiting from the cable side. We would like to halt Isul ssis performance to inspect
No, you will ruin this atmosphere. Cut off the problem speaker and readjust the volume.
Director, the right speaker is also beginning to
It was a situation where problems were bound to happen. Todays setting was designed for indoor use, not outdoors.
Please wait. Isul ssis performance is a live show. Just cut off the MR and leave only the center speaker. We only have the second half of thest song and an encore left.
Mujin who didnt want to ruin the perfect performance gave his instructions.
And if the center speakers go out? Then the show itself is over. It could take a rapid turn for the worse.
This was the opinion of the sound director.
We might not be able to do an encore.
Mujin came to a conclusion and was about to inform Isul via the monitor, when his radio turned on.
Director, sir. This is Jungwu.
Jungwu ssi, it was perfect. The Representative was overjoyed and is calling the media. Im a little busy right now, so I will call you in a
No, please dont cut the line.
Excuse me?
That issue youre having. Isul ssis performance. Wouldnt it be easier if we just stopped the snow from falling on the stage?
Hmm? Do you have a solution?
If we install a chemical solution on the stage that can sustainably emit strong heat for about five minutes, the snow wont be able to reach it. You know that hot air expands and rises, right? The snow wont be able to pass through it and instead turn into droplets in the form of something resembling a fog.
Why havent we done it yet?!
The problem is, I have to be the one holding whatever causes this reaction for the entire duration.
What do you mean?
These guys cause quite a violent corrosive reaction so no one but me could hold it, is how I should exin it.
Mujin thought hard about what he was told.
It could only work for just five minutes.
But this short time was the perfect opportunity to capitalize and enhance the enjoyment the audience was experiencing through the unexpected snowke surprise.
He felt that he would never be able to recreate a scene like this again. And because of this, he felt greedy.
Jungwu ssi, if thats the case, I have a condition.
Once the final song was over and Isul stood up to bid farewell, the crowd chanted encore.
Isul gave a brilliant smile and said,
The Director messaged me saying that speakers on either side of me are not working because of the snow.
Its okay!
Were happy just hearing your voice!
As if she predicted this reaction, Isul quickly sat back down on her seat.
[Pleasement for 1 minute. Center Speaker is still live.]
Isul smoothly began speaking upon the Directors request.
I actually dont like the first snow all that much. My first love broke up with me during the first snow. Ah, it was unrequited love, so I guess calling it a break up is a little weird.
Herment lead to men of the audience to shout out I will be your boyfriend! My first love is Isul Yoon! Lets find happiness by next year!.
Thank you all.
She hade a long waypared to when she first started out and was too shy to speak to the audience. It wasrgely thanks to her fans who deeply cared for her well being.
Isul warmed up her fingers with her breath, and then ced her hand over the guitar.
Its snowing, the atmosphere is great. Should I sing a song Ive only performed once as Encore? Its a song Ive considered adding it to the album a few times. So I guess you could call it a new song. Youve all havee at a great time.
The audience redoubled their focus on the stage, full of anticipation for what song she might sing for them.
Once the promised 1 minute passed, Isul began strumming the guitar and ying the music.
Whenever~
Unfortunately, a ratherrge snowke fell on her forehead and caused her to wrinkle her eyebrows. It inevitably led to her melody being off and caused dissonance.
Ah
Isul was shocked and stopped her song.
Pplease pretend you didnt hear that!
She shut her eyes real tight and lowered her head, putting her hands together in a prayer as if saying please~. The crowd grinned at her cute reaction.
Encore! Encore!
The audience began to shout as if they went back in time before it happened.
Ahah, IDont actually like the first snow all that much.
Once she began her familiar soundingment, the audience gave a chuckle.
The title is Adolescent happiness, it is a song I only sang just ooh I cant joke about this part, just twice now.
Du ru ring~
She yed a chord and began to quietly sing the song. Her voice which filled the entire za caused the crowd to fall silent and be mesmerized by her music, erasing the ruckus earlier as if it had never happened.
Whenever I look at you, just staring at you blinds me.
Isul fixed her eyes on a female audience member as she gently and tenderly sang her song. Wishing that Isul would sing to them too, the envious gaze of the audience focused on thedy.
Whenever I am with you, quietly leaning sets me free
This time she gazed and sang towards a couple standing together and the couple leaned against each other lovingly.
She was about to say the next verse when she was startled by another static.
Center Speaker too?
Luckily it was perfect timing to change to a new cord and conceal the sound. Thanks to her skill as a guitarist and songwriter, almost no one picked up the subtle change of the music.
[Isul ssi, please hold on for just a bit longer. The expert who created the snow will arrive soon. Just think of him as a part of the performance.]
Isul didnt understand the message on the screen and tilted her head. But soon she began to feel warmth and began to look around.
It had to be a mistake. It was snowing so hard, so where could the warmth possiblye from?
When Isul breathed in to sing the next line, her eyes suddenly grew wide in surprise.
Someone was climbing onto the stage from below.
When the persons face was finally visible after slowly climbing the stairs, she recognized who it was and found herself unable to look away.
There will never be another, like the magic of first love. Or so I had believed
The man who was slowly walking up to her was well matched for winter mood, wearing white hat upon white outfit.
Tightly holding your most precious hand in mine and walking on an endless road
Isul felt that each step he took gradually brought warmth to her body. And it wasnt until when the person reached her side that she realized that the temperature itself was rising.
Wow!
What is that?
The za erupted in wonder. For some reason, the snow was avoiding the stage, as if an invisible barrier had been erected.
The snow burst into tiny little droplets at the boundary where the warm air and the falling snow touched, and the stage lights shone through them sparkling like starlight.
The snow, the soft fog, and the brilliant show of lights created a dreamlike atmosphere. And beautiful music filled the air.
Just the sight of such extraordinary spectacle took everyones breath away.
And Isul who was sitting in the dead center of it all couldnt believe what she was seeing, and felt overwhelmed. However, she remained professional and continued to sing in spite of the situation.
Whenever youre feeling tired, please think of this day, and find joy, of being together, the two of us.
The first verse was over. Isul switched off her mic before the chorus picked back up again and turned her head.
What are you doing here?
I am protecting thest remaining speaker.
Jungwu pointed at the hotpack in his hands.
With this.
Isuls eyes focused on the object. She added a beautiful and melodic key change that didnt previously exist and asked,
By holding a Hotpack?
This isnt a normal hotpack. It has 6 hours worth of corrosion reaction condensed to about 5 minutes so wait is it okay to have a conversation like this?
Who are you? Were you a stage performer?
Ah, me
The chords with key changes wereing to an end, and it was time to begin the second verse.
Quiet!
Isul quickly flipped the switch on her Mic.
Gijun Shin who was introduced by staff and given VIP seating was filming the show and was busy being amazed and amazed again.
4 years of frence filming, I finally hit the jackpot.
Just the video of Isul singing in the snow would have guaranteed a million hits. But the show after that man dressed in white appeared was the real deal.
Even Gijun who had been to many performances had never witnessed such effects.
Who is that man? New Singer? Dancer?
Why would it matter, this video was guaranteed to be a media sensation. Gijun continued to film Isuls performance feeling sad that only the ending of the song remained.
Hmm, this is way too hot.
Jungwu frowned as he continued to watch the Dust stars vibrate in the air and transfer kic energy. Boiling hotpack was one thing, but with even these guys going out of control, the microscopic world was caught up in a maelstrom of sparks and lightning.
It was a scene he wanted to close his eyes and pretend wasnt happening.
Luckily, Isul who was singing was apparently serene. Was she aware that a Dust storm had appeared around her and was busy performing a berserk dance?
The reason why he was standing there dressed like a magician was due to Director Kims demands. And it was followed up by the representatives immense initiative of procuring a difficult-to-pronounce Italian name brand suit within 30 seconds.
Sohot
Due to the immense heat from the hotpack that couldnt be fully be blocked out by threeyers of gloves, Jungwu was sweating profusely despite the winter cold.
Come with me, my blinding light. Let us go, my joy in life
And through it all, Isuls singing voice was enough to wash away all the pain and difort he was feeling.
Whenever youre feeling tired, please think of this day, and find joy, of being together, the two of us.
With the final lines the second verse was over and the entire shopping mall erupted in a standing ovation.
Thank you, I am Isul Yoon.
She stood up with her guitar and gave a bow. Jungwu clumsily followed suit and bowed as well.
[Jungwu ssi. If youre wearing that kind of outfit, you should be giving a bow like a medieval age european aristocrat.]
What?
Isul read the message on the monitor and nced at him urging him to do it. He then recalled Soochans words. It was the rule in the industry that during unexpected events, anyone on the stage was expected to follow the teleprompter to the best of their ability.
Ah well
Jungwu couldnt help but move one of his legs back and make a wide sweeping motion with his right arm as he lowered his head.
The crowd responded unexpectedly well. Despite his inexperienced bow, there was apuse. The crowd apuded back even when he waved at the 2nd and 3rd floor balcony.
Oh, these people are just happy.
The final farewells were made and Isul turned to look at Jungwu.
Just how
Pew~!
The 4th round of fireworks he had set up shot up over the stage.
Isul was caught totally unprepared and jumped up, hugging her guitar and shouting Mommy!
Jungwu instinctively reached out and grasped her by her shoulders and helped her regain her bnce when she tilted slightly.
Please be careful.
She stared at him with wide-open eyes. Jungwu hurriedly removed his hands from her.
Soochan told me there were few celebrities who get startled every time there is a firework. I guess Isul ssi is one of them.
Thats not true. I am really used to
Here ites again.
? What?
Pow powowow boom!
Isul was so startled by the fireworks she was about to scream but held herself by forcing her mouth closed. Jungwu couldnt contain hisughter when she red at him in response, and so he turned his head instead.
Isul gazed up to watch the lights going off above the stage. Her jaws dropped when she saw the lights form an image of a Guitar with the words IS written on it.
What? Thats my guitar!
Youre right. I made it after seeing your guitar.
Who? You did?
Jungwu nodded. Isul carefully inspected Jungwu.
Just what kind of person are you?
He was about to answer Chemist like he did with everyone else today. But during this moment, wearing brand name suit for the first time, and recalling ament on the 9th link on trending humor forum leaderboards, led Jungwu to answer this instead.
I guess some call me Magician. At least people on 1st line call me that.*
As I thought.
He meant it as a joke, so he was the one who was shocked when she epted his exnation so readily.
That hotpack, the string on my guitar, that snow, those fireworks did you make it all with magic?
Why would I tell you?
Oooh
I dont think this was the right timing to be astonished.
But its amazing, all of it.
A joke was only a joke with the right person. Jungwu immediately revised his exnation.
Its magic-like Chemistry.
Isul unni!**
When he heard a high pitched voice, Jungwu turned to see who it was and it turned out to be the entire cast of Girlfriends rushing onto the stage.
Eh?
Jungwu had to swallow back a gasp when he saw Yulhwi right in front of him. They had met where he had never expected to meet her.
Yulhwi ran up to Isul and wrapped her arms around Isuls.
Director suggested we all sing a carol, so we came up here. He mentioned the shopping mall representative made a special request or something. The bgm has to be yed by Unni. They said half of the equipment short-circuited because of the snow.
After speaking, Yulhwi turned to look at Jungwu who was nearby.
He didnt know what to say when he saw her gaze that seemed to say who are you?. He couldnt possibly ask for an autograph in such a situation even though it was Yulhwi whom he held at the highest regard.
And maybe Soochans words finally rubbed off on him? Yulhwi didnt seem all that amazing when she stood next to Isul. Just like Soochan wouldnt seem all that amazing if standing next to Jungwu. Although Soochan would probably disagree.
Please excuse me then.
Since he was done with his job, Jungwu was about to leave.
Please wait.
Isul suddenly stopped Jungwu.
Could you please stay by my side?
Excuse me?
Jungwu was panicking at the request that came out of nowhere.
Its too cold. I cant y the guitar if my fingers freeze.
Aahh.
Jungwu looked down at the hotpack when she said that.
It was almost done with the reaction and was nearing the end of its life. The snow blower was shut off so the snow wasnt falling anymore, but the air was still cold.
Sure, then.
She had sung for a long time in the pouring snow with such a thin outfit. He was happy to do this for her. Jungwu gripped the hotpack that was going through thest bit of reaction and stood next to Isul.
All the previous singers also climbed onto the stage as well.
Well sing Look out the Window for everyone!
Three mics were set up at the front of the stage, and once Isul was ready with the guitar, the charol began.
I wanna sing next to Isul Sunbae!
Me too, me too!
TOT and Girlfriends members allpeted for a spot next to Isul.
Jungwu who had been standing right next to Isul unintentionally and identally experienced an unspeakable moment of happiness.
He was knocked around this way and that.
SSo good!
TL Note
*Magician on 1st line reference- In Chapter 19 if you recall Jungwu was giggling over funny videos and grumpy cats when he saw the headline A Magician lives on the 1st Line on the 9th entry in the Popr Today list which was actually the title of a video that showed Jungwu making the old mans hair dance(he did this in Chapter 4, it was recorded by someone and posted online). 1st line means subway line 1(where it took ce).
**Unni: Female to female version of Oppa
Oppa: female to older male (only slightly older. Significantly older has different word)
Sorry for the dy the trantor had to help out mhk trantor on his absence.
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Chapter 26: Snowflake Serenade (8)
Chapter 26: Snowke Serenade (8)
The spotlights were turned off and the staff members yelled Good work everyone before gathering just before the stage. They began the process of wrapping up by checking the speakers and inspecting the special effect equipment.
Jungwu gazed at the hotpack that had used up everyst grain and had fullypleted the corrosion process and said,
You worked hard too.
Despite the official concert being already over, much of the audience was still basking in the afterglow of the show and couldnt find themselves to leave. But then the speakers from all around the mall began to broadcast a message.
-December special sales event. The sales willst for 24 hours from now, thanks to the snow that fell today. There will be a lottery gift event on the 1st floor essories section starting at 8:30
The announcement listed events on all the floors of the mall which were ted tost until closing time.
Eh?
The customers filed out as if swept away by a flood.
Once Jungwu experienced firsthand how effective themercialization of the emotions was, he couldnt help but let out an exasperated chuckle. Then his eyes met Isuls who was standing while hugging her guitar tightly.
Mmm
She must have been watching him all this time. He thought it might be awkward to suddenly turn away so he stared back at her. This had unintentionally gotten him a chance to see her in detail and he couldnt help but be amazed again.
Pretty, really. Enough to make Yulhwi look ugly inparison.
Isul wearing her full stage makeup was exuding such beauty that it was embarrassing to even look at her.
Especially her facial features like eyes, nose, and lips.
They were pretty enough to make his mind go nk. Her narrow shoulders looked a little lonely.
Isul Sunbae! See youter again!
Yulhwi yelled as she hopped off the stage.
Jungwu snapped awake at the sound.
Time to ask for autohaa, nevermind. I dont need it.
Truth be told, he lost all desire to ask the Girlfriends autograph since a while ago. Fandom was terrifying. It evaporates so easily.
Excuse me.
Jungwu looked back at her nervously when she spoke to him.
My name is Isul Yoon.
Jungwu made a quizzical look.
I know.
When did you learn my name?
Jungwu answered right away, recalling his morning.
I heard your music being yed on the bus. Winter ising was it?
That song was from two years ago. You have the autographed CD I gave you, right? If you would like to be my fan starting today, please give it a listen. Then if you like the song
Isul seemed to hesitate and was unable to finish her words. Jungwu who was fiddling with the slowly cooling hotpack then thought of something and spoke up.
About Mr. Spokesperson Sungjae Ji, please let him know that you cant buy hot packs like this from a convenience store and not to buy a bunch of these instead of taking a heater with him. You might freeze to death.
You mean that hotpack that has a vibrating Activated Carbon which increases the rate of corrosion?
Jungwus eyes grew wide at her response.
You remembered.
I was thinking this man doesnt feel like a stalker. Although I had no idea what you were telling me.
Isul gave a brilliant smile.
And about you. Not a staff member, not a magician. Then what are you?
I guess Chemist is most urate.
Chemist?
It seemed to have caught her attention because it was an umon profession.
Thanks to interacting with her from close up, Jungwu was able to learn that she had a tendency to stare at the object of her musing. Its just, he happened to be the target of her attention so he ended up looking away. Her prettiness was too much to bear.
Is!
Manager Ji yelled for Isul from below the stage.
What are you doing there? The parking lot is filling up with fans so we have to leave now. Otherwise, our fans will mix with fans of other groups and chaos will ensue.
Ah, Im going.
Isul hastily turned back to look at Jungwu and said,
If you like the song lets meet again, the two of us.
Excuse me?
Jungwu stared at Isuls back who was quickly running off the stage.
What? What does this mean?
Manager Ji noticed Jungwu and greeted him with his eyes before taking Isul and disappearing together into a prep room.
Ding dong.
Soochan began to look around as soon as the elevator doors opened. Once he found his friend standing under the stage, he yelled out the name very loudly.
Jungwuya! Wahahaha!
Soochan ran up and then suddenly stopped as if stepping on breaks before Jungwu. And for whatever reason that got him so worked up, he had he began to speak so quickly that he was spitting as he spoke.
That was crazy, you got to stand on the stage with Isul Yoon!
I guess so.
What kind of reaction is that? Its a major major event! I took a picture from up there and put it in the group chat. The guys are going crazy.
Jungwu checked his phone and saw that there were over three hundred unread messages. Even though most of them never message, they were in an uproar when they found out he was with Isul.
I couldnt help but notice that Girlfriend and TOT were getting kinda close there. Looked like you were clubbing. How did you feel?
It happened so fast Im feeling numb right now.
There was no way he could be feeling numb after that. Jungwu only wished to keep the happy memory of having been pushed and bumped into by thosedies to himself.
So what about Isul Yoon? Where is she? Did you speak to her?
She left with her manager.
She didnt say anything else?
Jungwu shook his head while looking in the direction she had left.
Lets meet again, the two of us.
Jungwu shook his head because if those words meant what he thought it meant, then it made no sense at all. They lived inpletely different worlds, and they had nothing inmon, so how would they ever meet each other again?
It wasnt meant to be.
Jungwu returned his gaze to Soochan.
Soochan, when do we get our pay?
Director will probably hand it over the moment you ask.
Let me change out of this first.
He was on his way towards the staff room when Representative Yum and his secretary saw him.
Jungwu ssi!
Representative Yum raised his hands as soon as he discovered Jungwu. The man walked straight towards Jungwu smiling from ear to ear and grasped Jungwus hands.
The artificial snow was really something. The marketing team took pictures to use for press release, and the response on the online articles are very positive. I would like to extend my gratitude once again.
All Ive done is sell you the products ourpany already had.
A very simple natural chemical knowledge utilized in the right ce created such a positive reaction. This had been a very important lesson for Jungwu. The fact that everyday chemistry was every bit as fun as theplicated andplex chemistry used by professionals.
But, now Im starting to get tired.
He didnt have a chance to grab dinner and had to move endlessly. Jungwu suppressed a yawn as he asked the Representative.
Mr. Representative, where do I return this outfit to?
Please keep it. It is my present.
AAre you sure?
Jungwu was forced to stifle a groan as he looked down at the white fedora along with the white suit that can only be described as avant-garde.
Sure it was expensive, but this suit was not styled in such a way it could be worn outside. Even though it was the same color as the researchers gown, if he were to wear this to work he would be treated as a lunatic.
Unfortunately, Ill have to give it to Jungchan to use for something a school event.
Nheless, Jungwu expressed his gratitude.
Thank you, I will treasure it Mr. Representative. I have to go finish up here so
Jungwu ssi does not have to do the cleanup.
Director Kim who was supposed to be in the staffroom was somehow already close by.
You have already done so much for us, so there is no need for you to do more. Soochan, you escort Jungwu ssi home.
Soochans face brightened up when he was essentially told to take off as well.
Here theye!
Once a van showed itself at the front of the TS Malls parking lot, the mob of fans raised their shcards.
[We pray for the sess of Isul Yoons 3rd Album!]
The window farthest to the back rolled down and Isul showed her face, saying Ill work hard on it as she waved to the crowd.
I love you, Unni!
Isul replied by forming a heart shape with her fingers towards the middle school aged fan who had shouted to her. And until the vanpletely left the parking lot and entered the main road, she did not stop waving.
Only once the fans were out of view did she close the window and took her seat.
Manager Ji who had been sitting in the passenger seat and watching Isul give her best until the very end finally said,
It was hard right? Good work today.
It was fun.
Isul made a smile for the Manager.
Seeing her rather unenergetic smile, Manager Ji couldnt help but think
Of course, it was difficult. From the moment she entered the prep room until the moment she left the premise, she had to be on alert and be mindful of fans that might be hiding anywhere.
Giving the same smile to everyone equally; that was the life of a star. Manager Ji understood that better than anyone, so he felt pity for Isul who was trying hard to keep a strong front.
Manager Ji made a fake cough after observing her for a moment and said,
What are you talking about? I was talking to myself.
Manager Ji rubbed his own shoulders as he said,
Isul ran away today as well, and I had to report that up to the representative. Not to mention I will be hearing that Isul might catch a cold, being snowed on. Really good work today, Sungjae Ji.
Pfft
Isul finally showed some vitality when she began tough at his joke, so Manager Ji was able to rx.
Please dont worry about me.
That is exactly why I am worried. Youre sleeping better nowadays, right?
Isul hesitated before nodding.
Please go to the Sleep Clinic. Ive heard that theyre really good. Insomnia is said to be a sign that youre not feeling well mentally
Ah, so thirsty. Water, water.
Isul cut off Manager Jis words and sought water. After drinking from the bottle her outfit coordinator handed her, she leaned back in her chair.
Ill take a nap.
The van passed the side street and entered the wide main street. Manager Ji suddenly thought of something while watching the rtively open road and called out to Isul.
Isul, are you asleep?
I still have my eyes open.
Remember that Hotpack that the staff member handed you in the storage room? Did you hear that he was the one who made the snow effect possible?
Manager Ji, you didnt watch the show, did you? He was standing next to me the whole time.
AhumProducer Choi was begging me to have you appear in a drama over the phone
The Manager made a fake cough as if he was caught between a rock and a hard ce.
I told you before. I cant act.
I know. I made the same answer.
Isul who had been looking like she was about to get some rest suddenly looked at the Manager with sparkling eyes.
Is there any more information you know about him?
Producer Choi?
Isul rolled her eyes. Manager Jiughed as he answered,
I think the name was Jungwu Han? I was able to hear a bit from Representative Daegil Yum that hes not actually a part of the eventpany. Hes actually someone from KG Chemicals. Thats why he was able toe up with the idea of spraying the interior of the mall with artificial snow. Representative Yum seemed to have taken a liking to the man.
Isul etched the name Jungwu Han of KG Chemicals into her brain as she ced her hand over her heart. But then she remembered thest words she had said to him. And quietly muttered Why did you say Let us meet again, what were you thinking, stupid and bopped her head with her knuckle.
Manager Ji checked his watch and then looked back.
Is, you wont be going to the practice room, right?
Yes, sir.
Go to Manager Oohs ce.
Manager Ji did not say another word to Isul who resumed leaning back in her chair and closed her eyes.
A clear night sky without a chance of snow.
Isul recalled the sensation of the cold snow melting on the back of her hand and made a pleasant grin. And then this inexplicable trembling feeling; It has been a long time since thest.
I told you to just go.
Its the Directors orders. I have to make sure you get home safe. And you dont look all that well.
Jungwu was drunk and was walking up the hill while leaning against his friend. They had eaten Samgyeopsal* with Soju and although his stomach was sated, his head was foggy.
Soochan pointed at Jungwus face.
Youve got huge dark circles.
Yeah?
Jungwu faltered in his step, and the surprised Soochan rushed to support him better.
You didnt even finish half a bottle, whats wrong?
Youre right. Ugh, my head is spinning. I should wake up if we walk a bit more.
But the dizziness did not dissipate even after they arrived at the front doors. In fact, Jungwu gripped the doors to his home when he finally emptied the contents of his stomach.
Oof.
You okay?
After clearing his stomach and finding relief, Jungwu motioned for Soochan to leave.
It doesnt look like youve lost consciousness or anything. Youre acting kind of weird.
Maybe its because Im sleepy. Ill fix this here so run away. You know my moms personality, right?
Shes the same? Ok, Ill go. Today was the best. Ive never been so proud of the fact that Jungwu Han is my friend.
Stop it with the gross talk.
See you.
Jungwu waved his friend goodbye and opened the gates.
Creak~
His arms got goosebumps due to the severe sound from the metal grating. He picked up the broom and trash bin at the corner of the yard to get at least some of the mess at the entrance cleaned up.
Ill do the rest tomorrow.
He then passed through the yard and entered the entryway.
Im home.
Jungwu took off his shoes and entered the living room. Jungchan who was watching the TV inside turned to see who it was.
Yourete.
Wheres Mom?
Shes sleeping.
Whew. His brother, who was watching Jungwu, let out a sigh of relief and turned apathetically to resume watching the TV. Jungwu shed his clothes to prepare for a bath before he stopped to yell down the hall at the living room.
Chana, want to go to PC Bang tomorrow? Hyung will pay!
Its finals until next weekend. Also, I will never y a ranked Pentawatch game with you, hyung. Not even if you buy me skins.
Fidgety brat. Fine.
Jungwu finished his shower in the blink of an eye and resolved to y alone on Sunday. He wiped his hair with a towel and lumbered his way up to the second floor. He was so ovee with sleepiness that he fell asleep as if passing out.
Next day, Cling, Jungwu woke up to the sound of a message notification from the cell phone.
What time is it?
When he looked at the time on the cell, it was 7 am. Although he didnt oversleep,pared to the rest of the week he felt like he had quite a long rest.
When he pressed the button to check who had sent the message, it was someone rather unexpected.
[When should I send you the Coating material you had requested?]
Boyoung Sunbae?
[Whenever it is convenient for you, Sunbae]
Jungwu was deciding betweenzing around on the ground or waking up after he had sent a reply when he heard a sound of someone noisily making their way up the stairs.
This kind of sound normally cant be heard except for when Madam Hong was enraged.
Eh?
Jungwu recalled the bin of vomit he had left in the corner of the yard.
Crap!
Woosh
Jungwu Han!
Mom, Im so sorry. I was feeling strangely unwell yesterday. Ill go clean the yard right away.
Jungwu jumped up like a frog and bowed low to the ground before her when Jisook Hong tilted her head.
Yard? What is this about?
Hmm? What are you mad about then Mom?
Did you get drunk and throw up all over the ce?
Dang, he reported something he wasnt getting in trouble for. Jungwu stood up and decided to ask Jisook.
Then whats going on this morning, Mom?
What did you do to the front gates? I know its old but why did you have to draw on it?
What?
Jungwu couldnt help but let out a snort when he saw the front gates. In the middle of the rusty gate, there was a brand new red hand-shaped figure that wasnt there before.
Only this area is newly corroded!
It made sense that his mother would mistake this as a drawing. It was a deep color as if it was newly peeled. cing his left hand over the gate where the rust had formed, it perfectly recreated his vomiting position fromst night.
There is not one shred of doubt that I caused this.
After checking with the zoomed in chemical vision, he noticed that this was a drastically elerated corrosive reaction. Particles of sweat, Iron Hydroxide, and Iron Oxide remained as evidence.
Wait.
It needed testing.
Jungwu ced his hand over another part of the front gates and focused on the dust stars.
The oxygen and water molecules of his sweat pulled the dust stars from the iron and created arge volume of Ions. And when he took a closer look, a gathering of those ions formed a red particle star and flung itself towards the metal surface, almost instantly creating a crimson rustndscape.
This was the cause of the rust handprint.
I see, there are quite a lot of reactions that can be coaxed by manipting the dust stars.
It was a fact that most chemical reactions known in the world involved the maniption of free electrons; Jungwu stared at his palm.
That aspartame incident at thepany outingst Friday, and now this. This isnt simply an ability of a Molecr Chemist, is it?
Jungwu felt a chill crawl up his spine when he began to feel like he had be a character found in a Hollywood movie, like a hero hiding his identity.
But then, he heard the sound of slipper being dragged across the yard and saw his mother emerging from the other side of the yard.
Jungwu. Since you have a day off today, apply lubricant to the gate with Chana
Jisook stopped. She discovered a second handprint above the original one.
You
Wait, mom. Ill exin. This isnt a drawing, this is a super fast corrosive reaction! This is Iron Hydroxide and this is Iron Oxide Ack! Dont p me in the back!
No matter what ability he had gotten, he was nothing more than a son at home. Jungwu came to realize this very well as he escaped to the inside of the house.
Code: AF-12
Case: Static master
Research: (Identical)
Feedback: Continual use is improving the effectiveness of control over the Free Electrons. It is expected that training should improve influence even further.
TL NOTE:
*Samgyeopsal
Literally means three fold skin, this is the most popr pork dish in South Korea with 85% of the poption voting for this dish. The meat itself is from the stomach portion of the pig and is fried in a self-draining grill ced on the dining table. The customers themselves cook the meat and is provided all the tools to do so.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Samgyeopsal
**
National Sister
Ive been requested to give an exnation of what this title means.
So a little bit of background.
There is a kind of special recognition for stars on Korean TV that are so well known that they began to be called Peoples something. The portion after is kind of a silly nickname used to distinguish them. But the nickname (in spite of the fact that some of them can be taken as sort of an insult)mands enormous respect and recognition.
For example, there was an MC (Master of ceremony) that was so well known and widely popr that he became known as MC Peoples MC. This kind of title is somewhat informal, yet formal. For example, there is no governing body that issues the title. It just kind of happens, spreads online and besmon ce. There is a man called meaning Peoples weakling and another who has the title Peoples grandma (he is a rock star, but visually looks like a granny due to age and long hair). Isul is called , literally People of the nations younger sister.
But wait, if the literal meaning is peoples [X], why not go with the same format?
Calling her Peoples younger sister sounded toomunist in English. Since South Korea is specifically NOTmunist, it felt like using this title literally would be too misleading and politically charged. Hence, a much more neutral and safe national or nations has been used which is the other alternative to Peoples.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nation%27s_Little_Sister
Chapter 27: Generalist (1)
Chapter 27: Generalist (1)
Tssst
Jungwu was spraying WD-40 to erase the rust mark when he recalled the events of this morning and shook his head.
I thought she would be happy, but she only got worried.
When he exined to her briefly about bing employed at KG Chemicals, the only thing she said to him was to be wary of being scammed.
It had only been a week since he had had trouble finding a ce of employment. It must have been difficult for her to ept that Jungwu was suddenly employed at a corporation, wearing into a nice suit.
And its difficult to exin that I was lucky.
Because of it, he couldnt find it in himself to tell her that his first paycheck would total almost $10,000 dors. A random stranger might be able to ept this news easily, but a mother was someone who knew you very closely, and would do nothing but worry.
He had only taken pills that increased his senses; it wasnt like he himself had changed. Although he could spout off random knowledge, he couldnt possibly survive any regr standardized test.
Chana too, I dont have anyone I can talk to about this.
Jungwu let out a sigh.
Jungwu decided to defer exnation to everyone, including Soochan, until after the contract period was over. He refocused his attention on lubricating the gateway.
Soon,
Jungwu opened and closed the gate a few times to test his work. So as to not disturb the neighbors, he decided that it was enough and stopped.
Where was the paint again?
He searched in the corner of the yard for the can of green-colored paint he had bought long ago. Of course it would be amazing if he could use Yujin Chemicals total care system, but using such an expensive coating on a front gate was the very definition of overkill.
Jungchan! Get out here and paint!
He called for his younger brother.
Jungwu wiped away the grease from the WD-40 with a towel and was preparing the paint roller when his cell phone began to ring. The caller ID showed Boyoungs name, so he thought Why is she calling now? and answered the call.
Hello?
Jungwu-ssi?
Huh?
Perhaps because his response was strange, he could hear a startled voice on the other end.
Ah, did I call the wrong number?
I am Jungwu-han, but who are you?
This is Boyoung. Eh? Did you not save my number? Wow, so mean. Just because youre good at Chemistry.
Why are you dissing knowledge of Chemistry like this?
The reason Jungwu was surprised was because she had not called him Parachutter-ssi for whatever reason.
Please wait, Im in a taxi right now. I am at the intersection where Ilmyung Mart is at, which direction is it to your house?
Ah youre at Ilmyung Ajussis mart, then you can head up the hill to the right towards
Jungwu stopped.
What did you say?
Its a delivery.
Like a dark omen, the memory of receiving that text in the morning resurfaced.
Roughly 30 secondster, a taxi stopped before the front gates. Jungwus expression went nk when he saw Boyoung exit the taxi, struggling to pull an aluminum bin out of the back seats.
Could you help please? This is quite heavy.
Jungwu moved closer to help with the bin containing the coating material.
You didnt have toe all the way to bring this.
Well we should help each other out. We work for the same Laboratory after all.
Boyoung gave a brilliant smile with her unmade-up face. The fact that she was wearingfortable-looking jeans instead of work clothes made her look like an early year college kid.
Jungwu shook his head, detecting the overly energetic charisma from her.
I feel like shes nning something but Im not able to grasp what it might be.
Jungwu put down the coating material before his front gate before turning to check on Boyoung who had yet to stop her sunny grin.
What is it that you want, pressuring me like this?
Pressure? Non non. Oh wow~ so this is where Jungwu-ssi lives, eh?
Boyoung tiptoed to try and see beyond the wall, but she was of such small stature that she could barely see above Jungwus shoulders. Even so, Jungwu stood before her to stop her from pretending to peek into his house.
Dont dodge the issue, tell me what it is.
Boyoung gave him a troubled look when he kept on asking for what it was about.
I meanwell, its not like I was thinking of anything in particr. Its just, I reckoned that Hoobaenims gates was getting rusty and all. So I thought that I might as well
I see. I did not realize that you were such a kind-hearted Sunbaenim.
Right? Professor Chun recognized my benevolence early on
Thank you for your thoughts. Sunbaenim, see you tomorrow at theb.
When Jungwu ended the conversation in a way that was as smooth and cold as running water and quickly turned his back to her, her cheeks puffed up in unhappiness.
Cheapskate. How can you be so cold? I mean, I thought if I went so far as to show such kindness, we might be able to have a conversation over coffee. I couldnt sleep in the morning because I was mulling over some stuff, and decided toe over.
Jungwu couldnt help but break into a grin when he heard her speech full ofints. Whatever she wanted to talk to him about was most likely rted to Chemistry.
Someone I can speak to
Jungwu turned back again and asked,
Didnt Sunbaenim say that she was going to buy coffee? As opposed to a meal.
Excuse me?
Well, since youvee to my town Ill pay.
Boyoungs expression brightened up again.
But what did you want to talk about on a weekend anyway? If its about Professor Chun, I refuse.
I have no intention of asking from someone who is unwilling to talk about it. Its actually rted to an article that Im reading. I thought you might know something about it.
Well, if its that. Please wait just a bit. Ill paint this quickly.
tter ck
Meanwhile, the gates opened and Jungchan walked out wearing a tracksuit as he yawned.
Where is the paint br
Jungchan couldnt contain his surprise when he noticed Boyoung standing in front of the house.
You grab the roller instead of the brush.
Uh? Uhh??
Jungwuughed while watching his brother wordlessly and repeatedly look back and forth between Boyoung and himself.
Boyoung was objectively beautiful. Her cute facial features were naturally eye-catching.
Boyoung moved herself right next to Jungwu and asked,
And who is he?
He is my younger brother. Even though he looks like a mountain bandit, hes just a Junior year student in high school.
Wow.
Boyoungs jaws dropped while staring at Jungchan.
Are you really that shocked by the fact that he looks older than he actually is?
Im just envious of people who look mature.
Jungwu nced at thedy who couldnt escape the appearance of early 20s before addressing his still-stunned brother.
Chana, greet her. Company Sunbaenim.
Company? You mean that ce you part-time at?
No, I exined this morning. I intern there, not work part-time.
Boyoung who excelled in intrapersonal rtionships waved hello at him. Jungchans face heated up as he turned bright red, replying with Ah, hello before suddenly turning when he recalled Jungwus words.
Su, Sunbae?!
Why are you surprised? Her age is close to mine. Shes totally a Noonim to you. Were wasting time, lets paint.
The gate was small and it took only 5 minutes to paint the whole door.
Boyoung wordlessly watched the two brothers work together in repairing the gateway while sitting on the steps to the house.
Jungwu opened the bin containing coating material.
Hyung, what is this?
Quasicrystal coating material. The thing Sunbae over there developed.
Jungchan turned to look at her.
Boyoung made a V sign. Jungchans face grew bright red again and immediately looked away. Boyoung grinned and returned to looking at her cellphone.
So what does this do?
Do you want me to exin it to you? The theory behind Quasicrystal might be difficult for a liberal arts major like you.
Hey, I get good grades.
Jungwu nodded as if to say right, right and began to speak.
Some solids have a repetitive and regr molecr structural pattern. Those are called crystalloids. Then there is stuff like ss and stic molecules which have fairly randomly arrayed molecules; they are called Amorphous solids. A Quasicrystal lies somewhere in between those two categories and is special because it exhibits all the characteristics of both
Jungwu was able to exin without pausing. He continued to speak without a break for a whole minute while they covered the side of the gate facing the house with the coating material.
Hyung.
Hmm?
Are you really our Hyung?
Jungchan was staring in shock at Jungwu who was able to smoothly exin the fundamental theory behind a material he had never seen before in his life. Then he realized something and seemed to flinch.
Now that I think of it, Hyung, you seemed like youve been possessed for thest few days.
I have been possessed. By Chemistry.
Jungwu shrugged his shoulders. Jungchan was shocked at his reaction and asked,
Hyung are you in a pyramid scheme?
What are you saying? Arent you supposed to be impressed right now?
How much did you buy this for? And the Sunbae Noona over there is also doing that, right? Working as door-to-door salesmen.
Jungwu gripped his brush tightly when he heard such unreasonable misunderstanding.
What are you saying?
But its like that! Suddenly wearing a suit. Coming homete every night, not exining what you were up to.
I already told you that I am working at KG Chemicals, did I not? You think a major corporation is crazy enough to dabble in pyramid schemes?
Anyway dont do it. The mortgage on moms restaurant all went to you. If you cause problems now before you even pay that off
Shut your stupid mouth!
Jungchan dodged Jungwus punch and escaped towards the house.
Bang tter ck boom
Boyoung paused from checking her phone with a Hmm?, and turned to watch as the two of them began fighting and running around the yard.
Cafe at arge intersection.
Jungwu was sitting next to the windows along with Boyoung who continued to giggle about something, so he asked her a question.
What would you like to drink?
Pyramid scheme wow Jungwu-ssis brother is so funny.
I already understood that you found it funny, so please stopughing.
How did such a misunderstanding start?
I see, a very bitter triple-shot coffee for you then.
Jungwu stood up immediately and headed towards the cashier when Boyoung shouted,
A very sweet Mocha Latte please!
Soon after, Jungwu returned to his seat with a tray of the ordered drinks.
Thank you, Jungwu-ssi.
Its repayment for the coating material.
This doesnt even cover the transportation fee though? I didnt know the way and had to take the taxi
Should I drink and leave immediately?
No, no, wow what a great atmosphere this cafe has~
Boyoung who had sneakily changed the topic picked up the mug and gave a bright smile.
Ive had a goodugh for the first time in a while.
My brother is smart, but hes still naive about the world.
He was cute though, oh well. Should we get to the main topic?
Jungwu saw Boyoung ce a packet of A4 papers on the table and asked,
What thesis do you need my opinion on?
The one I mentioned before. Professor Chuns thesis. Please take a look.
Jungwu picked up the thesis.
Next Generation Biocode?
Few pagester he was able to confirm that this was a theory about a brand new perspective on the analysis of DNA. It was authored by Professor Chun, but he couldnt recall anything specific about it. The only thing he could infer was what the process would be.
Because it was not something he could understand intuitively, he had to read it for some time.
Wait, there was another one that was simr to this which I couldnt readily obtain info on.
It was the Perfect Man project. The note that was attached to the file folder.
Jungwu thought maybe this document was one of the foundational theories in the development of AF-12 so he read the document with close attention.
His prediction was right.
In the theory was information about DNA that seemed to allude to AF-12.
But this isnt enough.
The material used in the pill.
At first, Jungwu had thought that it was a proteinpound that delivered chemical knowledge, but from what he had experienced in thest week, he knew that there was something more.
The ability to detect and analyze down to the molecr level.
The ability to gather or release electrons with his palm.
The ability to directly influence specific particles and bring about changes.
He was able to bring about and observe phenomena that could rightfully be called magic.
Jungwu thought that perhaps if he were to study this thesis that Seunggook Chun had proposed in Germany during his younger days, then he might be able to get a better grasp of what AF-12 was.
While Jungwu was staring intensely at the thesis, Boyoung who was slowly sipping away at the Mocha Latte periodically nced at Jungwus eyes.
Once twenty minutes or so had passed, Jungwu asked without taking his eyes off the paper.
Why do you keep looking at me like that? Is there something on my face?
Werewerent you looking at the thesis?
Ive just finished. But then I noticed Sunbae staring at me, so I was wondering why you were doing so.
I was just looking you know? I was thinking you look like Professor Chun when you focus.
Ah ha.
Perhaps embarrassed about being caught staring, she turned her gaze away towards the mug she held in her hands.
Jungwu ced the thesis back onto the table before asking.
Im just curious, did you like Professor Chun?
Yes of course, as someone worthy of respect.
Jungwus gaze settled on Boyoungs fingertips which were still holding onto the Mocha Latte. He saw evidence of detergent.
Did you seed with todaysundry?
It was very sess
Boyoung who was easily baited red at him.
A serious advice from someone who also cant doundry very well: just leave it to professionalundry services.
Did you make a random guess, or did you see something?
Does it matter? So, whats your question on this thesis? Ill try to tell you as much as I can answer.
Wait a second.
Boyoung began to look around Jungwus face as if she was intent on discovering something too.
I can see it, I can see.
You can see?
I cant see!
Cheh.
Boyoung let out a sigh and then asked immediately.
Its the part on Meta Genomics. I understand the bit about snipping bacterial DNA to insert new information, but it doesnt exin anything about the muchrger scale shotgun sequencing. I feel like that segment would be the most determining factor in the speed of Bio Coding
Ah, that. You can collect samples from a beach with low biodiversity
Jungwu and Boyoung began to converse using technical terminology that sounded like alien speech, hearing which nearby customers watched them with wide open eyes, saying Whoa all the while.
A rxing Sunday noon. In a cafe filled with dating couples, Jungwu and Boyoung had discussed enthusiastically for more than three hours over their thoughts on the thesis. The ordered coffee mugs had been filling the table one by one.
Have you seen this thesis before?
No.
As I thought.
It helped you right?
Of course. Also felt the wall.
Wall?
Boyoung pointed towards Jungwu, the wall.
Should I be honest? In Germany and here, Ive always been told that Im a talented prodigy. But how is it possible that Jungwu-ssi who seems to have randomly dropped out of the sky is able to impress the said prodigy?
I cant even tell if thats supposed to be a praise or we have stayed here for too long.
We should get up.
Jungwu took the empty mugs to the collection area before addressing Boyoung.
Sunbae.
Boyoung who was on her way out turned back to look at him, filled with anticipation to talk more.
Where would I be able to find theses written by Professor Chun?
Why do you ask?
I want to try reading them.
Boyoung replied with surging vigor showing in her eyes.
It wouldnt be easy to obtain them in Korea. Unless you know plenty of people from the Heidelberg University Biochemistry Center like I do.
In that case
Jungwu looked at Boyoung.
Can I borrow some theses from Sunbae?
Whats in it for me?
Oh right. I dont need them immediately so dont worry about it then.
Boyoung hastily replied to Jungwu who had instantly given up.
Ill be generous. Lets meet asionally like this and Ill show you.
I dont
Next weeks Sunday?
Are you sure its out of generosity?
Boyoung left the cafe pretending like she hadnt heard it. Jungwu watched her leave as he scratched his chin.
I didnt realize the passing time.
It was apletely different feeling from when he hanged out with Soochan yesterday. The dialogue turned out better than he had expected. He wondered if this was what a conversation between coworkers was like.
Aww, tomorrow is another work day.
The new hires who were being wary of him would all be split up after the Proposal Assessment tomorrow as the training period would conclude.
Where will I end up?
And what would he experience this uing week?
Furthermore, he would give his best for the Proposal Assessment that he would participate in, but he could not guess what division he would end up in and under what conditions. And it wasnt like there was any guarantee that Doctor Moon was a person of influence in such regards.
Jungwu stretched his arms before opening the doors to the cafe.
Sunbaenim, please keep your promise and buy lunch before you go.
You said you were fine with just coffee.
Well never mind then.
Which ce is good around here?
Chapter 28: Generalist (2)
Chapter 28: Generalist (2)
Afternoon 1 PM.
Gathered in the hallway outside the conference hall on the third floor were a group of young men overflowing with tension.
Six individuals selected in fall as temporary hires and the one and only special case individual selected in December who was also the greenest most junior member of theb, were here to prepare for the Proposal Assessment that was going to take ce in an hour.
Is everyone present?
Manager of Human Resources Younghak Jun stood before them with the roster.
I will call out the names in the order of the presentations. Pilho Kim?
Here.
The temps began to form a line in front of the Head in the order they were called.
Hes the Head of Training, right?
Jungwus name didnte up until even the fourth call. He knew that his position would be towards the end. He was relieved because goingter would give him a chance to observe how others did which would be advantageous for him.
Sunghwan Jo, Jungwu Han*.
Then Jungwu realized that there was nothing more to the arrangement than being ordered in alphabetical order (korean letters), and let out augh.
Had he ever been more grateful for being born with ast name having an h sound?
There is a 5 minute time limit on the presentation, followed by a 5 minute question and answer period. We will give you 3 minutes as a mic test. We typically dont do practice beforehand but as everyone knows, the Research Head and the Department Heads
The Human Resource Manager Jun trailed off his words as he opened the doors to the conference room. It seemed as though the manager was as nervous as the presenters as the one responsible for the training of the temporary hires.
Crap Im getting nervous because everyone else is so frozen stiff
He did feel that he was adequately prepared, but Jungwu couldnt help but feel his mouth going dry. He followed the people in front of him into the room.
The conference room was in a steplikeyout, simr to a college lecture hall. There wereptops and mics installed on every desk on the semicircle steps, arge projection screen hung at the front facing the desks, as well as a white dry erase board.
Ah ha, Mic test one two three. First presenter, pleasee forward.
The oldest of the temporary hires, Pilho Kim at thirty-four years of age, stepped up to the podium at Manager Juns voice.
Jungwu sat on the chair in the corner and began to watch the practice proposal presentations.
Now that I think of it, this is my first time finding out the research topics that others have picked.
Pilhos PTs title was Heat Instion Coating for ss. The presentation on the subject of liquid heat instion project for exterior Apartment windows or cars filled the meeting room with apletely anxious voice.
Pilho ssi. Your content was good but youck confidence. Do you really think that the Fundamental Element Laboratory Researchers will want to work with you? Exert yourself more.
Ah, yes understood, manager-nim.
The Human Resource Manager gestured to the next presenter. After the first practice presentation, Jungwu tilted his head as he suddenly thought.
This seems like a rather stale subject
He shook his head to convince himself it wasnt true and turned his attention towards Gitae who was making his way up to the podium.
Gitaes PT was on a research about Sr power. He seemed to be on good terms with the head of Team 1 Donggil of the Central Research Laboratory and had picked a research topic that simply debated the efficiency of Semiconductor N and P used in sr panels.
This is rather ordinary as well.
Even the research topics of Gyumin and Yungshik who gave their presentation afterwards were extremely pedestrian, like Disy and Green Energies.
At least the fifth speaker Gaehyung Yi spoke about a brand new type of adhesive that was made ofponents extracted from Mussels, but this PTs content was simply poorly done. To Jungwu, it looked like the presentation material prepared by others were nothing more than an announcement intended to show each of their desired departments what research they would like to participate in.
What could newly hired temp researchers possibly propose that couldpete with the professors?
Jungwu recalled an advice from a certain senior researcher during thepany outing few days ago.
Jungwu Han ssi?
Jungwu jumped up to his feet when he was woken up by the Managers call.
Yes, on my way!
Please try to rx and take it easy. Jungwu Ssis preparation period was short and all, so the judges will take that into consideration when scoring you.
Jungwu didnt reply and only grinned as a response to the Managers considerate words as he waited for his own PT material to appear on the screen. He then moved up to the mic.
I would like to develop a cheap recyble stic material that has at least the 5 times the hardness of steel.
Human Resource Manager Jun who was checking the sound system turned his head towards the podium when he heard Jungwus energetic voice and attitude that was fundamentally different from the other presenters.
stics drawback is that it has a lower heat resistance and hardnesspared to metals. This is because the majority of the stic is actuallyposed of noncrystalline structure
The basis of his proposition, steps and procedures, research ideas needed toplete the goal, as well as existing precedents, Jungwus practice presentation was over before the 3 minutes were up.
That is all.
Manager Juns expression looked ratherplicated due to the fact that the presentation was no different from listening to one of the Project Leads presenting a research abstract during one of thepanys official project announcement events.
Jungwu spoke into the mic on getting no instructions from the Manager.
Sir, Im finished. May I climb down?
Manager Jun snapped awake and nodded.
Ah.. ok. Oh yeah, Jungwu ssi?
Yes?
Were you scouted from another research institution for the topic you just presented? I havent received the file for you from the Human Resource department.
No, thats not it. Its just a topic Ive had an interest in for a while.
Once Jungwu sat down, the rest of the temps began to stare at him. Especially Gitae, who had witnessed a simr scene few days ago during the Seminar held in the City Hall.
Once everyone was done, Manager Jun walked to the front of the Podium.
Please remember your routes. We will begin standing by about 10 minutes before the start time. You have a break until then.
Jungwu ssi.
Gitae caught up to him on his way out. Jungwu bowed his head but Gitae immediately asked,
There was a rumor floating around that Yujin Chemical was scouting you and even sent an offer is this true?
Something like that did happen that day, but theres a rumor about it going around?
We all watched the interview together on the news.
Ah
Gitae stared at Jungwus apparent ambivalence with envy and otherplicated feelings.
Wait for me!
Sunghwan ran up from behind and ced himself next to Jungwu before asking
Jungwu ssi, your presentation just now. When were you able to prepare like that?
Whenever I had time.
I noticed since thest end of the week meeting we had, but man youre sensational. It was interesting to see Manager Juns surprised expression as well. How did you manage to study Polypropylene while pursuing business admi
Gitae also began to eagerly express deep interest in Yujin Chemicals Mobile Research Station and asked questions as to what was inside. They must have determined that he was a rival they simply could not hope to match, as they showed no signs of being wary of him.
I want coffee. How about you, Jungwu ssi?
Im fine with water.
Gitae and Sunghwan headed towards the vending machine when they returned to the break room. Jungwu walked over to the water dispenser and held the stic cup.
Hmm?
He suddenly saw his vision zoom in onto a small point in the break room which revealed a darkish rather raggedy and transparentet-shaped molecr star floating around in the air.
What is it? That color makes it seem like it would smell horrible.
Jungwu retraced the direction the molecule had traveled until he discovered ady sitting in the corner of the breakroom with arge straw hat pressed down far into her head.
She was leisurely enjoying her tea when she flinched upon noticing his gaze and lowered her face. But although her face was covered, Jungwu was able to recognize her immediately thanks to the name that was proudly embroiled onto her white gown. Jungwu gulped down a cup of water and calmly walked over and sat right across from her.
You smell rather savory today, Boyoung Sunbae.
Boyoung looked away as if she hadnt heard him. Jungwu slowly observed theet-shaped molecules floating all around her as he asked her,
I guess there was too much ammonium in thepost? Bacillus fungus? Is this being cultivated to ensure good level of oxygen supply?
She would normally talk back or offer her own opinions when he would share his thoughts, but she remained silent. Although she had pretended like it wasnt so, she must be feeling embarrassed on being covered in the smell of nature after working in the microbialboratory.
Youre not hurt, right?
She decided that she could no longer pretend to not hear him and shook her head.
Well you werent speaking, so. Youre okay, right?
Jungwu noticed that she looked resolute in remaining silent, so he decided to taunt her.
Strange. I thought Sunbae was someone who was cheery and always ready to give warm words of advice to her Hoobaes, but now that I see
Now that you see what? What do you want to say?
He heard an automatic response shoot out from under the straw hat.
Im usually suuuper calm and silent type you know? Im always quiet during tea time, I am.
I see. I never realized that you were such a quiet and reserved person like this until now.
Boyoung pushed back her hat in anger and gave an intense re at Jungwu because of his yful taunt. Jungwu watched the production of theet slow down and disappear as he said,
It doesnt smell that bad. Its really simr to Cheonggukjang**
Boyoung hit the table to prevent Jungwu from finishing his sentence. Jungwu couldnt help but let out a snort ofughter.
Dontugh. I have to go back inter, it was just that we werent done sterilizing. And lets just call it a day for today.
Anyone listening in might misunderstand that we meet every day.
Just go already! Stop making fun of me and embarrassing me.
I thought I heard someone call herself calm and silent, did I imagine it?
Boyoungs cheeks puffed up in response to her nearly uncontainable wrath. Jungwu got up thinking that she might really explode if he were to continue.
Im heading out now. Its almost time for Proposal Assessment.
Jungwu moved away from the table. Boyoung who let out a short sigh of relief said in the passing.
I heard that the Head Researcher ising. Hes as unpredictable as Professor Chun so you should be careful.
This was rather an ominous advice.
Jungwu ssi, you really dont want coffee? Huh? Whats that smell?
Gitae and Sunghwan was approaching him so Jungwu quickly ran up to them.
Did I ever exin the work process of Hana Ju the Team leader of Yujin Chemicals?
You have not, no.
Jungwu lured the two of them to sit as far away from Boyoung as possible and spent the rest of the break there.
Once it was 1:55 PM, the inside of the Conference room began to fill with people.
I see that Team Leader Park of Fundamental Elements Lab is here. Ive heard that he doesnt tolerate mistakes.
Electronics Center is obviously Team Leader Donggil. I predicted that.
The Temps who were giving their own assessments of the representatives who arrived on behalf of the various Laboratories became speechless as they stared at the woman who walked through the doors.
Who is she? Ive never seen her before.
Me too. Was there such a beautiful woman like her at the research center?
Jungwu who was browsing on his cellphone looked up out of reflex when he heard the temps conversations. And he saw a woman he was very well acquainted with.
Doctor Moon?
She sat down in the seat reserved for the representative of the Pharmaceutical Center and gazed coldly and rather self indulgently at Jungwu. Her gaze seemed to ask him this question:
Are you prepared to shut everyone up with your skill.
Mmm.
Jungwu felt like the tension he had loosened up after meeting Boyoung in the breakroom was beginning to wind back up again.
The Chief is on his way.
When Manager Younghak who was in charge of the meeting gave the announcement, every researcher stood up from their seat. The door then opened up and executive researchers came filing into the room behind a man half of whose hair was white and who exuded a noble air about him.
Chief, Head of the Laboratory, Head Researcher. He was the central figure around whom KG Chemicals Laboratories operated.
The rest of the room seemed to freeze in ce until everyst one of these men took their seats, further intimidating the presenters.
Wow, so much pressure.
Jungwu trembled as well. Once everyone took their seat, Manager Jun spoke from the podium.
We will begin with a statement from the Chief.
Every head in the conference room turned to the man with half white hair. Head Researcher Songu pressed the button on the mic and began to speak.
I would like to first express my apologies. I have no excuses for why I did not take time to meet the people who are the future of KG Chemicals until now. I know that my sudden participation may feel more intimidating. I hope you can be understanding that I only wished to meet everyone even a little bit sooner as the Chief.
The man then gave a short bow towards the direction the Temps were gathered. Jungwu was beyond surprised that the Head Researcher had spoken to them like a kind-hearted old man. It was a warm demeanor that contrasted very heavily with the stoic atmosphere of the rest of the heads.
Our researchers are Specialists in Chemistry. They are talented people who are an expert in one subject and are better than anybody else. My hope is that everyone will continue to work their very best as a Specialist for the benefit of KG Chemicals.
Aside from the Chiefs rather ented korean-esque pronunciation of Specialist, it was apletely wlessly smooth greeting.
First presenter, Pilho Kim, pleasee forward.
The trembling Pilho took to the podium with a terrified expression. The lights over the seats dimmed down and the PT material was put on the screen.
Hello. What Ive prepared is the Heat Instion coating for ss
The presentation continued for about five minutes. In spite of hearing all of it, Jungwu felt that the presentation was not all that different from the practice and the material stillcked impact.
Did you say your name was Pilho?
The first person to speak up for the question and answer session was not the Human Resource Manager who was in charge of the meeting but the Head of Fundamental Elements Center, Taesun Jang. Pilho swallowed loudly because the senior personal he wanted to impress most was first.
You graduated from Postech(Pohang University of Science and Technology).
Yes, sir.
You spent a long time in graduate school. Looking at this, you have quite an extensive experience participating in small individual projects.
I was able to finish my masterate with the research grant from KG Chemicals. I was studying in school with the mindset that I was already a part of thispany.
You had so little confidence in your presentation, but I like the way you think.
I only have the deepest apologies about
No, no. I dont think that it is necessarily a requirement for a researcher to be able to speak well. Whats important is the content.
Pilho seemed to brighten up when the Head seemed to say something positive.
But, you know. Instion, heat shield, and UV protection coating research has reached a sort of a dead end. The market is already saturated.
But
Im not trying to argue. Im just letting you know about the topic you picked. Theres nothing left to add, subtract, or ask about it.
His expression darkened again. Taesun looked to the side at the other heads and added,
I dont know about the other centers, but what we demand of our Researchers at the Fundamental Elementsb is good fundamental knowledge and experience. Your knowledge is about average, and your experience is superior to your peers. With this kind of results, I want you to join our center.
This time the deration filled Pilhos expression with confusion.
Up and down, that researcher looks like hes in for a ride.
Jungwu was trembling just watching, he couldnt imagine how terrified the man in question must be feeling right now.
The Head of the Electronics Center opened his mic.
Hey, Professor Jang. How can you just tell him straight out that you liked him? Are the rest of the judging panel irrelevant?
The final approval is done by me anyway, whats the problem with me telling them ahead of time?
Thats only if they go to the Fundamental Elementsb. You shouldnt use the Proposal Assessment to interfere like this.
But the presentation material was for ourb.
My goodness, how stubborn. Chief, what are your thoughts?
Songu gave a bright smile at Iljungs question and answered,
If the process is simplified then the effectiveness should rise as well. I think this spot is a great opportunity. And I trust the judgement of the professors here.
Head of Component Sciences Center Jongsun also opened his Mic at the Chiefs lenient answer.
If thats how we will do this, I would also like to have him. All of his graduate research projects were onponents. We are in desperate need of an experienced Researcher.
When the Center Heads began to speak as if they were arguing amongst themselves, Pilho who was still standing at the podiums looked like he was about to cry, likely thinking this is not what I was hoping to happen.
Are we picking the new recruits on firste first serve basis? Then Ill reserve him first.
What do you mean firste first serve? How ungraceful. Lets first hear all the presentations before we decide.
The Center Heads began to speak one after another, murmuring here and there. But even though they were speaking, the Head of the Human Resource department who was supposed to be in charge of the presentation was unable to utter a single word.
Just whats going on?
Jungwu tried to think about the significance of what Songu had said and then paused. He had seen this kind of atmosphere and this kind of presentation event before. It was like a TV Audition program, where an individual rises to the stage to show his talents and the judges on the panel give their sharp feedback. Pilho did something simr to that, and some of the Center Heads saw potential in him and expressed their interest in him.
The Highest ranking members of the Research center are making real-time judgements. And if they like what they see, they immediately decide where the person will be going on the spot.
If there are presenters that can attract the attention of the Heads, there must also be presenters who are the reverse. And if one were to analyze what the Head of the Fundamental Elements Center had said, then the ability to speak well and give a clean presentation was not the end all be all.
Their first assignment in theb depended entirely upon the heads. And therefore, the format of this presentation unintentionally became like a survival show. The Temps next to Jungwu arrived to the same conclusion and their expressions withered away.
TL NOTES:
* The H sound is thest in the korean writing system.
** Fermented soybean soup. Fermented is a fancy word for intentionally rotting. Here he is indicating that she smells like rotting soybeans.
Chapter 29: Generalist (3)
Chapter 29: Generalist (3)
Monday Morning.
KG Central Research Laboratory Conference room was busy, with various Heads of Centers arguing over the next years budget.
Please check this years Intellectual Property Rights. The Electronics Center has a great deal more than any other center. From Lithium Ion Patent to Reinforced Nano Membrane (Alternative Name thates up: Nano-enabled Filtration Membrane)
Does profitability not matter? Profit margins on Disys are vastly superior to Batteries.
Thats because your center focused more on sales than research.
What did you say?
The Head of Fundamentals Elements Center also jumped into the fray when the Heads of Electronics Center and Information Electronics Center began to argue.
If you take into consideration the number of 1st tier projects in progress, the Fundamental Elements Lab has the most. Of course, we need the most funding as a result as well.
Dont count the coboration researches. We the Pharmaceutical Center have over ten we do solo.
Once the Pharmaceutical Center stepped in, the debates began to heat up. Senior Researcher Yoonseok let out a deep sigh, looking at the Heads of the Centers as if they were pathetic from his seat on one end of the conference table.
Project Subsidy fund.
It was not a fund that was as carefully managed as the Regr budget. All it did, in reality, was help increase the once a monthpany outing to about once a week. But as Heads of the various Research Centers, it performed the important role of increasing the credit limit they could use to appear gracious and dignified before their researchers at thepanys expense. So none of the Heads were willing to back down one bit.
At the ce where all of their gazes were focused sat a wrinkled man with half white half ck hair. He had a tranquil expression and was enjoying his coffee leisurely as if the chaos unfolding in the conference room was entirely unrted to him.
Chief, sir, the Heads of Centers are asking for your input.
He turned his eyes towards the Heads.
I trust everyones decision. Please continue the discussions, he said before returning to the serene world of his own. The room which had briefly fallen silent for him began a second round of arguments.
Our Electronics center conserved our materials to be able to afford a Membership Training trip.*
The Pharmaceuticals has arge number of employees recruited from otherpanies so if they arent given a good treatment
Head Researcher Yoonseok Shins gaze remained on Songu.
The Chief remained calm and was enjoying the yelling and bickering of the Heads of Centers as if it was background music. Yoonseok couldnt help but smile bitterly at the Chiefs hobby of inciting the incredibly talented and gifted Heads of the Centers to fight among themselves. Even though he himself was known as the Tiger** of the Central Research Laboratory, but he was nothing inparison to Chief Songu who was like the Banded Red Snake ***.
Songu who was still wearing sses as thick as magnifying sses put down his coffee mug and picked up the documents that were ced before him. The papers he was reading were the assessments on the six temporary researchers from the Senior Researchers.
Yoonseok directly asked, Is there anyone who interests you in particr?
I dont know. They are people who made it above hundreds ofpetitors so they should do very well. Like those Heads of Centers.
Fight well?
Haha.
Songu then asked without taking his eyes off of the documents.
What about you, Professor Shin? Youve met the new recruits during the End of the Week meeting a few times.
Hes not a temp, but there was a special case intern that was brought in at the rmendation of Professor Chun who is currently on leave. His name is Jungwu Han.
Professor Chun did?
Songu pressed the button on the table to instruct the Secretary to bring all documents avable on the intern Jungwu that was on file.
If he attracted the attention of Professor Chun then is he someone we should look forward to?
We havent made a decision yet.
Yoonseok thought back about Profesor Seunguk.
Central Research stations problem Professor.
He was an entric researcher of an immense but unreplicable ability, who was of a rather difficult character. When the Professor suddenly announced he wanted to take a break for a year, the Center Heads who were antagonistic against him went as far as to celebrate the news.
Songu pushed his sses up the bridge of his nose before saying, Now that I think of it, didnt Professor Shin do his schooling with Professor Chun?
We werent close.
Was anyone ever close with Professor Chun?
Yoonseok could only grin at Songus question.
Click
Chief, sir. Ive brought it.
The Secretary cracked open the door slightly and handed Songu the documents that had been requested.
Lets take a look now.
Songu tilted his head when he saw the Resume.
What an extremely unconventional personnel. His Major appears to have nothing to do with our line of work.
Whatever the reason, it was the one and only rmendation of a Chief Researcher, said Yoonseok.
Songus eyes began to glow when he saw the other records.
His name appears to be on the Team 4s Project roster.
He was able to point out and revise the w in Professor Sangshiks end product and managed to revive the project.
Oh ho.
Songu who saw the next document made a rather strange expression.
This looks like this report was made just now by the Finance Team. Yujin Chemicals deposited Project Grant to us. I suppose this Intern gave consultation?
He met Jaegil Yoonst week during the City Hall meeting and gave assistance with the Han River Railway incident.
He gave consultation to the countrys best Transportation Infrastructure Maintenancepany?
Team Leader Donggil and I heard the news in the middle of a meeting so I dont know the details.
Songu who found out consecutive shocking news about the interns activities began to read more carefully about Jungwus reports.
Jaegil personally sent the Grant in Interns name. What do you suppose this means?
The fact that he took the time to deposit it in his name, well theres only one exnation isnt there? This is a bait to scout him. That, if we were to use this funds for use by the rest of the Lab, then he would immediately inform the intern to insist that we are treating him unfairly.
He must have really liked him. To go as far as to use such an underhanded method.
Songu turned the page, and couldnt help butugh.
The Sales team sent him Commissions. To the intern.
Excuse me?
This was something even Yoonseok didnt know yet, so he read the document Songu held out together.
Super Snow Mix? He was able to sell this failed product?
Failed? Songu tilted his head.
It was a chemicalposite that we werent able to find buyers for due to the high cost of production inparison to its performance.
Looks like a Major Shopping Mall purchased quite arge volume of it.
Songus expression showed curiosity towards this intern who was able to demonstrate an unbelievable variety of aplishment in just one week.
Chief, sir.
Yoonseok who read the report then made apletely nonsensical suggestion.
What do you think about just allowing Yujin Chemicals Project Grant to be used only by the Intern himself?
To someone whos not even a Team Leader tier, but to an intern? This too is most unconventional.
Well at the very least we have sufficient proof that hes gifted enough to be sought by Jaegil Yoon. And if he is anything like Professor Chun, then receiving Project Grants like this, or makingmissions this wont be the end of it.
After watching Songu think deeply for a moment, Yoonseok added another idea that just urred to him.
This Intern is going to participate in the Proposal Assessment this afternoon. Would you like to attend?
Normally, only the representatives of the Centers, as well as the Training Managers, attended such events. Songu took a look around at the Heads of Centers who were still bickering energetically among themselves as he said, I suspect it will get as rowdy as now.
I will inform the Training manager now.
[Scene Change]
Jungwu sat on the chair next to the Vending Machine staring at theptop screen.
He had the PT file for the Proposal Assessment open and was thinking about what he should say during the presentation for the past hour.
Its really nerve wrecking now that the time hase.
The purpose of the Project Assessment that his Sunbaes had suggested duringst Fridays Company Outing was a little different than what he had initially predicted. Instead of making a real project proposal to be selected for new research, it was more used to appeal the good sides of the presenter, like saying here are my strengths so pleasee and pick me.
There was the Fundamental Elements Lab, Electronics Development, Information Electronics, Component Sciences, and Pharmaceuticals. And finally, the Central Research Center whichbined all of these Centers.
In terms of the military, it was like the Soldiers being lined up before themanding officers.
The Temporary Researchers prepared for the specialization they hoped to enter with their projects. And each of them checked each others work to try and maximize their scores from the representatives of the centers of their choices. For three whole months.
I guess technically I had 3 days?
His condition wasnt the best due to not having a good restst night.
If I keep thinking negatively, things will go poorly for sure. Lets believe in myself or Professor Chun, he mumbled to himself before returning his attention to the PT file.
Youre working hard.
Jungwu knew exactly who it was without having to turn thanks to the bright and energetic voice.
Boyoung Sunbae.
She walked up to Jungwu while yawning.
I came by to take a quick coffee break, would Jungwu ssi like a cup too?
For free? Without any strings attached?
Of course. Were you tricked all your life?****
Because he kept getting tricked, he thought of trying to guess her intentions and closely inspected Boyoung. But she who stood before the Vending Machine looked especially in.
Dont stare at me like that. I have to go back to the Microbe Lab shortly so my self-confidence is pretty low.
Self-confidence?
Oh, Sunbae wont let me put on cream on my face worried that the particles of makeup might alter the readings.
You dont seem all that different from usual though?
Boyoung smiled widely when she heard this.
Im so~oo pretty even without makeup, is that what you mean?
It means youre the same with or without makeup.
She gave him a withering look when he cleared up the misunderstanding. Shortly after, Boyoung handed him a paper cup containing coffee before sitting next to him. Jungwu took a sip before asking, What kind of research is going on in the Microbe Lab?
Its a long-term project for Lab 1. Its a Rural Revival Project thats done jointly with the Agricultural Environments Researchers. Its not particrly difficult but its a project given by the country so theres a lot of things we have to keep in mind.
I see that its a noble work for the purpose of improving agriculture.
What kind of nobility is there in working with fertilizers? I cant wait until Im not the one that has to be doing that work. The smell of the Compost is just
Boyoung grimaced and said, Bleagh when Jungwu realized something and asked Boyoung just in case.
Do you have to do it because youre the newest to the Lab 1?
Boyoung nodded with a sad expression. I need a Hoobae toe quickly so I can push off this work.
A Research on putrid deposit forced onto the newest member of theb. It was a piece of info that made him hope he would get assigned to anywhere other than Lab 1.*****
Jungwu ssi, whats your topic for the presentation? I thought it was on Synthetic Resinst time I took a nce at it.
Its on Stronger-than-Steel stic.
Eh? The one Professor Chun
Yes. I want to inherit the project and develop it.
Jungwuughed when he saw Boyoungs expression which clearly showed her desire to take hisptop and see the next page on the PT document.
He got Coffee out of it, and she hasnt asked about the whereabouts of Professor Chun or other difficult questions thest few days. So he couldnt help but feel that he should just let her see the material.
She didnt sit here on purpose for that reason, right?
But she was not a Sunbae with such a conniving personality. It was more likely that she would unabashedly demand to see it.
Sunbae nim.
Yes?
Could you please take a look at it to make sure I did a good job?
Boyoungs face brightened up and she nodded enthusiastically. While checking the PT file using the directional keys on theptop, she couldnt help but exim wow from time to time.
It looks like you already finalized the concept for solidifying over 90% of stic then?
I used the early mechanism of Polymer Crystallization as a point of reference.
But this could be applied to over half of the products that need strong but light material; Car dashboards, to food containers. Theres no reason why this project wouldnt be picked.
As it was a topic he had picked specifically because it would immediately benefit and bring profit to KG Chemicals, Boyoungs reaction could be considered normal.
As long as it passes the verification
But whatever may happen, Boyoungs ted response helped alleviate some of his fears.
I want to see more of this, how about a lunch together?
Um Thats after you go into the Microbeb, right?
Yes thats true, why?
When Jungwu gave her a are you really asking why face, Boyoung looked backed feigning ignorance.
Ill eat alone. Ill be busy.
That Compost, you know, smells pretty savory after a while. And also, are you downying the noble sacrifice of one researcher who is selflessly working for the benefit of Farming towns? You looked like you were about to cry earlier. Ill just send this file to your email.
Sure, why not.
Boyoung put the Milk Coffee cup against her mouth and drained it until thest drop before she jumped to her feet.
You promised! she dered with a sunny smile before walking towards the offices.
Jungwu shook his head, thinking maybe he should have epted the invitation to have lunch together. He strangely felt like he was being dragged along to her pace since yesterday.
Lets focus, concentrate.
But Jungwus focus did notst even 1 minute before being interrupted. It was due to the screamsing from the direction of the Temporary Researchers offices.
What the hell, the Chief ising? And because of that, all the Heads of Centers as well?
But its not like these presentations are meant to have any impact on the good of the future of the Research Centers!
The fact that the entire upper echelon of the Research Center will be showing up and be present to the event where newbie researchers of less than six months of employment are to give presentation of their pitiful greenhorn ideas was also shocking to Jungwu.
What? Suddenly why?
TL NOTE:
*-(Membership training is actually a Korean cultural excuse forpanies to take new employees on a group trip to have fun as a form of weing party.)
**Scary, strict. Tiger has a respectable and fearsome image.
*** Koreans abhor the snake, and snakes are typically seen as sneaky and treacherous (dangerous cold-blooded etc etc etc). But Banded Red Snake is also known as king of snakes, not because its particrlyrge or venomous (its actually mostly non-venomous species) but because it is often found eating other snakes and reptiles, even scorpions. Calling someone banded red snake implies not only they are like the negative qualities of the terrible snake, they are the king of snakes.
**** this means that were you tricked so often that youre so cautious/distrusting?
***** Original actually says an ambush, which I think is a really cute way to describe this info. But unfortunately, I cante up with a natural sounding way to express it
Chapter 30
Chapter 30- Generalist(4)
Seated with the senior researchers, Shin Yoon-seok furrowed his brow as he listened to the second presenter stumble through their response at the podium.
Baek Gi-tae. A senior hire and KAIST alumnus. Based on his performance in weekly meetings, he wasnt the type of passive new hire.
Shin Yoon-seok also enjoyed pressure. He believed that an appropriate whip could increase work efficiency. However, evaluations by center managers like these went beyond pressure and were closer to violence.
The cant see anything because they are looking down from their high positions.
With everyone watching as if it were a joke, Shin Yoon-seok sighed.
Did I make an unnecessary rmendation?
Shin Yoon-seok looked at the protagonist who had moved the director today.
Han Jeong-woo.
The young man in his mid-twenties had shown an impressive presence since he joined thepany. It was like watching Cheon Seung-guk during his undergraduate years at Heidelberg Annex Research Institute.
Im not sure how much hell meet expectations.
If that young man shows something beyond his expectations, he could bring a new wind to KG Chemicals internally.
Hello, this is Seo Kyu-min. I am working on improving the yield of KG Chemicals main disy TFT-LCD ss production for mass production.
Thats the main business. A brilliant n indeed. I like it.
The research for improving factory yield is already a long-term project being carried out in our information electronics department. Compared to that, it falls short.
Whenever there was a sh of opinions between the center director who was favored by the presenter and the center director who pointed out the ws, the expressions of the new recruits became increasingly desperate.
The same thing happened with the next presenter and the one after that. The project they had prepared for three months was dismantled one by one, and their morale was being drained.
Adhesive tape? As a physicist, I think research could start with a single reaction form that binds the adhesive substance of mussels to the metal molecules on the surface of rocks.
If there was a tape that could stick underwater, it could be useful in the medical and electronics fields
Thats a long story. Its good to have a dream, but at KG Chemicals, it has to be a realistic one.
All the new recruits who were present let out a sigh, united by the center directors blunt assessment of their basic materials.
An hour had passed, and even Cho Sung-hwan finished his presentation and sat down.
Seventh presenter, pleasee up.
At the sound of the former department heads voice, Jeong-woo stood up from his seat. As he walked to the podium, he could feel the vacant gazes of the new recruits who had just been through a fierce battle and were now drained.
It feels like Im climbing to my death.
Looking at Jeong-woo, Cho Sung-hwan gave him a fighting smile, having just been harshly criticized by the pharmaceutical and bio center director.
I had a feeling it was going to be like this.
The center directors pointed out the same mundanity andck of preparedness they had seen in the pre-presentation practice of the new recruits. From the moment their prepared projects were thoroughly defeated, the new recruits hid their confidence behind their faces.
Having seen them work hard with all their passion and energy, Jeong-woo felt a little sorry for them.
Ah, who am I worried about? I have to take care of myself first.
While Jeong-woo was adjusting the microphone height after getting on the podium, the former department head spoke.
Han Jeong-woo is an intern who joined us a week ago. We included him in the nning evaluation to see what kind of researcher he is and what values he holds. Please take note of this, center directors.
And then silence ensued.
Jeong-woo felt naked under the gaze of KG Chemicals top researchers, all of whom were gathered in one ce and looking down at him. It was a feeling of fear and trembling, just like his first job interview.
Here, TOEIC scores, academic backgrounds, all jokes, or speaking skills that may impress others are all useless. He had to show something that could prove his value as a chemist.
I am Han Jeong-woo, presenting my research on stics Stronger than Steel.
The prepared PT material appeared on the screen, and Jeong-woo continued his speech at lightning speed. The chemical knowledge that he had been repeating in his head all morning flowed out effortlessly, without him having to memorize it.
As the smooth presentation continued, some of the center directors showed a keen interest, tilting their heads forward. It was a positive signal.
By pulling and aligning the molecr chains in the shape of a string when the solution is liquefied, you can create a material with a high crystallization rate when it is solidified.
Just a moment.
Jeong-woo stopped his exnation when the center director of the basic material spoke.
Did you prepare this PT yourself?
Yes.
Unless I read this personnel file incorrectly, arent you an undergraduate non-major?
Yes, thats correct.
Really? Then how did youe up with this?
Ah, Dr. Jang. Lets finish the presentation. The intern is presenting an amazing method with over 90% sess rate in crystalization.
Throughout the nning evaluation, Dr. Jang Tae-seon and Dr. Noh Jong-seon, who were deeply immersed in the materials science, kept urging Jeong-woo to continue with their gestures.
This solution has an adhesive property. If youpress it at high speed, it will stick together
Except for the brief pause, Jeong-woopleted the entire presentation in about three minutes, just like during practice.
A new material that can rece metals or ceramics. Thats the primary objective of this research project. Thats all.
The center directors, who had attempted to challenge the project every time with a level of contentpletely different from that of the six public recruits, couldnt find words to say in that moment.
Who would like to ask the first question?
Manager Jeon asked this question with a slight smile.
It was frustrating to see the public recruits constantly stumped, but Han Jeong-woo didnt seem to have any problem.
Any questions? No one?
Jang Tae-sun turned on his microphone.
Han Jeong-woo, the crystallization method. How did youe up with this without any additives, only through the process?
Jeong-woo looked at the molecr structure in the form of a string floating on the PT screen and answered.
I looked at molecules that already exist in nature. Proteins and polymers in DNA self-organize and exhibit functions.
That perspective is refreshing. Are you a non-expert? This is great. I see this as a research design that can contribute to building a sustainable society with low cost, energy and resource conservation, and low carbon emissions. Excellent work.
Uh building a society?
Jeong-woo couldnt answer because he hadnt prepared such a grandiose research proposal.
I was surprised when I interrupted earlier. Youre a young talent who just started a week ago, right? Im looking forward to your future.
Thank you.
Anyway, this presentation is based on fundamental materials. Bravo. Wee to our center.
Dr. Jang Tae-suns words began with praise and ended with a personnel transfer order. Then, Noh Jong-seon, who had been admiring throughout Jeong-woos presentation, took the microphone.
90% sess rate for crystallization? Give me 90 points. No need to followplicated procedures, juste to the material center and start the project. Lets make it a perfect score together, shall we?
Dr. No, we didnt agree on that
Wait. This is a battery development center, right? We have one research slot avable for the project, and we can provide research funding right away before theunch ceremony.
Hey, Dr. Heo! What are you talking about, someone who went to the MT without paying anything saving money on equipment! Shall we lowe the subsidy ratio then?
Why are we talking about subsidy support here?
The Q&A session once again turned into a dispute between the center directors.
Only three people presented in the fundamental materials field, so please give us the right to choose first.
Dr. Jang, is this some kind ofpetition? What do we choose and what do we pick? Lets follow the procedure.
No, what if we have ovepping interests in talented individuals? You agreed to simplify the process!
Fortunately, there wasnt a center director who looked down on him, and Jeong-woo breathed a sigh of relief, feeling like he had unloaded some burden.
During the break, Bae Ki-tae and Jo Sung-hwan got close, and showed their thumbs up, saying that they did well. Jeong-woo also bowed his head and thanked them.
It feels good now that the presentation is over.
It was a time when he was thinking about a good ending.
Jeong-woos gaze turned to the first speaker, Kim Pil-ho, who was sitting lonely in the audience seat.
As the presentation progressed, he was hardly mentioned by the center directors. Naturally, he didnt leave a deep impression.
Hmm
It was a familiar expression of Kim Pil-ho.
When he went to many interviews since spring for employment, his face was just like that when he saw apetitor who was praised for answering well and felt disappointed.
Even Bae Ki-tae and Jo Sung-hwan, who gave him apuse, showed bitterness and regret on their faces.
So, this is whatpetition is all about.
Jeong-woo quietly stood there as the center directors conversation seemed to be endless.
He thought he would hear about personnel notifications once things were sorted out, as it didnt matter much which center he was assigned to.
That was an impressive presentation.
At that moment, Research Director Songu suddenly turned on the microphone. The center directors, who were chattering away, all fell silent at his rxed but weighty voice.
The room fell silent.
Intern Han Jeong-woo.
Yes, sir.
Do you have anything else to add even though theres still a lot of time before the presentation?
Anything to add, sir?
Looking at the directors face, which gives the impression of a next-door grandfather, a thought suddenlyes to mind.
He was said to be an unstoppable person, right?
Well.
Its okay, go ahead and say it.
It was even the directors remark. He thought that he should do what he could do as long as he had the ability.
Its not my assignment, but theres something I want to add about what Mr. Kim Pil-ho presented earlier.
Jeong-woo nced at Kim Pil-ho. When their eyes met, Kim Pil-ho nodded slightly as if to say it was okay. He also seemed nervous when the director spoke.
Really? Where should you start?
As soon as Jeong-woo finished speaking, the former department head, who had been focusing on the directors reaction, hurriedly found the PT material and disyed the first assignment on the screen.
Could you please show the picture that was in the fourth slide, Manager Jeon?
Jeong-woos gaze stopped at the PT with a picture of a ss window and coating. As he had thought, it allowed for intuitive understanding of the phenomena that ur in the micro-world, just like how chemical reactions are magnified.
Earlier, one of the center directors said it would be difficult for instion coating research to evolve into an actual research project.
At this sound, the head of the center for basic materials, Jang Tae-sun, opened the microphone.
Yeah, youre right. Theres no room to squeeze into the market.
What if we use a material that produces energy-saving effects more than three times the existing efficiency?
But is there really such a groundbreaking material?
Well, wouldnt a threefold improvement be considered groundbreaking?
Jeong-woo quickly read the data on hisptop and spoke.
If we coat ss with a light-adjusting film that can turn into a mirror and transparent ss, the efficiency increases by six times. It adds energy-saving effects by reflecting in the summer and transmitting in the winter.
What?
We add a reaction that allows for conversion in a state where visible light is reflected like a mirror. We use the reaction between padium and hydrogen gas.
A new opinion was added to the PT material in an instant.
Huh? We need to review this.
Dr. Jang, what do you mean by review? I dont understand. Intern Han Jeong-woo. Please exin it properly.
Dr. Heo intervened.
Following the center directors instructions, Jeong-woo walked towards the screen and pointed his finger between the ss and the window.
This part. Its a reaction where the light-adjusting film alloy bes transparent when hydrogenated and turns into a mirror when dehydrogenated by oxygen. If padium is too expensive, we can set the research direction with magnesium or nickel alloys.
Jang Tae-sun was ecstatic. If sessful, it was not only the end, but also the possibility of transforming into a grade 1 research project for the research center.
To reverse the words he had spoken, Jang Tae-sun was conscious of the other center directors, but he felt unfair to admit it. Dr. Heo Il-jeong, who had been at odds with him since earlier,ughed out loud.
Dr. Jang, did that intern just revive the research project that you dismissed?
I know, so just shut up.
You did well to attend today. I never thought Id see such a rare sight.
Jang Tae-sun, who was taken aback, suddenly looked at Jeong-woo and asked, Do you have any other opinions? What about the PT that Dr. Heo dismissed?
Yes?
Jeong-woo raised his head and recalled Bae Ki-taes presentation on sr cells.
There are other opinions, but
Then speak up. This is a question and answer session.
This time, the former director put Bae Ki-taes data on the screen. The chief smiled and stepped back.
Jeong-woo cautiously expressed his opinion while looking at the screen.
Someone said earlier that semiconductor efficiency improvement is a meaningless and broad setting
Thats right. Dr. Heo said that.
When Jang Tae-sun pointed it out, Heo Il-jeong let out a groan.
Jeong-woo watched the chemical 3D structure of a ring-shapedpound, which was liquefying and floating on the semiconductor te, as if it were swirling.
What do you think about developing a liquid silicon ink that only needs to be heated instead of using traditional silicon? Its more efficient without wasting silicon.
Liquid?
You shine ultraviolet rays on cyclopentasne to turn it into polyhydrosne, then dissolve it in an organic solvent. If you drop this liquid onto a ss substrate and spin it at high speed, it will spread evenly. And then you heat it up.
As soon as Jeong-woo presented this new perspective on research, Manager Jeon swift typing speedpleted additional information in the PT.
As the two center managers closed their mouths in session, other researchers who had been watching them with interest naturally turned their attention to Jeong-woo.
Until now, apart from the basics and battery development, the other center directors had just looked.
And then, feeling that he couldnt be left out, Heo Il-jeong pointed to Kim Seong-bo, the director of the Information Electronic Materials Center.
What about the disy aspect? Dr. Kim criticized it the most.
Well, Im not sure Jeong-woo scratched his chin. Even though he thought it might work, it seemed like the situation was going in a direction where he couldnt just stop the ongoing chemical reaction in the middle of it.
As Manager Jeon naturally opened the third PT prepared by Seo Gyu-min, Kim Seong-bo let out a sigh of anxiety.
Dr. Kim Seong-bo.
You cant
Oh, I dont have a big opinion on it. Improving the factory yield in the disy industry is rted to microelectronics. Im interested in things that happen in my small world. This is just my hunch, but please listen. How about improving programming for the nano world, not just the micro world? Maybe researching ck carbon nanotubes would be worth considering. The tiny holes where hydrogen molecules settle seem to interact quite strongly, but
As Jeong-woo asked for opinions, Dr. Kim Seong-bo became more and more tongue-tied.
It was like a chain reaction. When the former director put up data on Woo Young-siks battery-rted research project for the fourth presentation, the center director who criticized it the most was surprised.
The hydrogen tank project is at its limit. The risk is too high.
What about storage through carbon nanotubes? It might be worth researching ck carbon nanofibers too. The tiny holes where hydrogen molecules settle seem to interact quite strongly, but
Well, then it wont be that risky. You didnt mean to suggest using even micro-sized storage devices earlier, did you?
The materials science centers director, Noh Jong-seon, who had liked Jeong-woo from the beginning, called out to the terrifyingly aggressive director who only talked about shorings about the PT materials of the fifth presenter.
Director Jeon Young-hak. Didnt I tell you to let intern Han Jeong-woo?
Is that so? Mr. Han Jeong-woo. Do you have any opinions here?
The attention of other researchers who were watching was focused on this question.
I do, but
Do we really have to go this far? Im the director of the materials science center, after all. We should be doing research thats worth 100 points together.
Noh Jong-seon asked Manager Jeon with a sharp look.
And isnt it time for the presentation to be over?
There are 3 minutes and 23 seconds left.
Cough.
Manager Jeon answer seemed to be waiting for this.
The newly hired employees sitting next to the podium began to smile, and they were busy admiring the expressions of the center directors who were now flustered by Jeong-woos unexpectedments.
About the mussel adhesive
I dont remember.
When Noh Jong-seon suddenly burst intoughter,ughter erupted throughout the conference room.
If we apply the delicate texture seen on the back of reptile feet, calledmee, not just from one type of m but also from this structure, could we create an adhesive reaction form that would enable thepletion of our research project?
Two, is not enough.
Yes, even in my brief opinion, two seems insufficient. So, what if we apply the photopolymer resin that sticks with UV rays and falls off with UV rays?
After briefly examining the structure of the giant gxy in front of him, Jeong-woo spoke.
Azo benzene bes straight when exposed to visible light and bends when exposed to UV light.
Three is?
Still impossible? I still have a lot to learn.
There was no hesitation in each of his answers. Impressed, Noh Jong-seon eximed:
No, its not impossible. Its worth researching thoroughly. If we make these modifications, Ill give you an 85.
Finally, when Noh Jong-seon acknowledged it, senior researchers with longer experience than the center directors pped.
Intern Han Jeong-woo.
After feeling down since being pointed out by Jeong-woo at first, and then being criticized by other center directors, Jang Tae-sun, who had chuckled, opened the microphone.
Just one thing I want to ask. The research modification direction you pointed out. Did youe up with it on your own?
To be precise, it was not just me.
Then?
I learned it from the suggestions of the center directors. Thank you very much.
Huh, after putting Dr. Heo on the spot like that, youre being so humble here? Thats a virtue needed for basic material research. We start our research by denying the existing materials.
The other center directors were taken aback by the wicked n of Jang Tae-seon, who was trying to tter Jeong-woo to win his heart.
Chapter 31: Generalist (5)
Chapter 31: Generalist (5)
While interns and the Heads of Centers were busy using the five presentations as an excuse to get unruly, there was actually one person who had been sitting in anticipation.
Head of Pharmaceutical Center Donghwi Yoon. He was watching Manager Jun who was doing something on theptop. The scheduled time for presentations was almost over. Meanwhile, he wanted to see if that extremely talented intern would be able to disy incredible mastery over even the subject of Biology.
Like Researcher Chaeun Moon.
Donghwi looked over to Chaeun Moon who suddenly showed up to ask if she could participate in the Researcher Evaluation happening today. She was one of the core members who influenced the direction of research in the development of new medicine. With Diagnostics Medicine as a base, she was a person who demonstrated a high degree of productivity. Except for the feeling of uselessness he asionally felt whenparing himself to her fearsome worth ethic, she was quite literally the treasure of the Research Station.
So just do it already! I want to see what happens even if we getughed at.
And while he was watching Manager Jun expectantly, the sixth presentation appeared on the screen.
[Research on Protein Polymers as Allergy Suppressant]
Hmm? Another one?
The Heads of Centers who had been in the middle of bickering looked to the screen with surprise. Jungwu lowered his head towards Manager Jun who was sitting below the podium and asked,
How much time is there, Manager Jun?
About 1 minute. But please take as much time as you need.
Jungwu took a deep breath and then turned his gaze to the PT material. After having looked at five mini universes, seeing the sixth made him feel dizzy.
And whenever any Chemistry rted observation urs, he ends up speaking nonstop as if his mouth was put on autopilot.
Whatever the case, this shape is kind of peculiar.
What appeared before him was somerge round object with a bumpy appearance giving off blue light. This object which was several hundred timesrger than molecr stars was a type of cell.
Professor Yoon.
Yes, go ahead.
You said that when ites to Allergy Remedy research, symptom therapy focused on alleviation is one of the most important factors, so if results are inconclusive then the research will lose traction, right?
What great memory. Yes, that is correct.
What if we were able to use Gic Analysis to produce Protein Polymers that individually act on Inhibitory T Cells?
Sitting there, with such short time,ing up with new research ideas six times in a row, Donghwis eyes lit up as he watched Jungwu make a suggestion.
So you suggest we design immunity tolerance around per basis model?
Its simr.
Jungwu watched the misshapen stars floating above the PT screen. While it was orbiting in a wiggly fashion, it was attracting and absorbingets with its gravity.
In order to directly eliminate allergy-causing microbes while also inhibiting immunity cells to prevent malfunction, we need to thoroughly analyze
When Donghwi had to pause for a moment to think about the quick proposal Jungwu had made following the sudden change of topic, the other Heads of Centers looked smug.
Head of Center Donghwi nim.
Suddenly, there was an interruption by a clear refreshing voice. The attention of all the Heads of Centers who were paying attention to Jungwu instantly gathered onto the left side seats of the Judges.
May I exchange thoughts with intern Jungwu Han?
Oh, Doctor Moon. You are our Centers representative, so please do as you like.
Donghwi made a wide grin when an unexpected rescue came his way. Everyones eyes fell upon Doctor Moon.
A formal yet attractive outfit with just the right amount of ir; once the beautiful Researcher befitting an image of a teady* began to speak, the attention of even the Head Researchers were focused on her face more than any other time.
About cells that influence the immune system, there are more things to consider than simply tackling the issue from a purely chemical point of view. Are Microbes only harmful to the body?
Her well enunciated announcer-like voice eased the steady information flowing from her lips into everyones head, which is why the question she threw out spread across the conference room in record time.
Jungwu hesitated because an answer to this question did not arise immediately.
A human body needs a certain level of germs. Ack of exposure leads to the stunted development of the immune system, which leads to an increase in the risk of functional impairments. For example, Atopic Dermatitis; the percentage of poption afflicted were much lower when the environments were less sanitary.
The question that was not in the realm of Chemistry but that of Medicine stimted the attention of the Heads of Centers. Donghwi watched the treasure of his Center with pride as he waited to see whether or not the intern would be able to make a reply.
Jungwu watched the shower ofets fall all around the misshapen star. Each and every one of theets were pathogens.
Doctor Moon. What if we were to individually tackle each of the causes of Atopic Dermatitis? Heavy metals, chemical additives, environmental hormones, allergens.
You want to target the causes that react differently for everyone one by one?
Of course it will take effort and funding. But much of the proteins that form human genome is leftovers from viral infections from long ago. A portion of those do nothing, but some under the right circumstance could cause cancer.
Once Jungwu began his reply, the attention refocused on him.
With modern technology and techniques, I believe that using DNA analysis to predict actual response to pathogen would not be all that difficult.
The Genome concepts on the subject of rbination is not developed enough to utilize. Just like how it is impossible for a single individual to carry gic material that reacts to all existing illnesses
Chemistry and Medicine shed andbined as the two endlessly discussed between themselves. A minute was long past and even after 3 minutes psed the conversation was not yet over.
Taesun Jang, the Head of Fundamental Materials Laboratory, who had been watching absentmindedly then opened his mic.
Hold on hold on. Are you two on a date? Why are you two so excited to go back and forth?
Jungwu snapped awake from a state where he was concentrating on the phantom images and speaking automatically. The misshapen star disappeared along with the brightening Conference Room lights.
And you there, did you say you were Doctor Moon of the Pharmaceutical Center?
Yes. I am Senior Researcher Chaeun Moon.
Professor Yoon used Doctor Moon as an excuse to take arge portion of the grant money, and you seem to deserve it. It was very impressive. If you have nothing to do at Pharmaceutical Center,e to Fundamental Elements Lab.
Taesun Jang then turned to Jungwu.
Weve seen all there is to see. Now, shall we talk about the issue of what Center that intern will be joining?
All the heads of Center activated their mic in unison.
Actually, the material Jungwu Han had presented is ideal for our Project leads to start. But that kind of ability to think and respond on his feet, this is perfect for Electronics development Center where there are lots of variables.
Jongsun No took his turn after Iljungs apparent closing statement.
You have the talent to raise a projects score from 0 to 85 percent. As a practitioner of Material Sciences, I was deeply impressed. Let us build our worth together, intern Jungwu Han.
The Information Electronics Lab has plenty of funding as well as emptybs. We can begin a project straight away.
As you have seen with Doctor Moon, only a meeting between a talent and another talent can cause amplification like a chemical reaction. Pharmaceutical Lab that has the gathering of the best and the brightest minds of the whole Research Center is the most ideal choice.
Taesun Jang who was listening to them all along finally said,
Intern Jungwu Han. What do you think about what the Heads of Centers are saying? h h h. Oh my goodness soplicated. Juste to the Fundamental Elementals Lab. Theres no Head of Center as young and cool as me.
Hey, Professor Jang! Then just settle it with rock paper and scissors!
They were bing rowdy once more. After fighting in a battle that seemed like it could never end, THIS was the result they finally arrived at.
Chief, sir. What do you think about all this?
The gaze of everyone in the Conference room immediately headed towards Songu. Songu smiled brightly and quietly opened his mic before replying.
First, I would like to thank all the Temporary Researchers for working hard and preparing the presentations. You have shown me today that it was not wrong to believe that all of you here are the future of KG Chemicals.
Chiefs warm statement thanking and recognizing the nowpletely-forgotten Temporary Researchers was perfect in cooling the minds of all the Researchers present.
I wish for KG Chemicals Research center to be more than just afortable ce to work. I wish for it to befortable to work as well as a ce you enjoy working. Sunbae Researchers say it like a motto right? Research isnt done alone. I hope that even if you feel unprepared, you will develop into an excellent personnel as you continue to research here.
The 6 Temporary Researchers looked upon Songu following his rather rxed but profound-sounding reply with looks of respect and awe.
Chief, sir.
Taesun opened his mic and asked carefully.
So, what are your thoughts on assignment of personale
Ah, that? I trust in the judgement of the Heads of Centers.
Again?
Taesun Jang continued to speak, biting back the desire to groan out loud.
I too trust my judgement very much. But other Heads of Centers dont. Their stubbornness is so
Hey, Professor Jang. Are you seriously insinuating your mule like stubbornness is nothing?
The two of you, please take this fight outside. Give us Jungwu and Gitae though.
Professor Hu, youre trying to sneak off with even the Head Temporary Researcher?
The chaos returned.
Behind the Heads of Center, Yoonseok who had been sitting among other Head Researchers couldnt take it anymore and turned on his mic to shout very loudly.
Order! Please have some decency, Heads of Centers!
A deep voice echoed through the room. Silence hung in the conference room shortly after Yoonseok opened his mouth.
None of the Heads of Centers dared opened their mouth to make a noise when the Head Researcher second only to the Chief himself yelled at them.
Oh, its him.
Jungwu automatically felt nervous when the expressionless Yoonseok finally took the spotlight.
May I speak my mind, Chief sir?
Of course. There is not one researcher present who is not permitted to speak in here.
Songu gave Yoonseok a gaze that seemed to say I trust in the judgement of the Head Researcher. Yoonseok took a brief but deep breath before starting.
For the assessment of the Temporary Researchers, Mr Human Resources Manager please follow standard operating procedures.
Manager Jun nodded.
And that problem Intern.
Jungwu couldnt help but gulp when Yoonseok looked his way.
That man who was able to put on such an impressive disy of talent, he gave us absolute confidence that he trusts his sunbaes and wishes to research together.
Yoonseok swept his gaze toward the Heads of Centers. And impressed all presentation long, the Heads of Centers have diligently carried out aprehensive series of questions and answers to better understand the Interns abilities.
In such short statement, Yoonseok even provided a way for the Heads of Centers to save their faces, causing them all to nod in agreement.
Earlier, Chief had dered that we are a gathering of Specialists. I admit this is true. But as time passes, when someone reaches the position of appointed officer, then moves up to Head Researcher, and finally an executive
Yoonseok turned to look at Jungwu once again.
Then that person ends up as a Generalist. Armed with boundless knowledge, the person is someone who is able to see a wider picture. Someone who is able to take advantage of the various resources of the Research Center and improve operating efficiency. I believe that Intern Jungwu Han is a man who has the potential to be a Generalist.
In the midst of others speaking among themselves, Yoonseok made one finalment.
Having this kind of talent be tied down to a single project for 2 to 3 years is a great loss to the Research Center. If we have the potential to produce an individual who not only is a Generalist but Specialist in every category, then shouldnt we make all efforts to do so as soon as possible?
The Heads of Centers all nodded in agreement.
So here is my proposal. We change Intern Jungwu Hans position to Regr Researcher, and then set the next 6 month as training period where he is to be sent to all the Centers to gather experience. Assigning him to a center afterwards wont pose a problem.
Taesun looked convinced when he recalled something and asked,
Is that possible under the current operating procedures?
That probably depends on the decision of the Chief. And Intern Jungwu Han has already been granted project subsidy, so if for nothing other than assigning him a Corporate card, he must be a Regr Researcher.
S Subsidy?
Yoonseok moved his gaze over to the Chief. The Chief smiled quietly and then turned on his mic.
Procedure and Exception. What a good proposal riding the line between the two extremes. I am always greatly impressed by Professor Shins great wisdom.
Yoonseok became emboldened by the Chiefs apparent consent. Yoonseok addressed the Heads of Centers.
Please let your thoughts be heard if you have anyments.
Who would dare oppose a proposal set forth by one of the highest ranking seniors, one which the Chief himself had already given his permission to.
I cant tell what those two are thinking at all.
Jungwu finally breathed in relief after the result of the two hours or so of the Proposal Assessment was more or less decided, but he still could not find himself taking his eyes off of Yoonseok and Songu.
***
The Conference room was awkwardly silent once the assessment time was over. And as expected, the cleanup of the conference room after the fact was left to the youngest recruits of the Laboratory.
So we are going to be calledter this evening?
Manager Jun said on his way out that we will all probably end up in the Centers we have been aiming for.
Jungwu who had been straightening out the podium couldnt help but focus in on the conversation between Gitae and Sunghwan who had been organizing the chairs.
Well after all that Jungwu ssi is going to go under another assessment.
Youre right. And sent to all the centers. Just what will he be made to do?
But Jungwu didnt have the foggiest idea as to what would actually happen either. But if there was one good thing that came out of this, it was that he was no longer being called an intern.
Wait. What is going to happen to my Internship contract?
He resolved to askter and refocused on cleaning up.
Around 4:30, the Conference room opened. Jungwus eyes opened wide when he saw the person entering the room.
Doctor Moon?
Jungwu Han ssi.
She had called him by name so he ran up towards the door.
The conference for Personnel Evaluation has justpleted. It has been agreed that it will begin next year on January 1st.
What will begin?
Being a Regr Researcher
Jungwu was curious if Professor Yoonseok Shins proposal was epted in the end.
So what exactly will happen from this point onward?
For now it seems like youll be considered a regr researcher of Lab 1 in Central Research Laboratory, and youll be dispatched to the other Centers for projects. Ive said this before, but Researchers who arent participating in a project spend most of their time like a frencer.
By said before, she seemed to be referring to the time she had spent all night exining the runnings of the Laboratory on the day of the signing of the contract.
Although I dont remember most of it.
Jungwu asked about the internship contract as well. What he got in response waspletely bureaucratic in nature.
Its detailed in the small print.
I see
If there are no other issues Ill be heading out then. I have business at the Hospital
Ah, wait a moment please.
Taking this opportunity when he had her before him, he decided to inquire about a recent change to his physiology.
I cant sleep at night for some reason. I sleep intermittently throughout the day whenever I find the time or sometimes just pass out. I feel like I have gotten Insomnia somehow, do you think this is due to the side effect? Sometimes I think it might be because of overwork though
In the middle of his speaking, Doctor Moon suddenly moved right up to Jungwu. Her nostrils were so close to his face that Jungwu instantly went rigid on the spot. From less than a palms distance away, Doctor Moon checked Jungwus eyes and the surrounding area of his face before responding.
Now that you mention it, your face is showing remnants of the symptom.
Symptom?
Earlier stages of fatigue.
She reached out with her hands and ced them on Jungwus wrists. She checked the second hand of her watch as she measured his pulse, assuming the image of a doctor checking on her patient perfectly.
She was going to diagnose me? I got tense for nothing.
But then the sweet smell of Doctor Moons perfume wafted over to him, agitating his masculine instincts. Standing close enough to the beautiful woman to feel her gentle breath on him while she held onto his wrist, Jungwu could not help but feel his face redden at the unexpected contact with her.
Excuse me, Doctor Moon. About my Pulse. It could be beating faster for reasons that have nothing to do with the symptoms that youre thinking about.
Doctor Moons eyes that exuded her intellect looked up at his.
Im taking that situation into ount when I am testing.
Eh? Taking what into ount?
Doctor Moon who had been wordlessly checking his pulse then said,
Its normal.
She gave her diagnostics as a doctor who seemed extremely trustworthy.
Then it must be because of the overtime, right?
No. Thats also strange.
Jungwu found himself unable to resist her when she ced her thumb under his lower eyelids and naturally pulled them down because she had done it with such practiced doctor-like professionalism.
Most normal adult men dont evenin with just this amount of overtime. You even had weekends off.
Ah, thats what you mean?*
In some ways, it was a terrifying diagnostic.
Well, it doesnt hurt to run some tests. Its almost end of your shift, right? Pleasee down to the parking lot when youre done. Well head to the hospital together.
Doctor Moon finished speaking her piece and immediately headed out of the Conference room.
Today? Right after? Shes so thorough. I guess it would be great if she could find the cause sooner thanter.
Jungwu turned around to finish organizing and cleaning up the podium and couldnt help but be surprised. The Temporary Researchers had been watching him very closely from afar.
Mmm
More than getting the recognition of the Heads of Centers, more than Yoonseoks proposal of special treatment, the Temporary Researchers watched Jungwu with far more envy at the fact that Doctor Moon was standing there holding his wrists. So Jungwu couldnt help but grin.
***
There was a researchb inside AN General Hospital that was shared between AN Hospitals Pharmacy Support Center and KG Chemicals Pharmaceutical Center.
Jungwu was taking the same examination at the same ce as a month ago when he had firste here as a human test subject. From Blood pressure, electrocardiogram, ultrasound, until blood sample. For about half an hour, Doctor Moon focused on the exams without sharing a word with him.
We need to first see the result so please rest for a bit.
Jungwu who had been pressing an alcohol swab over the arm the blood was drawn from then gave a big yawn.
Doctor Moon, Im so sleepy. Ill take a nap on the chair until we get the results.
If you do that then the AN Hospital staff will not look upon you well.
Irresistible drowsiness; he felt like he was about to faint at this rate.
Then Ill go to a chair outside
Please wait. Ill lend you a bed.
Jungwu swallowed back a groan before the chaotic pile of sheets, random articles of clothing, and other unidentifiable personal items cluttering up a two-story bunk bed.
Where are we?
Diagnostics and Overnight Room.
Doctor Moon pointed not at the messy but neatly arranged bed on the opposite side.
That side is my spot.
Doctor Moons spot?
There are a lot of times we need to stay overnight at the Pharmaceutical Center so I have asked for permissions from the doctors in this area ahead of time. Please go ahead and sleep for now. Ille back with the test results.
I dont mind but
Jungwu fell asleep the moment he hit the bed.
An hourter.
Doctor Moon was sitting in front of an automatic Blood analyzer with the tag XE-2106.
She had been reading a book waiting for the results to print out when the door to the examination room opened and ate thirties man with a sizable face walked in.
Eh? Miss Chaeun?
Hwichul Sunbae nim.
A doctor wearing the name tag Hwichul Yi walked up to her with a weing smile.
We were so busy we havent even seen each other in a while. Isnt this the first since we met back in the fall?
I guess it is.
What were you up to here? Arent you normally confining yourself to the Pharmaceutical Center?
I had something to examine.
The machine made a beeping noise and a receipt-sized paper came printing out. Doctor Moon who saw this then tilted her head.
Hmm? Whats wrong?
Result came back too normal
Healthy is always good.
But then it doesnt exin the symptom.
Hwichul looked at Doctor Moon with eyes filled with curiosity.
Is it a rare symptom?
Its insomnia.
Eey.
Hwichul Yis interest evaporated, but he recalled something while watching her prepare to leave and said,
Miss Chaeno I should be calling you Doctor Moon now. It looks like youre still waiting for Professor Ha to return. You wont pick Residents, and its killing us with overwork.
Everyone knows torturing sunbae andpany is the professors hobby. Isnt it because of that? replied Doctor Moon.
Hwichul brought his hands to his face and smacked his forehead. Ah, that must have been it.
I need to go share the result so Ill be taking my leave.
Hwichul made a serious look at her who was trying to leave and then said,
And I too am certain that Doctor Moon is going to return someday. Were Doctors, right? Fighting disease?
Doctor Moons eyes showed nostalgia for but a moment before it disappeared.
I dont know why you made this choice, but good luck. I dont have anything to say but this.
Bebeep Bebeep
Im being paged. Man I was hoping to skip out on the examination room. Ill get going. Next time lets eat together. With the three musketeers all together.
Ok, Sunbae.
Hwichul left the Examination Room first.
***
Click
Chaeun looked at Jungwu who was fast asleep and oblivious to the world atop the bed of the Overnight room.
Jungwu ssi?
It was safe to say that he was deeply in sleep judging from hisck of reaction. In fact, it was probably correct to call it a Deep Sleep.
Should I let him sleep a bit more?
She had brought IV pack with her because he had been makingints, but she set it down on the desk. She took off the gown she had been wearing and ced it on the rack and entered the shower room next to the Overnight room.
Sshaa.
Chaeun reentered the room twenty minutester while drying her hair with a towel. Sitting down, she picked up a book that had been on the desk. Jungwu was still sleeping.
And in the middle of her making her way through the Academic papers, the cellphone in her coat pocket began to vibrate.
She was worried it might disturb Jungwus sleep, so she took it out of the pocket and walked out of the room.
When she checked the screen she noticed an indication which showed that there was a one-way call pending. There was only one person who would use such a method to contact her.
Yes, professor.
-Oh, Doctor Moon. Ive got your mail.
A bright and refreshing voice. It was Professor Seungook Chun.
-How was the guy today?
As we expected. But then the Chief came in and
-Chief Son? Hes too good at sniffing things out. And no other issues?
Chaeun recalled the sight of Jungwu falling asleep as if passing out.
It seems like Jungwu Han ssi is experiencing temporary Sleeping disorder, but all results came back normal. I think that I should refer him to a specialist for a proper checkup.
-Do you really think you need to go that far?
I think we should cover all bases.
-Hes using unfamiliar perception again and again so hes probably feeling disoriented. I think its the adaptation stage.
You say hes disoriented, but he looked like he was really enjoying it. Hes starting to act like you too.
-Like me? Really?
There was a sound ofughter on the other end of the line.
-You said he was 26, right? Young and with my personality; What if Doctor Moon falls in love with him?
Your jokes are improving by the day.
-Doctor Moon is really the only person who responds to my sense of humor. So, is Research progressing smoothly?
Doctor Moon hesitated and did not answer.
-Its a problem if a person strives perfection excessively. Try to let your emotions control you for once.
Professor.
-Hmm?
What kind of world is Jungwu Han seeing?
-Why ask? Are you sad you werent the one?
Chaeun recalled Jungwu earlier who was able to point out things she hadnt yet considered during the presentations earlier today.
I cant tell what kind of work youre expecting to do with this man.
-The higher the grass the higher the entropy. Please continue to observe him with interest.
Professor, when are you expecting to return
-I think Ill be in this neighborhood for about a month for now. Munich has such a great scenery. Lets speak again when Im ready to relocate. Enjoy your holiday weekend. Hopefully, youll find yourself a boyfriend~
-click-
Chaeun once again returned to the Overnight room.
She noticed Jungwu who had drifted off to sleep with his eyes closed, breathing in and out oblivious to the world.
Fall in love? I would love to have time for such things.
Doctor Moon returned to the desk and resumed reading through the Academic Papers
Code: AF-12
Case: Adaptation Stage 1
Research: Subject experiencing temporary Drowsiness after using the Ability
Note:
Tea Lady:
I think the easiest (unfortunately) is to imagine japanese tea ceremony. Super rigid, super formal. Imagine in that setting, there is ady in tight kimono drinking tea, having impable hair and makeup. Thats the image being drawn. Korea has older tea culture, but japanese tea tradition is better known thanks to anime.
Chapter 32
Chapter 32- Christmas chemistry(1)
With the sound of pencils scratching on paper, Jeong-woo opened his eyes. His head felt heavy, and he looked around to find himself in the sleep room.
You slept for one hour and forty minutes.
Dr. Moons voice caught his attention. She was sitting at her desk, as if studying something, and rolled her chair toe closer to his bed.
Jeong-woo raised his upper body and paused as Dr. Moon shone a penlight into his eyes.
Your pupil reaction is normal, and the congestion and eyelid tremors caused by overwork seem to have disappeared.
When the light went out, Dr. Moons face came into focus.
How do you feel?
I feel refreshed after a good sleep.
Dr. Moon continued to gaze intently at Jeong-woos smiling face.
Its definitely strange.
Whats strange? I feel better after a good sleep.
Usually, insomnia is caused by stress. You have to spend the day feeling tired enough to not be able to sleep.
Jeong-woo snapped his fingers at these words.
Thats right. I once fainted in a warehouse a few days ago and felt the same way when I woke up.
Was there any unusual environment that was different from usual at that time and now?
With his chin resting on his hand, Jeong-woo turned his gaze to Dr. Moon, who was sitting upright with wet hair.
Dr. Moon was wearing a T-shirt with a cute character doll that he had seen in the car, with all her makeup removed. The atmosphere waspletely different from before, as if the coldness had softened.
Feels like a pretty neighbor next door?
For a moment, Jeong-woo was interested in Dr. Moons new look and recalled meeting a beautiful woman a few days ago that he couldnt take his eyes off of.
I did have an impressive experience.
Impressive?
Jeong-woo smiled, saying that there was such an incident.
I was lured by a celebrity autograph and ended up working hard for stage setting that morning.
Why did you work as a part-timer?
I had someplicated circumstances Anyway, what kind of symptoms do I have?
Dr. Moon wrote something on a memo pad, then moved closer again.
Go to sleep.
Jeong-woo received a note with the phone number of a ce called Cheongdam Sleep Clinic and looked at it with a puzzled expression.
Its a ce run by a talented senior. You should get tested here urately ande back. Since the test is conducted in a real sleeping environment, you should go there the day before your day off.
Were the test results serious today?
The numbers are all normal, but the results are not significant enough to judge symptoms. Sleep disorders areprehensive diseases that epass psychiatry, neurology, internal medicine, and otorhinryngology.
Jeong-woo asked about one particr area among the specialties listed by Dr. Moon.
Psychiatry? Does that mean its a problem with my mental health like depression?
Dr. Moon, who was staring at Jeong-woo, replied.
If you took on a part-time job on the weekend with those problems to get an autograph from a celebrity, you should suspect schizophrenia.
Schizophrenia?
Jeong-woo coughed awkwardly.
I guess its rted to neurology. Im a very sensitive and emotional type of person. My mother watches a lot of dramas, and when I watch them together with her, I get emotional. Last week, the protagonist disappeared saying they wille back with a glint in their eyes.
Are you serious right now?
I was joking earlier, but my emotions got hurt
Dr. Moon turned back to his desk and said.
Maybe its the adaptation period for AF-12 that you took, Mr. Han.
Adaptation period?
Jeong-woo remembered that he was getting better at dealing with dust and looked at his palm.
Itste. You should prepare for work tomorrow.
Looking at the clock after Dr. Moons words, it was past 10 oclock. Jeong-woo stood up from his seat and walked towards the door of his office.
By the way, if the reason from the clinic really is because of overtime work
Jeong-woo stopped talking when he saw Dr. Moon concentrating on a book. Dr. Moon turned his head and asked.
Yes? What did you say?
Ill work hard and be a researcher who can help with all of KG Chemicals projects.
The next day.
Jeong-woo barely fell asleep around dawn and woke up at 6am.
Did I sleep too well during my afternoon nap?
As he shook off his drowsiness, he went downstairs. After washing his face, he felt a bit more clear-headed.
Looking at his reflection in the mirror, he tried to do what Dr. Moon had done yesterday.
He checked under his eyes and looked around.
Ugh, I dont know.
He thought thats why he should leave the diagnosis to a doctor.
As he ate breakfast, put on his shoes, and got on the subway, his body continued to feel sluggish. Sleep was so important, but he couldnt help worrying about not being able to sleep.
Is this possibly stress?
As the line 1 train departed, Jeong-woo looked for his earphones and plugged them in, thinking he needed mental stability.
He turned on his phone screen and searched for good songs on a music site, but suddenly he thought of something and opened the search bar.
[Yoon Yi-seol]
As soon as he typed it in, a list of her records from various mini-albums to her second full album popped up.
Then he noticed a list of recent activities that included videos.
And he saw a title that caught his eye.
Fantastic stage in snowkes! Explosive views!
Wow
There was a mini concert fan cam video from TS Mall, and when he clicked the link and pressed y, it was indeed the encore stage from that day, with support for up to 4K video.
The video showed himself in white clothes standing still, and Yoon Yi-seol ying the guitar, for three minutes.
The sweet song that came through his earphones reminded him of how he felt when he heard Yun Yiseols live performance that day.
Its good. I have to listen to the 2nd album when ites out.
It was a dreamlike experience that he would probably never have again, but he felt proud. The fan cam video ended with the audience being moved and cheering.
Rmended link: The identity of the White Magician
He was surprised by the tag that appeared after the video.
Whats this?
As soon as he clicked it, he saw a very familiar warehouse.
-Stop talking nonsense and focus on shooting my hands.
Its me!
-Creating letters in the air is not just about shaping the letters.
-One of the dust particles sends a green light sting.
-It determines the moment when the fire shines brightly.
Jeong-woo felt astonished that this video had 300,000 views. At the end of the video, there was a link to a separately edited video of fireworks from the mini-concert.
He immediately dialed Park Soo-chans number.
The signal connected, and a voice filled with sleepiness answered.
-Hey, my buddy. Why are you calling me so early in the morning?
Hey, why did the video of the fireworksbination you shot for me end up on the video sharing site?
-That? The cameraman asked if he could upload it, so I edited it and uploaded it. I did a good job, right?
Did a good job?
-I heard that if it gets a lot of views, they give you ad revenue. Ill settle everythingter and give you your share. Did you read thements? Theyre calling you the white magician.
Park Soo-chan chuckled, leaving Jeong-woo at a loss for words.
-The cameramans name is Shin Ki-joon, and hes quite famous around here. He said that people like it when you create a separate page. Why dont you try making one? He keeps asking where the next stage is, so I told him you work for a chemicalpany. He waspletely surprised to hear that youre a chemist.
That was a few days ago, and youre telling me this now?
-So what? If my friend bes a YouTube star, its good for me too. Its good for you too.
Watching videos uploaded by ordinary people with tens of thousands of views has bemonce these days.
Feeling perplexed, but at the same time thinking that it wasnt that surprising, Jeong-woo quickly did the calctions.
Ill definitely make sure to receive the settlement.
Of course. And hey, do you want to work part-time again? Theres a big event on Christmas
Im busy. Ive recently been recognized at work.
Got it. Take care of yourself, and lets have an end-of-year party.
After hanging up, Jeong-woo opened the search bar and typed in [Han Jeong-woo], only to see a list of people with the same name. Curious, he typed in [White Magician], and found himself on the second page of the search results.
3 minutes of magic that mesmerized shopping mall customers!
The white magician from Sing Company, who lit up Yoon Yiseols stage.
Its even on the second page.
Jeong-woo couldnt sleep and immediately took a screenshot and saved it.
Entering the door of Research Room 1, Jeong-woo was overwhelmed by the real office space that felt like a ce where people lived.
Jeong-woo, youre here?
Hello.
Senior researcher Hong Ki-pyo, who he had met at apany dinner and recognized, stood up and greeted him.
Jeong-woo pointed to the desk right next to the entrance.
This is my seat, right, senior? (Sunbae-nim)
Thats right. And now, drop the honorifics. Youre a direct junior researcher in Research Room 1.
Ah, yes, senior. (Sunbae)
Jeong-woo sat down. It was a nd space with nothing in it, but it was spacious, pleasant, and above all, there was an electrical outlet.
Is the desk next to mine Senior Song Boyeongs?
He noticed a middle-aged womans picture frame that looked like her. He thought it might be annoying to see her almost every day until he is dispatched at the beginning of next year, but it wasnt so bad to think of her as a friend to talk about chemistry with.
At 9 oclock, all the seats in Research Room 1 were filled.
Hmm? Why isnt she here yet? Is shete?
Even after 30 minutes had passed, Jeong-woo looked up with his head tilted as Song Boyeong had not shown up yet.
Senior Jeonghee.
Jeong-woo called out to Senior Cha Jeonghee, who was sitting across from him, and pointed to Song Boyeongs seat.
Do you know where Senior Boyeong went?
Boyeong? Shes on a business trip to Daejeon with Senior Oh. Shell be there all week trying to bring in a new project from the research institute.
Ah, I see.
Boyeong cleaned up that spot yesterday because she heard you wereing. She even did the cleaning, which she never does.
Really?
For some reason, Jeong-woo felt grateful but also missed Song Boyeongs cute face. Taking the opportunity to ask again, Jeong-woo said, Senior, what should I do today?
If you havent been given any specific tasks, just do what you need to do. Youre going to be sent out anyway, right?
Jeong-woo nodded and looked around Research Lab 1.
From someone searching for overseas papers for their assigned research project to someone investigating ims from affiliatedpanies, to someone who just stopped by before going to theboratory.
I should do what Doctor Moon assigned me to do.
Jeong-woo turned on hisptop and connected it to the socket.
There were projects that Doctor Cheon Seung-guk had nned but abandoned. They were piled up inrge numbers and seemed to have been postponed since the presentation at the nning evaluation meeting yesterday. If he could organize them and set up a research overview, that would be enough.
There is only one body, but there are hundreds of projects to propose.
At times like this, it is better to prepare without thinking too much.
Ziing.
While sorting through the documents, a text message came in.
[Did you arrive at work?]
It was from Song Boyeong.
[Yes, senior. Thank you for cleaning up my seat.]
As soon as I replied, another text message came in.
[Just words? Next time we study a paper, its your treat, Jeong-woo ^0^!]
It was a text message that made meugh as soon as I saw it. I didnt mind it.
On Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday, Jeong-woo continued his routine of going back and forth between the research room without any particr problems. However, he suddenly began to experience sleep problems while going about his daily life.
While organizing his assignments, eating lunch, and chatting with his seniors, he found himself dozing off without realizing it several times. It seemed like a problem that couldnt be solved just by consulting a doctor.
So now it was Friday evening.
Ill go in, Senior Hong.
Oh, yeah. See you next week. Have a Merry Christmas.
Christmas?
At Jeong-woos response, Hong Ki-pyo pointed to the calendar hanging on the wall.
Tomorrow is the 24th, the day after tomorrow is the 25th. Even though the weekend and Christmas coincided, the day that marked December was right in front of them.
I didnt even realize.
Despite only organizing Dr. Cheonseung-guks research records, I lost track of time and worked for longer than realized.
Thats right. Im just addicted to work. What mental problems?
The sound of a sick mind just thinking about it is uneasy.
To go to the sleep clinic he had reserved for 8 pm, Jeong-woo finished taking a shower and changed his clothes beforeing down to the first floor. He was startled when he saw his younger brother holding a ss of drink while waiting for him.
Whats this?
Drink it. Its orange juice that you like, hyung.
Why are you doing this all of a sudden?
Just because. You must be tired from work, right, hyung~
Ugh, it gives me chills. Dont make that face and talk to me like that. Youre not just a clean-shaven guy anymore, youre aplete middle-aged man.
Normally, Jeong-chan would havee out with a fighting spirit when he was hit like this, but he justughed and handed him the drink.
Jeong-woo took the ss and asked, What is this? Pentawatch Skin?
As he took a sip, he was surprised by the unexpected answer from his brother.
I was confessed to by a girl I go to the library with.
Spitting out the juice, Jeong-woo abruptly turned his head.
Really? What crazy girl confessed to you?
Shes not crazy. Shes quite pretty. Not as much as the senior sister that was here before.
So what did you say to her?
Jeong-chan opened his mouth with a serious expression.
I was too surprised and just nodded my head.
What the hell, man?
At his brothers words, Jeong-woo grabbed his stomach.
Where can you find a guy who would receive a girls confession like that?
So she asked me out on a date tomorrow. I have no idea where to go or what to do.
Do you want me to help you out?
But you and Eun-sil noona.
Lets not talk about that from when we were in elementary school.
Jeong-woo sat Jeong-chan in front of the kitchen table.
Do you have the intention to date her?
Huh? Uh
Jeong-woo couldnt help butugh at his younger brothers shy nod, but he also felt a tingling and fresh feeling.
Alright. Its Christmas Eve tomorrow, so you cant lose points by just going on a date.
Help me, hyung. Im almost out of allowance.
Jeong-woo thought for a moment before speaking.
Clean my room for three months.
Three months?
If you dont like it, then forget it.
Okay. But if I seed tomorrow
Deal.
Jeong-woo said immediately.
Is there anything special about a high school date? A fancy dinner is fine for starters. A romantic movie is a must.
Yeah.
Go to a popr street where there are a lot of people. Just walk holding hands. If the streetlights go out on Christmas Eve, then grab her tightly
Jeong-woo looked at Jeong-chans face as he spoke.
Oh, it wont work. You might get caught with that face of yours.
2C
Oh, never mind.
Jeong-chan watched as Jeong-woo took out his wallet and pushed it away with both hands tightly pressed together.
I was going to give you only 50,000 won, but I have a heart. Its a Christmas bonus~
Jeong-woo had a full pocket from his part-time jobst week, so he gave his younger brother the maximum amount he could.
Thank you, hyung.
Try to capture the heart of a girl with a taste beyond yours. Be a man of the Han family.
After finishing coaching cleanly, Jeong-woo walked to the entrance and asked Jeong-chan.
Where are you going hyung?
Im going to sleep. Tell mom he wont being in today.
Jeong-woo waved his hand briefly to Jeong-chan, who didnt understand, and went outside.
A van stopped in front of a luxurious 5-story building with a sign that read Cheongdam Sleep Clinic.
The back door opened, and a woman with a hat pulled down stepped out.
I hope Yi-seol sleeps well tonight.
You can sleep well here.
Well, thats up to the directors opinion. Weve cleared the Christmas schedule, so feel free. Ill cover any dating rumors too.
Really? With that actor that was your ideal type!
As she clenched her fist threateningly, the man sitting in the car with her also clenched his fist together, showing his support with a fighting gesture.
Please do that. Please make meugh.
The van left, and she looked back at the sleep clinic.
Today will work out somehow too.
She muttered quietly and went inside wearing a mask to cover her face.
Chapter 33
Chapter 33- Christmas chemistry(2)
Walking while looking at his phones navigation, Jeong-woo got off at Apgujeong station and arrived in front of a building soon after.
In front of a clinic that had a fairlyrge hospital-like exterior, although not as big as an AN hospital, there was a que that read The best way to cope with heartbreak and separation from sweet dreams.
Passing through the entrance, he nced at a picture on an advertising board.
Is that Dr. Moons senior colleague, the director?
Jeong-woo was slightly nervous at the confident career womans face, who looked to be in her mid-thirties. Her appearance was outstanding enough to have a full-face picture, but she exuded a simr atmosphere to Dr. Moon.
Except for wearing sses, she had a cool and aloof feeling.
If her personality is also like that, shes a bit scary.
Passing through the neatly paved pastel-tone corridor, Jeong-woo stood in front of the reception desk.
I made a reservation. Han Jeong-woo.
After stating his name and showing his ID, he received instructions to go directly to examination room 1.
As it was a sleep clinic, it was very quiet and not as noisy or chaotic as a hospital.
Even just sitting in the lobby, the atmosphere was so calming that he felt like he would start yawning.
Jeong-woo cautiously approached the examination room at the end of the corridor, blending into the serene atmosphere.
As soon as he opened the door, the director, who had a name tag with the name Seong Mi-na, turned her head.
Wee.
A fresh voice.
Would you like to sit in the front?
As Jeong-woo sat facing her, Director Seong checked the reservation information on a small monitor.
Mr. Han Jeong-woo. This is your first visit today.
Then Director Seongs eyes widened.
Thats right. You came here through Chae-euns introduction?
Ah, yes.
Anyway.
Director Seong ced her chin on her hands and slowly looked at Jeong-woo.
Since its been a long time since Chae-eun asked me personally, are you two dating?
No, were just coworkers.
Excuse me, Im being rude on our first meeting.
With a smile, Director Seongs tone of apology had a bright energy to it.
As she tapped away at the keyboard, a diagnostic form titled Sleep Survey appeared on the monitor facing Jeong-woo.
If you press it with your hand, it will be selected. Please listen to me while you fill it out.
Jeong-woo looked at the screen.
[It takes more than 30 minutes to fall asleep after lying down.]
[0. Not at all4. Every day.]
He selected each one, and the director spoke up.
The diagnostic process will beprehensive. Especially, we need to collect urate information rted to sleep. Rx and take your time.
I dont think I can rx when I hear the same questions from you earlier.
I did that on purpose.
The director looked at Jeong-woo, who was puzzled.
Most insomnia patients are defensive. If you say things like Oh, you havent been able to sleep for a few days? or Are you afraid to go to bed? to patients who are depressed, they just get stressed.
Is that so?
Oh, have you been suffering because you havent been able to sleep for a few days?
Although it wasnt aining tone, nor did it feelforting, Jeong-woo nodded his head.
Comforting words other than identifying the exact cause and treatment method are not even worth a single sleeping pill. Thats the summary. In that sense.
When Jeong-woo finished the survey, the director spoke in a cheerful voice.
Go to bed. Room 4. Its on the second floor. Lets talk more tomorrow.
Director Seong phrasing felt like itcked emotion.
Jeong-woo remembered seeing on the signboard that the director was introduced as [Medical Doctor / Neuro-Psychiatrist Specialist] and sensed that this was also an expert who was picky, even though Doctor Moon and Director Seong had different personalities.
Jeong-woo, who had gone up to the second floor, wandered around the Sleep Examination Room area and looked around for Room 4. Most of the rooms had their lights turned off, but in the room at the end with a gloomy door, light was seeping out.
It seemed like someone was inside the VIP examination room.
Since this is Cheongdam-dong, its natural that the upper ss is here, right?
Jeong-woo was surprised to find that the interior of Room 4, the Sleep Room, was more luxurious than he had expected.
If his own room was an inn, then this was a hotel. The room next to the VIP room was probably a penthouse.
As he sat briefly on the plush-looking bed, the door opened.
I am the sleep attendant.
A clinic staff member came in. The man who had ced his sleepwear and toiletries asked him to prepare and said he would be back soon.
After changing into his sleepwear and finishing brushing his teeth and washing his face in the bathroom outside, the staff member came in with the EEG equipment.
Attaching sensors to his head, face, and legs, the staff member told him to lie down on the bed.
Well test your brainwaves before you fall asleep and turn off the lights.
What if I cant sleep?
A sleep study is not about whether you sleep well, but about examining any problems with sleep.
Upon hearing this, Jeong-woo felt relieved.
It looks morefortable than my own house, so I might be able to sleep well.
After a while, the lights in the room turned off.
A spacious room with warm light pouring in through arge window.
Yoon Yi-seol, lying in bed, opened her eyes slightly and confirmed that it was morning before letting out a groan and covering her face with a pillow.
She was tossing and turning, struggling with the desire to stay in the cozy feeling of the nket and not get up, as if fighting against something.
Oh my.
Yoon Yi-seol turned her head to the middle-aged woman in a white gown sitting next to the table.
Director?
Merry Christmas.
When did you arrive?
10 minutes ago.
I slept soundly. I didnt even realize you came.
Yawning and covering her mouth with her palm, Yoon Yi-seol sat up in bed.
The director watched Yoon Yi-seol which had a shy expression.
The patient, who was visiting the clinic for the third week in a row, opened her eyes sharply as if making amitment to stay positive for the day. She tried to pull herself together and stay alert, knowing that she would surely be oversensitive after taking a nap, but she pretended to be sound asleep out of consideration for her doctor.
Seong Mi-na started interpreting the sleep test graph that was disyed on the monitor.
The patient fell asleep at 12 oclock. They woke up at 2 oclock and couldnt sleep for 30 minutes. After that, they mostly had shallow sleep. They are currently feeling groggy. The time they woke up was 10 minutes ago.
Yoon Yi-seol stuck out her tongue.
Whenever Ie here, it feels like a haunted ce. But still, I managed to sleep for a total of four hours.
Approaching Yoon Yi-seol with an amazed expression, Seong Mi-na gently removed the sensor attached to her forehead.
We can postpone the morning test to the afternoon. Lets have breakfast and get some more sleep.
Im fine.
When is it that youre not feeling well, Ms. Yi-seol?
After thinking for a moment, Yoon Yi-seol answered Seong Mi-nas question.
When I cante up with a good melody.
And?
When the melody Ie up with is bad.
I didnt hear you sing anything bad, Yi-seol.
Thats because I carefully chose the songs I sang. Oh! Is that it? The pain of the creator.
Youe here often, that youve be a doctor.
With a smile, Seong Mi-na removed all the sensors from Yoon Yi-seols face.
After the diagnosis is done today, are you gonna start treatment right away?
Treatment?
You cant just keep sleeping for four hours like this forever.
The director doesnt really know. Napping is a basic option for celebrities.
Yoon Yi-seol whispered softly with her hand covering her mouth.
I dont want to say it myself, but Im really popr and busy.
I know, youre popr.
This flower-like youngdy is known in the Korean music industry as a talented musician who is loved by many in her early twenties. The formal name for the symptoms she is experiencing is early persistent depressive disorder, but she denies it, and as a result, she suffers from sleep disorders.
Its not serious yet, but theres no guarantee that it wont develop into mncholia, the disease of geniuses, and theres no guarantee that she wont make drastic choices.
Yoon Yi-seol has a natural sensitivity that goes beyond themon sense of ordinary people.
Living for fans and giving up personal happiness because she cannot be selfish for even a moment. This was also a problem that arose from her being excessively kind and having a soft heart.
Thats why Seong Mi-na felt attached to this patient and felt the urge to help her as much as possible.
After breakfast, lets talk.
Then Ill go wash up ande back.
Yoon Yi-seol grabbed a towel and walked towards the door.
Meanwhile, Seong Mi-na was looking at the sleep graph again when she heard the sound of the door opening and closing. She looked up to see Yoon Yi-seol leaning against the wall with a startled expression.
Whats wrong?
Th-theres someone outside
Stay calm and tell me.
That person just passed by.
There should be only a person who would be wandering around the sleep test area at this time.
Mr. Hang Jeong-woo?
Yoon Yi-seol nodded enthusiastically, and Seong Mi-na noticed a change in her emotions that she hadnt seen in three weeks.
Do you know him? Should you go say hello?
How can I when I look like this?
Like what?
Its one of my ugly days. I dont have my stylist or makeup artist here.
Seong Mi-na chuckled. Despite wearing pajamas, Yoon Yi-seol still looked attractive and pretty to her, but perhaps she feltckingpared to her usual standards.
And I said such a stupid thing at that time. If I knew this would happen, I wouldnt have done it. Why did I do that?
Watching Yoon Yi-seol open the door and look outside like she was checking for something, Seong Mi-nas eyes lit up.
As a psychiatrist, the most difficult part of dealing with patients is finding the first clue to unravel the tangle of their mind. If you pull the thread too quickly, it only tangles more, and if you try to untangle each strand too carefully, the clue may disappear forever.
Shall we look into it?
Seong Mi-na turned her gaze to the hat and mask that Yoon Yi-seol worest night.
Ms. Yi-seol, lets do the examination now.
Oh, does he have to do it too?
Yes, he came here because of insomnia, just like you.
Ah
Knowing that the person she is interested in has had a simr experience may provide a clue to treating the cold of her troubled heart.
Behavioral test?
Jeong-woo looked at the smartwatch-like recorder that the staff was putting on his wrist and tilted his head.
We will conduct a cognitive and behavioral test with basic physical examination as listed here until lunchtime. By giving the body some stress or inducing activities that stimte interest or psychological stress.
Looking at the list, Jeong-woo confirmed that this was aprehensive sleep examination simr to aprehensive health examination.
Its really thorough.
We have to do it thoroughly for the patients sake. There are only eight patients today, so there should be some time to spare during the waiting period. After lunch, the director will give you his opinion right away.
After the staff left, Jeong-woo also got up from his seat.
He walked out of the sleep room and went up to the third floor when he suddenly sent a text message wondering if Jeong-chan was doing well.
[Have you decided on the date course?]
[Im working on it. Were meeting for lunch.]
[Dont go and act annoyed around that girl like you usually do when you cant have a good conversation with her, its not her fault.]
[Are you kidding me? I wont get annoyed!]
The annoyance was conveyed even through the text message, making Jeong-woo smirk.
I went up to the third floor and there was someone who had arrived earlier in front of the bodyposition measurement room listed as number 1.
She was a slender woman wearing a mask and pressing down a baseball cap, and she kept wandering around the bodyposition measurement room, constantly looking inside.
The record number on the device that Jeong-woo was holding was number eight. The woman had number seven written on her wrist. Jeong-woo thought they might be waiting together, so he greeted her first.
Hello.
As soon as he spoke, the woman, who was startled, froze in ce. Seeing her not responding, Jeong-woo wondered, Did I do something wrong? and scratched his chin as he sat down on the chair by the hallway.
Maybe she caught a cold.
He didnt think much of her wearing a mask indoors and was just waiting, but her reaction was a bit strange. She kept fidgeting.
What did I say?
He shrugged off the clinic-provided gown and looked at the woman again. She seemed anxious and kept twirling her long hair hanging down below her shoulders.
Hmm?
He briefly focused and stared at her, but suddenly her hair magnified and turned into a microcosm. The scent molecules in the shape of flower petals that scattered into the air from her hair were captivating to Jeong-woo since it was the first time he had seen them.
Meanwhile, the door to the measurement room opened.
Number seven, pleasee in.
The woman disappeared into the room like a gust of wind. The scent molecules were blown into Jeong-woos nostrils by the wind.
It was the smell of shampoo that Jeong-woo also used in the morning in front of the sink in the sleeping area.
Could she be a VIP?
Jeong-woo became curious about why someone who lived so leisurely and in such a nice ce would suffer from insomnia.
The VIP woman continued to receive the examination one step ahead of Jeong-woo.
At the ce where they test stress by applying electric shock to the fingers, the person screamed Gyak! but then disappeared quickly as soon as it was over.
At the ce where one had to walk 2km on a treadmill, she quickly disappear after the sound of the rm without following the employees instructions.
Jeong-woo had to scratch his head as she kept avoiding him. Why is she like this? Is she from the upper ss who dislikes meeting ordinary people?
The room they entered this time was a ce that measured the level of brain waves when feeling interested. The testing method was simple, they attached a sensor and sat in a chair to y a ring-throwing game.
The VIP woman, who had already failed four times and was contemting thest one while holding it in her hand, quickly threw it away as soon as Jeong-woo entered. With a regretful sigh, she clenched her fist tightly.
Ill do it again in a bit. The third time will be a sess.
It seemed that she had already tried several times. She ended up standing awkwardly behind the chair in the examination room, unable to escape quickly this time.
Excuse me.
He passed her closely, revealing only her skin next to the mask, but she felt quite young.
Jeong-woo then wore the measuring device on his head and grabbed the ring.
There was a wooden pole 2 meters away and a stic ring the size of a palm.
He thought he could easily seed at this level, which was like a childrens toy, so he threw itfortably.
Ugh.
He failed the first and second attempts in a row.
Its not as easy as I thought.
Jeong-woo concentrated and threw the third one. The ring flew narrowly and hit the pole, bouncing off.
Stay calm. You only need to seed once in the measurement. Its the change in brain waves at the moment of sess thats needed.
As the employee spoke, Jeong-woo felt even more nervous and had failed four times already. He was afraid he would have to try again.
Its a shame. It looks like you were very tense, the VIP woman standing behind him said, covering her mouth and smiling.
Ugh, how embarrassing.
Thinking this was not the way to go, Jeong-woo took a deep breath and called out to his colleagues for the first time in a while.
Gather around,e on!
He collected stardust in his right hand and put it in the ring. His left hand pointed towards the wooden rod.
He gathered all the stardust floating around the rod. As soon as he confirmed that the rod had turned [+] for a moment, he quickly threw the stic ring that had turned [-].
The ring flew in a curve and was sucked into the rod like it had a ma. It seemed like a sess that ignored gravity, but the employee was looking at the brain wave test results and didnt seem to notice.
Okay. I saved my pride. Thank you for your hard work.
Jeong-woo smiled with satisfaction as he scattered the stardust in both hands. They gathered and dispersed better than before.
Your brain waves are a bit unusual now. There are more theta waves.
Jeong-woo asked the employee about the difference.
I cant be sure since this isnt a high-density EEG, but you should get the directors opinion.
As Jeong-woo took off the equipment and stepped back, the VIP woman sat down on the chair and took off her hat.
As the flowing hair shone like amercial, Jeong-woo couldnt help but be amazed by the glossy appearance. Perhaps because she was from a wealthy family, she seemed to have been taking good care of herself.
However, the attempt this time was progressing as if it would end up as another failure. When the third ring fell to the side, the employee said with a half-giving-up face, Its not a necessary examination, so you can just skip it this time.
The slight shrinkage of the VIPs shoulders conveyed the feeling of disappointment to those around her.
She seems to have poor motor skills. (Look whos talking coughcough)
Jeong-woo thought for a moment. If she couldnt seed, there would be no point in doing the examination. It wouldnt hurt to try to help out and practice handling the dust particles.
Jeong-woo, who was standing behind her, reached out both hands. It was a method of gathering dust particles from a distance and concentrating them in a specific area, just like before.
The fourth ring flew towards the pole and failed very close to it, falling to the ground.
Its not easy.
The fifth ring.
Send it here and remove it there.
The group of dust particles gathered at a distance of about 3 meters, each taking their ce and moving.
Ping-grr. Chuck.
Like two fabrics sticking together due to static electricity, the ring was hung on the pole.
Wow!
The VIP woman raised her hand in excitement. She seemed to be very pleased with something that wasnt a big deal for someone from a wealthy family, so Jeong-wooughed.
After an hour of examination, a 10-minute break came.
Jeong-woo was sitting on a bench in the third-floor hallway, drinking water. Then he perked up his ears at the sounding out of the venttion grille above his head.
As the clinic was generally quiet, the sound of someone humming while washing their hands was faintly audible.
But as he listened, the melody became very familiar.
This is.
A sweet humming.
How could he forget that charming voice that had shocked his ears not long ago?
The sound soon disappeared. Jeong-woo looked at the back of a woman walking away on the other side of the hallway, who had juste out of the womens restroom at the end of the venttion grille. If she were carrying a guitar on that body type, she would be the one from back then.
Oh? Ms. Yoon Yi-seol?
The movement of the VIP girl stopped.
Chapter 34
Chapter 34- Christmas chemistry(3)
No.
The answer came in a deliberately low voice. Seeing her hastily descending the stairs, Jeong-woos face became puzzled.
Although they may look alike, her humming from earlier was not an imitable trait.
She was Yoon Yi-seol.
Thinking about his initial reaction when they first met, Jeong-woo remembered that they were inside a sleep clinic.
Unless she was suffering from insomnia, there was no need for her to go through the trouble of attaching sensors to her head and sleeping.
Even someone who looks so happy on stage can have this kind of problem.
He noticed that she kept wearing a mask, which must have been ufortable. He thought that maybe, as a well-known celebrity, it was expected of her, but then he thought that maybe she was avoiding being with him, which made him feel bitter.
Hey, Han Jeong-woo. Wake up. Its none other than Yoon Yi-seol. Dont you remember?
Anyway, Jeong-woo respected her desire not to be caught and decided to finish the examination quietly.
Thetter part of the examination, which resumed, included patients who were using the 5th and 6th examination machines.
Jeong-woo sat quietly on the bench in front of the examination room, looking straight ahead. As the waiting bench was only for four people, Yoon Yi-seol sat right next to him.
Calm down, my heart.
His heart continued to beat fast. Even though he didnt know why, he kept imagining that he was being watched by a girlfriend he didnt have, as if he were a single guy at an age when everyone else had found their significant other.
Why am I having these thoughts now? Its pathetic.
But there was something else that made his sadness worse. On the TV monitors installed in various ces in the corridor to keep waiting patients entertained, an idol group special program where they became virtual couples and wandered around was ying.
Ugh, theres nowhere for me to look.
Hey, Yeong-gam. What did they say this test was for?
The fifth and sixth test subjects were a white-haired elderly couple, holding hands tightly as they sat down. When the grandmother asked, the grandfather looked at his list.
Let me see ha ji
Yoon Yi-seol turned her head to him and said, Its a test for anxiety disorder, Grandpa.
Oh, thank you, miss.
As he kindly thanked her, Yi-seol seemed to hesitate, sensing something.
It must be because she didnt disguise her voice this time.
Jeong-woo pretended to bepletely absorbed in the TV and didnt turn his gaze away.
Thump.
The five, six, seven, and eight test subjects, pleasee in.
The door to the exercise inhibition test room opened, and the four people who were tested before walked out. Yoon Yi-seol, who was getting up from her seat, reflexively reached out to support the elderlydy next to her, who was having difficulty getting up.
Thank you.
When the grandfather also struggled to get up, Jeong-woo quickly ran over and grabbed his arm.
Ill help you.
Im sorry. Ill owe you one.
The two elderly people who had gotten up held hands and went back into the testing room. Yoon Yi-seol, who had been watching the scene with a faint expression, seemed to notice Jeong-woo standing next to her and coughed before walking into the room without a word.
Inside the testing room, four beds with square machines attached to them were arranged facing each other in pairs.
Please lie down on the bed and sit against the support. Yes, dont bend your legs. Thats right, Grandma.
The employee attached sensors to each of their calves and pointed to a button next to the machine.
Please sit quietly for 30 minutes, and press the button whenever you feel ufortable in your legs.
The test began in the small space. The first one to speak was the grandmother, who had been sitting in silence for a while.
Its tough for young people. They cant even sleep properly
When Grandma expressed her concern about insomnia, Jeong-woo smiled reassuringly. Perhaps it was because they both shared the same predicament?
Although it was just an interestedment, it somehow made him feelforted. Of course, Grandmas kind expression also yed a role in that.
It seems like both of them are very well-behaved. The youngdys hands are so white and delicate. The young man looks reliable, and it feels like seeing my grandson. Our grandson is in the army, and we received a call from him yesterday. These days, the military is not that dangerous. Hes being brave so that grandma doesnt worry.
Grandma, why are you talking about your grandson here? Its not appropriate.
Oh no, I just thought of our grandson because the young man looks simr to my eldest grandson.
Its not simr at all. Hyung-woo is not good-looking.
He isnt.
As he watched the two quietly arguing, Jeong-woo couldnt help but smile slightly.
It seemed that Yoon Yi-seol felt the same way, as a hint of a smile could be seen behind her mask.
Miss, do you have a cold? I brought ginger tea, do you want someter?
When Grandma directly spoke to her, Yoon Yi-seol looked embarrassed. She seemed concerned about answering.
Yes, Grandma. Thank you, Ill dly drink it.
Oh my, what a lovely voice you have.
Although it was difficult for her to answer properly, Yoon Yi-seols priority for etiquette was felt in her heart, even in such a difficult situation.
Is ginger tea good for this young man?
Oh, me
Jeong-woo answered, conscious of Yoon Yi-seol.
I cant drink that kind of thing well. Thank you, though.
Whats the thanks for?
While the conversation had started, Jeong-woo asked the grandmother.
Grandma, do you have trouble sleeping at night too?
I keep waking up. This old man snores loudly, and breathes heavily, not breathing propierly.
Oh no.
To make it easier for Yoon Yi-seol for the rest of the examination time, Jeong-woo continued to add inments and listened to the grandmothers words.
However, the stories that came out from the two elderly people afterward made Jeong-woo rather sad.
Being old makes you think a lot. Im worried about our four siblings living well, and our grandchildren. Its hard for young people to make a living, I wonder how our grandchildren will do. Im also worried if our young grandson drinks too much andes homete.
Oh, I wouldnt mind going for a drink at the senior center.
When I sleep like that, I keep waking up to check if he is breathing. We need to fix it before we go to bed.
Its you who should fix it, not me. You cant keep going on like this without sleeping properly.
Well, if we die, well sleep well for the rest of our lives. Whats the point?
The elderly couples many years of living seemed to addyers to their sleeplessness symptoms.
Jeong-woo couldnt say anything more as the grandmothers words, filled with exhaustion, conveyed the full weight of her weariness to him.
No wonder the director said thatforting insomnia patients requires an urate diagnosis and treatment.
Grandfather, grandmother.
Then, Yoon-seol spoke up.
Youll get better soon. The director here is really talented. The best in the country. My celebrity fri, friends also came here for treatment and left.
Thank you.
As the grandmother looked at her with a warm smile, Yoon Yi-seols eyes under her hat also softened.
Seeing you two makes me think of my own grandfather and grandmother. They really liked my singing.
Singing? You must be good at it with your voice.
Yoon Yi-seol, who had been speaking as if lost in thought, turned her head towards Jeong-woo. It seemed like she had just be conscious of it.
I need you to be more thorough if you want to deceive me.
She seemed to have a personality with many ws. Here too, if I pretend not to know, wouldnt that make me a fool?
Well, I guess Ill just be a fool.
He couldnt say he knew everything about Yoon Yi-seol, but he felt that she was a truly innocent celebrity, touched by the sincere interest of the elderly couple.
And now, he didnt feel ufortable being with her anymore.
Jeong-woo once again pretended not to hear anything and fixed his gaze on the TV on the wall. The virtual couple show was still on.
Theyre still doing that.
He muttered, taking out his phone. Since there were no more messages from Chan, it seemed that everything was progressing smoothly.
That lucky bastard. Im just sitting here, unable to even call her Yoon Yi-seol.
The rest of the examination proceeded without any indication of Yoon Yi-seol avoiding the elderly couple.
After all the tests, whichsted from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m., were over, Jeong-woo went down to the second floor to retrieve his clothes from the sleeping room. Thats when he spotted Yoon Yi-seol walking towards the VIP room.
Take care. I dont know what the problem is, but please find the cause and get treated.
Although he had only been her fan for a week, Jeong-woo sincerely wished her well.
After filling his stomach with the non-stimting food prepared by the clinic, Jeong-woo found yesterdays examination room at 1:30.
What are you doing on holidays, or on Christmas Eve? Are you just going to follow Suchan and go to work?
Unfortunately, the director of the clinic was sitting inside the examination room, listening to carols that were full of Christmas atmosphere.
Wee.
The director greeted Jeong-woo as he entered.
Have you found the cause?
As soon as Jeong-woo sat down, the director disyed the test results on the monitor. The sleep EEG test results by time period, various tests conducted today and their results were disyed one after another.
Um are you interpreting these results for me?
Yes, of course. How much are you paying?
The director smiled and asked.
When many peoplee to the clinic, they tend to categorize insomnia as a mental disorder and try to find the underlying causes in the emotional or psychological aspects. However, Mr. Han Jeong-woos case was quiteplex and entangled.
Complex?
The exnation is a bit difficult. Are you a science major?
Um, are the exnations different for liberal arts and sciences?
Not necessarily.
The directors sharp gaze turned to Jeong-woos eyes.
It depends on how you respond to my question. Based on your reactions, I determine the level of difficulty in my exnation. So, for you, I would say its science-rted.
A new image representing the neural nucleus of the brain appeared on the monitor.
The function of sleep is maintained by the action of neurotransmitters that regte the nervous system. The brain opens and closes the door to sleep on its own.
As Jeong-woo listened to the exnation, he suddenly flinched in surprise at the chemical neb that appeared on the monitor.
Jeong-woo falls asleep within 10 minutes. It was a very normal reaction. However, during these 10 minutes, the theta and delta waves increased instead of the alpha waves that an insomniac patient should have. It was due to the peculiar action of neurotransmitters
Along with Director Sungs exnation, the bundle of constetions dancing before Jeong-woos eyes showed a lively movement that seemed to wake him up.
Dopamine, acetylcholine, norepinephrine, serotonin, histamine, hypocretin
As I intuitively recalled the names of neurotransmitters, they all were sucked into the ck hole at once, clumping together and disintegrating into a formless dust, only to shoot out of the ck hole in a stream.
And as it continued to expand, I saw something I never expected to see.
Huh, a dust star?
In the baptism of stardust, Jeong-woo had to swallow a groan at the smooth dance of free electrons.
In the fantasy where the micro world and reality were mixed, Jeong-woo had a sudden thought.
Director Seong.
Yes?
What happens if the neurotransmitter suddenly decreases in this part?
It will transition from awakening to sleep state. Very unstable.
Like insomnia?
You understood it as expected. Mr. Han Jeong-woo tends to sleep deeply even with short sleep, regardless of his emotional anxiety. I dont think there is a great danger in maintaining a normal life in this state.
Actions such as regting dust stars ormunicating with molecules are apanied by the use of senses that ordinary people cannot use.
Of course, this must be the cause.
Still, he asked Director Seong just in case.
Why do you think so?
Because the brain shows an unusual reaction.
Is it different from ordinary people?
Thats not a problem for me to judge. Many schrs have studied the brain, but they have not yet determined the structure of intelligence and thought considering individual characteristics. I exined the physical cause of insomnia that hase to Han Jeong-woo, but the mental aspect needs to be continued through counseling. However.
The next words were somewhat expected by Jeong-woo.
Sometimes a drowsiness pours in.
It was exined by Director Seong that although its wee to be able to get a good nights sleep even if you wake up, if you cant control that time as you please, its no different from insomnia.
What should I do? Is there a solution?
There are two ways. One is medication.
Medication?
Like Modafinil, a treatment for insomnia.
Since it was confirmed that it was not a problem caused by a substantial issue in the brain, Jeong-woo was hesitant about medication that seemed a bit ufortable.
The other is sleep training. Its one of our clinics insomnia cognitive-behavioral therapy programs that uses physical and mental methods to help you control your own sleep. Itsts for three months.
Training? This seems much better.
I also rmend this. If you rely on medication, you may end up increasing the dosage or looking for a stronger one when the effect wears off. Eventually, side effects wille.
As the ability is used more, the more unstable the sleep cycle bes.
If it can be improved through training, it is right to try. After all, he wont stopmunicating with Dust Star forever.
Is the cognitive-behavioral therapy effective?
If its not certain, how could I have lived in a small room in Gangnam without paying rent? If youre not satisfied, well give you a refund.
Jeong-woo was determined by Director Seongs confidence.
Ill do it.
The cost is about this much.
Seeing the number on the monitor, Jeong-woo swallowed a groan. It was expensive. Too much. Since he couldnt afford it this month, Jeong-woo calcted his credit card limit. It seemed difficult to pay in one installment, and he would have to check the terms and conditions with the doctor first.
Is it possible to pay in installments?
Yes, it is. Oh, there happens to be someone participating in the program today, so if you join, youll get a discount on part of the fee. Since Ill be helping two people instead of one.
Director Seongs eyes lit up significantly as he mentioned this.
The faster the better, for me too.
The basic program is for 4 hours, and if you leave in the middle, youll have to pay a penalty in addition to the discounted price.
Its okay, nothing came up today.
The directors eyes widened.
You look perfectly fine and you have nothing to do on Christmas Eve?
Oh, I feel fine.
Change perfectly fine to attractive then?
Really?
I may not know, but someone out there might think that way.
With the directors wording that could be understood but not really, Jeong-woo scratched his head.
2 PM, 5th floor of Cheongdam Sleep Clinic.
Yoon Yi-seol was sitting in the consultation room inside the clinic, which was decorated like a caf, waiting for Seong Mi-na to arrive.
She absentmindedly touched the mask and hat she had worn in the morning, which were ced on the table.
I couldnt even say a word. You idiot!
Yoon Yi-seol, who was venting her frustration by tapping the cheek of that idiot with her palm, let out a deep sigh and buried her upper body in the table.
Although they had exchanged many useless conversations that day, why was she so timid today? She hated herself for being like this, knowing that she might not have many chances to meet him by chance like this.
If she couldnt reach out because she was afraid of getting hurt, she might not be able to make a real friend and grow old alone, and that thought made her anxious.
Yoon Yi-seol lifted her head.
I hate that.
Dorm, broadcast. Dorm, stage. They were all people who seemed to act happy in front of the camera.
Except for some friends she made during her debut, she didnt have anyone she kept in touch with.
Holding her phone in her hand and checking her messenger friend list, Yoon Yi-seol clenched her fists tightly.
Its unlikely, but if we meet again.
Knock knock.
Excuse me.
Yoon Yi-seols eyes trembled at the entrance of a man who came into the consultation room.
Chapter 35
Chapter 35- Christmas chemistry(4)
Wondering if he had entered the wrong ce, Jeong-woo checked the sign in front of the door again and turned to look at Yoon Yi-seol with a perplexed expression.
I think I should say something in this situation.
Jeong-woo, who was embarrassed after checking the sign again, fixed his gaze on her without her mask.
Her small face without makeup, with only reddened lips and stray hairs flowing over her forehead, looked so cute.
As much as her kind personality shown in the morning, her appearance was equally stunning, enough to leave him speechless.
Seeing Yoon Yi-seols nk expression without saying anything, Jeong-woo suddenly came to his senses.
Yoon Yi-seol? Its the first time Ive seen you sincest weeks stage, right?
Faced with a question that indirectly avoids asking about the mornings events, Yoon Yi-seol hesitated before nodding her head and saying, Yes.
And the counseling room fell silent.
I hope theyre not asking me to do the 4-hour program with Yoon Yi-seol he thought, and as he nced at her, she seemed to be thinking the same thing. Yoon Yi-seol was more startled than Jeong-woo.
Um, well
I couldnt sleep.
What?
I came here to treat that.
Oh.
As Jeong-woo spoke naturally, Yoon Yi-seol made up her mind to say something and swallowed her saliva before speaking.
And I cant sleep either.
Oh.
No, I mean, I cant sleep Ah, why do I keep saying that?
Yoon Yi-seol turned her head sharply after hitting her forehead.
Im here, you know. Im good at talking to fans, but not so much with Han Jeong-woo. Thats why I stumble over my words. Please understand.
Im a fan too.
Sincest week, right?
Does that mean its not okay?
Its okay.
Yoon Yi-seol nodded her head coolly, but her expression seemed to falter at something, giving her the look of a surprised rabbit as she looked at Han Jeong-woo.
Can entertainers really be this innocent?
The more she looked, the more she could see her pure and naive side. However, as she felt that way, the burden that had arisen as soon as she entered the room melted away.
Han Jeong-woo suppressed augh and spoke.
Please feel free to approach me as a fan. I wont insist on asking for autographs or taking pictures with Yoon Yi-seol either.
Why arent you insisting?
Do I have to?
Well, as a fan, you should.
Yoon Yi-seol bit her lower lip and looked resentful. Jeong-woo matched his pace with her serious expression.
I see.
Even though its only been a week since you became a fan.
Im sorry. Im not used to being a fan of such a great singer like Yoon Yi-seol.
Remember that. Thats how you be a regr member quickly.
Regr member on a fan site?
Upon seeing Yoon Yi-seols gaze that seemed toin about him not joining, Jeong-woo coughed and first addressed the request he heard earlier.
I got the autograph, and theres a video of us taken with a better camera than that. But can we take a pictureter?
Im sorry, I cant. I didnt do my makeup today. Im sorry.
If thats the case, why did you say that
Yoon Yi-seol, who was pretty enough without makeup, avoided Jeong-woos gaze with a fresh expression.
Jeong-woo felt that she was shy and lowered his head inwardly.
No way.
At that moment, the door opened with a thud and both of them turned their heads.
Sorry, Im a littlete.
Seong Mi-na came in holding the chart in her hand.
Have you introduced yourselves? This is Han Jeong-woo, and this is Yoon Yi-seol. I heard that youre mutual acquaintances
Yi-seol stood up abruptly, grabbed Seongs arm and leaned in close to the door, whispering.
You didnt say anything like this.
Because you kept saying youre ugly with that pretty face. I thought you might run away.
Hearing this, Yi-seols face turned bright red, and she covered her forehead with her hand.
I knew it, I should have called the stylist.
Are you going to participate in the program? You can be confident that itll help you with your insomnia.
Yi-seol turned her gaze to Jeong-woo, who was sitting awkwardly at the table. Then, she nodded her head slightly.
Sitting down, Seong Mi-na handed a chart to each of the two.
This is todays schedule. Repeat machine therapy and individual tailored therapy.
As the two read the details of the chart, Seong Mi-na spoke up.
Lets get moving right away. Two other teams are already working, so itll be difficult if we get behind. Please move to the machine therapy room up front.
At Seong Mi-nas rapid-fire instructions, the two hurriedly moved out.
Sitting in a massage chair that tightly wrapped around his neck, Jeong-woo became slightly tense. The device was sorge that it felt burdensome as it tightly wrapped around his neck, going from the back of his ears to the end of his shoulders.
The machine switch was turned on.
As the sound of ooh-oong started to stimte the back of his neck, Jeong-woo couldnt help but groan.
If you feel any pain, please let me know.
Well it feels refreshing, but
Jeong-woos voice trembled in vibration with the machine, which sounded somewhatical, but he managed to control his expression as he faced the serious expression of Director Seong.
This treatment has a function of stimting the parasympathetic nervous system.
Are you going to keep doing this?
Hearing Jeong-woos vibrating voice, Yoon Yi-seol, who was grinning, finally realized that a device was also attached to the back of her neck.
Just a moment
Yoon Yi-seol hunched over, feeling the vibrations already started by the machine. The sensation on the back of her neck was quite stimting, causing her toes to curl involuntarily.
I Im fine.
Since her neck was fixed, Yoon Yi-seol had no choice but to answer.
Im not too fond of the sound of my own voice
Jeong-woo chuckled at the sound and then looked sideways, but he immediately shut his mouth as Yoon Yi-seol, who seemed to be in a good mood, gave him a strong warning nce.
Well proceed for about 15 minutes.
After Director Seongs words, the treatment room was filled with only the sound of the machines vibration. Jeong-woo kept looking at the person next to him.
It was amazing. It was unbelievable that the top star who he thought he would never see again was right beside him.
Ouch.
As Yoon Yi-seol groaned in pain, the director, Seong, immediately approached her.
Do you feel pain?
Thats notits my foota cramp.
Yoon Yi-seol, who was aware of Jeong-woos gaze, spoke up.
Seong quickly took off her shoe and massaged her toes.
Despite trying not to listen, Jeong-woo closed his eyes as her groans kept ringing in his ears.
I dont know. I cant hear it. Im a fan. I shouldnt listen. Im going to be a regr member.
Ah
After the strange 15 minutes ended, Jeong-woo and Yoon Yi-seol couldnt look at each other for a while.
The next step was to wear a brainwave measurement device and sit in front of a light therapy machine that emits light simr to sr energy for 30 minutes.
If you feel too excited, please let us know. We will adjust the light for you, they exined, inducing the secretion of mtonin at night by shining light in an environment that feels like being outside.
Jeong-woo was sitting next to Yoon Yi-seol, pondering the treatment they just received. Due to the awkward situation, he couldnt find the courage to start a conversation. Laughing would be impolite.
When you said you were a fan, please erase the memory of the treatment from your mind, she spoke up first during the treatment.
Jeong-woo looked at her in confusion while watching her hold her hands together like praying and pleading, Please.
Isnt this our first treatment? he asked.
Uh? Oh Yes, its our first treatment.
Yoon Yi-seol breathed a sigh of relief and nodded her head as Jeong-woo grumbled to himself.
The director, who had been eavesdropping on their conversation while sitting at the monitoring station near the entrance, had a faint smile on his lips.
It was a smile of confirmation that the desired synergy effect was indeed taking ce.
After gazing at the cozy light pouring from the light therapy machine for a while, Jeong-woo heard his phone beep and picked it up.
[Hyung, Im on my way to the restaurant. Im so nervous.]
Kid, Im so nervous I want to go back too.
That girl and Yoon Yi-seol. They couldnt be more different. After sending a word of encouragement to Chan, Jeong-woo quickly turned his head.
Yoon Yi-seol was also looking at her phone and sending a message to someone.
[Please donte until 6 oclock, Director Ji.]
[Huh?]
[Im receiving treatment.]
[!!]
After finishing sending the message, Yoon Yi-seol turned to look at Jeong-woo, and their eyes met. She didnt feel as awkward as she did before, when their eyes kept meeting. But still, it wasnt easy to start a conversation.
Jeong-woo, who had been staring silently, asked her a question.
Ms. Yoon Yi-seol. You said you used to sing in Hongdae before your debut, right?
Yes, that was before my debut. But how did you?
Jeong-woo shook his phone.
Youre a famous person, so I happened toe across it while searching.
Thats all well and good, but please dont click on Yoon Yi-seol Kwadang.
Kwadang? Oh, its showing up as the third rted search term.
Somehow, Jeong-woos face lit up with a smile as if he expected to see a cute video.
Dont do it.
You shouldnt have brought it up.
Take your hands off the keyboard.
Im not looking at it now. My younger brother is on an important first date with a girl, so I need to search for something else. I asked him earlier, and he said theyre nning to go to a famous cafe in Hongdae called Once. Is the atmosphere there nice?
At this, Yoon Yi-seols eyes lit up.
I know that ce very well. Put your phone down.
Yoon Yi-seol exined that it was a traditional music cafe that had produced many talented indie musicians, and added one more thing.
I also perform there from time to time.
Oh really? This ce will be crazy when you go there, then.
Not really. There are so many amazing senior musicians there. The ce evaluates you based on your singing more than your poprity. But what about your brothers first date? Whats the story?
Oh, its his first love in high school. Youll be surprised when you see her. She looks like a bandit.
Aw, thats cute. I also have a younger brother who just entered college
Before they knew it, 30 minutes had passed since they started talking, even though they had only exchanged a few words.
Whether it was because they were both receiving treatment for the same symptoms or because they were both being analyzed for customized sleep environments while lying on mattresses during brainwave recycling therapy, they continued to chatfortably.
Like a fan who has met their favorite singer after a long time.
. Ikhyeon doesnt even reply when I ask how hes doing.
Maybe to people, youre the nations sister, but to him youre just his sister. How amusing.
And yet he keeps whining and asking for an allowance.
Thats the same as Chan.
Ding, a message came in, and Jeong-woo opened his phone.
My younger brother. He said he felt really awkward with the girl at the restaurant and asked for some advice on how to turn the atmosphere around. It seems like hes ufortable because he hasnt talked much with girls before, and he keeps sending SOS messages to his inexperienced older brother.
Upon hearing this, Yoon Yi-seol turned her head from the mattress to look at Jeong-woo.
You havent talked much with girls either?
Thats right. Since I went to an all-boys middle and high school
As Jeong-woo spoke, he turned his head and found Yoon Yi-seol staring at him with her round, ck eyes shining brightly.
Tell your brother to express his feelings rather than trying toe up with fancy words.
Sent.
A minuteter, he received a reply.
Ugh, I just threw a straightforward remark. I told her she looked pretty in her wool hat, but it only made things more awkward.
Ha.
I helped him out so much, but if he fails on his first date, it must be fate for him.
Thats not true. Feeling awkward is just a natural desire to want to look good in front of the other person.
Jeong-woo looked at Yoon Yi-seol and eximed, Oh!
It seems that Ms. Yi-seol knows a lot about dating more than meets the eye.
We picked it up as we were thinking about the lyrics. Our stylist, who is an expert in this field, also knows about it.
Come to think of it, we were really awkward earlier.
Uh, well.
Yoon Yi-seols response was hesitant, realizing that there was a high chance of misunderstanding. As she tried to respond, a strange atmosphere flowed between her and Jeong-woo, who was also flustered by the misunderstanding he had caused.
Beep.
The timer went off, and the mattress automatically raised the upper body, interrupting their conversation.
Analysis is over. Take a break for a moment. Ill see you in the counseling room at 3:35.
Director Seong said this and opened the door. Jeong-woo and Yoon Yi-seol came out to the hallway feeling a little awkward. Director Seong watched over them with a satisfied smile.
Chapter 36
Chapter 36- Christmas chemistry(5)
Yoon Yi-seol turned her head when she saw the clock on the corridor.
We have 10 minutes left. They said not to consume caffeine, so lets have a warm ss of milk in the break room.
Yoon Yi-seol had to touch her forehead. Milk? Among the many drinks like juice, tea, and soda, why did she have to suggest such a childish drink? However, the response she received was positive.
Sure, Im thirsty too.
Yoon Yi-seols face brightened as if she had been waiting for this answer.
There are dried persimmons that the grandmother gave me earlier. Ill bring them. You can go first.
Before Jeong-woo could even respond, Yoon Yi-seol disappeared up to the second floor.
Jeong-woo smiled wryly at her unexpected energy and headed to the break room.
Why do I feel like Im on a date when Im clearly undergoing treatment?
Even though he thought it wasnt a bad misunderstanding, he couldnt help but smile inwardly.
On this Christmas Eve, Jeong-woo headed to the break room, feeling grateful for this dream-like luck.
Upon opening the door to the space decorated as a cafeteria on the first floor, arge Christmas tree in the center caught the eye. It wasnt extravagant, but the multicolored moodmps ced around it added charm to the stars and ornaments adorning the tree.
Under the sign Self-Serve for All Beverages, Jeong-woo walked to the refrigerator, took out some milk, poured it into a mug, and put it in the microwave. As he watched the tree, the moodmps suddenly expanded and shone brightly when he pressed the switch.
Whats this? Jeong-woo blinked his eyes.
Inside the bulb, there was a gas-shaped star floating around. The colorful clusters emitting a glow and dispersing were halogen gas. The information of the elements [I] and [Br] were added to the gas stars that seemed to be thick particles.
Iodine, Bromine. You guys have a unique appearance.
The gases inside the moodmps responsible for one of the trees branches seemed to vibrate, as if asking to be touched when Jeong-woo stared at them.
Huh? Youre not even dust particles.
Jeong-woo reached out towards them absent-mindedly.
Free electrons that gathered from all directions passed through the ss structure of the moodmps and mixed with the gas stars.
As the temperature of the colors gradually turned redder, the glittering tree ornaments became even more vibrant.
These guys are interesting.
Some of the moodmps pulled some of the free electrons that had gathered around them and turned bluer, making the color of the star-shaped ornaments brilliant.
What are you doing?
Jeong-woo, who had been scattering dust stars like directing them towards the tree while reaching out his hand, was taken aback by this voice and stopped moving.
Yoon Yi-seol leaned her head and stood next to Jeong-woo.
Wow. The tree is amazing.
Really?
Amid the mood light that became darker and clearer than before, the Christmas tree exuded a noble and elegant charm.
You adjusted it well at the right time.
Jeong-woo saw the fment gas in the remaining moodmp flickering as if asking him to fix it.
Not just the halogen gas, but also another inactive gas called krypton was mixed in.
Wait. Isnt there a real problem?
He felt anxious that it might burn out the fment, emitting even shes.
Hey, do you see this, Yi-seol?
Yes?
Shall I show you some magic?
Yoon Yi-seol nodded her head with great expectations.
I just moved the positions of these bulbs a little while ago. And theres one left.
Jeong-woo lightly touched the white-hot fment bulb mixed with krypton.
You guys, go in and dry the fment a bit.
The dust particles immediately reacted and poured into the light bulb. As the krypton gas surrounded the halogen gas, the unstable temperature stabilized and the sh disappeared.
The enhanced moodmp, which began to emit a cheerful yellow-green light, became the center of attention and naturally illuminated the green leaves of the tree like a dragon soaring in the sky.
Oh my.
Yoon Yi-seols round eyes widened.
Is this that thing? Magical chemistry?
Maybe.
The bulb, which showed different wavelengths mixed with stardust, was something that Jeong-woo had never seen before.
One could argue that it was due to the magical ability of AF-12, but since Yoon Yi-seol believes it as it is, Jeong-woo did not add any furtherments.
Ive never seen a Christmas tree that emits such warm light before. Its amazing, like a hot pack.
Since its something that a chemist messed with, you could call it a chemi-tree.
Even at a simple joke, Yoon Yi-seol chuckled, and Jeong-woo joined in.
Is it because of the sleep training? Yoon Yi-seols reactions seems better.
Jeong-woo thought that maybe he understood Yoon Yi-seols desire to look good in front of a top star and showed his approval by raising his thumb to the free electrons.
Time passed and it was time for the final stage of the personalized treatment, the counseling session. Jeong-woo was sitting in the counseling room on the fifth floor, looking over the checklist that Seong Mi-na had handed him.
[Practice Rxation Techniques: Step 1. Recall a time when you felt most rxed. Step 2.]
So these are instructions for what I should do during the week?
Yes.
How do I determine whether it has been done or not?
You have to rely on your own conscience. This is an essential part of the process of normalizing sleep. In the case of Jeong-woo, its step one of the rxation techniques, drawing the time when you were most rxed. It may seem simple, but its actually the most important part. Why, when you take a leisurely walk in the park, or eat something delicious, or watch an interesting movie.
Seong Mi-nas gaze first turned to Yoon Yi-seol and then back to Jeong-woo.
. or when youre with someone you like. Its an effort to maintain that state on a regr basis.
Jeong-woo nced at Yoon Yi-seol, who was sitting across from him, looking at the checklist with a serious expression. It seemed like they were both working on different things.
Yoon Yi-seol, make sure you solve that too during the week.
It seems too difficult.
Be courageous. Todays treatment went well, didnt it?
At Seong Mi-nas words, Yoon Yi-seol nced at Jeong-woo surreptitiously and covered her face with the checklist when he turned his head.
Thats the end of the program. Thank you for your hard work.
At 6 pm, the treatment ended, and Seong Mi-na opened the door and shook hands with them.
Jeong-woo walked outside and stood in front of the elevator. Yoon Yi-selso came over to wait for the elevator together.
Um.
Yoon Yi-seol was about to say something, but Jeong-woos phone rang.
Just a moment.
Looking at the screen, it was his younger brother.
Yes?
-Hyung! Im in big trouble.
Why, did you end up getting dumped?
-No, I lost my wallet. I think I dropped it somewhere while walking around with Soojin holding my hand.
Youre such an idiot.
Jeong-woo let out a deep sigh.
So where is it then?
-In front of that cafe you mentioned. I just stepped out for a phone call.
Cleaning the room for five months. Nopromise.
-Got it. Please save me, bro.
After finishing the call, the elevator arrived. As they got on, Yoon Yi-seol asked curiously.
That was your younger brother, right? What happened?
He lost his wallet. Its the first time in his life hes walked holding hands with someone, and he lost his mind and his wallet in the process.
Oh dear, they walked holding hands? See, she likes him.
Yoon Yi-seol pped her hands andughed.
Ding-dong.
Arriving on the first floor, Jeong-woo bowed his head.
Thanks to you, I didnt get bored today on the program. Chan also helped a lot. I appreciate everything.
Um Mr. Han Jeong-woo, will youe next week too?
Yoon Yi-seol asked cautiously. Jeong-woo nodded his head.
Of course. Until I feel better.
Ille next week too. Take care of yourself
Yi-seol clenched her fist and emphasized her words, but then quickly added, Sleep well.
Same to you, Yi-seol.
As Jeong-woo disappeared outside the lobby, Yi-seol put her hand on her chest.
Did I do well? I didnt seem like a fool this time, did I? Good.
Muttering to herself like that, she patted her head, and then checked her phone to see if her boss had arrived yet.
After getting on the van, Yi-seol was told by her team leader, Youve worked hard, Yi-seol.
Its nothing, Yi-seol replied.
The manager looked at Yi-seols face and his eyes widened. Whats so joyful?
What do you mean?
Youre smiling.
I always smile.
As the van started to move, the manager lowered his head. Your bright smile is rare these days. Director Seong is amazing. Just as the rumors say.
Thats right.
Yi-seol sank into her seat and looked at the checklist she was holding in her hand. Can I really do all of this? Items 1 through 10 seemed too difficult, but she had to aplish everything in order to have something to say to Director Seong and that person at the program next week.
As the van turned at the intersection, Yi-seol noticed that person standing at the bus stop.
Ah
Manager Ji, who was driving, turned his head.
Whats wrong, Yoon?
Nothing.
The person who was moving to help her brother in a crisis of love.
Did he say they were going to the cafe I rmended?
Yoon Yi-seols gaze lingered on one of the actions written on the checklist.
[7. Spend at least an hour with an unexpectedpanion.]
Manager Ji.
Yeah?
Shall we go to Once for the first time in a while?
Sure. Its Christmas Eve. Lets listen to some music.
Before we go
Yoon Yi-seol looked back at the bus stop.
Lets give a ride to the friend I got treatment with today.
Friend?
At that bus stop.
After saying that, Yoon Yi-seol picked up her pen and checked off the item on the checklist, then smiled broadly.
The van with dark tinted windows came to a stop and the door opened. Jeong-woo was taken aback by the person inside.
Get in, hurry.
The person gesturing and wearing a beanie was Yoon Yi-seol.
Were going to the cafe. Lets go together.
Is that okay?
Jeong-woo hesitated, but Yoon Yi-seol nodded, and he got into the van.
Wee, Yi-seols friend.
The manager, who was in the drivers seat, looked at Jeong-woo through the rearview mirror and raised his hand in recognition.
I know this face.
You saw himst week. He gave us a hot pack.
The manager clicked his fingers at Yoon Yi-seols exnation.
Oh, Han Jeong-woo?
As the van started, the manager looked surprised and asked.
Are you the one who works at a chemicalpany?
Yes.
That event with the artificial eye spray was a hit. And also, The White Magician. I saw it too. Doesnt the agency contact you?
Agency?
Just by looking at you, you seem tall and have specialized knowledge. And from the stage footage, it seems like you can act. Ive been a manager for 10 years, so I have a sense for these things. Youre perfect for a specialized broadcasting panel.
As soon as he stopped at the traffic light, the manager took out a business card from his pocket and handed it to Jeong-woo.
If youre interested, you dont need to go to different ces. Were a subsidiary of KG Entertainment, and we can connect you to cable TV, and general broadcast stations.
The manager, who had turned his head, met eyes with Yoon Yi-seol, who was sending a fierce look that said, Just focus on driving quietly.
Ahem. You can discuss thister. Ill focus on driving.
Jeong-woo shook his head inwardly as he looked at the business card that said Manager Ji Seong-jae of Star Piece in his hands.
Im so busy with work, why bother with this.
Yoon Yi-seol turned her head and asked Jeong-woo in the passenger seat, Hows your younger brother doing?
He seems to be doing fine. Hes going to take on cleaning the house for five months. But why are you going to a cafe, Yi-seol?
Its Christmas Eve. Its just boring if we dont do anything, so I wanted to create some atmosphere.
Looking at her bright smile, Jeong-woos heart was beating fast, and he turned his gaze out the window.
Yoon Yi-seol and Christmas Eve. Am I dreaming? This is all because of Chans messing around.
His heart was tingling. Jeong-woo, who had been resenting his younger brother just a while ago, now felt like he had found a treasure.
Chapter 37
Chapter 37- Christmas Chemistry(6)
A van stopped near the road leading to Cafe Once. The manager turned to Yoon Yi-seol, who was preparing to get off.
You go in and take a rest first, Yi-seol.
Where are you going?
Oh, Cheon PD asked for a meeting.
The manager sensed that he should leave at this timing, instinctively feeling that he should give some space to Yi-seol and Hang Jeong-woo.
Upon hearing their conversation, he seemed to have a decent personality, and he seemed to have a reliable identity as he was appointed as the representative of TS Mall. Most of all, this was the first time since taking care of her that Yoon Yi-seol had shown such interest in a man.
Lets go, Mr. Jeong-woo. See youter, Manager.
Be safe.
The two got off the road.
Yi-seol, who used to rmend freedom in dating for her affiliated singers while not pursuing any private meetings, had changed.
The manager chuckled at the thought that they might have to prepare a dating article.
The streets of Hongdae were full of Christmas atmosphere. Beautifully decorated trees and star-like bulbs hanging between streetlights throughout the shops, creating a romatic atmosphere for everyone passing by.
I never thought Id be walking on this street with this person.
Jeong-woo looked at Yoon Yi-seol, who was walking beside him with a mask and a hat pulled down. Even though only her ears and eyes were visible buried in her padded jacket, she still felt attractive because of the fairy tale-like atmosphere of Christmas.
Yoon Yi-seol, who had been following behind him, looked at Jeong-woo.
Can you recognize me?
Thats not it, but I feel like Ive seen you somewhere before. Around this morning, maybe.
Yoon Yi-seols eyes widened.
That wasnt me. Look, that persons hat was ck, and this one is red Oh, I shouldnt have mentioned the hat.
Yoon Yi-seol looked like she was going to hold on to the topic until the end. Jeong-woo chuckled.
I must have been mistaken.
Yeah, its a mistake.
Ive been making a lot of mistakes today.
Yoon Yi-seol chuckled awkwardly, perhaps feeling a little embarrassed.
As they walked, they arrived in front of a building with a sign that read Once.
Its in the basement.
Yoon Yi-seol led the way. Jeong-woo looked around at the old-fashioned interior under the staircase.
Is this considered antique?
The ce was also decorated with Christmas themes, but while the streets outside exuded this years Christmas atmosphere, this ce felt like it was from 20 years ago.
As they walked up the stairs, they arrived at the entrance of the store, which was a ss door.
Its not here. There is a separate entrance for performers.
Yoon Yi-seol walked to the other side of the hallway and approached a door with the words Staff Only on it. She put her hand on the doorknob and pushed down.
Creak.
The doorknob didnt budge at all.
Hmm? Its always open here.
Yoon Yi-seol whispered as she lightly tapped on the door.
Is Manager Seung-chan here?
As two guests came out of the entrance, Yi-seol lowered her head.
They didnt pay any attention to Jeong-woo and Yoon Yi-seol and went up the stairs.
Thats strange. Why isnt anyone answering?
Is it locked?
Jeong-woo approached and examined the door closely, noticing some tiny scratches on the gap between the door and the frame.
Despite being coated with aluminum, the door appeared to have corroded significantly.
It seems like it hasnt been touched for at least three months.
As Jeong-woo turned his gaze away, he noticed the periodic table groups disyed on the corner of the hallway wall.
The square frame formed by the symbols [Fe] on the smooth wall was made of fine iron powder.
Yi-seol, is the door over there? It seems like no one has entered or left this ce for about three months.
Where?
Yoon Yi-seol looked at the wall that Jeong-woo was pointing at, with an expression of disbelief.
Theres nothing there. Just wait, the doorknob was difficult to turn before because it was old.
Really? Oh, look, theres atch here.
Jeong-woo unconsciously reached out and grabbed thetch, pushing it to the side, and the door opened with a creak. Yoon Yi-seol, who had been struggling to turn the locked doorknob, froze when she saw what happened.
H-how did you do that?
Dont be surprised. Ive never been here before. I just touched it, and it opened.
Just like that? Youre lucky.
Embarrassed by her pretending, Yoon Yi-seol lowered her head and hurriedly went inside the room.
Inside, there were several rooms that looked like practice rooms filled with instruments. After passing through the corridor, Yoon Yi-seol stood in front of a door that led to a hallway.
Wheres your younger brother?
Just a moment.
Through a small window, Jeong-woo looked inside the hallway. Inside, there was a space with about ten tables, a cocktail bar, and arge square table around the perimeter, where an indie singer was performing.
And in the middle of it, he saw the face of his younger brother, Jeong-chan, who was sitting round and plump.
Hey, isnt that my clothes?
Although his younger brother often stole his clothes due to their simr build, that was his favorite shirt and pants. He was even wearing the special scarf he had recently bought for formal asions. Jeong-woos anger boiled up, and he spoke through clenched teeth.
Hes there, in the middle.
As Jeong-woo pointed with his finger, Yoon Yi-seol tiptoed and brought her face close to the ss window.
As her head suddenly came close, Jeong-woo held his breath and calmed his trembling heart.
Wow, I can tell right away. You look like him.
Who do you think is the older brother?
Ahaha, youve really aged Oh, please dont say that to your younger brother.
Yoon Yi-seol turned her gaze towards the girl sitting across from Jeong-chan.
Shes so cute. Her eyes are full of honey. Your brother seems really worried.
Jeong-woo also looked at the iprehensible girl who confessed to his younger brother first.
Her short hair made her look just like a high school student, and her lively expression, full of yfulness and cute smile, made me think it was a shame for her to be dating Chan.
Jeong-woo immediately sent a text message on his phone.
[Im here. Come to the door next to the cocktail bar.]
Jeong-chan checked the message and looked around. Jeong-woo opened the door and raised his hand slightly.
His brother looked at him with eyes full of joy for the first time in his life. Seeming like he was saying that hes going to the bathroom, Jeong-chan turned around the pir and walked towards him.
Broooother! (Didnt know how to put it but it seemes like hes saying it in a cute way)
Dont make that gross noise. How did you manage to lose your wallet?
Sorry.
Is that girl the one who hitted on you?
When Jeong-chan heard about the girl, he became shy and nodded his head. Then he noticed someone looking through the ss window behind the door.
Hyung, the person behind the mask
Oh, thats someone you dont need to know, so just take the money and go. Did you have anything else in your wallet besides your student ID?
I had some coupons and a fast-food mileage card. I had almost filled it up, so its a shame.
Its nothing important. Here. Make sure you seed in your kiss.
Hey, its only been two days since we started dating. Why are you talking about kissing?
Did you mark your calendar for this too? If you do something like this again on our 100th day, youre in trouble.
Jeong-woo emptied his wallet and handed the cash to Jung-chan.
Regardless, my younger sibling didnt bother to investigate further since it was evident that they had no way of knowing I had be close to Yoon Yi-seol.
Thanks, hyung.
Go ahead. The girl is waiting.
Its not a girl, its Cha Su-jin.
Oh, I see. I got it.
As Jeong-woo saw Jeong-chan off, he heard someone call him.
Who are you?
A man in his mid-thirties came out of the kitchen carrying a recycling bag filled with stic trash.
Oh, Im
The door opened wide, and Yoon Yi-seol came out.
Manager Han Seung-chan!
When she lowered her mask slightly and revealed her face, the mans eyes widened. He had a name tag that read Manager Han Seung-chan on it.
Oh, Is that you, Yoon Yi-seol?
Han Seung-chan put down the stic bag and approached with a happy expression on his face.
What a surprise, how long has it been?
Its been over half a year since we saw each otherst summer.
Yoon Yi-seol greeted him warmly and gestured towards the corridor she had juste from.
By the way, there was something strange with the door.
Oh, we changed it three months ago. The route now leads directly to the waiting room.
Three months ago?
Yoon Yi-seol turned her head to look at Jeong-woo, who shrugged his shoulders and asked, Whats wrong?
Han Seung-chan looked at Jeong-woo and asked, Who is this? Did hee with you?
Ah
After a brief hesitation, Yoon Yi-seol sent a nce towards Jeong-woo, feeling that aplicated exnation would be needed.
Hes a manager, Han Jeong-woo.
Oh, really?
Han Seung-chan, the manager responsible for Once, reached out his hand to greet Jeong-woo.
Nice to meet you.
Jeong-woo shook his hand and bowed his head.
Han Seung-chan then gestured towards a seat with a partition next to the stage for Yoon Yi-seol.
Theres someone you might like over there. Hye-na and Jin Q.
Really?
Go see for yourself. What do you want to drink?
Juice, please.
And you, Jeong-woo?
Ill have juice too, thank you.
Inside the table that looked like a waiting area for singers, a young man and woman were sitting. As they walked in, Yoon Yi-seol whispered to Jeong-woo, Theyre all fun and friendly people, so dont worry too much. The two surprised people stood up as Yoon Yi-seol entered.
Hey, Yoon Yi-seol! You should have called if you wereing!
A woman in herte twenties grabbed Yoon Yi-seols hand and was very happy to see her. The man, who looked about the same age as Jeong-woo and was dressed in a suit, nced at Jeong-woo for a moment, then smiled happily at Yoon Yi-seol.
Unni Hye-na. Oppa Jin Q. Long time no see.
As they exchanged greetings with Yoon Yi-seol, their gaze naturally turned towards Jeong-woo. Jeong-woo, feeling like he might as well go along with Yoon Yi-seol, said, Im Jeong-woo, the manager who is apanying Yoon Yi-seol for a while.
Oh, really? Nice to meet you. Im Shin Hye-na. Did youe instead of Manager Ji?
Yes, thats right
Yoon Yi-seol whispered quietly to Jeong-woo, Shes the wife of the manager we saw earlier.
The man in the suit extended his hand to Jeong-woo.
Im the original smart rapper, Jin Q.
Yoon Yi-seol let out a smallugh at his words.
What do you mean by the original?
Something tells me I should say that. I mean, this guy doesnt have an ordinary face for a manager. I can recognize the smart type like a ghost.
Jin Q oppa always says strange things. Sit down, lets chat.
And so the chaotic gathering began. Having achieved their goal ofing to the cafe, Jeong-woo became more rxed. He kept coughing nervously as Jin Q, the well-dressed man, kept staring at him.
How old is your manager, Yi-seol?
Im twenty-seven.
Wow, were the same age. Lets talk more and hang out in the future. Cool, cool, cool?
.
Jeong-woo was at a loss for words at the fast-paced conversation. A rapper doing hip-hop music.
Since it was someone from a field that Jung-woo would never meet again, he simply nodded his head and said, Yeah, okay.
Here are the drinks.
Han Seung-chan came in with a tray holding four sses. Shin Hye-na took the tray and asked, Do you want me to help?
Since Yi-seol came all the way here, why dont you guys talk?
The sses were ced on the table one by one.
Jung-woo, taking a sip of his juice, thought that Yoon Yi-seol was really lively when she was talking so much with Shin Hye-na.
Jung-woo, are you not drinking because you are taking care of Yi-seol?
The rapper Jin Q seemed to have a friendly nature. Jung-woo felt like he was interacting with Park Soo-chan.
Its simr.
Ah, I need someone to drink with me to really enjoy it. Seung-chans still far from done.
Jin Q was holding a wine ss that emitted a red light. It seemed like a luxurious brand that Jung-woo had never really tasted before.
Ive been into wine these days. You know, sommelier? Theres a qualification test where you taste wine and analyze it. You can tell what kind of scent it has and what kind of grapes its made from.
Jin Q turned the ss around and sniffed the aroma.
Its made from Cabe Sauvignon and Merlot grapes. You can smell hints of strawberries and a faintvender scent.
Shin Hye-na giggled at this sound.
Dont say that, youll scare off all the girls.
Really? What do you think, Yi-seol?
Well, it doesnt seem that impressive to me.
Yoon Yi-seol replied like this and looked at Jeong-woo while smiling. Jin Q frowned heavily as he was teased by the two women.
What about you, Jeong-woo? Do you agree?
I dont know much, but maybe a little bit of showing off.
Shin Hye-naughed and said he saw him properly. Jin Q looked at Jeong-woo with his eyebrows raised.
You cant talk about wine with people who dont know anything about it. Forget it. Hyung will understand my feelings.
Jin Q put his ss on the table and crossed his arms. Jeong-woo looked at Yoon Yi-seol and smiled wryly, then turned his head as he saw something strange.
The wine ss suddenly erged, and things floating inside the liquid could be seen.
Um, Jin Q.
Yeah?
Its notvender, its more like rose, isnt it?
What are you talking about? Smell it. Isnt thisvender?
As Jin Q brought the wine ss to his nose, countless fragrance molecules floated in front of Jeong-woos eyes.
Oh, Im getting dizzy.
Meanwhile, Jin Q asked:
Right, itsvender, isnt it?
Jeong-woo started to describe what he saw.
Its not strawberries, but a slightly darker red fruit. Ah, its raspberry. And the scent of the flower petals mixed with the herb stem might have led you to mistake it forvender. Its a calcium-rich soil molecule with a hint of a strong acidic rose scent Actually, I can even smell the fragrance.
What?
Theres also a slightly cloudy appearance. Is it tannin? The limestone soil smell is something you can see in front yards of farms. I think flower petals grown in the pungent soil might have mixed in.
When Jeong-woo finished speaking, Jin Qs expression froze.
You, youre a sommelier?
Chapter 38
Chapter 38- Christmas Chemistry(7)
Seeing the surprised expression on Jin Qs face, Jeong-woo casually shrugged his shoulders.
No, Im not.
Then how did you know just by the smell? Do you have a dogs nose or something?
Im just a bit sensitive to scents.
Shin Hye-na turned her head to look at Jeong-woo, saying Oh with surprise.
Jin Q, pretending to be nonchnt while showing off knowledge is a trait that women find attractive.
Yeah, Jin Q oppa.
Yoon Yi-seol looked at Jung-woo with a smile on her face.
Jin Qs face froze as he asked, What are you, exactly?
A manager?
Its so annoying when you answer so coolly. Why do all the Starpiece Entertainment artists act like this, from the CEO to the lowest employee?
Jin Q started chugging his wine. Jeong-woo found it amusing how he did it so smoothly without showing any signs of difort.
I wonder if all rappers are this impromptu.
Shin Hye-na grabbed Yoon Yi-seols hand, who kept staring intently at Jung-woo.
Do you want to sing a song? Its been a while since Ive heard your live performance. Im craving some music.
Really?
Yoon Yi-seol said to Jung Woo.
Mr. Jeong-woo, would you want me to y one requested song from your younger sibling?
After getting out of the crisis with his brothers help, Jeong-chan looked at Chae Soo-jin with a much more rxed mind.
Um, Soo-jin. If we leave here
Should we go to Namsan Tower? I want to see the night view there. They say if you put a lock there on Christmas, youll never break up.
Jeong-chan, who was taking out the pre-booked movie ticket from his pocket, stopped in surprise.
Really?
Yeah, I really really want to go. You spent a lot of money today too. Ill pay for the cable car.
Lets do that.
Whats the use of having a reservation when your partner wants to go somewhere else? Just then, his phone in his pocket vibrated.
[Ask that girl for a song she wants to hear. And send me a text.]
Huh?
Jeong-chan asked Chae Soo-jin with hesitation in response to his brothers text.
What song do you want to listen to right now?
A song? While going to Namsan Tower? With just one earphone?
Uh? Uh
The girl with a bob cut rubbed her chin and pondered before saying.
Last Christmas. I love that song during this season. Its so romantic~
Jeong-chan immediately sent a text message under the table.
After a while, they heard people in the direction of the stage cheering and shouting.
-Hello, this is Yoon Yi-seol. I came here for a bit because the weather is nice.
Surprised by the sound of the microphone, Chae Soo-jin turned her head and let out a scream.
Yi-seol unni!
Yoon Yi-seol, who hade up on stage, waved her hand towards Chae Soo-jin upon hearing her voice.
Wow, we came here at the perfect time. Yi-seol just surprised us with a stage performance.
Thats right.
Chae Su-jin took out her phone and started taking pictures.
Seeing the singer in person for the first time, Jeong-chan was also left speechless.
Without anything special, just wearing a hat, she was so pretty. Jeongchan thought this to himself and shook his head.
This isnt just about showing respect to Soo-jin.
The music began with a gentle guitar solo.
-Last Christmas I gave you my heart~
Because it was Last Christmas, Jeong-chan was startled.
No way?
Come to think of it, that red hat that Yoon Yi-seol was wearing. He had a strong feeling that he had seen it behind the door he had just met with his brother.
Kyaa! I wanted to hear this! Yi-seol unni, youre the best!
Jeong-woo looked up at Yoon Yi-seol from behind the barrier where he could see the stage.
Her ck pupils, which sat on her cheeks that had been brought to mind, were focused on the singing. Within them, there was the stage, and there were melodies and harmonies.
She sang foreign Christmas season songs with her own unique touch.
As expected of a singer.
She turned her gaze below the stage, smiled slyly, and winked, gesturing with her heel towards a seat at the caf.
He followed her gaze and saw a couple of younger siblings holding hands tightly and listening to music.
Thats good.
-Ill give it to someone special~
As the song ended, thunderous apuse erupted.
-Thank you. I just came for a moment. There are other singers waiting. Ill leave now.
Amid the cheering crowd, Yoon Yi-seol descended from the stage.
You did great.
It was nothing.
Yoon Yi-seol replied, sticking out her tongue at the smallpliment.
Jeong-woos heart was pounding. The charm of his younger brother who had created all of this and for whom he could only feel infinite gratitude.
Hyung!
At that moment, he heard his younger brothers voice and turned around. He breathed a sigh of relief at the voice that was eagerly looking for him at the cocktail bar.
Ill be right back.
Yes.
He grabbed Jeong-chans shoulder as he came out from behind the barrier and wandered around.
What now?
Soo-jin is wants to go straight to Namsan Tower. She said we were meant to be together. She went to the bathroom, but shell be here soon.
Why did you call me again then?
This is why.
Jeong-chan handed the movie ticket to Jeong-woo.
Please refund it for me. You can keep the money. Im out of here!
What the hell
Jeong-chan, who was about to burst out of the entrance, suddenly stopped.
Hyung, the text message earlier, was it from Yoon Yi-seol?
No way.
Right, you were just asking me, werent you?
As Jeong-chan turned his head, he was stunned to see Yoon Yi-seol standing next to Jeong-woo.
Jeong-woo was also surprised and turned his head.
Why did youe out?
Jin Q oppa said he had to go urgently.
Jin Q, who came out together, passed by Jeong-woo and nudged his shoulder.
Sommelier. See you next time.
Goodbye, oppa.
It was nice to see you, Yi-seol.
Jin Q nced at Jeong-woo and his look-alike Jeong-chan and then disappeared outside with a look that seemed to say what the hell?
Hey, Chan. That was Jin Q, wasnt it? Wow, Im a huge fan of that persons music.
Uh? Uh-oh.
Hurry up and go see her.
Huh? Oh, okay.
Have a good date, little brother.
Yoon Yi-seol greeted them with a bright smile, leaving Jeong-chan standing there dumbfounded.
Hmm, this will be a hassle for a while.
Today was too long to exin this situation that was just a coincidence.
Jeong-woo breathed a deep sigh of relief as he looked at the movie ticket that Jeong-chan had thrown to him and said, Ms. Yi-seol.
Yes?
Chan also left, so I have to go now. If I want to get a refund for this, I think Im running out of time.
Jeong-woo pointed to the ticket, letting her know that the next location for that inexperienced couple had changed to Namsan Tower.
Then next week
Lets watch it together.
Yes?
Jeong-woo doubted his ears at Yi-seols words. Yi-seol quickly spoke with a look of surprise.
I have watch a movie with a friend on my checklist. I didnt think I could do it today. Is that okay?
Oh.
Jeong-woo nodded his head faster than he expected.
Ill bring a coat and a mask.
Yoon Yi-seol disappeared behind the partition like a lightning bolt. Jeong-woo had to pinch himself to wonder what was happening.
Observing Yoon Yi-seol breathing heavily, sticking closely behind the partition, Shin Hye-nas eyes sparkled.
Isnt this atmosphere strange?
Sis
Am I right? That guy is not a manager.
Dont say anything. And when Manager Jies, please tell him to wait here and I will contact him after watching the movie.
Okay, have a good date.
Its not a date!
Sure, sure. Have fun.
Shin Hye-na waved her hand with a smile.
Yoon Yi-seol put on her padded jacket, hastily put on her mask, and took out her checklist from her pocket.
[1. Take one step further and be bolder than you think.]
She marked it as a sess, feeling proud, and walked out of the partition with a confident look.
30 minutester.
As they entered the theater, Jeong-woo and Yoon Yi-seol climbed the stairs to seats J12 and J13 under dim lighting.
As luck would have it, it was a couples seat at the back of the theater with no constraints between the two seats.
Jeong-woo let out a sigh, knowing that Jeong-chan would have reserved the cheapest seats.
Here we are, said Yoon Yi-seol.
Here?
Jeong-woo asked holding a bucket of popcorn while Yoon Yi-seol had drinks in both hands. Their eyes met awkwardly, and Jeong-woo cleared his throat.
At least were notte. The ads are still ying, he said.
Yeah.
After sitting down, they said nothing to each other and just sipped their drinks. Jeong-woo wondered if anyone ever paid such close attention to these mundane advertisements.
Suddenly, Jeong-woo remembered something and spoke up.
I actually like the fourth track better than Awkward. Was it Good Day? Ive been listening to that a lottely.
Yoon Yi-seols eyes widened in surprise.
-If you like that song and listen to it, lets meet again.
Yoon Yi-seol asked cautiously, Y-you remember?
Yeah, I thought to myself, This girl isnt your typical singer. I was really impressed with her performance.
Yoon Yi-seol covered her face with both hands, her thoughts going back tost week.
Anyway, we met. I dont know if its because of that.
Yeah
Yoon Yi-seol stole a sideways nce at Jeong-woo.
He sat there, casually watching the screen. Despite all the embarrassing things she had done today, despite him having noticed them all, this man just made her feelfortable.
How was that possible? Was it because of the magical chemistry he talked about?
Jeong-woo spoke up as the ads were ending.
Anyway, lets fight insomnia. Together.
Fi-fighting.
A momentter, as the movie title rolled across the screen and the lights went offpletely, Jeong-woo yawned suddenly.
Ugh, why am I so sleepy?
He couldnt resist it anymore.
The tiredness of the day, all the treatments, and the dark and cozy atmosphere were just too much for him, and they gave him an irresistible drowsiness.
I shouldnt be like this
Snap.
While concentrating on the screen, Yoon Yi-seol suddenly felt a touch on her shoulder and was startled. When she turned her head hesitantly, she saw Jeong-woos head leaning slightly on her shoulder.
Are you sleeping?
Through the light from the screen, she saw Jeong-woos face, which was awkwardly close.
She reached out and tapped his forehead and shook him. He was out cold and not moving.
Looks like hes really tired. Did I ask him toe for no reason?
Yoon Yi-seol tossed and turned to make Jeong-woo morefortable and blushed, muttering, You suffered, so I should repay you.
One minute after the movie started.
Yoon Yi-seol also yawned quietly. She had to watch the movie, but she kept nodding off. This couldnt happen.
Late at night
With grand music, the ending credits rolled on the screen. As the audience either remarked that the movie was entertaining or that it didnt meet their expectations, the theater exit doors opened.
Inside the theater, people were gradually leaving.
In the middle back of the theater, two people were sleeping soundly in the couples seat.
Their heads leaned towards each other.
As if dreaming a sweet Christmas dream, the expressions on their faces were very peaceful. Thissted until a cleaning staff member approached and woke them up.
Go in and get some rest, Yi-seol.
gBefore Jeong-woo disappeared in front of Once, Yoon Yi-seol gathered her courage and asked one more thing.
Were friends now, right?
Of course. Thank you for helping my little brother.
Then lets exchange phone numbers. If I need to check something, Ill contact you.
Umis that okay?
Nodding her head vigorously up and down, Jeong-woo carefully typed his phone number on Yoon Yi-seols phone that she held out to him. After Yi-seol saved the number, Jeong-woo was also able to save her number when she called him.
Thanks to you for introducing me to the caf. I had a good time. Sorry for falling asleep in the movie theater.
Jeong-woo said goodbye and walked away.
After he disappeared, Yi-seol went downstairs and opened her phone. She sent a message to the person who could give her the quickest response.
[Are you busy, Unni?]
The reply came right away.
[I am, but I have time to contact you, Yi-seol. Why?]
[Its nothing urgent.]
Taking advantage of the fact that she was able to reach out, Yoon Yi-seol quickly typed a message with her fingers.
Yoon Yi-seol was startled as she typed, [A guy who heard my song for the first time said he likes it a lot].
Oops, typo, typo!
[Some guy who heard my song for the first time said he likes it. What does it mean?]
[Is he alone and good-looking? How old is he?]
Yoon Yi-seols face turned red at her unnis direct question.
As if the text message wasnt enough, a phone call came through with the name Oh Sora disyed on the screen.
-Who did you meet?
I met someonest week.
-What does he do?
He works at a chemicalpany.
-Oh, a regr guy? But he must be unique if Yi-seol is interested.
He showed me some really interesting things.
-What kind of interesting things did you do when you met?
Thinking back on today, Yoon Yi-seol had a crescent moon-like smile on her face.
Just this and that. We went to see a movie.
-What movie?
I cant remember what it was called
She couldnt even remember what movie they saw because she had fallen asleep during it.
-You went to watch a movie without even knowing its name? Did you go just to see that guys face?
No, no!
-Did you get his number?
Yoon Yi-seol nodded before realizing she was on the phone and then replied quietly, Yes.
-My opinion is this. If youre interested, keep showing interest. Just remember that the interest has to be mutual. Understand?
Yes, sis.
-Are you sleeping well these days?
Normally, Yoon Yi-seol would have brushed off the question, but today she felt confident enough to answer.
I sleep well. Actually, I think Ill sleep well from now on.
code: AF-12
case: Molecr Communication Network
research: (same)
feedback: Using free email as a messenger can facilitatemunication with more molecules.
Chapter 39
Chapter 39- Frozen(1)
-The first week of the New Year. It is expected that the strongest cold wave of this winter will prevail. As the first cold wave warning has been issued in Seoul, the temperature is expected to drop to -14 degrees Celsius tomorrow morning
Jeong-woo was sitting at the kitchen table, stirring soup with a spoon when he turned his head to the sound of the TV.
Mom, will our water pipes freeze again?
Hong Ji-suk, who was sitting in the living room, changing channels with the remote control, replied, Dont turn off the tap at night. If it breaks down, you and Chan can go to the public bathhouse. Ill let Mrs. Jeong know.
Ill think about it.
Whats there to think about?
These days, my eldest sons mind is working really well. He might be able to invent this and that. Even something like a heater. Hmph.
Normally, even if he said something, his mothers expression remained unchanged. However, a faint smile appeared at the corners of her mouth.
Jeong-woo threw a meaningful look as he put thest bit of rice into his mouth.
If I can make it through this cold wave without incident, leave out the neighborhood event at the banquet.
You dont have anything to do on the weekend anyway.
Why do you think I have nothing to do?
Jeong-woo got up, with an expression that seemed to say that his mother didnt even know. He had to go to the clinic on Saturday for a four-hour treatment, and Sunday was busy with Dr. Cheons paper review.
He immediately went to the bathroom to take a shower, and when he came downstairs in his clothes on the second floor, Chan wasing out of his room, scratching his head.
Are you leaving for work already?
I have to, even though its winter break. Its 7:30, its not early, its the usual time.
Jeong-woo put on his recently purchased leather gloves and tightly wrapped his scarf around his neck. Watching him, Chan said, Brother, you seem to have changed a bit since you started working at thatpany.
Do I look cooler?
Yeah, you look like the head of the household.
You little brat.
He had be much more cooperative since their recent date assistance.
Can you reduce the frequency of cleaning the house to every four months? I even refunded you for the movie tickets.
Not possible.
Ugh.
Jeong-woo, who was wearing shoes, shook hands.
Im leaving. Mom, Ill be back!
As soon as he came out, a wind that felt like his ears would fall off blew. Shivering, Jeong-woo went down the hill towards the subway station.
Jeong-woo entered the lobby of KG Chemicals headquarters and finally rxed his body after being greeted by warmth.
He pulled out his employee ID and held it up to the entrance familiarly, and the security guard nodded to him.
It was his fourth week of going to thepany.
Although the excitement of his first day at work had be vague, his confidence as a professional had grown ordingly.
Todays my first day in a new department, right?
Jeong-woo opened the door to the research room 1 energetically and said, Good morning.
Oh, Jeong-woo. Happy New Year.
Happy New Year to you too, senior.
As he greeted the senior colleagues who were already there, Jeong-woo hesitated as he tried to take a seat.
Someone had flipped a nket and was lying down on the seat next to him. It was probably Song Boyeong, and he was curious as to why she was already sleeping when he had arrived early to work as well.
Wait, wasnt yesterday January 1st?
It was not just a holiday, and yet we have to work overtime since New Years. I was curious about what kind of work it could be, but thinking that there was no need to wake up from sleep, Jeong-woo silently sat in his seat.
He turned on hisptop and looked through the research ns he had worked on for the past two weeks.
He hadpiled and set up over 20 research items during that time. He probably wouldnt be able to do all of this work alone, but he thought he could consider it when the time came.
I want to do it all, but Ill worry about it when the timees.
When he opened his work email, he saw that the material he had requested from the patent analysis team had arrived.
[Hello, this is Manager Kim Da-hee. Im curious about your request for statistics. Could you tell me what the purpose of the research is?]
After seeing the additionalments, Jeong-woo added an outline of the research n he was working on and sent a response.
[It is a study rted to the production technology of carbon nanotubes.]
After receiving the data from Manager Kim, Jeong-woo began to add details to the relevant research n.
[ The patent for thousands of strategic products rted to nano-carbon has shown a steady increase in applications until four years ago, and has shown a slight decrease since then]
As he focused on his work, he thought of an element that looked like a charcoal stick with the symbol [C] on hisptop.
Carbon.
Depending on its state of bonding, it could be graphite or even a diamond. Like a framework that is created before building a house, it was an element suitable for designing something at a molecr level.
The elements that Jeong-woo was seeing in front of him gradually changed into the appropriate form for the research he was working on.
The smallest connection pathway on Earth, the carbon nanotube.
Countlessplex materials that are possible with this can be incredibly valuable depending on the production technology.
High-speed transistors, high-performance batteries, flexible touchscreens
Wait and see. Ill make them all someday.
Jeong-woo reached out to stroke the nanotubes for a moment. Although it was an empty gesture, the dust particles seemed to dance under his hand as if waiting for him.
These things go crazy when it gets colder. Huh?
Thud.
The door opened and the responsible researcher, Oh Seung-joo, walked in and sat in the directors seat, causing most of the researchers to stop their work and turn their gaze towards him.
Jeong-woo shook Song Boyeongs shoulder as she was still lying down.
Senior, you need to get up.
Uh
Her head suddenly popped up from under the nket, looking confused and disoriented, so Jeong-woo added briefly,
Its been 10 minutes since work started. Senior Seung-joo is here. The morning meeting will start soon.
What?!
The researchers attention was drawn to Song Boyeongs scream. Oh Seung-joo walked towards the center of Research Room 1 holding an A4 sheet of paper and made eye contact with her.
Dont speak informally.
Sorry, Im sorry.
Song Boyeongs ufortable posture made her already swollen eyes and eyelids even more prominent.
As if feeling sorry for her, Senior Cha Jeong-hee looked at Song Boyeong.
Wake up, Boyeong. Get up.
Imalready up.
As she mumbled these words in a groggy voice, the seniors burst outughing. Song Boyeong sat back down and covered her head with both hands, feeling embarrassed.
I set the rm, why is this happening? Im going crazy. Where did it run off to?
Jeong-woo picked up the broken desk clock lying on the floor and handed it over to her.
It seems like it was chased out instead of running away. I think thendlordined about the noise.
Song Boyeong, who only had a disheveled head, was surprised as she looked at the broken clock.
She covered her face, especially her eyes, with both hands and turned her head when Jeong-woo spoke to her.
Peeking through the gap between her hands, Song Boyeong asked, When did youe?
I came on time for work.
At the obvious answer, Song Boyeong gnawed on her incisors. She seemed to acknowledge that no matter what she said, she wouldnt be able toe out on top here.
I havent seen you in a long time, and as a senior, I showed you such a bad appearance. Smile, yeah?
It feels familiar. And its not so gruesome that it makes meugh.
Oh really? When seniors smile like that, it usually means bad news. Why is that? Did you starve yourselfst night and get a bit thinner?
As Song Boyeong spread her arms, her real eyes, which looked like she was sleeping, were revealed. Jeong-woo chuckled, then immediately apologized, saying, Oops, I didnt expect that. Im sorry.
While she was stunned, Oh Seung-joo opened his mouth, holding a work schedule in his hand.
The metal center project has been confirmed. Anyone interested in 3D printing material technology should apply right away.
As the schedule discussion continued, Song Boyeong put away the nket in the drawer while ncing at Jeong-woo.
Boyeong and I are going on a business trip this afternoon. Its in Cheonan.
Again?
Theres a bigpetition bidding going on, so were going to visit. Our project materials are also included. We need to get a feel for the atmosphere ahead of time. Oh, and when its afternoon, youll wake up, right? A lot of high-ranking people will be there.
Senior!
As always, she was teased, and as always, Song Boyeong blushed with a puffy cheek and anger.
Seung-joo looked at Jeong-woo.
Go to the Basic Materials Center Directors office at 10 oclock. The director ordered it.
I understand.
I guess well be rotating training for two weeks from there. Just go there and do well, and when youre free,e here and rest.
It seemed like the policy had been firmly established.
Anyway, have a good day today.
Seung-joo sat back down in his seat.
Next to him, Song Boyeong turned her gaze to Jeong-woo with a towel on her face, ready to wash.
You stayed up all night preparing for the project.
I know. I slept deeply earlier, so I didnt wake you up.
During Christmas, yesterday, even on holidays, I returned everything to make time to talk this Sunday
Song Boyeong stopped and her expression changed to one that said, Thats not what I wanted to say.
Anyway, lets discuss the paper this weekend. If we dont have time, youll have to work overtime like me.
Its a very convincing demand, but if we dont have time this week, we can do it next week. We dont need to overdo it, do we? Were not going to quit tomorrow.
Plus meat.
Seeing that she wanted to talk about it as soon as possible, it seemed like she was reading aplicated paper. The way a thirsty person digs a well. Jeong-woos eyes lit up.
Should we eat beef or pork?
Uh.
After staring at Jeong-woo for a moment, Song Boyeong spoke up as if negotiating quietly.
Pork?
Hm.
No, beef!
Hmm.
Charcoal grill or hot te?
Hot te?
When Jeong-woo turned his gaze to theptop without saying anything, Song Boyeongs eyes lit up.
No, no!
I was going to suggest we each pay for our own meat, but you dont want to do that.
I do, I do!
In a hurried response, Song Boyeong looked at Jeong-woo with a look that said she would take revenge.
However, most of his pupils were hidden behind swollen eyelids, making his exhaustion feel cute rather than concerning.
Ugh, I didnt prepare for this kind of talk.
Song Boyeong reluctantly handed him a neatly folded white cloth.
Whats this?
A gown. Its amemorative gift for bing an official researcher.
Jeong-woo epted the gown and opened it up.
Isnt this just a basic one thats distributed for free?
Tsk, just a basic one? You have to pay with your employee card at the convenience store inside the building. And when you enter theb, its customary to wear it. You should wear it before going to the Basic Materials Center.
Thank you. Ill wear it well. As expected of a senior
When he received it for free, Jeong-woo thought it was polite to be thankful, but then he saw that his name, Han Jeong-woo, was sewn onto the gown.
Huh?
Passing by other senior researchers who were wearing name tags, he noticed that the gown was embroidered with his name.
Its unique, isnt it? Hehe!
Did the senior researcher do the embroidery himself?
Well I do embroidery a little.
But if you and I wear this, isnt it like a couples gown?
Song Boyeong was startled by thisment.
Oh, no, dont get the wrong idea!
Im not.
Jeong-woo attached his employee ID card to the pocket on his chest and said, Its not visible anyway.
Thats right! I do the same thing. Youre misunderstanding. Geez.
Feeling like she was being attacked again, Song Boyeong nervously fiddled with her rm clock, which had already stopped working.
As he watched a furious Song Boyeong, Jeong-woo asked, Do you always get swollen like this when you dont sleep well, Senior Boyoung?
Its in my DNA. I take after my mother. And besides, its because of the bright lighting here. If you adjust the lighting and look to the side, its a very attractive appearance, you know?
Yeah, it looks really good.
Really?
With slightly narrowed eyes and a round face like a cute puppy, Song Boyeong looked at Jeong-woo with a lot of expectation.
Im the kind of person who thinks that even animals with bulging eyes like frogs have their own charm.
After letting out a chuckle, Song Boyeong stood up and disappeared outside the research room. Jeong-woo looked at the back of his same-aged colleague, feeling like he was teasing him like Chan. Heughed again.
As the location of the Basic Materials Center was right across from the researchers offices, Jeong-woo easily found the center directors office and knocked on the door.
Excuse me.
A man who looked like a secretary opened the inner door and spoke.
Han Jeong-woo, the researcher, is here.
Jeong-woo? Let hime in.
As Jeong-woo entered the center directors office, he saw a man in his early fifties with sses on.
Jeong-woo remembered the information he had heard from his senior before.
Dr. Jang Tae-sun.
He had led the POSCO research team, sessfully developed materials that boosted sales to over 10 billion won, and started his own business with ten employees. Heter merged with KG Chemicals and became a member of thepany. He loved aggressive and high-risk research, and his reputation within the research institute was somewhat extreme, either good or bad.
Wee.
Jang Tae-sun, who was sittingfortably on the sofa, greeted Jeong-woo with a smile on his face.
Starting today, the director instructed me to gain experience in the Basic Materials Center.
I see. I heard about that too. Please take a seat for a moment.
As Jeong-woo sat down, Jang Tae-sun asked him outright.
I heard that you are a disciple of Dr. Cheon.
Ah yes, thats correct.
Jeong-woo was momentarily flustered, recalling the embarrassing question from Song Boyeong.
I knew it as soon as I heard it. It must be fate.
Fate?
Jang Tae-sun grabbed Jeong-woos hand.
If I had to name the three most respected seniors in the research institute, it would be Director Son, Dr. Shin Yun-seok, and Dr. Cheon Seung-guk.
Although it seemed like he was just listing the three most powerful people, Jeong-woo nodded his head as if he was about to die.
As soon as I heard that you were his disciple, I thought of something to entrust to you. Wait a moment.
Jang Tae-sun walked over to his desk and pressed a button on the phone.
Yoon, can you call in Director Lee Jeong-cheol from TS&D?
-Yes, sir.
TS&D?
As Jeong-woo tried to recall what this department did, Jang Tae-suns gaze rested on a document he had brought from his desk.
[Evaluation and bidding notice for equipment and drug-rted items Fire Industry Technology Institute]
Do you know anything about the fire departments chemistry? Well, the basic structure is the same, so you cant not know.
Jang Tae-sun handed over the document.
Normally, we collect all thepanies in the same category and proceed with bidding, but we lost to Yujin Chemicalsst time. Arge-scale contract of three years went down the drain.
Jeong-woos gaze lingered on the performance tests and bidding order for more than 30 chemical drugs.
There are hundreds of fire extinguishing agents avable, including powders, liquids, and solids. There were also many different types ofpounds that could simply be dissolved in water and used.
Currently, Namyoung Industries is in the lead in terms of equipment, and Yujin Chemicals is in the lead in terms of extinguishing agents. We only participated in a few equipment categories and boldly went all in on winning the contract for extinguishing agents. If we seed, well supply them to fire departments nationwide. The amount is enormous.
Why am I?
Jang Tae-sun looked at Jeong-woo with a look that said, If you came here, you should show your ability.
We need to improvise with individual evaluations during the bidding process. Back then, we were deceived by Yoon Jaegils tactics. We didnt know how to adjust the mobile research center for the environment on site. Thats why this time, we gathered the ace researchers from the research center and the brainpower from headquarters as much as possible.
Excuse me, Director. But isnt this date today?
Knock knock.
This is Director Lee Jeong-cheol.
Jang Tae-sun smiled at the sound of his secretarys voice.
So, it worked out well. Since this manager from headquarters is overseeing it, go with him to take notes ande back.
Go where? To where in Cheonan?
The central fire academy, I think.
Jeong-woo was momentarily speechless at Jang Tae-suns order to go on a business trip as soon as he arrived.
You dont need to feel pressured. I believe that you were born to be a chemist for our basic materials.
I feelpletely pressured.
Jeong-woo couldnt bring himself to say those words.
Chapter 40
Chapter 40- Frozen(2)
Sure, Mr. Manager. If you need anything, just let me know. Ill support you as much as possible, even with the basics.
Thank you, Director.
Jeong Cheol nodded to Jang Tae-sun before turning to Jeong-woo.
The other department members are also gathering in the conference room. Lets go.
Jeong-woo hesitated as he walked out the door. Jang Tae-sun sent him a heavy, oppressive gaze, as if to say Make sure KG Chemicals reputation is elevated.
Crap.
Jeong-woo could only respond with a smile. He never imagined that he would start working here as a representative researcher for the basic materials center on his first day.
Mr. Han Jeong-woo.
The manager spoke as they walked down the hallway.
I heard rumors that you were specially hired.
Oh, yes.
If you see something you can help with, please let us know. We need as many opinions as possible from a variety of experts. This area is heavily influenced by Yujin Chemical, so we need to prepare as much as possible.
Ill do my best.
Lee Jeong-cheol was a key practitioner in the TS&D market development team at the headquarters. Jeong-woo learned from their conversation that he was risking his life on this bid.
Im not sure what I can do, but
The ce Jeong-woo arrived with the manager was the research building conference room, which was familiar to him as a basic materials researcher.
Many people in suits andb coats were gathered around a U-shaped table, so Jeong-woo found a seat and started moving around. Then he spotted Oh Seung-ju, who was sitting among the researchers.
Senior Seung-ju?
Jeong-woo?
Come to think of it, Jeong-woo vaguely remembered hearing that Oh Seung-ju was going on a business trip during the morning briefing. Jeong-woo bowed and greeted him.
What brings you here?
Director Lee asked me toe.
He sent you here for a coborative project?
Oh Seung-ju looked surprised for a moment, but then nodded as if he had expected it.
Youre new here, right Jeong-woo? These are Jong-chan and Jin-soo. Theyre my colleagues.
Jeong-woo turned his gaze to the two researchers who were the same age as Seung-ju.
Hello.
As he exchanged greetings with his seniors, Oh Seung-ju pointed to a chair next to him.
Dont stand there, sit here.
No, Ill sit in the back
You came here as a representative researcher for the basic materials, so why are you sitting in the back? Didnt the director send you here because he trusts you?
Thanks to that trust, Jeong-woo ended up sitting next to three responsibility researchers. However, he wasnt happy about it at all.
Its great to have high expectations, but what if I mess up? Is this the fate of an ace?
Heughed at the thought. When else would he receive such attention in his life? Jeong-woo tried to enjoy this moment and calm his racing heart. As long as he did what he could without breaking the rules, that was all he needed to do. And then he would receive his first paycheck on the 25th of this month.
Hmm, I guess Im just amoner after all.
As he thought about money, his tension gradually disappeared.
Jeong-woo sat quietly and listened to the conversation of the three researchers. Soon he learned that Oh Seung-ju hade for the fire equipment side, while Kim Jong-chan and Won Jin-soo hade for the fire chemical side of the coborative project.
Behind them were senior researchers who came to assist them.
I dont see Senior Boyeong. Where is she?
The atmosphere was quiet as they exchanged greetings, so maybe she took a nap. Then Jeong-woo noticed the rted documents in front of Kim Jong-chan.
Senior Jong-chan, can I take a look at that too?
Sure, go ahead.
Kim Jong-chan handed him the document and turned to Oh Seung-ju.
Seung-ju, is he the one who impressed Dr. Shin and got an intern badge?
Yes, thats him.
He looks smart.
He is smart. And hes a researcher who carries apany card with him.
Wow, hes like a team leader.
Jeong-woo chuckled at their joking conversation. He received a corporate card from the HR department but didnt know when to use it, so he just carried it around.
Jeong-woo turned his attention to the document and started reading it with interest. It was a bidding report titled [10 new chemicals and 20 enhancements to existing chemicals].
Meanwhile, the manager turned on the projector and stood in front of the podium with a microphone.
Everyone is here
Thunk.
Someone entered the meeting room, so the manager paused for a moment before speaking again as the person sat down.
Now that everyone is here, lets get started. The evaluation bidding scheduled for 2 p.m. will be the same as three years ago
Jeong-woo was reading the document when he suddenly felt an odd presence behind him.
He turned his head and saw Song Boyeong, who had been sitting there with her mouth open. Why are you sitting there? she asked, and Jeong-woo gave a short reply, It just happened and then focused back on the document.
He quickly understood the situation from the document he was reading. Today was the day of the bidpetition for various firefighting products held by the Korea Fire Institute of Industrial Technology. The practitioners, developers, and research institute support experts who produce rted items gathered here to prepare to enter the biddingpetition against otherpanies.
In the most intensepetition of the 28 firefighting agents, we n to appeal based on improvementspared to the otherpanys product adopted three years ago. Your close cooperation is needed, especially for real-time analysis of our strengthspared to the new product made by thepetition.
After a short exnation of the schedule, which included leaving at 11:30 AM, everyone began their meetings on their respective fields.
Jeong-woo was just observing the conversations between the practitioners. The new Lightwater developed by KG Industry can be used overall forbustible substances with a low sh point.
Lightwater?
As he recollected the information from the document, the action of the agent came to mind. A transparent, shimmering alcoholke. A fire had broken out, and foam-like bubbles had formed. The bubbles stuck to the surface of theke, creating a barrier between the me and air.
Oh.
This reaction was different in scale from the chemical fantasies he usually had.
The extinction andbustion of fire are both chemical reactions. Like the center director had said, Jeong-woo easily understood their conversation.
We focused on the rapid generation of polymer gels and reduced the oxygen supply from the previous 15% to the 13% range to inhibitbustion.
Then, Jeong-woo thought of adding ament to the statement made by Development Team Assistant Manager Gong Gyeong-ho.
Excuse me, Assistant Manager Gong.
Yes?
In this Lightwater, it seems like there is a way to reduce the oxygen supply even more.
Jeong-woo carefully examined the areas where oxygen flow could be more quickly obstructed within the fantastic world of the mingke and the bubble rain.
Fluorine-based surfactants with 3-dimethminopropmine. Uh, thats not an easy word to pronounce. Anyway, adding this substance in a different ratio seems to make the reaction more efficient. Roughly calcted, we can reduce the oxygen supply to about.
He had roughly calcted the reaction speed of the other bubble rain.
Around 11%.
2, 2% more?
Jeong-woos exnation was met with an incredulous expression, so he took out his pen and wrote the chemical reaction form to show them.
About a 1:0.35 additive ratio seems to be okay.
We need to review this.
The development team members gathered and began to talk excitedly about the suggestion.
By the way, fire in an alcoholke? Terrible.
Thankfully, it was in a fantasy world.
Jeong-woo boasted that he was able to convey the video that only he could see rtively clearly to others and turned his head. As he did, he met the gaze of Song Boyeong, who was looking at him.
As if waiting, Song Boyeong asked, Youre improving a product thats already been researched? Is that really possible?
Maybe.
After agreeing to bring the newly assembled items that the researchers had discussed, Song Boyeong looked at Jeong-woo with surprised eyes.
When did you ever do pharmaceutical research?
Welldo we really have to try it to know?
When Jeong-woo asked back, Song Boyeongs expression became sullen, and she began to grumble in her own way.
Whoever is not my junior, killing our enthusiasm from the first day of basic materials. What? Do we really have to try it to know? Acting like its no big deal after revealing some amazing opinions. If they were older than me, I would be less upset.
Once again today, Song Boyeong expressed her jealousy towards her rival Jeong-woo, unable to hide it.
Senior Boyeong, why are you looking at me so fiercely?
Mind your own business. Im just jealous.
Jeong-woo turned his gaze away from Song Boyeongs eyes to avoid triggering her, and discovered something attached to her hair. He barely held back augh.
Im overwhelmed too. Theres no way I could beat you in any way, Senior Boyeong.
Song Boyeongs expression became full of curiosity as she asked, What do you mean by I couldnt beat you in any way?. Jeong-woo pointed to the slightly oversized hair clip that was hanging on her left shoulder.
Its quite big to call it a hairpin, that clip. Its cute in its own way, though.
It seemed that she had hurriedlye to the meeting room while managing her hair in the bathroom.
As Jeong-woo spoke, Song Boyeongs expression changed as she held the clip in her hand.
Youre really good at making your colleaguesugh. I learnt a thing or two from you since this morning.
Ugh.
Holding the clip, Song Boyeongs arms trembled. Jeong-woo told her to calm down and not to be so agitated, and changed the subject.
Why did you participate in this research, Senior?
At this question, Song Boyeongs eyes lit up.
Its for the coating material that goes into the fire-resistant suit. I thought the result of the new polymer project would be useful here Oh, that expression on your face. That curiosity. Dont ask me any more. If you learn this too, youll damage my self-esteem.
I understand.
Dont evenugh.
This is because of a seniors unstoppable talent
Song Boyeongs eyes widened. After just calming down she got agitated again, she red at Jeong-woo. He thought she would explode if he teased her any further, so he closed his mouth.
Mr. Han Jeong-woo.
A researcher from the development team approached Jeong-woo.
If we adjust the proportion of 3-dimethyl, will it not affect the films effect?
Just a moment.
Jeong-woo stared closely at the foamyer on theke and said.
If the oxygen barrier increases but the bubble retention time decreases, we can add silicon-based surfactants. If we subtract the amount of ethylene glycol added as a stabilizer from the fluorine-based surfactant in proportion to the amount added
Seeing the researchers puzzled expression, Jeong-woo picked up his pen again and began to write in thenguage of real-world chemistry, rather than an intuitive image.
If we reduce the amount of ethylene glycol added as a stabilizer to less than 7%, while maintaining the viscosity that adheres to the water surface when sprayed, it may show some improvement.
This is also a suggestion worth considering. How confident are you about the effect?
I would say its a personal intuition about molecr recognition. If you dont trust it, you should test it enough.
Mr. Han Jeong-woo, I also have a question.
Just a moment, me too.
As all the researchers from the Light Water Development team gathered around Jeong-woo, Oh Seung-ju, who was in a discussion with the equipment development team, turned his head and smiled with satisfaction.
Then he noticed Song Boyeong, who was sitting behind Jeong-woo, listening intently.
Boyeong, youre on this side, right? Why did you suggest a transfer based on basic materials? Is it because Jeong-woo is so good?
No way, Ill burn myself like that.
Song Boyeong stood up abruptly and walked towards Oh Seung-ju.
At 1:30 p.m., on an outer road in Cheonan, Chungcheongnam-do.
A bus carrying employees of KG Chemical and its affiliates passed through winding mountain roads. A 2.5-ton refrigerated tanker carrying chemicals and equipment followed closely behind.
Jeong-woo sat alone in the middle seat of the bus.
Inside the car were only product developers and field workers who briefly met in the conference room.
Senior researcher Oh Seung-ju went with his colleagues in a sedan, so Song Boyeong went with them to make things less boring. It was nice to have her around to share ideas.
Jeong-woo turned his gaze to the winter scenery outside the window.
It still feels like a nice outing.
Although it was heavily overcast, there was something rxing about the smell of the countryside with its hills and dirt fields covered inst months snow.
However, the strength of the vigers breath as they passed by gave him a sense that it would be much colder than Seoul.
Ah, I shouldve brought a parka.
Jeong-woo felt a chill run down his spine as the front-seat worker, who was already leaving, spoke.
He wanted to hurry up and get to the site where they were going to simte a fire and its extinguishing process.
Weve arrived.
The manager in the front seat opened the window as the bus stopped in front of the main entrance of the Central Fire Academy. He spoke to the staff member who was controlling the entrance.
KG Chemical.
Please park in front of the training center, and gather in the main hall as the event will begin there.
Jeong-woo saw a series ofrge university-style buildings in the countryside.
I didnt expect to see anything like this in the countryside.
The bus arrived at the dome-shaped building with the words Central Fire Academy written on it.
More than thirty people got off the bus one by one.
Jeong-woo shrunk his body from the chilly air that came at him.
The wind chill felt about 5 degrees colder than Seoul. Maybe it was because there were only trees around that it felt colder.
Jeong-woo looked around.
This ce was a space where eachpany wouldpete for the bid. There were buildings for fire training, fire trucks, and rappel training towers.
He even saw a special vehicle that he recognized among the parked cars.
Its impressive that our mobile researchb is deployed in so many different ces.
Lets go!
Led by the manager, the group moved towards the main hall.
As soon as they entered the auditorium, which was equipped with 500 seats, hundreds of people seated ording to theirpanies came into Jeong-woos view. Namyoung Industries and Yujin Chemical were at the forefront, followed by KG Chemicals, H-Innovation, and Taekjin Precision Chemical.
The manager turned around and said, Please use the restroom now and be seated until 2 oclock. When the bidding begins, it will be chaotic, so please move to your respective locations. Contact me directly if necessary.
Jeong-woo looked towards the entrance, but he didnt see Oh Seung-ju and his team anywhere.
He didnt have any close friends here, and since he came alone from the basic materials center, he thought he would be lonely, but someone spoke to him from the front seat.
This is for you. Its nice to see you here, Han Jeong-woo.
When he turned his head, he saw Director Yoon Jaegil sitting in a suit, waving his hand.
Oh, its been a while, Director.
Jeong-woo immediately bowed and greeted him. Yoon Jaegil turned his body towards Jeong-woo and spoke.
After the city hall seminar, Joo Hana was so impressed with your work that she created the total care team. She wonders why she didnt discover you earlier. Thanks to you, our efficiency has improved so much. Haha.
Really?
Jeong-woo felt a little sorry for the researchers under Joo Hana because he thought they must have had a hard time.
She didnte with you?
Its not her field. There wont be any fire on a bridge with only concrete and steel. Manager Bak came instead.
Yoon Jaegil briefly nced at the middle-aged man sitting at the front without his hair, then turned his head.
By the way, Jeong-woo, did you receive my gift?
Gift?
Yoon Jaegil faintly smiled and said, I sent the consulting fee under your name. I thought you deserved a bonus.
Oh, you did that?
When Jeong-woo looked puzzled, Yoon Jaegil smiled with satisfaction.
Ah, I see. They just got away with it. Tsk tsk. With ourpany, Yujin Chemical, we guarantee rewards for individual achievements. There are even additional bonuses.
As Yun Jaegil was trying to scout for talent, Jeong-woo suddenly remembered something and spoke up.
Oh yeah. Was it because of that, that they suddenly gave me a corporate card?
What?
Yoon Jaegil was incredulous. He asked again, not believing his ears.
Are you saying that because of your performance, your team leader let you use their corporate card? A reward for your hard work is just apany dinner?
No, the corporate team created it for me. They said it was a grant in my name. Its for research support, so I can have as manypany dinners as I want
That, that cant be true, can it?
Yun Jae-gils eyes widened. He couldnt believe it. Whatpany in the world would give an intern their own personal corporate card?
Jeong-woo scratched his chin and said, I find it strange too. I should check with the president to rify. The head of the basic materials center seems like a daring person too.
Jeong-woos muttering made Yoon Jae-gil gulp. If the director was a high-ranking official, then he must be a well-connected person. He recognized Jeong-woos abilities and gave him special treatment.
Why did youe here today, Jeong-woo?
I came to assist Manager Lee Jeong-cheol. Its my first business trip as an official researcher.
Yoon Jae-gil shook his head inwardly, feeling uneasy watching Jeong-woos calm demeanor. He couldnt imagine how he could excel in an entirely different field.
Meanwhile, Han Eun had prepared a secret weapon to ensure the sessfulpletion of todays bidding.
Well talkter, Jeong-woo.
Yes, Director.
Yoon Jae-gil turned around with a smile on his face.
Soon, it was almost 2 oclock, and the biddingpetition with 12panies participating had begun.
Chapter 41
Chapter 41- Frozen(3)
On the podium in the main hall, officials stood up. When a man in his early fifties with messy hair stood in front of the microphone, the murmurs in the hall immediately ceased.
I am Director Yeom Yong-nam from the Fire Industry Technology Institute. First of all, I would like to thank all thepany representatives who havee all the way here despite the cold weather.
After bowing politely, he continued, Before we begin the evaluation, I would like to say a few things. As it is a product for the safety of the public, there are many conditions that are prioritized over price. Experienced firefighters currently serving in the field will thoroughly consider all aspects, and we will not ept anyints about disqualification.
Everyone present paid close attention to every word of the speaker as they were all there to win the bid.
Jeong-woo nced at Manager Lee Jeong-cheol, who was taking meticulous notes, and then noticed the arrival of the Oh Seung-ju group, who had just arrived at the entrance.
Song Boyeong, who was standing at the end, had a red nose, perhaps because of the cold outside.
Yourete.
As he raised his hand to indicate their position, Oh Seung-ju and his team immediately bowed and walked over.
Ah, its cold, Song Boyeong shivered and sat next to Jeong-woo. Surprised by the coldness, Jeong-woo looked at her blue lips and asked, Is it that cold outside? Has the temperature dropped?
Senior Jong-chans car has a weak heater and we got lost on the way, Song Boyeong said, shivering. Kim Jong-chan, who was sitting in his seat, looked apologetic and said, Im sorry.
I guess this is what it feels like to be a soldier, Song Boyeong muttered.
She took out two hot packs from her pocket and put them on her cheeks. Jeong-woo watched her and said, Can you give me one of the hot packs?
Song Boyeong hesitated for a moment. Jeong-woo smiled at her, knowing she was worried about feeling even colder without the hot pack.
Just 30 seconds, Ill warm up my hands, Senior, he said, holding out his hand.
As he received the hot pack, Jeong-woo gathered a lot of free electrons and stimted his reaction. As the warmth gradually spread, he handed it to Song Boyeong.
Here you go.
Im fine, Song Boyeong shook her head.
I think Ill warm up a bit now that Im inside. You can have that one.
Senior, your face is still in the dead of winter. Christmas has already passed, but youre still wearing Rudolphs nose, Jeong-woo teased. Song Boyeong red at him, but her lips gradually turned red as she felt the warmthing from the hot pack she held in her left hand.
Yeom Yong-nam disyed the evaluation locations by item on the screen.
There are fourpaniespeting in the pharmaceuticalpetition.
Jeong-woo nced at Park, the team leader who hade with Yoon Jaegil today, while briefly looking towards Yujin Chemical, their biggestpetitor.
The man looked around the same age as Yoon Jaegil, but Jeong-woo got the impression of experience and expertise from his appearance, rather than an intellectual brilliance.
He couldnt help butugh at the thought that he looked like the Mr. Yoo next door whose hair had fallen out.
Why isnt this getting warmer?
Since Song Boyeong was still shaking the hot pack in her left hand, Jeong-woo realized it was time to intervene. It was time to move on.
You cant warm it up just by shaking it like that. You have to treat it gently with love.
Really?
No, that might make it defective.
When Song Boyeong stopped moving, Jeong-woo stood up, holding back hisughter as she looked at him.
Yeom Yong-nams final words continued from the podium.
We will begin now. The bidding results will be decided immediately through a meeting after the evaluation ispleted, so please gather here before that.
Jeong-woo arrived at the outdoor evaluation site with Kim Jong-chan and Won Jin-soo, who were on a coborative mission from the researchb.
Around therge open space, there was a one-meter cylinder marked as special hazardous material on one side, and an ambnce and a pump truck were waiting in case of emergency.
Thats a chemical truck.
Jeong-woo turned his gaze to the truck that had just entered the evaluation site upon hearing Kim Jong-chans voice. The truck had a slightly different appearance from the fire trucks he had seen before, with machinery and gas tanks attached.
Won Jin-soo blew his whistle and said, It holds 1,000 liters of foam agent and 300 kilograms of powder. How much is that whenbined nationwide?
While the three were admiring the chemical truck, a person wearing a firefighter helmet stepped forward with a megaphone.
-I will give you guidance. Those who are not participating in the evaluation, please wait outside the control line.
Since Jeong-woo had stepped back, he could observe the preparation status of thepanies gathered in the inner space.
The open space was filled with boxes containingpounds.
Several dozen people were in the process of filling their portable evolution devices with the first test chemical that had been distributed individually. Students from the fire academy were also helping, and they all had muscr builds and considerable height, so the practical workers of KG Chemicals stood out immediately.
In particr, Assistant Manager Gong Kyungho had a rather small build, so even among the early twenties students, he looked like a middle school student.
If I stand next to you, Id look like a loser too.
Jeong-woo looked at his thin wrists and thought, Should I exercise? before shaking his head. What need was there for a chemist to train his physical strength? It would be better to read one more paper during that time.
-To expedite the process, I will tell you that while the otherpanies are conducting their tests, the nextpany in line should finish their preparation as much as possible. Otherwise, we wont be able to test all 28.
The person with the megaphone was an active firefighter in charge of this agent test.
Were third. Lets go.
After the firstpany, H-Innovation, finished their preparations, oil spilled from the special hazardous material container onto the three-meter concrete structure located on one side of the open space.
Even though he was far away, the smell of petroleum spread quickly.
Is it not just simple oil, but a mixture?
In the midst of this, Jeong-woo focused on the droplets of oil that were magnified and visible beneath the particles.
It was almost crude oil, with diesel, petroleum, and lubricantponents visible.
-Ignition.
A fire school student assigned to H Innovation stood in ce with a portable ignition device on his back. He was fully armed, even wearing fire-retardant clothing.
The student sprayed the chemical towards the mes.
As the chemical mixed with water was released into the air, it began to suffocate the mes spreading over the oil.
After about 30 seconds of radiation, the mes seemed to be disappearing, but suddenly, mes burst out in the middle. The student hurriedly poured more chemicals, but the mes spread further, dying the final extinguishing.
57 seconds. Isnt it a long time? Kim Jong-chans voice, who was timing with his phone, made Won Jin-soo nod his head.
Ive been here three years ago, and it usually took 30 to 40 seconds to end the situation.
Why did the mes suddenly break out?
Jeong-woo opened his mouth after scanning the chemical information on the surface of the oil.
It seems that some of the water below the oilyer evaporated severely and blew the oil particles outward, causing the fire to instantly expand. Its not just simple oil, but a mixture of oils for testing purposes.
Really?
Looking at the testing site, Kim Jong-chan had no idea what was happening and looked at Jeong-woo with a puzzled expression. In response to his questioning gaze, Jeong-woo gave him a look of I just happened to know.
It was now Yu-Jin Chemicals turn, and the three of them focused their attention on the middle-aged man in the fire-retardant suit standing on the site.
Hey, isnt that a researcher?
Jeong-woo was puzzled by the sight of a middle-aged man with no hair in the fire-retardant suit standing in ce.
It was then that he realized that the man was Park, the team leader that Yoon Jae-gil had mentioned.
The researcher is doing it himself?
-Ignition.
As soon as the fire broke out, Team Leader Park, with a lightweight firefighter hat on his head, began to spray.
With a jet spray, he quickly extinguished the fire on the outer edge of the oilyer, and then adjusted the device and sprayed it in a concentrated manner in one ce.
The mes shrunk in no time.
Wow, it hasnt even been 20 seconds.
Kim Jong-chan, who was looking at his phone, eximed. The fire waspletely extinguished in about 23 seconds.
They only have records for H Innovation.
Jeong-woo also admired it. The performance of the chemical solution was one thing, but because the personnel who used it knew exactly how to use it, they were able to shorten the time significantly.
Did you practice ande? You handle it better than the student.
It was the turn of KG Chemical, the third one.
Manager Lee Jeong-cheol tightly held onto the students hand from behind and gave him an intense gaze.
-Ignition.
The student began spraying, and in 33 seconds, the fire waspletely extinguished. Kim Jong-chan murmured.
Look at this. Were also on the faster side. Its just that Yujin Chemical is unbelievably fast.
The fourth Taekjin Precision Chemicals took 37 seconds.
Since there was no meaning to being the second ce in the biddingpetition, the faces of the KG Chemical team darkened.
-Prepare for the 5th chemical test!
A man with a rough beard and a massive build, unlike any other firefighter, spoke up on the loudspeaker in a macho style.
It was Miles, the first Command Team Leader of the Central Fire Station.
He turned his gaze toward the gathering of Yujin Chemical employees, not the next in line, H Innovation. A middle-aged man in a firefighting suit approached themand post with a light step.
Captain Park Il-sung.
Miles bowed his head.
You retired, but went to a bigpany, and youre good at what you do.
Park Il-sung smiled.
I cant rest. I have to marry off my two daughters. And the benefits are good.
Take it easy.
Haha.
Park Il-sung looked at Miles, who was grumbling, and asked.
Are you off duty today? You came a long way from Seoul.
Well, they said theyd give me extra allowance, so I came. Anyone who works for thepany can participate in the bidding announcement. Its not against the rules, so dont keep staring at me. This is alsopetition.
Whos looking at you because of that? If you show off your skills with the chemistrypany boys over there, who knows less than that chemical, our lively students will be intimidated.
Miles pointed to the firefighting school students who had been looking at Park Il-sung since earlier.
I dont care. As a firefighter, ones experience of grabbing fire is more important than this kind of chemical. Since youre here, show off your skills to those chemistrypany boys and leave.
Dont say too much. Im also a chemicalpany person.
Oops, I see.
Park Il-sung shook his hand and returned to thepanys seat.
Since H Innovation had finished preparing, Miles spoke up on the loudspeaker.
-Ignition!
23 seconds, 25 seconds, 24 seconds, 22 seconds, 26 seconds. Theyre crazy, Kim Jong-chan recited the record of Yujin Chemicals as if he was disappointed.
Jeong-woo realized that KG Chemicals, which maintained the 30-second range, had no chance of winning in thepetition.
The difference in usage is so significant.
Although the chemicalposition of KG Chemicals and Yujin Chemicals seemed simr, the effect was distinctly in favor of Yujin Chemicals.
-Ignition.
KG Chemicals fifth chemical started spraying.
Huh?
As Jeong-woo looked at the magnified chemical world, his eyes widened. The foaming rain that fell into the burning oilke was the Light Water he had fantasized about earlier. This time, it was thebination of ingredients he suggested for improvement.
When the foaming rain stuck to the oilke, a rapidly generated polymer gel blocked oxygen.
Why is the fire going out so fast?
I know, right?
Jeong-woo timed the chemical as he listened to the conversation between Kim Jong-chan and Won Jin-soo.
25 seconds.
One second faster than Yujin Chemicals.
People outside the control line, who expected apanys monopoly due to this spectacle, murmured in surprise. Yoon Jaegil was discussing with Park, the team leader, nearby.
When the fire went out, the assistant who was standing in the gap of KG Chemicalspound box clenched his fist.
Then he turned his head to Jeong-woo, who was outside the control line, and raised his thumb.
Thats the one Jeong-woo suggested in the morning.
Only then did Kim Jong-chan understand why they won.
If I knew it, I would have sent Jeong-woo directly to KG Industries to participate in the research.
Werent those made before you even joined thepany?
He should have been hired sooner. He has good skills.
Jeong-woo had no choice but to smile awkwardly. Kim Jong-chan organized the results on his phone and said, Now, based on carbon dioxide? Its good that we won one, but Im worried about the future.
Jeong-woo recalled the information about 28 chemicals he had read in the morning. There was only Light Water that came to mind as a way to improve. Even if he had joined thepany quickly and participated in development, he didnt think he could make something that significantly surpassed Yujin Chemicalspounds.
Isnt there any way?
After the turn of the 4thpany, Taegin Precision Chemicals, the voice on the loudspeaker continued.
-We will take a 10-minute break while preparing for the fuel tank test.
At 3:25 PM, Nongyeon Training Center.
Song Boyeong came out of the building where the me-retardant suit test had ended and took a breath of fresh air. Then she turned her eyes to Oh Seung-ju, who was walking beside her.
Even if we offer a low price, well fail the bid, wont we?
Namyung is too strong.
With a challenging look, Song Boyeong raised her fist at Oh Seung-ju.
What, are you going to hit me?
I mean, lets fight. If we develop a polymer-made me-retardant coating, well have DuPont in the U.S. besides Namyung, right? Itll be much more effective than their me-retardant suits. Just wait and see.
Its good to be confident, but dont push yourself until the holiday. We need to look long-term.
I got it. Once we finish preparing the draft.
With a smile and full of energy, Song Boyeong answered.
There are days when failure is more meaningful than sess on the path of a chemist. Some people seem to only seed all the time, like Dr. Cheon.
Do you know Frederick Sanger? He won the Nobel Prize twice.
I do.
He devoted 10 years to researching the insulin molecule structure. Especially thest 3 years before receiving the award were full of failures. I think this person is greater than Dr. Cheon. If chemists each have their own path, you think youre on this side, right? You have an endless passion for challenges.
Yes, I understand what you mean!
Song Boyeong thanked her senior researcher in Lab 1 for his heartfelt advice with a smile on her face.
Its really great to learn from Senior Seungju.
Dont be too stubborn. My son is already four years old Oh, did you fall for Jeong-woo?
Why do you keep teasing me?
Or dont get angry.
Oh Seung-ju pointed to the outdoor training ground where ck smoke was rising.
Lets go watch the mainpetition. Well ride together after the closing ceremony anyway.
Sure.
As they were about to move, someone walking out of the Nongyeon Training Center fixed their gaze on Song Boyeong and called out to her.
Boyeong!
Upon hearing the call, Song Boyeongs expression changed. It was a man in histe forties with a refined appearance, and as he approached her with a pleased expression, Song Boyeong quickly turned to Oh Seungju.
Ill catch up with youter, senior. You go ahead.
Someone you know?
Yes.
Song Boyeong ran towards the man and greeted him.
Mr. Seonggil?
Thats right. Youre Boyeong, right? Ive been wondering if it was you since earlier.
This man, who was wearing a name tag that read Youngwoo Tech, Jeon Seong-gil was someone she hadnt seen in a long time. He was a friend of her parents and an old acquaintance who was like an uncle to her.
Its been almost seven years. I left the research center and started my ownpany, a small and medium-sized enterprise.
As he spoke, Jeon Seong-gils eyes widened when he saw Song Boyeongs name tag.
Why is it Song Boyeong? Arent you a Cha?
Thats right, sir.
When your parents passed away, I was worried that
Song Boyeong bit her lip and lowered her head.
Im working at KG Chemical Research Institute, like my mother.
Song Boyeong spoke bluntly, and although her reaction was somewhat stiff, Jeon Seong-gil nodded without saying a word.
I heard you went to Germany and I was very worried. Im d youre doing well. Lets keep in touch.
After bowing her waist to say goodbye, Song Boyeong turned around and started walking away, her steps getting heavier as memories of her early twenties resurfaced, memories that she had buried deep inside.
It was still difficult to face someone who knew about that incident.
It was an unavoidable ident, and the thought of her mother made her feel sad. These were the times when she needed to drink soju to make her depression disappear.
Why is it so cold today!
She shouted at the sky and shook her head vigorously.
Mom, Im not feeling sad. Dont worry.
It was a freezing day, and the only constion was that the hot pack that Jeong-woo had given her earlier was still very warm inside his coat.
Jeong-woo was contemting in front of a vending machine located in front of the fireprehensive training center.
The clinic told me not to drink caffeine.
He wanted a warm drink, but the only type sold in cans was coffee.
Maybe one wont hurt?
He put in a thousand won and pressed the button. With a cheerful sound of tong, the can of coffee dropped to the bottom.
Ill enjoy it.
Hmm?
When he turned his head, Song Boyeong extended both hands and made a gesture of please give me.
When did you arrive?
Just now. Have you seen senior Oh by any chance?
Im here with my colleagues over there.
Jeong-woo pointed towards the KG Chemical bus and hesitated while looking at the can of coffee in his hand. Eventually, he gave it to Song Boyeong.
Its like a sign from the heavens telling me not to drink it.
Are you saying Im like an angel?
Dont get the wrong idea.
Jeong-woo put a bill into the vending machine and took out a bottle of water. He then saw Song Boyeong sitting on a nearby bench.
Lets take the bus. Its warmer there.
I just want to sit quietly.
Song Boyeong took out a hand warmer from her pocket.
Its okay if you have this.
She seemed to want him to sit next to her. Since the break time was ending soon, it was a hassle to go to the bus anyway.
It seems like senior team didnt do well in the evaluation? You look a bit down.
Asking while sitting on the bench, Song Boyeong nodded her head.
I heard that Namyoung did pretty well. And what about you, Mr. Jeong-woo?
Dont even get me started.
Jeong-woo talked about Yujin Chemicals dominance. Song Boyeong listened and said with a twinkle in her eye.
It seems like senior has high expectations for you. Its too bad it didnt go well.
You seem to like it.
I like it. Its a pitying look.
Song Boyeong stared at Jeong-woo and blinked her eyes. Although her intentions were obvious, her nose turned red and he found it cute.
But heres the thing. The Light Water I proposed for improvement was the only one that won. Iid the foundation for the material. Its already done its job.
Whatever.
Oh, look. Theres a pair of eyes that seem to be really disappointed.
Thats what you call eyes that like someone, you know? Even though you dont realize it.
Despite her clearly upset expression, Song Boyeong took a sip of her coffee and asked, This Team Leader Park, is he really that skilled?
He seemed to know the weaknesses that could put out the fire effectively.
Do we not know that in our team?
Not us, but the students at the fire school
Suddenly, Jeong-woo had a thought and asked Song Boyeong, What about the fireproof clothing? Is it difficult to wear?
When I saw it earlier, it seemed pretty easy to put onpared to other ones. They brought it over in that box.
Jeong-woo spotted the KG Chemical employees walking towards them from the training center, and one of them was carrying a box of fireproof clothing. That must be the fireproof clothing.
Should I give it a try?
Chapter 42
Chapter 42- Frozen(4)
During the past 30 minutes, Lee Jeong-cheol had been recording the evaluation results, and he let out a small sigh as he continued to write in his notebook.
He had only managed to gain the upper hand in one aspect. It was clear that if he failed to excel in most of the evaluations among the 28 chemicals, no matter howpetitive they were in terms of price, the chance of winning the bid would be slim.
Just then, a message came in on his phone from the equipment team.
[It didnt work well. The performance of Namyoungs fireproof suits was impressive. And Youngwoo Tech wasnt bad either.]
As it became clear that there would be no remarkable achievements on the equipment side, Jeong-cheol became anxious.
After reading the opinions of the two researchers from the Materials Center, he realized that theposition of Yujin Chemicals extinguishing agent was simr to that of KG Chemicals. However, KG Chemicals had the ability to performrge-scale production processes optimally using the best equipment in the country.
Price, unit price, and uniform quality. Since KG Chemicals had an advantage in these areaspared to Yujin Chemical, he judged that he could still appeal as long as there was only a few seconds difference.
-Prepare for the 6th chemical test.
The manager instructed through the loudspeaker.
Jeong-cheol silently cheered on the employees who were setting up the gas device in the mobile evolution unit.
-Ignite.
The record from H Innovation this time was 31 seconds. Jeong-cheol swallowed a groan as he watched them celebrate for being quite fast. This was not an easy task either.
As Park, the team leader of Yujin Chemical, was preparing, Yoon Jaegil, approached the location where the boxes of KG Chemicals were lined up.
We should finish before evening, right? Its cold, isnt it?
As Yoon Jaegil greeted him, Jeong-cheol also bowed his head.
Thank you for your hard work outside, Director.
We met three years ago, didnt we? If my memory serves me right, youre the manager from that time, right?
Jeong-cheol tried toe up with an answer that would maintain the dignity of his rivalpany, in response to Yoon Jaegils rxed and casual question.
Thats right. It was impressive how you added thepound right there in the snow. There were 12 of us, but KG Chemicals also ranked first with 9 at the time.
Jeong-cheol couldnt say anything to Yoon Jaegils humility, who was in a hurry to eat up all 28 chemicals today.
-Ignite.
As Park started spraying the gas, the two mens attention briefly returned to the evaluation site. As Yoon Jaegil was watching the extinguishing scene, he said as he passed by.
Manager, by the way, the fifth chemical used in the test earlier. It was impressive to perform so well that it was hard to believe based on the data I had. Even Germanys Moso-Ro Gs wasnt that good.
Jeong-cheol turned to the assistant who was in charge of the Lightwater, which had managed to score some points.
Was that the one that was rbined?
Yes, we epted all of Researcher Jeong-woos opinions on basic materials. Its unbelievable. We dont have precision measuring equipment, but it seems to have reduced the oxygen blocking rate to 11%.
Yoon Jaegils eyes brightened at the mention of the name that he had been interested in.
Did Han Jeong-woo give an opinion?
Startled by the record of Park, the team leader who had finished the evolution in the early 22 seconds, Lee Jeong-cheol turned his head, not having properly listened.
What did you say?
Its about Han Jeong-woos opinion
Huh? Why are you calling me?
Yun Jae-gils head turned suddenly at the sudden voice. Jeong-woo, dressed in thick orange clothing, was walking over with a rustling sound, and Yun Jae-gil was momentarily taken aback.
What brings you here?
I came to talk for a moment.
Yun Jae-gil scrutinized Jeong-woos attire, which was unusualpared to before, and asked.
Are you wearing that because its cold?
No, its ourpanys fireproof suit, and I borrowed it for a moment. Is it fashionable? I was surprised when I saw it too. It looks like a ski suit.
A fireproof suit?
Yun Jae-gil watched Jeong-woo with a sense of unease, wondering if he had guessed correctly.
Director!
However, he had to move, as a subordinate from Yujin Chemical was calling him from their position.
What?
He grumbled needlessly.
Jeong-woo tried to get used to the fireproof suit he was wearing for the first time, shaking his arms back and forth.
The fabric is stiff, so its a little ufortable to move.
Then he approached Lee Jeong-cheol, who was making a face as if he didnt understand English.
Manager, can I help you from the next test onwards?
What?
A firefighting student assigned to KG Chemicals started spraying in front of the mes. They were trying to light a round tank decorated with fuel and extinguish it from a distance.
Did Mr. Han Jeong-woo share his opinion?
Lee Jeong-cheol turned his head, surprised by the record of Park, the team leader whopleted evolution in his twenties. He had not listened properly.
What did you say?
Im talking about Mr. Han Jeong-woos opinion. What did he say?
Yes? Why are you calling me?
Suddenly, Yoon Jae-gils head turned at the sound of a voice. Jeong-woo, wearing a thick orange fireproof suit, walked over, making rustling sounds. Yoon Jae-gil was momentarily stunned.
Why are you here?
I came to talk for a moment.
Yoon Jae-gil examined Jeong-woos outfit, which was different from earlier, and asked.
Are you wearing that because its cold?
No, its ourpanys fireproof suit, and I borrowed it for a moment. Do you like the fashion? I was surprised when I saw it too. It looks like a ski suit.
A fireproof suit?
Yoon Jae-gil watched Jeong-woo with unease, wondering if there was something more to it.
Director!
However, he had to move when a subordinate from Yujin Chemical called for him.
Why?
He became annoyed for no reason.
Jeong-woo tried to adapt to the fireproof suit he was wearing for the first time, waving his arms back and forth.
The fabric is stiff, so its ufortable to move.
He then approached Lee Jeong-cheol, who was making a puzzled expression.
Manager Lee, can I help you from the next test onwards?
Pardon?
Yujin Chemicals assigned firefighting school student began spraying in front of the mes. It was a task of setting fire to a cylindrical tank disguised as a fuel tank and extinguishing it from a distance, allowing the liquefied carbon dioxide to prate every corner of the oilyer.
After pointing to the test site, Jeong-woo spoke.
ording to the regtions, as long as the spray equipment is the same, it doesnt matter how many people are present.
Are you saying that it would be better if Han Jeong-woo helps?
The manager looked skeptical. Jeong-woo scratched his chin and replied.
I wont know until I try, but I can give enough tips to help control the fire. For example, when liquefied carbon dioxide is released, the directionality can prate every nook and cranny of the oilyer.
Jeong-woo pointed to one side of the training fuel tank.
Thebustion reaction on the outer wall is much stronger! Adjust the spray nozzle to the upper right!
The hesitant student adjusted the direction.
The mes inside the tank subsided quickly. The result was 30 seconds. It was faster than H Innovation by one second, although not as fast as Yu-jin Chemical.
Carbon dioxide suppressantse in two types: high pressure and low pressure. Due to the cold weather, there may not be much difference in performance between the two. However, its important to have good directionality to save time.
The manager looked at the young man who had just given his opinion with a steady gaze.
He knew that Jeong-woo had a strong sense of chemistry. Thanks to him, they had improved the Lightwater product enough to impress Yun Jae-kil.
Okay then, please help us out.
The manager nodded his head, thinking that if there was any hope, they should try it.
Im Jeong-woo. Nice to meet you.
The student nced at him briefly.
Im Jeong Pil-du.
Although his face looked innocent, he appeared much older than Jeong-woo, and his muscles bulged as if he were a special forces agent.
I thought you were my little brother when I saw you up close. Are you a former soldier? I heard that there are many former soldiers in the fire department.
As the employees installed the carbon dioxide gas cylinder, Jeong-woo stood next to Jeong Pil-du.
Ill help you next time.
What do you mean by help?
Jeong Pil-du responded with a sardonic tone, and Jeong-woo pointed to the gas cylinder.
Even with gloves on, your hands get really cold when you spray that. Right?
Thats right.
Carbon dioxide suppressants put out fires by blocking oxygen, but they also have a cooling effect. When the liquid-state solution vaporizes into a gas.
As Jeong-woo spoke, he noticed that Jeong Pil-du had no idea what he was saying, and instead looked at the H Innovation test that had just begun, trying to understand the molecr world.
In other words, when the oil ignites, arge me urs in one area, right?
Are you talking about the ignition point?
Oh, so its called an ignition point. Anyway, in those petroleum tanks, the ignition point changes with every sloshing. If we follow that, we can enhance our products cooling effect and somewhat keep up with what Park, the team leader at Yu-jin Chemical, does.
In the seventh test, H Innovation recorded 34 seconds.
Despite the smoke, do you think its possible to grasp the situation? During the break, I heard from Major Miles that hes a veteran who can instinctively see through the fire. He told us not to be discouraged.
Seeing that Jeong Pil-du was too unsure of himself despite his appearance, Jeong-woo pointed to Manager Park standing in front of the fire and said, Its not as difficult as you think. Listen to me once.
-Ignition.
After carefully examining the point where Manager Park first fired, Jeong-woo said, Thats the veterans first firing point. The part where the smoke is thick and moving quickly is where the temperature is high. Hes not even touching the part where the rtive speed of the smoke is slow. Thats where he finds the fire, right?
Ah
When the burning speed is different, isnt it easy to fire if you just find the best ce to burn?
Jeong Pil-du, who heard a fire-fighting method he had never thought of before, quickly paid attention to the voice.
When the oilyer fluctuates due to spraying, the sparks burst on the outer wall of the tank. Its also being extinguished immediately.
I understand.
Good. Oh, now! The gas is expanding and the mes are spreading all at once. Can you see it?
Jeong-woo, satisfied with Jeong Pil-dus eager expression, spoke.
At that time, he stopped spraying, and the particles spread evenly, blocking oxygen all at once. Oh, but that requires some manual skills.
Ill try. Im practicing that skill too.
Manager Park stepped back after achieving a result of 24 seconds. And the fire student assigned to KG Chemicals followed Jeong-woo perfectly for 24 seconds.
-Please prepare.
It was time for the 7th drug test for KG Chemicals.
Jeong Pil-du stood in front, took a posture, and Jeong-woo stood next to him as fireman Miles watched.
Hey. Why are there two people? Is there a problem?
Fireman Miles looked at Jeong-woo after hearing the loudspeakers voice.
Hes a KG Chemical employee and he came to help put out the fire with him! You cant fight the fire alone!
Upon hearing Jeong-woos shout, Miles smiled and gestured for him to straighten his hat. Then he shouted, Ignition!
The mes rose on the tank.
Now what?
When attacking the point where the fire is extinguished well, this fire student cannot show the veteran-level skillful firing.
Jeong-woo thought so and pondered a more daring way to block thebustion reaction.
Shall we fire?
Just a moment.
When ck smoke rose and even the mes became difficult to see, Jeong-woos eyes sharply scanned the area around the tank.
Aim for the center. Full power.
Chiiik!
Just 5 more seconds.
Its not moving?
Its okay.
When liquid carbon dioxide is rapidly released into the atmosphere, it cannot absorb much heat at once, creating solid dry ice.
Due to the cold weather, pieces of dry ice actually fell down onto the oilyer.
Release it on the tank wall. Another 5 seconds.
What?
Having already wasted over 10 seconds, Jeong-woo gave a pleading look to the skeptical Jeong Pil-du and pointed his finger at the tank.
The dry ice inside and the liquid carbon dioxide poured onto the outer tank wall created a sudden cooling effect from both sides.
Jeong-woo surveyed the 2-meter diameter circr space where thebustion reaction had drastically subsided and shouted.
That thing from earlier. Spray it and cut it off. Do it now!
Chwat-jwa-jwa-jwa-!
Like extinguishing a candle, the me inside the training fuel tank disappeared in an instant.
Everyone watching momentarily forgot their conversation and watched the scene unfold.
Jeong-woo turned his head towards the manager and asked, Whats the time?
2 minutes and 21 seconds!
Amidst the silence, many people outside the control line were stirred up by the managers shout. It was the shortest time on record today.
Especially, Mile-su looked at Jeong-woo and Jeong Pil-du with a look of Whats that?.
Jeong-woo took off his heavy fire helmet and raised his thumb to Jeong Pil-du as if to say Good job, Youre just like Manager Park..
Jeong Pil-du looked at Jeong-woo with an incredulous expression.
Thanks to you, Han Jeong-woo.
What are you talking about?
When they returned to the KG Chemicals area, the manager and Assistant Gong greeted them with a jog.
3 seconds faster than Eugene Chemical!
Jeong-woo, that was amazing. How did you manage to cut down so much time?
When asked by Mr. Gong, Jeong-woo looked at the tank and said, Its a simple thermodynamicw using the temperature difference.
Simple? Mr. Gong questioned.
Jeong-woo calmly smiled and asked, Whats the next chemical?
The manager replied, Its a mechanical foam. The next five chemicals will only evaluate performance since they are fixed instations.
Jeong-woo stood still, realizing that he didnt have to go to a separate test site. As he looked around, he noticed that Park, the team leader who looked like the man next door, was watching him, so Jeong-woo nodded his head in greeting.
15 minutester.
-Ignition.
As soon as the fuel tank caught fire, the chemical sprayer connected to the tanker sprayed out the solution.
As the machine poured out the solution, the test progressed in a sh with records within 20 seconds.
From a distance, Jeong-woo watched the tenth solution from Taejin Precision Chemical record 18 seconds. The previous record from KG Chemical was 15 seconds.
Two wins and two losses. Performance is consistently mediocre.
So far, Yujin Chemical was leading with 6 wins and 4 losses. Although it wasnt possible to say for otherpanies, the atmosphere was such that it would eventuallye down to either Yujin Chemical or one of the otherpanies.
-Preparing for the 11th solution test!
The solution contained in the machine was an aqueous foam fire extinguishing agent.
As the first test from H-Innovation began, Jeong-woo, who was watchingfortably, was surprised.
There was an unusual phenomenon on the heated fuel tank.
The foam storm injected onto the cylinder covered the surface of the burning oilke. However, a part of the foam disappeared due to the high temperature of the tanks outer wall.
Failure to form a surface film.
It was a small phenomenon in the chemical world, but it would soon spread throughout the tank.
Since there was no one watching this, Jeong-woo reflexively scanned his surroundings. The only KG employee wearing a fire-resistant suit was himself. Jeong-woo quickly approached the test site with a portable extinguisher in his hand.
Mr. Pil-doo!
Jeong Pil-doo, who was waiting in front of the chemical truck, turned his head.
Since it cant be extinguished, be prepared with this.
What?
At least with this for now.
Although Jeong-woo didnt know why, Jeong Pil-doo trusted him and quickly put on his gear and equipment.
Inside the test fuel tank.
Although a certain amount of solution was continuously injected through the machine, the mes not only didnt go out but rapidly emitted sparks.
When the me, which usually extinguished within 20 seconds, didnt go out even after 40 seconds, the H-Innovation team members were surprised.
-Its a ring fire! Everyone back off! Hey, fire truck! Move out!
As Milesus voice echoed through the loudspeaker, the firefighters on standby moved.
What should we do?
Jeong Pil-doo, who had been preparing for a while, looked at Jeong-woo with a surprised expression.
We need to extinguish it. Mr. Pil-doo is a firefighter too. After another 10 seconds, the temperature of the tanks outer wall will be too high and it may melt. The remaining oil will spill out.
Jeong Pil-doo approached the fuel tank without hesitation after Jeong-woos words. From the portable fire extinguisher that contained the test solution, a white powder poured out with a hissing sound.
Jeong-woo, who followed behind, couldnt approach any further due to the heat and said from behind.
The center doesnt need to be targeted. Its spraying along the wall.
Yes, sir Oh, Mr. Jeongwoo!
The me that had shot up one meter above the fuel tank gradually subsided. The problem-causing me went out on the road five seconds after it had sshed out.
The firefighters who had pulled out the hose from the fire engine and rushed to the scene were stunned by the sight.
Hey, you! Over there!
Miles spoke into the loudspeaker, but then ran up to Jang Pil-doo in one step, pushing aside the loudspeaker.
Did you see that crazy kid? Why are you standing there with that at this timing?
Well, thats
No, Im not angry. You did well. You quickly stopped what could have caused an ident.
Jang Pil-doo was taken aback by thepliment, delivered in a scary face and tone.
This kid has a sense of timing. How many years have you been?
Jeongwoo, who was also intimidated by Miles scary demeanor, took a step back.
It was him, not you.
Miles looked over as Park Il-sung approached. Park Il-sung came closer and spoke.
I felt strange about the fire, but this guy ran with his equipment before that.
Faster than Senior Seonbae, the fire extinguishing specialist?
Jeongwoo flinched at Miles scrutinizing gaze.
Earlier, this guy improved KG Chemicals firefighting method. Maybe a firefighter?
No, Im a researcher.
Milesughed and patted Jeongwoos shoulder.
Dont say that. Be a firefighter. We treat them well. Do you know theyre public servants? The hottest grooms nowadays.
I have a lot of work to do.
Miles held onto Jeongwoos shoulder and turned towards wherepany officials were gathered.
Next team, get ready! Time is tight!
Jeongwoo breathed a sigh of relief as he watched Miles walk towards themand post.
I didnt expect to be nervous about appearance, but that person made me tremble.
The thug-like Chan-yi was just a schrpared to Miles.
Lets go too, Mr. Jang Pil-doo.
Jeongwoo said and started walking back to KG Chemical with Jang Pil-doo. As they got closer, they ran into Park Il-sung.
Are you going to continue with the remaining tests?
I have to. Its apetition.
Just when I was getting bored, this happened. Im looking forward to the A-grade fire test.
Park Il-sung smoothly made a deration and disappeared towards Eugene Chemical. Jeongwoo turned his head and asked Jang Pil-doo.
Whats an A-grade fire test?
Did you say A-grade? It seems like stacking dry wood and extinguishing it with a Gwanchang.
The sight of a fire ignitinges to mind when talking about fires. Its not like a campfire. Jeongwoo was a little worried about the test, which required real firefighting experience.
The road to meet the expectations of Director Jang Tae-sun seemed still far and rocky.
As he walked towards his seat, Jeongwoo saw Song Bo-young waving her hand at the control line.
He nodded his head in response to her encouraging gesture.
It was 4 p.m. The weather was cloudy, and the mountain vige was already darkening.
Chapter 43
Chapter 43- Frozen(5)
-Chemical setup isplete.
A spirited voice came through the loudspeaker.
With most of the evaluation from the equipmentpanying to an end, a considerable number of people gathered around the control line. Despite not being participatingpanies, the majority of the observers were interested parties rather than casual onlookers.
Song Boyeong looked around at the growing crowd with admiration.
It seems like spectating is popr no matter where you go.
Thats true. Because this is the biggest opportunity. They must be here to observe and learn for their next challenge.
Nodding in agreement with Oh Seung-jus words, Song Boyeongs gaze lingered on the H Innovation team and her eyes widened.
They have another person joining them to extinguish the fire over there.
Beside the responsible student, an employee wearing a fire helmet was waiting. Since the w in the product was discovered during the 11th test, the employees were in a state of confusion, but they seemed to have made their own decision in the meantime.
Will it turn out well if they imitate it?
As Song Boyeong turned her head, startled by a sudden appearance, Jeong-woo asked, What are they imitating?
You surprised me.
Song Boyeong swept her hand across her chest and looked up at Jeong-woo.
Were about to start. Why are you here?
I have a favor to ask.
What kind of favor?
Just a moment. These clothes are all good, but the pockets
Grumbling, Jeong-woo put his hand into the fire-resistant suit. Oh Seung-ju and his two colleagues turned their eyes, wondering what he was up to.
Jeong-woo found what he was looking for inside the pocket and quickly pulled it out. It was a wallet.
Even though the final test only allows 15 minutes of preparation time, I heard that we can at least get some snacks or food from the convenience store during that time. It would be great if they have a variety of options.
Well, that shouldnt be a problem, but why are you asking me, Jeong-woo?
Im not the one asking.
Jeong-woo took out a corporate card and handed it to Song Boyeong.
Use this.
A, a corporate card?
We should use it in situations like this. Well buy things for the equipment team too. Everyone is working hard in the cold.
The equipment staff who were gathered nearby looked at Jeong-woo with surprise.
Please, senior.
Watching Jeong-woo return to his seat at KG Chemical, Song Boyeong couldnt speak for a moment.
Why are you carrying a corporate card? Did the center director give it to you?
Its Jeong-woos.
Really?
Song Boyeongs eyes widened at Oh Seung-jus response.
Observing Jeong-woos confident figure, Kim Jong-chan let out an exmation of admiration, and Won Jin-soo whistled.
So this is the power of someone wielding a corporate card?
Indeed, hes impressive. When will we be in charge of a project and have the opportunity to use something like that?
-21st round. Ignition.
Over there! No, there, there!
Im doing it.
Oh, the fire is getting bigger!
The people outside the control line, who were observing H Innovation, the first in line, chuckled. The advice from the interfering observer had even caused the record to reach 35 seconds.
Jeong-woo noticed Jeong Pil-du standing beside him, smirking, and pointed to the test siteposed of a gas discharge device model.
This new agent, based on halogenpounds, seems more challenging than I thought. It might be due to the weather. When the liquid vaporizes, it needs to blow away a lot of oxygen in the air to extinguish the fire properly.
Oh, Im sorry.
No need for apologies. Lets just be cautious.
Ill keep that in mind.
At some point, Jeong Pil-dus attitude changed as if he were following a teacher, rather than being cooperative. Jeong-woo had to force a bitter smile.
At least Jeong Pil-du had improved. Because of the previous incident, the number of winks from themand seat, where his face was patched up, kept increasing every time he entered the test site.
Its terrifying, but it gives me a strange sense of satisfaction.
Despite their restless appearances, their intentions felt pure. The same was true for Park Il-sung, the team leader of a rivalpany.
Suddenly, Jeong-woo had a thought. Perhaps this wasnt apetition where you belittle each other, thinking Im better than you. It might be apetition to handle life-and-death situations in split-second times,ughing and crying together.
Those who were saving others. The equipment and agents that supported them.
Being in the midst of constructive work made Jeong-woo feel excited and proud.
If only KG Chemical products win here.
Even though they were already in the 21st round of the agentpetition, it didnt seem easy. When adding up the previous records, it was 11 wins and 9 losses. The gap wasnt closing, which worried him.
While lost in thought, Park, the team leader, took his position.
-Ignition.
mes erupted simultaneously in the space surrounded by 1-meter-high concrete walls in the shape of a . Within that space, the cylindrical gas tank structure lit up with red and blue mes.
Jeong-woo carefully observed the magnified chemical world, interpreting it to the experienced firefighters Jeong Pil-du in detail.
Because its difficult to determine the ignition point, theyre targeting the valve line rather than the areas with intense heat. Starting with blocking the gas inflow? We should learn that too.
In the fantastical chemical world, smoke thickened above the gaske, with small shes continuously flickering.
As Jeong-woo observed the halogen agent elements gently covering the surface, they emitted a ray-like light, causing him to tightly close his eyes.
Ive been watching for so long that Im getting tired.
Rubbing his forehead, he turned his gaze back to Team Leader Park.
There seems to be fog-like particles hindering the gasbustion, distributed evenly throughout the area. Its effective.
Thats fog-proofing.
Pil-du, you can change it like that too, right?
Well, thats basic.
Jeong-woo smiled with satisfaction at Jeong Pil-dus slightly confident words. They were now synchronized, as if their hands and feet were in perfect harmony.
Huh?
Jeong-woo saw an iprehensible action from Team Leader Park.
You almost extinguished it, but suddenly changed the spraying method?
Its a high-speed misting fireproofing. Its not usually used for containment.
Containment?
Jeong-woo swallowed a groan as he watched Team Leader Parks spraying, which covered the entire 1-meter space like a barrier, settling the smoke that was seeping out.
A purpose to block specific ingredients.
Rather than focusing on time reduction, Jeong-woo found himself admiring Team Leader Parks attitude of taking precautions outside the test site to prevent any potential idents involving gas and smoke.
I see. Trying to win from afar seems less effective here.
With a record of 36 seconds, Team Leader Park took more time than H Innovation, leaving those outside the control line puzzled.
However, Jeong-woo couldnt help but ponder.
While others might not understand, just before he put his mouth to the loudspeaker, Jeong-woo raised his thumb, showing that he understood the intention behind Team Leader Park move.
Thispetition also included the subjective evaluation of current firefighters. By using the best firefighting methods derived from their experiences, it was a vital selling point as important as the records themselves.
It moves the hearts of rescue specialists.
Moreover, a difference of 1 or 2 seconds could be considered within the margin of error. Winning with just that wasnt enough.
A way to extinguish mes and quickly block smoke. Jeong-woo pondered intensely, burning his mind for a short period.
I have a rough idea of theponents of thebustion gas.
Combined with thepounds in the agent container. The twoparisons intersected rapidly.
[H] [OH] [CH] [CFClBr]
The mes are rich in hydrogen and hydroxyl radicals. If we mix a suitable halogen catalyst, tailored evolution is possible. Its about inducingpletebustion as much as possible.
Fire suppression and smoke blocking simultaneously.
With a sudden thought, Jeong-woo turned his head to Jeong Pil-du.
Pil-du, this time, Ill do it alone.
What? I didnt hear you correctly.
Since it doesnt matter if we exceed the time, like Team Leader Park just did, try to block the smoke as much as possible.
Jeong Pil-du responded in surprise.
What about you, Jeong-woo?
I still have two more steps for the halogen agent. We need to be prepared for that.
With that response, Jeong-woo rushed towards the stack of KG Chemical boxes.
Manager! Assistant Manager Gong! Please bring out all the boxes containing Halonpounds!
-Ignition.
Jeong Pil-dus test, conducted alone, recorded 39 seconds. However, Miles raised his thumb in response to the effort to block the smoke.
With Taijin Precision Chemical recording 34 seconds, this unexpectedpetition ced the two lower-rankingpanies side by side in the top two positions.
Just before the start of the 22nd test.
Jeong-woo was anxiously looking around in front of the box filled with Halonpounds.
Ah, dizzy.
Dozens of molecr universes ovepping in one ce, a sight that one couldnt even see in dreams, kept appearing before his eyes.
Assistant Manager Gong approached.
So, youre saying youre going to enhance the catalytic extinguishing effect?
Rather than enhancement, I would say its a customized extinguishing system suitable for thebusting gases.
And have you figured out theposition of the mixed gas?
Without taking his eyes off thepound container, Jeong-woo nodded.
As the entangled molecr universes untangled and found stability, Jeong-woo immediately went into thebination.
Start with the fluorine-brominepound, please.
He poured the measured liquid solution into the portable extinguishers agent container.
As the operation was conducted in real-time, H Innovations 22nd turn began.
-Ignition.
Their confident approach, driven by their previous test rankings, recorded 34 seconds.
Jeong-woos hands became even busier.
This is Halon 1301pound, right? The purity should be adjusted to 99.6 instead of 99 mol, and the hydrocarbon content should be reduced to below 0.4. The same ratio applies to the 23rd one as well.
I understand, Jeong-woo.
Under Jeong-woos non-stop instructions, Assistant Manager Gongs hands were also busy.
The developers closely followed, recalcting theposition ratio of thepound, closing the lid of the container, and charging nitrogen. It waspleted just as Team Leader Parks turn ended.
Yujin Chemical also recorded 36 seconds this time.
Along with the voice of the department head, Jeong-woo managed to stand next to Jeong Pil-du just in time.
Phew, safe. Please change this tube for me.
Seeing Jeong-woo gasping for breath, Jeong Pil-du quickly reced the agent tube.
-Ignition.
Now that Jeong-woo, who was absent a moment ago, stood in front of the test site again, Miles smiled and winked at him.
Pointing to the side and mimicking the action of spraying water, it was a gesture that said, You should be a firefighter.
This time, Jeong-woo also smiled and demonstrated the gesture of pouring reagents into the test tube and shaking it, indicating, I want to do chemistry.
Jeong-woo, how do you spray it?
Just a lot.
What?
To have as much contact with the surface area as possible. Since it was hastilybined, the spraying may not be precise.
Instead of expressing doubt, Jeong Pil-du followed his instructions as they were.
Halogen agent poured like mist into the 1-meter concrete space filled with mes.
With a refreshing sound that was different from the usual swoosh, the mes subsided all at once.
The me that should have spread through the injected gas instead diminished, and the smoke hardly appeared.
After a few seconds, only the hissing sound of gas escaping could be heard.
Miles lowered the microphone and stretched his neck. Observing quietly, he had an expression of What on earth is that? despite having a long career as a firefighter.
Good, pour it in!
Jeong Pil-du approached a bit closer and began targeting the gas tank at maximum output. The mes, including thest ones from the gas pipe, disappeared instantly.
The extinguishment wasplete even before the gas injection was finished.
17 seconds!
The department head shouted in astonishment.
The appearance of a significantly special agent that was twice as fast as H Innovations agent and captured the smoke left all thepetitors representatives in silence.
Jeong Pil-du walked towards Jeong-woo with a bewildered expression.
It will extinguish soon. Its fascinating.
You did well, Pil-du.
What did I do? But what on earth happened?
Well, it must be the power of analytical chemistry, right?
As the two returned to their positions, the department head rushed over and grabbed Jeong-woos hand.
Showing such a significant effect like this has great advantages. The possibility of winning the bid has greatly increased!
While the department head was all smiles, Yoon Jae-gil, who was in the position of Yujin Chemical, had a darkeningplexion.
Looking at Jeong-woo, who was preparing to mix the 23rd agent, Yoon Jae-gils gaze contained not anger but a slight sense of mncholy as if yearning for affection.
The next round was also a victory for KG Chemical.
The current results were Yujin Chemical 11, KG Chemical 11, and Taejin Precision Chemical 1.
In the intensepetition between the twopanies, the people outside the control line became fully interested, forgetting about the cold weather.
We will start in 15 minutes!
During the break before the final test, the KG Chemical employees who hade on a business trip, led by Song Boyeong, approached the gathering of the agent team.
We brought snacks~
They brought bags full of snacks, and the employees who were almost feeling hungry as it was almost dinner time were very pleased.
Wow!
Thank you so much!
One by one, they sat down and started eating bread, drinks, and sausages. The tense atmosphere of the test site seemed to transform into a leisurely outing spot.
Song Boyeong approached Jeong-woo, who was sitting next to Jeong Pil-du with a bundle of bags in hand.
Here you go, Jeong-woo.
Song Boyeong handed him the snacks along with the corporate card. Jeong-woo nodded in gratitude and took out a hotdog from the bag, offering it to Jeong Pil-du.
Have it. Milk, soda. What would you like? Theres also bread.
Anything is fine.
You dont have to keep answering so stiffly. Im younger than you. Speakfortably.
No, its not like that. Im learning a lot today. This is morefortable for me.
As Song Boyeong sat next to Jeong-woo, she asked, Learning? What?
Jeong Pil-dus cheeks turned slightly red as he caught a glimpse of Song Boyeongs face, which was leaning slightly closer.
Ah, no, its nothing.
No? What is it?
Jeong Pil-du looked at the distant mountains and took a bite of the hotdog, avoiding Song Boyeongs gaze.
For Jeong Pil-du, who usually only interacted with men, having a pretty girl close by made his breath quicken.
Jeong-woo also took a bite of the hotdog and asked Song Boyeong, Have you eaten, senior?
I tasted a little bit of everything. The convenience store here is amazing. The convenience store owner boasts that he stocks a wide variety because the firefighting students have good appetites. No point going to the supermarket, right?
When Song Boyeong suddenly spoke, Jeong Pil-du, who was drinking milk, nodded with a cough and a startled expression.
Senior, dont keep talking like that because it makes Pil-du feel burdened.
Jeong-woo scolded Song Boyeong. In response, Song Boyeong widened her eyes and looked at Jeong Pil-du.
Oh my. Are you feeling burdened?
Ah, no, not at all.
You seem burdened.
With a wide smile, Song Boyeong snatched the cream bun that Jeong-woo had just unwrapped and took a bite, holding it in her hand.
If youve already eaten, then why are you here?
You looked so delighted while unwrapping it. Go and try a different pastry.
If you keep eating like that, your eyes will be puffy.
Hmph.
Jeong-woo turned his attention to the red bean bun, changing direction from the cream bun. He smiled and held it out to Jeong Pil-du, who seemed to be eyeing it with drool.
Would you like some?
Thank you.
Only the red bean bun remained in the bag. It wasnt his favorite style, but since he was feeling hungry, Jeong-woo opened it up.
I actually like red bean buns.
With a rustling sound, a deep voice appeared out of nowhere. Jeong-woo looked up, surprised.
Unexpectedly, it was a different person.
Im Miles, the captain of the Central Fire Departments Team 1. Youre Han Jeong-woo, right? You didnt introduce yourself earlier.
Why do you keep winking without even knowing my name
Kyahaha.
Miles burst into a heartyughter. Song Boyeong, who saw his rough appearance up close for the first time, became wide-eyed like a startled rabbit and leaned closely next to Jeong-woo.
Jeong Pil-du stood up abruptly, setting aside his bread.
No, no. Sit down and eat Jeong Pil-du. The smoke containment earlier was good. Thats how we handle it. Its not about suppressingints.
Speaking affably, Miles approached Jeong-woo.
I really like red bean buns
Help yourself.
As he handed over half of the bun, a radiant smile bloomed on his face resembling that of a mountain thief.
Hes quite unique.
Jeong-woo ate the remaining half of the bread and asked Miles, Why are you here?
Just wanted to ask you something.
When the person in charge of the chemical evaluation, a responsible position, appeared, the manager who was far away rushed over in surprise.
Captain!
Oh, theres no need toe running like that.
Oh, why such rude words. Please, rx.
After savoring the red bean bun with a delightful bite, Miles asked Jeong-woo.
The one used in the 22nd and 23rd rounds, right? You added new agents based on the analysis of ignition sources at the scene, right?
Yes, thats correct.
Ha, as I thought.
With a short sigh, Miles stuffed the remaining red bean bun into his mouth all at once and turned away.
Manager Lee Jeong-cheol.
Yes, sir.
If KG Chemicals acquires it, will they include him too?
As Miles finger pointed towards him, Jeong-woo flinched. A reflexive response came out instead of the managers answer.
Im not for sale.
If youre on sell, Ill buy you right away.
Are you kidding?
Of course, Im serious. If Han Jeong-woo joins, well purchase all the supplies used at the Central Fire Department from KG Chemicals, regardless of this biddingpetition. They say were the secondrgest in Seoul, right after the headquarters. Even if I have to forge my fire chiefs signature
It was a truly serious tone. Jeong-woo stood up abruptly and stood next to Jeong Pil-du.
Pil-du, we need to get ready. Lets go!
Pulling Jeong Pil-du along, Jeong-woo disappeared into the distance. Seeing Jeong-woos figure, Song Boyeong covered her mouth and giggled. Miles turned to Song Boyeong.
Who is this student? Did youe along with your father to watch?
Im a researcher too. Im twenty-six, no, actually twenty-seven now. I had a birthday for the new year. Im twenty-seven.
You looks quite lovely. Since this test is dangerous, make sure you stay outside the control line.
Yes, sir.
Miles nced at Jeong-woo once more, then smiled contentedly and returned to hismand post.
Final test preparations! Officials, please take your positions.
The voice from the loudspeaker echoed throughout the evaluation site like an echo.
As Song Boyeong returned to the control line, something fell on her forehead, causing her to look up at the sky.
They said it wouldnt snow today ording to the forecast.
Since it was just a single snowke, she didnt think much of it and quickened her steps.
Foam, carbon dioxide, powder, alkali, clean agent, halogen.
Over a period of three hours,peting with a total of 23pounds, Jeong-woo learned the fact that fire ssification methods are truly diverse.
Gas fires are ssified as ss E, electrical fires as ss C, and mmable liquid fires as ss B.
The structure set up in the testing ground at the moment was a wooden structure model. This time, they were going to conduct tests on real wood fires, the kind of fires encountered in everyday life.
The ss A fire test mentioned by Park Il-seong used the most basic method of using water. By mixing the five ssified additives together, the result was determined in a single attempt.
If its all in one go with five elements, its quite remarkable.
Three years ago, Yoon Jaegil achieved significant results here and secured a contract. No matter how impressive the performance of the product, the foundation of firefighting is water.
There must have been a reason to postpone it until the end.
H-Innovation and Taejin Precision Chemicals, who judged that there was still a possibility if they achieved remarkable results, were also eagerly waiting.
Since the setup time for eachpany takes a long time, please dont move in between. H-Innovation, get ready!
Jeong-woo looked at Team Leader Park. As their eyes met, Park Team Leader bowed politely and greeted him.
Phew, Im nervous.
Jeong-woo took a deep breath and thought about the strengths and weaknesses of Team Leader Park.
Their ability to see fire was almost simr. The other side had an advantage in handling tools. This side had an advantage in knowing the precise use of chemicals.
It was impossible to predict the results.
Ah, Im so tense.
Ring, ring.
A text message arrived on Jeong-woos cellphone, and he hesitated before taking out his trembling hands from his firefighting suit.
[Hyung, can you finish work early today? Bring me some real bread when youe back. I cleaned the room. It was tough, hehe~]
.
Jeong-woos expression turned bewildered at Chans text, who had no idea how important of a position he was in and how important the task at hand was.
Real bread? Is that guy out of his mind?
However, because of that, he felt a slight relief in tension. Of course, his younger brother would be caught up in Headrockter and embark on a journey in the world of UFC.
-The test begins. Get ready!
Chapter 44
Chapter 44- Frozen(6)
At 5:30 PM, Central Fire Academy Outdoor Evaluation Ground.
mes soared up the stacked dry wood, formingyers of squares. Employees from H-Innovation and students from the fire academy stood in front of the mes, holdingpact fire pumps connected to small fire hoses.
Just before water was released, the student operating the two-stage switch nozzle flinched at the sudden gust of cold wind.
Lets go, times kicking!
The water stream, stretching out like a shower, veered to the left of its intended target, and the initial fire suppression began.
Hurry, hurry!
Under the urging of the employee, the student continued pouring water onto the smoky area. However, the fierce wind blowing caused the fire to surge instead of diminishing, leaving the student in a state of confusion.
Damn it. The weather isnt helping either.
The employee grumbled, and the students hands became even busier. After over two minutes had passed, the momentum of the mes finally subsided.
And then
A strong gust of wind swept through the entire evaluation ground, causing embers to scatter and reignite the dwindling mes. Desperately, the student directed a water stream at the new ignition point, but this only resulted in more time passing.
2 minutes and 37 seconds.
The wooden model, which had lost more than half of its structure, was nearly burnt down. If it had been an actual house, it would have been aplete loss of property.
The H-Innovation officials who were witnessing the grim oue all had disappointed faces. Although it was originally a time-consuming test, this result was far off from the average record three years ago.
Park Il-seong, the second in line after the student, approached, his shoulders drooping.
On windy days, there are many things to be mindful of. Just now, the direction of the water stream was disrupted, failing to reach the core of the fire within the smoke.
Park Il-seong checked the fire hose connected to the pump, making sure it wasnt damaged, and spoke to the student.
When the fire is vigorous, if water suppression is ineffective, we should focus on preventing fire expansion. Fire defense. You learned that during tactical training, right? Discard what needs to be discarded, seize what needs to be seized. This is not a game of extinguishing fire, but rather a practice of rescuing people, isnt it?
I-Im sorry.
Well, you did your best.
Grateful for the advice from the experienced senior, the student bowed deeply and walked towards the H-Innovation area.
-Starting in 3 minutes.
Pushing the wooden model to one side, a new piece of timber was set up on the steel te.
Jeong-woo felt a sense of unease as he observed the intermittent wind mixing with snowkes right before the start of the final test. Was it due to the ongoing cloudy weather? He couldnt help but think about the possibility of snowfall.
Also, this wind is getting stronger.
With the addition of a new variable, Jeong-woos concerns grew. The current additives used by KG Chemical in the water werepounds designed to enhance freeze prevention and adhesive properties.
ording to the managers exnation, a patented prating agent was mixed in, making it a reinforcement me-retardant solution that was on par with global standards in terms of effectiveness.
However, as Jeong-woo observed the initial sequence, he realized that what was needed more was a straight trajectory that could prate through the wind and reach the focal point.
If we reduce the freeze prevention agents content and increase the viscosity
He had to consider reassembling theponents.
-Ignition.
As the second order for Yujin Chemical began, Jeong-woo focused on Team Leader Park.
Hmm.
Jeong-woo was startled as he witnessed the water jet pouring out from the nozzle. The change in additives he had just contemted was evident, as it was precisely reflected in that water stream.
Is everything okay?
Oh, its nothing.
Despite responding to Jeong Pil-dus question, Jeong-woo couldnt take his eyes off the water stream that Park was sending out.
Despite the cold winds and low temperature, the water jet extended vigorously, striking the mes that were once in full force.
Parks method of evolution differed from the previous student. To block the mes expanding in all directions, he extended the hose and moved it from side to side, conducting mobile firefighting.
It resembled the precision of aiming with a sight, recognizing that the water stream was weaker than the fierce ze, and encircling the mes from the top.
All of this was achieved swiftly even amidst the harsh winds.
Not only Jeong Pil-du but also the currently active firefighters in emergency standby were astounded by this wless evolution, evidenced by their impressed exmations.
Even if tactics are one thing, having high-quality additives leaves me with no room for improvement.
As Jeong-woo nced at Yujin Chemical, he noticed Yoon Jaegil standing confidently with his arms crossed.
He had forgotten. Three years ago, he was the one who secured the contract by providing the appropriatebination for the climate in the same position.
Time for contemtion was dwindling. As over 50 seconds passed, the mes had nearly disappeared.
Whoosh!
Suddenly, the extinguished part of the fire rekindled due to a gust of wind. Despite the unexpected variable, Team Leader Park remainedposed and immediately redirected the water stream to continue extinguishing the fire.
However, this time the wind had persisted for quite a while, causing the fire to spread sideways once again.
Jeong-woos eyes flickered at that moment.
It was because he witnessed the sudden movement of dust particles.
When a fire urs, it draws in the surrounding oxygen. Therger the fire, the more it consumes. Therefore, it is natural for a constant wind to blow in the direction of oxygen movement. The swirling dust particles were also sacrificed within the me reaction and vanished as smoke.
If we cant gain an advantage with the additives
If we shoot the water stream ording to this flow, there would be no need to change the additiveposition for straight trajectory.
we just need to consider the focal point and the wind simultaneously.
The faint advantage that barely came to mind. It was a challenge worth trying.
1 minute 10 seconds!
Yujin Chemical finished the test with a difference of more than 1 minute 30 secondspared to H Innovation.
Jeong Pil-du, who was walking toward the test site for the next setup, cautiously asked.
Jeong-woo, do we have a chance of winning?
Im not confident either. Team Leader Park is good, and their countermeasures are too perfect. Well just focus on extinguishing the fire. And when adjusting the nozzle direction, Ill also lend a hand.
Are you referring to assisting with the auixiliry nozzle?
The auxiliary nozzle?
Its not a problem since its small in size, but usually, we use multiple nozzles to control the water stream together. Its because of the strong recoil.
Ah.
Jeong-woo nodded, understanding that it was something simr. It seemed better to work together than to exin verbally if they wanted to precisely control the water stream to follow the winds pull.
Team Leader Park, who had organized the hose at the entrance of the test site, turned around. When their eyes met, Park opened his mouth to speak to Jeong-woo.
The wind is strong, so be careful. There are many sparks flying around.
Ill be cautious.
Well, youre good at finding fires better than me, but still, be careful.
No worries.
Jeong-woo smiled, lowered his head, and then shifted his gaze to the wooden model being set up.
He took a deep breath.
He swept away the trembling in his chest.
About a minuteter, just before Jeong-woo put the microphone to his mouth, Miles winked at him.
This time, he made a gesture as if passing a ss for a drink, so Jeong-woo chuckled and nodded.
Having gone through that terrifying ordeal for a while, he had be somewhat ustomed to it.
-Ignite.
The wood soaked in vtile substance caught fire and quickly spread throughout. Jeong Pil-du adjusted the nozzle of the hose to a direct stream and took his stance.
After the waiting time for the fire to spread, the signal was given.
Jeong-woo observed as the dust particles were rapidly sucked in along with the oxygen at the point where thebustion reaction was most intense. The target was not the focal point but the side.
Shoot!
Jeong Pil-du pulled the handle. Jeong-woo, who was holding the nozzle together from the side, adjusted the streams direction subtly to allow it to catch the wind.
The water stream, which was flying straight, smoothly curved like an arch and directly hit the mes.
-Huh?
Miless exmation, holding the microphone, resonated through the evaluation area. The gaze of Park Il-sung, who had been watching closely from behind, also sparkled.
However, Jeong-woo was not in his right mind. As soon as the water touched the mes, smoke billowed out, making it difficult to identify the focal point.
The fortunate thing was the performance of KG Chemicals fire extinguishing agent. The rapid cooling effect was far superior to the additives of the rbined Yujin Chemical.
To the upper left.
Yes!
No, a little higher.
Jeong Pil-du, following Jeong-woos gesture, was dumbfounded by the way the mes were effortlessly extinguished with each change in the water stream.
Whoosh
A gust of wind swept across the evaluation area, and at the moment when the mes grewrger, Jeong-woo lifted the nozzle upward with his fingertips.
The water stream surged out in a powerful burst.
Uh-oh.
Even Jeong Pil-dus startled exmation was momentarily silenced. The unexpectedly descending water stream, riding on the downdraft, swiftly engulfed and extinguished the mes.
The eerie and delicate curves continued as if performing magic.
-Great!
Miless cheer echoed through the loudspeaker. Even those outside the control line couldnt help but divert their gaze to this acrobatic water stream.
Jeong-woo continued to observe the flow of mes and smoke, realizing that at this rate, they couldplete it within a minute of the time record.
I can do it. Lets keep going like this.
Perhaps feeling a bit relieved, Jeong-woo momentarily turned his fatigued eyes away from the chemistry world he had been closely examining for four hours and focused on a distant horizon.
And then
Whats that?
Jeong-woo noticed a dense cluster of dust particles gathering like a storm on the other side of the sky, something he had never seen before.
An uneasy premonition crept up within him.
Estimating the amount of other dust particles moving with the wind, he realized it was not a gust but a gale.
Start with the big fires, not the embers!
Just as he was redirecting the water stream to the most dangerous spot when the wind blew
Whoooosh!
A gust of wind roared as if it could knock ones ears off. With snowkes mixed in, his eyes involuntarily squinted.
The mes grew rapidly.
Jeong-woo suppressed a groan and focused on the situation as much as possible.
A portion of the burning wood, ravaged by the fire, fell down due to the strong wind. Sparks scattered in all directions, carried away by the wind, soaring into the air.
Oh no.
Casting a quick nce at the sky, Jeong-woo bit his lip tightly. The dense cluster of dust particles had formed again.
The problem wasnt just the growing mes. The flying sparks had gone beyond the control line.
What should I do?
Caught in a dilemma, Jeong-woos gaze rested on the KG Chemical team standing outside the control line.
If they were willing to take the risk of getting burned by the sparks, they could still suppress the fire faster than Yujin Chemical.
However.
Damn it. Whats the use ofpetition in this situation?
Jeong-woo shouted as he let go of the nozzle and rushed forward.
Pil-du, the control line! Protect that area! Do it!
In the split second that seemed to stretch, his mind reacted like lightning, seeking chemical insights.
When hot air is pushed into a narrow opening in theyer of cold air, it forms a rapid updraft.
The cluster of dust particles in the cold air gathered near the control line.
The cluster of dust particles in the hot air filled with burning wood.
Jeong-woo reached out his hand and guided the dust particles near the mes towards the control line.
Please!
Song Boyeong, who was watching with sweaty hands, opened her eyes wide when Jeong-woo suddenly rushed over. Then, as a gust of wind blew and a flying ember came close, she screamed, Aah!
Instinctively, Song Boyeong closed her eyes tightly and lowered her head.
Whoosh!
At that moment, a gust of wind pushed the ember that was flying horizontally up into the sky.
Shoaaa
And then, a stream of water fell like rain in front of the control line. The water stream formed a barrier, blocking all the embers that wereing after it with a sizzling sound.
Phew. Are you okay?
Song Boyeong, who had been crouching down, cautiously opened her eyes. Seeing Jeong-woo standing there, drenched in water, she asked in surprise.
What are you doing here?
The sparks followed me. The wind was blowing fiercely. Oh? But you opened your eyes just now, right?
I closed them!
The wind had subsided, but the embers continued to fly around, causing the water stream to keep falling.
Jeong-woo nodded approvingly at the dust particles that disappeared into the sky, barely fulfilling their role.
Phew, its cold. Its fortunate that the fire-resistant suit is also waterproof.
Jeong-woo.
When he turned his head at someones voice, Park Il-sung was standing there with a portable extinguisher on his back.
Ill take care of the central fire since Ill be guarding this area.
Are you sure about that? Isnt it dangerous if Yujin Chemical gets involved?
Didnt I say earlier that its not just me whos handling the fire suppression? Im sorry for beingte again. Lets go quickly.
Park Il-sung opened the nozzle of the portable extinguisher and started spraying in a radial pattern.
Jeong-woo ran towards Park Il-sung and said, Up there! Where the embers are clustered! Straight ahead!
KG Chemicals result was 3 minutes and 4 seconds.
Themunal shower in the fire academy dormitory.
Euhhaaa~
Jeong-woo let out a strange scream as he let the hot water stream hit his exhausted face.
I feel alive.
As the remnants of the winter cold water ceremony subsided, a happy smile naturally formed on Jeong-woos face. The burnt smell that had filled his body from five hours of watching the fire spectacle was now washed away cleanly by the water.
Beside him, Jeong Pil-du, who was also showering, spoke apologetically.
I didnt expect you to run all the way there.
No, if I wanted to guide it properly, I had to get closer.
Guide it?
Jeong-woo only smiled at the mention of such a thing and silently applied soap to his body.
Clunk.
The shower room door opened, and a scruffy-looking man walked in. It was Miles, with his stubbly beard.
Hey, you were already showering. Is the hot water still running here?
Miles, who turned on the water on the left side showerhead, chuckled and looked at Jeong-woo.
With two muscr men standing on both sides, Jeong-woo couldnt help but feel small inparison.
Im not small either.
He quickly finished soaping up and rinsed off under the water stream. As Miles showered with an expression of Ah, refreshing, he passed by and said casually.
Park-sunbae praised Jeong-woo so much that his mouth went dry.
Team leader Park Il-sung?
He not only smells the fire, but also the scent of the wind. Isnt he a genius born for firefighting?
Did he really say that?
Thetter part is my opinion.
Miles turned his head quickly, winking with his face covered in soap. Startled, Jeong-woo took a step back.
For the final test, we all had mixed opinions. The strong winds were different for each sequence. But there was somethingmon we all said.
What was it?
If you dont choose apany that manufactures equipment with the same dedication as active firefighters, what else should you choose?
Jeong-woo perked up his ears.
Is that something that affects the evaluation?
Curious?
Miles rinsed off the soap and turned his head again. Seeing his restless demeanor and yful gaze, Jeong-woo thought he should quickly move away from there.
Im leaving for Seoul right away. How about we go to the central region together and listen? We can have a ss of soju too. Ill treat you well.
Well, um Ill just listen to the official announcement at 7 oclock.
After bidding farewell to the two men, Jeong-woo hurriedly left the shower room.
As Jeong-woo opened the dormitory door and stepped outside, he flinched. Snow had fallen heavily from the sky, forming ayer on the ground.
Wow, its really snowing.
Perhaps due to the elevated body temperature from the shower, it didnt feel as cold as before.
When Jeong-woo arrived at the main building where people had gathered earlier, his head was already covered in a considerable amount of snow.
As he climbed the stairs of the main building and brushed off the snow from his head, he felt a presence behind him.
Mr. Jeong-woo.
He turned his head and saw Yoon Jaegil.
Oh, Director Yoon. Its snowing heavily all of a sudden, isnt it?
Today is the bid evaluation. You seemed determined to shine.
Jeong-woo scratched his chin, as if disappointed.
I did my best in the position where I received the expectations of the Basic Materials Center.
To be honest, I didnt expect us to be pushed this far. Even Team Leader Park got penalized for interfering. We should have considered the strong bond among firefighters.
Yoon Jaegil sighed as he brushed the snow off Jeong-woos shoulder and spoke.
Well, the results are the results. Jeong-woo, do you know what I mean?
What do you mean?
That there are encounters in life that can change everything for anyone. I want to be that kind of presence to you, Jeong-woo. From now on, the scout conditions Im going to talk about will be applied only in this moment, as a one-time opportunity. First, a sry equivalent to a doctorate
Um, Im sorry. I already have that kind of encounter.
With AF-12.
At Jeong-woos firm attitude, Yoon Jaegil sighed in frustration.
Its almost 7 oclock. Lets go inside.
Jeong-woo pointed roughly towards the auditorium and walked briskly.
As he walked inside the auditorium and approached the KG Chemical seat, Song Boyeong immediately turned her head. The section chief, Lee, and Assistant Manager Gong, who were in conversation, also turned their gaze towards Jeong-woo.
Jeong-woo greeted them with a nod and took his seat.
Are you okay?
Jeong-woo smiled faintly at Boyeong, who was full of concern.
Its just a little water, nothing to worry about. Anyway, did you see outside? It was snowing heavily.
Even without that, Im worried. Senior Jong-chans car is old, I wonder if it will run well.
We should leave quickly.
After hearing the results, we should go right away.
Park Il-sung, who was sitting in the front row, turned around to look at Jeong-woo and greeted him with a bow. Jeong-woo also gave a friendly nod and observed the peopleing up to the podium.
Yum Yong-nam, the director of the Fire Industry Technology Institute, took hold of the microphone.
I appreciate your hard work in this cold weather. As the weather is not favorable, lets proceed with the announcement of the results.
As Yum Yong-nam looked down at the document in his hand, everyone involved held their breath.
Respiratory equipment set by Namyoung Industries. Safety gloves, rescue gloves by Namyoung Industries. Firefighting ropes by Sammyung Industries
With each announcement of thepanies following the list, sighs could be heard. On the screen in the back, the selectedpanies were disyed together.
Upon reading it, the representatives of the unsessfulpanies in the bidding process stood up and began to leave the room.
The announcement for the selection of equipmentpanies continued for five minutes. Then, it was time for the announcement of chemicals.
Before the announcement, we would like to express our gratitude for the excellent performance of the chemicals presented by eachpany, which was superior to the previous results. Especially to KG Chemical and Yujin Chemical, who have beenpeting until the end since three years ago, for their great contribution to the development of firefighting chemicals.
In response to Yum Yong-nams words, Jeong-cheol, the section chief, and Jaegil, the center director, bowed their heads in acknowledgment.
Jeong-woo anxiously waited for the next words. Song Boyeong, sitting next to him, seemed to be tense as she swallowed nervously.
The evaluation results from current firefighters judgment were diverse, reflecting their careful considerations. Therefore, we have decided to individually award the outstanding chemicals among the 28 products instead of monopolization. The representatives of the fourpanies have agreed to this.
Is that so?
As Jeong-woo arrivedte, he could only look at Jeong-cheol.
We will now announce the results.
At the same time, the screen disyed the individual awarded results.
The crowd murmured in excitement.
As the items were numerous and couldnt be disyed all at once, they had to wait, counting the numbers and anticipating the next screen.
Jeong-woo quickly organized the information, counting the number of awarded products for KG Chemical.
KG Chemical: 8, Yujin Chemical: 11, H Innovation: 1, Taejin Precision Chemical: 2.
In the additives category
Yum Yong-nam announced the results with the highest volume of awarded products.
KG Chemical.
To secure the vital core of the extensive fire protection system, including fire pumps, reservoirs, and water supply towers installed nationwide, Manager Lee Jeong-cheol stood up abruptly, raising both hands in triumph.
The final result: 13 awarded items for KG Chemical.
Despite not achieving a monopoly, all KG Chemical representatives enjoyed the feeling of being winners and celebrated joyfully.
On the other hand, Yoon Jaegil and the nearby staff members stood up with a bitter expression, shaking their heads in disappointment, catching Jeong-woos attention.
In apetitive bidding process Its nerve-wracking, but also exciting.
Jeong-woo couldnt be sure of how much his contribution had helped, but he believed that he had fulfilled some of Jang Tae-suns expectations.
Jeong-woo!
Manager Lee Jeong-cheol rushed over, tightly gripping Jeong-woos hand and shaking it vigorously.
See you in Seoul, Jeong-woo.
You did well, Jeong-woo. I felt really proud earlier.
Song Boyeong and Oh Seung-ju, sitting in the backseat of Kim Jong-chans car, waved their hands at Jeong-woo.
Won Jin-soo, the co-pilot, lowered the window and looked at Jeong-woo.
When will you be dispatched to the Material Science Center?
I dont know either.
I hope youe soon. We have a lot of pending challenges as well.
But its the first day of Basic Materials.
Right, Jeong-woo chuckled and exchanged a nod with Kim Jong-chan before he pressed the elerator.
Take care on your way up.
After waving goodbye, Jeong-woo boarded the KG Chemical bus parked in the parking lot.
Jeong-woo!
Assistant Manager Gong Gyeong-ho and the drug developers surrounded Jeong-woo as they boarded the bus.
Thank you so much today. We wouldnt have achieved these results without you and all those tests.
The announcement earlier, after three years of stagnation, just
A single meal wont be enough, so well keep treating you as we go.
Unlike during lunch when he felt lonely on the bus, Jeong-woo now feltfortably surrounded by people.
As the vehicles crowded at the main gate began to leave one by one, the KG Chemical bus and trucks also started moving.
7:30 PM, on a northern national highway near the Central Fire Academy.
Under the sudden heavy snowfall, a vehicle moved along a narrow road where it was impossible to distinguish between the road and the field.
As the vehicle climbed the hill, it slid and ended up with one wheel on the field. The following vehicle also spun its wheels in vain and came to a stop in ce.
One after another, approaching vehicles couldnt ascend the narrow road and all pulled over to the side of the road with their emergency lights on. Even an SUV equipped with chains confidently attempted to climb but ended up sliding sideways, aligning itself next to the vehicle that had one wheel on the field, forming a friendly wheel-over-wheel configuration.
Miles licked his lips as he watched the windshield wipers tirelessly moving back and forth in the pouring snow.
Isnt itmon decency to provide a forecast for this kind of heavy snowfall?
Driving at a turtles pace in the midst of a snowstorm, the number of headlights on the oppositene gradually increased. As he moved forward a bit more, he saw cars passing by one after another, barely skimming past his vehicle.
Why are they turning back?
The wipers swept across the windshield once. Miles was astonished by the scene that unfolded before him.
The frozen road surface, gripped by intense cold.
The relentless snowfall.
The umtingyers of ice forming an imprable barrier, blocking the entrance to the narrow road.
As more vehicles continued to approach, someone opened their window and shouted for others to turn around.
Screeeech!
However, as a vige bus passing on the oppositene slid and its wheels got stuck in a drain, the narrow road quickly became congested with vehicles unable to move forward or backward.
It was a snowy prison, a disy of the power of mid-winters chill.
Silently descending from the sky, the white snowkes covered the world, seemingly mocking everything around in their serene stillness.
Chapter 45
Chapter 45- Frozen(7)
Bzzt.
Jeong-woo woke up to the vibration of his phone in his pocket. He must have dozed off due to the warm air from the heater. Looking at the seat next to him, he saw his coworker Gong, who had been chattering away, also asleep.
The person calling him was his younger brother.
Hey, Jeong-chan.
-Hyung!
The voice that came through sounded urgent.
-Mom slipped while climbing up the hill.
What?
Half-asleep, Jeong-woo suddenly snapped to attention.
Is she hurt?
-I think she sprained her leg. Its snowing, and the road is slippery, especially in front of the supermarket. Be careful too, hyung.
What about others?
-Theyre fine. Mom scolded them for not doing the dishes. She was busy cleaning the room. Huh~
Alright, I guess shes not seriously injured.
Although there didnt seem to be a major cause for concern, Jeong-woo still felt the need to check on her condition quickly.
-Oh! Where did we put the heating pad?
Just dont stick it randomly. I left at 7:30, so by 9 oclock
As Jeong-woo looked out the window, he momentarily lost his words at the sight of the purely whitendscape.
The hillsides and the rural atmosphere he saw on the way were nowhere to be seen. Just snow.
Whats this?
-What?
Jeong-woo, shaking his head to clear his dazed mind, asked.
Hey, Jeong-chan. Did it snow a lot there?
-Just around 3cm? It stopped a while ago.
Well, first, lets take Mom to the hospital.
-Mom! Hyung says were going to the hospital Huh? Hyung, Mom says its not that serious.
Jeong-woo frowned and spoke.
Have you not experienced something like this with Mom ever? Its better to get treatment right away instead of dying it and it bing a serious illness. If her ankle looks swollen, just call a taxi. Ill call you when I arrive in Seoul.
-Got it, hyung.
After ending the call, Jeong-woo stretched his neck as the bus hadnt moved at all. He leaned forward and looked out the front window.
Huh?
The road waspletely blocked with snow. The only thing visible was the red lights of cars in all directions.
Wow
He had never seen snow like this in his life. It had piled up at least knee-high. Fortunately, it had stopped snowing for now.
Jeong-woo unbuckled his seatbelt and walked towards the front seat to get a closer look. As he approached, he overheard a conversation between the supervisor and the bus driver, who seemed concerned.
Driver, what if we turn around and take the outer roads?
Well, Im not sure. Both the uphill and downhill routes are blocked. And if the roads arent cleared of snow in this situation, itll be the same anywhere we go.
Sensing their unease, the supervisor turned his head. Jeong-woo pointed outside and asked.
Supervisor, are wepletely stuck?
Yes, weve been at a standstill for about 20 minutes due to some incident ahead.
Oh no
Taking a seat at the front, Jeong-woo took out his phone and started searching.
Heavy Snowfall in Central and Eastern Regions Highways Subject to Control
Meteorological Agency: Possibility of More Snowfall in the Early Morning
Exercise Extra Caution for Slippery Roads and Increasing idents
The top trending search term was heavy snowfall. He searched again for the Cheonan area.
Korea Road Construction Cheonan Office is currently implementing emergency control on the Gyeongbu Expressway at the Mokcheon, Namcheonan, and Bukcheonan intersections due to snow removal operations. An official stated, We requested support, but there has been so much snowfall that its difficult to handle with the equipment and manpower. With snowfall ranging from 20 to 40 cm in some sections, some national roads are also causing parking issues, and the controlled areas are expected to expand further.
Wow.
After reading the article, Jeong-woo looked outside again. The road conditions were utterly unmanageable. The employees inside the bus were also observing the situation outside and gradually bing unsettled.
I was worried if I could make it to Seoul today, but someone suddenly appeared next to the bus door.
Director Yoon Jaegil?
He wrapped his coat tightly around him, shivering, and gestured as if knocking, asking to open the door. The supervisor quickly signaled the bus driver.
Creak, the door opened, and Yoon Jaegil quickly got on.
Ah, I feel like dying even walking 30 meters.
Whats the matter?
Yoon Jaegil briefly nced at Jeong-woo and exchanged a nod before speaking to the supervisor.
Dont you have a KG Chemicals truck? It doesnt have chains on it. Were worried about following behind it.
Im sorry. We didnt anticipate it, so we couldnt prepare chains for the truck.
Im not ming you. Its just that our research center vehicle is equipped with snow spray. It might take some time to clear the road, so I thought it would be better to apply it to the wheels in advance and start moving.
Snow spray? Isnt that not very effective?
Yoon Jaegil smiled lightly at the supervisors skeptical question.
Well, it could be the case with other products. But Yujin Chemicals product is part of the Total Care System and has been recognized for its performance by the ska Petroleum Company and Antarctic bases.
Yoon Jaegil, who boasted with a shrug, turned his gaze to Jeong-woo, tempting him with a smile as if saying, How about our globalpany? Dont you want a position?
The supervisor nodded without hesitation, as it was a chemical product boasted by a key figure in a rivalpany.
Ill gratefully ept the favor.
Great, lets go right away. Our staff is setting it up.
Yoon Jaegil pointed outside. As he was getting off, he nced at Jeong-woo and casually asked.
Would you like toe along and take a look, Mr. Jeong-woo?
Seeing Yoon Jaegil covered in snow up to his knees, Jeong-woo didnt particrly want to go outside in the cold and shook his head. Then, he added to the supervisor who was getting off.
If theres anything I can help with separately, please call me.
Creak.
Yoon Jaegil and the supervisor went outside and continued searching the inte when he received a phone call from Song Boyeong.
Yes, senior.
-Are youing already? The supervisor isnt answering the phone. If you havent left yet, please tell him to take a different route even if he has to turn back.
We left a while ago and were on the road now.
-Oh no. Were currently stuckpletely on the narrow road ahead. We cant even turn the cars because of the snow. The cars that were going uphill are all sliding. Its chaos.
Jeong-woo nced toward the end of the line of vehicles connected to the front windshield. It was impossible to gauge the distance, but there was no sign of lights visible from the area that appeared to be the mountainside.
Cant you move at all?
-No. Senior Seung-ju suggested we go back on foot if necessary. Its getting so cold we might freeze to death
Jeong-woo, who was enjoying the warmth inside the bus, felt a sense of pity but also worry.
What if they couldnt get off the road for good today? Even looking at the driver, it seemed like it would take a while for this rural outskirts road to clear.
-So, Jeong-woo, where are you behind us?
I think Im somewhere around there. About 1 km? 1.5 km? If youre going to move,e toward the bus. Theres plenty of space here.
-Ill let them know.
After the call ended, Jeong-woo noticed a text message.
[Hyung, on the way to the emergency room.]
[Okay. Let me know if theres anything wrong.]
[Okay.]
Fortunately, it seemed that Jeong-chan had left with their mother safely. But if Jeong-woo couldnt get out of here, Jeong-chan would have to take care of their mother alone all the time.
Is there no way?
As Jeong-woo pondered, the snow piled up outside the window suddenly expanded rapidly. Soon, a world filled with giant snowke crystals came into view.
The snow pirs, stacked on the ground in hexagonal transparent symmetrical forms, disyed a remarkably beautiful appearance unrted to the chaos around them.
Not skiing, not building a snowman.
However.
Above it, hundreds, thousands of red arrows rained down. The heat-infused arrows showered the snow pir, shattering it into pieces. The once beautiful form was instantly fragmented.
Jeong-woo watched as the snowke shattered and melted away in an instant, but then his gaze focused on the red arrows.
Calcium chloride? No, its pulverizing the snow much more intricately than that.
Thispound seemed to be more effective than calcium chloride, which he had often used during his time in the military. It must be a newbination, one that didnte to mind with any specific name.
What could the ingredients be?
As he started pondering, a sense of excitement surged within him.
This kind of fantasy was akin to a sudden burst of inspiration. To observe the effect and then deduce the chemical form in reverse.
When ites into contact with snow, it should release the maximum amount of heat. It should absorb the melted water and prevent it from freezing again.
The result quickly emerged in his rapidly spinning mind. It was a somewhatplex process, but not a time-consuming task.
Jeong-woo abruptly stood up and rushed toward Gong Gyeong-ho, who was sleeping in the middle seat.
Gong Manager!
Yes? Yes?
Startled, Gong Gyeong-ho quickly stood up and looked at Jeong-woo.
Thepound we have with us. Is there acetate on it?
Um
Gong Gyeong-ho shook his head to clear his confusion and replied.
We probably have it. I checked the list of additives we prepared.
How many organic acids do we have?
Why do you ask?
Lets melt the snow. A lot of it.
Snow?
Jeong-woo pointed outside the window. The eyes of Gong Gyeong-ho, who saw the world transformed into a winter wondend, widened in astonishment.
Ugh.
As soon as Jeong-woo stepped outside the bus, he let out a groan. The outside world was apletely different realm from the warmth inside. The biting cold wind made his nose and ears itch, and the snow attacked his knees relentlessly. Even his fingertips, covered by gloves, felt the intrusive chill.
Ah, its so cold!
Gong Gyeong-ho also screamed and followed behind Jeong-woo.
As they walked toward the KG Chemicals truck, they saw a Yujin Chemical employee spraying something onto the wheels.
When Jeong-woo approached, the manager and Yoon Jaegil, who were standing behind the truck, turned their heads.
Are you here to take a look?
Yoon Jaegil asked, and Jeong-woo nodded his head. Then, taking the opportunity of seeing the manager, he ryed the story he had heard from Song Boyeong earlier.
There was a slippery road ident on the way? We should address that immediately if cars are sliding off the road behind us.
Jeong-woo pointed at the truck.
Manager, I want to use thepound in the truck for that. Is it okay?
Using it is not a problem, but why all of a sudden
As the managers gaze questioned the reason, Jeong-woo spoke, feeling his ears about to fall off.
I thought if we could make a de-icing agent that would melt the snow in one go and spray it on the slippery road, it might solve this situation. We cant wait indefinitely with cars lined up behind us.
A de-icing agent? Can that be done right here?
In theory, it should be possible. Using acetate as the base,bining it with magnesium and sulfates in an emergency
While discussing, Jeong-woo flinched when Yoon Jaegil leaned closer, sparkling eyes fixed on him.
Please continue, Mr. Jeong-woo. Im listening attentively.
I need to keep thinking because Im not sure if I have all the necessary ingredients inside.
I see.
Gong Gyeong-ho, who followed behind, unlocked the rear door of the truck.
Jeong-woo examined thebels on thepound boxes and concluded that the perfectbination he had seen in his fantasy was likely impossible.
There were no sophisticated experimental tools, and thepounds were not fully avable.
But still, it could be a highly concentrated solutionpared to calcium chloride
As he thought so, his gaze rested on Yoon Jaegil, who was standing close to the truck, looking curious.
Right, Director.
Yes?
In the Mobile Research Center, by any chance, are there any stored proteinpounds?
At this question, Yoon Jaegil smiled proudly.
Its a size that can rival most materialboratories. What are you looking for?
An anti-freezing protein. One extracted from bacteria that inhabit pr regions. I dont know the chemical form, but if theres a protein with a simrposition, I can immediately make thebination.
Yoon Jaegils expression showed a hint of confusion.
Are you saying youll reconstruct the anti-freezing protein with something simr?
Jeong-woos mind instantly crossed the chemical forms, envisioning the necessary catalyst in between.
When I was at the Mobile Research Center before, I think I saw a machine capable of protein coding. Synthetic oligonucleotide adapter Ah, its so cold that I cant pronounce it properly. If we code something simr and connect it, it should work.
How are you going to find the DNA rbinant vector?
We can infer by thinking in reverse, considering the effect.
Upon hearing Jeong-woos nonchnt gaze, Yoon Jaegil fell silent.
The time and effort required to analyze a specific DNA and establish a mass production system for it could involve astronomical resources, depending on the research project.
Yoon Jaegil shivered in the cold. That young man was talking about something tremendous as if it were nothing.
From what I roughly understood, the de-icer that Jeong-woo is trying to create seems to have a uniquebination. It appears to have a simr melting effect as the existing CMO and organic acid de-icers. But with the addition of an anti-freezingponent? Will it work properly?
If Director could help us. Whether its in the front or back, we need to clear the snow to move, right?
Yoon Jaegil put aside concerns about being trapped in the snow and simply became curious about Jeong-woos seemingly impossible attempt.
Very well. Since were going to do it anyway, lets start right in our vehicle. Well provide resources as much as possible. However, once the result is achieved, can we also receive the production method? The location, equipment, and most importantly, the essentialpound.
Jeong-woo looked at Yoon Jaegil, shivering in the cold, upon hearing this.
Well have to assess that once we achieve the result. No matter how the situation is.
Youre thorough even in such circumstances.
Its strange, but I have be calctive when meeting with you.
As Jeong-wooughed, Yoon Jaegil smiled as well. He was no ordinary young man. He kept piquing Yoon Jaegils curiosity.
Chapter 46
Chapter 46- Frozen(8)
The door of the Mobile Research Centers vehicle opened, and employees from KG Chemicals entered, carrying boxes ofpounds into the makeshiftboratory and cing them down.
Park Il-seong, the team leader, sitting in the passenger seat, sent a questioning gaze.
What are you doing?
Director Yoon Jaegil gave instructions.
Deputy Gong replied and went down. Soon after, Jeong-woo and Yoon Jaegil boarded the bus.
Oh, you?
Jeong-woo nodded to the surprised Park, greeting him with a nod, and headed towards the inner makeshiftboratoryfortably. He then opened his mouth to Yoon Jaegil.
Formate or element? It wouldnt be bad to use magnesium chloride hexahydrate as the base to enhance the exothermic reaction.
Hmm, we were excluding it due to production costs.
Well only use it temporarily. Is the price important?
Well, as long as its effective.
Yoon Jaegil opened the ss door of theboratory.
Thank you.
Dont mention it.
Inside, Jeong-woo, wearing special gloves and a mask like someone preparing for surgery, began opening the boxes and transferring their contents into beakers.
Park, who had been watching, asked Yoon Jaegil.
What is that guy doing over there?
Hes creating apound that can prate this snowfield.
Here?
Although he was a team leader, Park Il-seong was more of an administrator than a researcher, so he could only look at Jeong-woos actions with curiosity.
Jeong-woo, lets start recording thebination form.
Yes.
Yoon Jaegil immediately turned on the integrated monitor and operated the keyboard to create a new section called [HJW-1 Snow Melting Compound].
Jeong-woo poured thepound into a rotating cylinder and then turned his gaze to Yoon Jaegil.
Is there anyone willing to buy this at a price hundreds of times more expensive than calcium chloride?
Of course. Every invention has its own application. If thispound shows the effects you mentioned, we could find sales channels in Russia and Nordic countries.
Its a global matter. I dont have a good sense for that.
The powder and liquid inside the beaker swiftly entered the cylinder through Jeong-woos hands, as if it was a childs y.
After applying heat to the rotating mechanism and passing electricity, the process of real-timepound injection continued.
Watching closely, Yoon Jaegil was amazed once again by the speed and precision of the process.
It can be said that he is a genius. Each and every act of effortlessly mixing and initiating reactions is impossible without a deep understanding and a chemical sense.
Whats the current ratio of magnesiumpounds?
Um, 11 to 17?
Yoon Jaegil, who was recording thebination form on the monitor, couldnt help but sigh at the absurd precision in Jeong-woos estimation.
Where else in the world can you find a chemist who can create a previously non-existent chemical product with such speed and uracy?
After running simtions on the monitor based on thebination form alone, Yoon Jaegil spoke.
It should be at least five times more effective than high-concentration calcium chloride. No, maybe ten times. The de-icing fluid used on airport runways isnt even this advanced.
Runway? Incheon Airport?
For Jeong-woo, who had never been on an airne, the talk of airports seemed like a story from another world.
Taejin Precision Chemical supplies de-icing fluid there. Kim Myung-sik, the director, would be amazed to see this.
Im not familiar with that person.
Jeong-woo opened the lid of the cylinder. Yoon Jaegil focused his gaze on the resulting substance and said:
Do we really need to involve people from variouspanies? As long as we know it well at Yujin Chemical.
What do you mean?
Haha.
Yoon Jaegilughed but then spoke half-seriously.
Im not joking.
As Yoon Jaegils expression gradually changed to a feeling of I want it, Jeong-woo the proteinpound for preventing ice formation was transferred to the test tube through a pipette.
The most intriguing part of the manufacturing process. Creating a catalyst that properly binds this substance with the existingpound in such a short time was a part that Yoon Jaegil couldntprehend based on hismon knowledge.
Jeong-woo, who had poured the contents of the test tube into the cylinder, nced at Yoon Jaegil. Then he smiled brightly and reached out his hand towards the cylinder, murmuring as if reciting a spell.
What, what are you doing?
Wishing for a good mixing?
Observing the flurry of dust particles rushing into the cylinder with a storm-like reaction in the chemical world, Jeong-woo spoke.
I need to further research the catalyst. First, lets melt the snow.
Indeed. The vector inference for rbination didnt work well.
Well have to rely on luck.
There is already abination form for a catalyst that can perform the same action as those dust particles, but creating it took a long time.
This was the method chosen to shorten the working time, fueled by the desire to arrive in Seoul by 11 oclock at thetest.
Its almost done Ah! Team Leader Park!
When Jeong-woo called out, Park, the team leader in the co-pilot seat, turned his head.
Is it possible to get a manually operated fire extinguisher that can spray the chemical?
A pressure-based one? They should be in the cargopartment.
Fortunately, they had the necessary equipment for quick dispersal.
Jeong-woo transferred the contents of the well-mixed substance in the cylinder to an iron box. He also scraped off the remaining powder onto the device brought by Team Leader Park.
With the iron container containing the highly concentrated de-icing agent and the pressure-based portable sprayer on his back, Jeong-woo stood at the entrance of the research institute.
Lets start with the first experiment.
In just 30 minutes, the de-icing agent was easily produced. Yoon Jaegil, filled with anticipation, followed Jeong-woo off the bus with a look of expectation in his eyes.
As soon as they stepped outside, a chilly wind rushed in, and Jeong-woo tightened his cor. After adjusting his posture, he ced the nozzle against the bottom of the research institutes vehicle and pulled the handle.
A certain amount of powder was scattered onto the area where the wheels and snow had umted. The powder began to prate the iceyer, releasingtent heat and digging into it in no time.
Lets see.
Jeong-woo noticed the red arrows ruthlessly destroying the snow crystals in the magnified chemical world and smiled with satisfaction. Thebination worked almost perfectly after experimenting in theb.
Wow!
Yoon Jaegil, who had been attentively watching the melting areas, made a sound that could be interpreted as admiration or a sigh of relief, then looked at Jeong-woo.
What kind of effect is this The melted parts dont freeze again. The anti-freezing effect is working properly.
Thats right. We got lucky.
Luck?
Yoon Jaegil threw a skeptical look, unable to believe that such aplex de-icing agent was sessfully created by luck alone.
Jeong-woo evaded giving a detailed exnation and simply smiled.
Now, with the mindset of just needing to spread the de-icer, he looked ahead. When he saw how far the narrow path extended, he involuntarily sighed. It was too difficult to go alone.
Should I ask someone else for help?
Jeong-woo turned his head. Yoon Jaegil, who was much older than him, and retired firefighter Park Il-seong, who was even older than Yoon Jaegil. There were only two people. There was no need for requests or persuasion.
Besides, Jeong-woo, who knew the effects of the de-icer well and could even see the chemical world, was the fastest at spreading it.
We should wear our fire-resistant suits.
Jeong-woo went to the truck and found the box containing the fire-resistant suit he had worn during biddingpetitions. When he put it on, he immediately felt warmer. After changing into gloves and boots with KG Industries logo, he felt fully equipped.
Alright, lets go.
With the de-icer sprayer hanging on his shoulder, as he descended, suddenly, a noisy voice came from behind.
Are you alright? If anyone feels unwell, please let us know!
Due to the shortage of manpower, the de-icing operation is being dyed! There is an emergency shelter 2 km behind, so if anyone needs medical attention, please speak up now!
Dozens of people in firefighter attire periodically shouted that they were in an emergency situation and approached. Jeong-woo spotted a familiar face among them and raised his hand.
Mr. Pil-du!
Jeong-woo?
As the shlights beam drew closer, they realized that they were all students who had graduated from the Central Fire Academy.
Jeong Pil-du, who approached, was surprised to see Jeong-woo carrying a device resembling a fire extinguisher.
Where is the fire? I didnt bring any suppression equipment
Oh, this isnt for putting out fires. It contains a highly reactive substance in this container.
Highly reactive?
In a way, you can say it ignites a fire in the molecr world. Hehe.
When Jeong Pil-du struggled to grasp the joke, Jeong-woo quickly pointed towards the front wheel of the research institutes vehicle.
Its a de-icer that produces such effects.
As Jeong Pil-du saw the asphalt revealed by the melted ice, his eyes widened.
Jeong-woo pointed at Jeong Pil-du and asked.
How did you know about this ce?
I received a call from Captain Miles and was on my way here. We need to clear the vehicles stuck on the narrow path first so that the de-icing vehicle can moveter.
Was the captain there too?
Yes, he was.
When Jeong Pil-du mentioned that he was heading to the front, Jeong-woo thought it was fortunate and spoke.
Ille with you. And could you please help me carry this metal container? Its too heavy to carry along with the sprayer.
No problem.
Jeong Pil-du approached briskly and swiftly lifted the metal container. Jeong-woo looked back at Yoon Jaegil.
While were on the way, Ill melt the ice on the narrow path. We might need more, so can you make the basepound for me ording to the form I left? Ill add the anti-freezing protein at the end.
Sure.
Yoon Jaegil, who answered like that, spoke to one of the staff members near the baggage car.
Lets bring our Snow Spray Matrix with us. We need to ensure a safe passage not only on the narrow path but also on the main road beyond.
At this, Team Leader Park stepped forward.
Ill go.
Team Leader Park?
I have experience in such situations. I should go and assess the situation on the narrow path. There are hardly any active-duty firefighters, so I have to help in any way I can.
A little whileter.
Led by Jeong-woo, the students from the Central Fire Academy marched forward in unison. Park, the team leader, followed behind them.
Jeong-woo sprayed the de-icer, melting the ground as he walked. The students pushed the stuck cars back into ce, preparing for the uing movement. Park, on the other hand, sprayed snow spray on the wheels of the stationary vehicles.
Everything progressed smoothly, with everyone in perfect coordination.
The once entirely white and secluded prison in the rural area began to show small gaps as the de-icing expedition crossed its frozen surface.
8:20 PM, in front of the narrow road.
Is Cheonan that serious? Were also on high alert.
Id rather have a big crash than sliding and colliding with cars. What should we do to prevent slipping?
Miles spoke while looking out the car window, talking on the phone with the Central Fire Stations emergency rescue control officer.
The weather is turning out to be unexpectedly severe on the road. When the chief ordered me toe, I didnt expect it to be like this.
When do you think it will clear up?
I dont know. For now, lets start clearing the blocked cars since the Central Fire Academy support team is on their way. Well have to wait for the de-icing truck. Itll be an all-nighter.
Take care. Dont forget your shift change at 8 AM tomorrow.
Hey! Shin Jong-seok!
The call abruptly ended, and Miles let out a deep sigh. He was the team leader of Seoul Central Fire Stations First Team.
There was nothing more frustrating than not being able to do anything in such a disaster situation.
But idents like this often happen in these circumstances. Situations that couldnt be dealt with by the power of a single firefighter, or even the entire fire station. Like here.
Lets get some sleep.
Miles leaned back on the seat, wetting it slightly, and crossed his arms. But he noticed an SUV that had been stuck on the drainage ditch near the narrow road, continuously spinning its wheels and attempting to move forward.
If they keep doing that, they wont be able to move even if they manage to free the wheels. Tsk tsk.
Keeping an eye on it, he saw that instead of giving up, the engine roared and the vehicle increased its output. Miles instinctively clicked his tongue.
He couldnt afford to have the road get even more congested.
Its freezing cold.
He picked up the megaphone that was rolling around on the passenger seat and stepped out.
-Hey! You shouldnt do that.
Not sure if they heard him, Miles approached cautiously, trudging through the snow.
As Miles approached closer, the engine noise stopped. Miles stood next to the drivers window.
Hey there.
Tap, tap. When he knocked on the window, the driver inside flinched in surprise. The driver, looking startled not because of the cold but something else, tightly held onto the door handle and stared at Miles, even though the car door was locked.
Miles said smiling.
Dont scream. Im not a gangster or a thug. Im a firefighter.
After rummaging through his inner pocket and sticking his official ID card with a 119 mark on the window, the driver rolled down the window.
Why are you here?
You, sir. Its not safe to drive out from here. If you go up there and skid, youll end up crashing into the field.
Skid?
When the tires lose traction and you cant control the steering. Have you ever received skid training? They say they do it during drivers license tests in Find or Norway.
Oh, no, I havent.
Miles pointed down the narrow road and said.
We have supporting from behind, so wait inside. Dont wander outside and risk freezing. Do you have enough fuel?
I have two bars left.
Its a bit risky to keep the engine running all night. I understand. Please dont unnecessarily spin the wheels and wait safely.
Miles moved away from the SUV and nced at the long line of vehicles, as if realizing it was impossible, he put the megaphone to his mouth.
-Ah, this is Firefighter Miles from Seoul Central Fire Station. I have a message for the citizen waiting inside the vehicle.
Walking forward on the narrow road, Miles continued speaking into the megaphone.
-If youre running low on fuel, turn off the engine and if you see an empty seat in another vehicle, dont hesitate to knock on their door. Your pride can wait. Its not someone elses responsibility to protect your body.
A nearby vehicles window opened, and someone asked, Firefighter, when can we go? We called 119, but they only said theylle and theres been no contact.
-Cheonans 119 is probably tied up in the city. They have hundreds of ces to go while their bodies are limited. Cant you see it? This is not just snow. Its heavy snowfall. Instead of calling 119 toin, why dont you call home and check on your loved ones?
The window of a vehicle that was partially stuck on the roadside ditch opened.
Is there any way for us to get out of here? As you can see, were stuck.
-The Central Fire Academy is sending support. They contacted me and said theyll arrive within about 20 minutes. If the students over there give us a push, well be out soon.
As Miles responded, the windows started opening every time he passed by.
Should we keep waiting?
-I dont know either. We cant predict when the snowplow will arrive, so we need to be prepared enough.
I really need to use the restroom
-If its something small, just go outside and do it. If its something big ah, just do it. The temperature isnt freezing enough to freeze your peppers.
Will it snow again, sir?
-Thats for the meteorological agency hey, kid. Dont you know about 131? Im 119.
Fire Chief, here.
One window opened, and someone handed a hand warmer to Miles.
As he epted it and nodded in gratitude, he made eye contact with the prettydy he had seen at the fire academy. He lowered the megaphone, winked at her.
So you were trapped here. Thank you.
Should I give you another one? I bought several at the convenience store because the car is cold.
No, its okay.
Take care, Fire Chief Miles.
With a bright smile on the girls face, Miles chuckled and resumed walking.
Song Boyeong watched as Miles approached the vige bus parked on one side of the road and closed the window.
The two senior firefighters in the front seats were talking to their wives on the phone.
Hey, Eun-yeong. I think Ill be eventer. Soyeon hasnt slept yet? Youre wainting for me? Go to sleep at 9 oclock.
No, honey. Its not that dangerous of a situation. Its just that theres a lot of snow, and our feet are stuck. Ah, why are you crying?
Listening quietly, Song Boyeong turned her head to Oh Seung-ju.
Arent you making any phone calls, Senior?
I just sent a text. I didnt want to worry them.
I see.
Did you contact your family?
Song Boyeongs gaze lingered on her phone.
In fact, ever since she started living alone, there was no one waiting for her to return home. It was nothing special, but she felt a bit mncholic and checked her list of friends.
Well, lets call when something good happens. Not in this situation.
She missed Jeong-woos yful banter. She regretted not taking the KG Chemical bus for transportation earlier.
Unable to trust the heater that kept turning on and off, she took out all ten hand warmers she had brought. It made the inside of the car somewhat bearable. She only wished she had something as warm as the one Jeong-woo had given her.
Looking at the town bus through the rearview mirror, she saw Miles helping the people inside to disembark and transfer to a small van next to it.
-The engine of this vige bus wont start. Please help me out! If there are vacant seats, please sh the headlights! I kindly request you!
Beep beep.
Suddenly, Song Boyeong was startled by her ringing phone. As soon as she checked the caller ID, she felt her heart pounding. It was Jeong-woo.
Yes, Mr. Jeong.
-Where are you? Ive been driving for a while, but I dont see you.
Where are you going?
-Im going there while clearing the road.
Through the phone, she could hear the sound of tires squealing and the loud voices of other people talking.
-Were near the bus thats standing strangely right now. Huh? Fire Chief Miles?
At that sound, Song Boyeong opened the window and leaned her head out.
Is he nearby?
Finally, she saw dozens of shlight beams illuminating the dark night sky, approaching in a lively manner.
-Well clear the mountain road soon, so dont worry about the other seniors. Tell them well be heading to Seoul today.
Mr. Jeong, what are you saying?
Song Boyeong hung up the phone but couldnt take her eyes off the back of the town bus for a while.
Chapter 47
Chapter 47- Frozen(9)
Jeong-woo, who was standing in front of a road blocked by a vige bus, greeted Miles, as he was approaching during their phone call.
Captain, what are you doing here?
Actually, Im the one who should be saying that.
Miles mouth dropped open at the sight unfolding on the path Jeong-woo had passed through.
Oh, what is this?
A roadpletely covered in snow. The asphalt, which seemed impossible to see tonight, could be seen in various ces.
When Jeong-woo sprayed the de-icing agent but nothing came out, he took off a device from one side of the road.
Mr. Pil-du.
Yes!
At Jeong-woos call, Jeong Pil-du skillfully set down a steel box. The de-icing agent was newly filled into the almost empty tank of the sprayer.
Miles, who had been watching Jeong-woo with the sprayer on his back, burst into a wide smile.
Han Jeong-woo, youve finally made up your mind. Come to the central area. Ill write you a rmendation letter for the voluntary firefighter.
Um, well. Can you see thepany logo here?
Jeong-woo raised his glove, speaking quickly.
Its not about firefighting support or anything. Were testing KG Chemical products.
Click! Jeong-woo spread the de-icing agent on the road around the vige bus, and he nodded in satisfaction as the ice surface quickly melted away.
Miles witnessed the scene of snow meltingyer byyer and being destroyed, and was astonished.
What is this? It doesnt make sense to me.
Its the power of chemistry. Its chemistry over there too.
Jeong-wooughed and pointed to where Team Leader Park was spraying snow spray on a car without chains.
The liquid poured out like foam and stuck to the wheels.
Whats that supposed to be?
Its a remarkable product from Yujin Chemical. Its apound that enhances adhesion, allowing it to stick firmly to slippery surfaces.
Chain spray? Ive heard of that too. I didnt use it because it didnt seem to have much effect.
Team Leader Park looked at Miles and smiled.
I thought the same, but this one is different. Do you know the name of this product?
What is it?
Megaton Snow Chain.
Thats quite a name.
Director Yoon said it needs to be bold to sell well.
Miles turned his head and looked at Jeong-woo.
Im still more impressed by this than the spray. Jeong-woo, whats the name of this product? Megaton De-icer?
We havent decided yet. I just made it.
Just now?
Seeing Miles expression of not fully understanding, Jeong-woo felt it was a waste of time to exin in detail and continued walking forward.
Were chemists, not firefighters. Captain, once the snow is cleared, all the cars here can move, right?
That should be possible. But since were not sure, Ill test it first. My car is conveniently in the front. Pil-du! Do you have a spare radio?
Jeong Pil-du took out a radio from the bag he was carrying.
Here it is! The Gotaengil Team is set on channel 4.
Okay. Contact me immediately once its cleared.
As Jeong-woo started to clear the snow on the road and move forward, the students from the fire academy followed familiarly and shouted.
We are conducting de-icing operations! There is an emergency tent 3 kilometers behind us. If you need medical attention, please let us know!
Hey, Sangmyeong, shout it out with this.
Miles tapped a students shoulder and handed him the megaphone. Then he stood next to Team Leader Park, who was doing spray work on the vige bus.
Senior, somethings off about that guy.
Whats wrong?
Just look at what hes doing with the newbies he brought today. Theyre doing it without even receiving instructions, but theyre working seamlessly. Like earlier, turning off the fire. Isnt that the mark of a firemander sent from the heavens?
Team Leader Park finished spraying and spoke while following Jeong-woo.
No, its not like that. Ive seen him working in our mobile researchb. Hes a born chemist. A genius, even. Director Yoon was constantly amazed. Hes the kind of student who never blinks an eye in normal times.
Well, I, for one, wasnt amazed.
I cant tell if you were amazed or angry. You have such a fierce look.
And you have such a gentle appearance, senior.
Im leaving.
Yes, take care!
Watching the road being created in the blink of an eye until the rough path, Miles continued to be astonished. It was currently 8:45 PM. He chuckled at the thought that if things went well, he might even have time to have a ss of soju at home before 9 oclock.
Jeong-woo, while spraying the deicer, noticed Song Boyeong sticking her head out of the window.
Kim Jong-chan and Won Jin-soo in the front seats also waved their hands happily outside the window, interrupting their phone calls.
Jeong-woo, who had walked closer, spoke to Song Boyeong, who was still looking at him.
Your nose is red, why are you opening the window?
You make me keep staring at you.
I dont have such a handsome face that it would make someone stare like that. Could it be?
Song Boyeong let out a perplexed snort, but her lips curled into a smile at the familiar joke.
What did you put in that container?
Handmade de-icer?
No way Did you make it? Here?
Song Boyeongs face became amazed as he nodded his head nonchntly.
As Jeong-woo melted the snow around Kim Jong-chans car, he spoke.
My mother sprained her leg, so shes at the hospital. I need to go quickly, so we need to clear the way fast. Thats why we made this. Dont be too moved.
Tch, whats with the sentimentality? But is your mother seriously injured?
I dont know yet. Stupid Chan is taking her to the biggest hospital, and shes still waiting there. The emergency room must be quite busy on a day like this, right?
Nevertheless, since it was the car of someone he knew, he thoroughly sprayed the deicer all the way to the ground.
As he stood up, Jeong-woo found himself face to face with Song Boyeong, who had been sticking her head out as if she were curious, with only a sheet of paper between them.
An awkward second passed.
Indeed. Youre good-looking, just as I thought.
S-Suffering from the c-cold?
Its not about suffering from the heat or the cold. Close the window. Im going.
With a st, as Jeong-woo sprayed the deicer, he gradually disappeared into the distance. Song Boyeong closed the window. Feeling embarrassed for no reason, she nced at Oh Seung-ju in the adjacent seat and lowered her head in embarrassment.
30 minutester.
At every 100 meters on the mountain road, a student from the Central Fire Academy stood holding a warning baton.
A SUV with its wheels removed received the signal and slowly ascended the mountain road.
Squelch.
The first vehicle has departed.
A response came through the students radio from the opposite side of the mountain road.
-Continuously instruct not to exceed 30 kilometers per hour.
Yes, Captain.
At 9:20 PM, on the opposite side of the road.
-Second and third vehicles have departed.
Okay.
Miles, who had arrived on the opposite side, finished his radiomunication and turned his head to Jeong-woo, who was standing next to him.
Hey, Mr. Jeong, I mean, Jeong-woo.
No, thank you. Even if I look like this, Im the ace of KG Chemical. I have a lot of work to do.
Anyway, lets have a real drink.
Well, in that case. Is it something the captain buys?
With a wink, as if it were obvious, Miles nodded. Jung-woo hesitated and took a step back.
If you suddenly say that, Ill be startled.
Why? The kids under me like it.
If they see the captains biceps, theyll even curse and still like it.
Miles chuckled at Jeong-woos grumbling.
The first SUV passed through the road and descended to the entrance. The window opened, and the driver nodded respectfully to Miles.
Safe travels. Dont let your guard down until you reach the main road.
Thank you, firefighter.
You should thank this guy here. He cleared the way all by himself.
When Miles pointed at Jeong-woo, the driver greeted him in the same manner. Jeong-woo received the greeting with a cool expression.
Subsequently, the vehicles that had been moving slowly crossed the road and continued to pass through.
I thought I couldnt go home today. Thank you!
Wow, I saw that snow melting while you were clearing the road.
Thank you, firefighter!
Since Jeong-woo stood out in his noticeable orange firefighter suit, all the subsequent vehicles expressed their gratitude to him.
Not only did they greet him as they passed, but some even handed him snacks and drinks, leaving Jeong-woo with both hands full in no time.
What should I do with these?
For now, put them in the back seat of my car. Ill deliver them to your houseter.
Just have them, Chief.
While Jeong-woo loaded the items into Miles parked car on the side of the road and returned, Song Boyeongs car also arrived.
Han Jeong-woo! Because of you, I was so surprised today.
Won Jin-soo, who was in the passenger seat, shouted with a brightughter.
After parking to the side, Jeong-woo approached to greet them. Oh Seung-ju in the back seat gave him a yful wink, and Song Boyeong smiled brightly when she saw Jeong-woo.
Oh, Senior Boyeong.
Yes?
Jeong-woo pointed to the hand warmer in Song Boyeongs hand.
Can you give me that for just 10 seconds?
Jeong-woo approached, and Song Boyeong handed him the hand warmer.
When you shake it with affection like this~
Jeong-woo pretended to shake it briskly, focusing on creating a reaction. He then handed the hand warmer back to Song Boyeong.
Oh my.
Song Boyeongs eyes widened at the warm and cozy feeling of the hand warmer.
How did you do it?
See you at work.
After seeing off the senior employees as they boarded their vehicle, Miles approached closely.
Are you two dating by any chance?
No, not at all.
Why not? If I were ten years younger, I would have made a move.
Jeong-woo held his tongue, probably thinking that the other person might run away. It was a sparsely popted road in the middle of nowhere. If something happened here, they wouldnt even be able to report it.
As they continued to send off cars, Jeong-woo eagerly waited for the KG Chemical bus. Meanwhile, Miles received a call and picked up his phone.
Oh, Jongseok.
A smile appeared on Miles face as he listened to the other persons words.
Whats up? Supporting the fireworks festival in Hwacheon? Ah, good luck with that. I survived because of a certain genius.
He nced at Jeong-woo as he spoke. Jeong-woo couldnt bear the affectionate gaze from Miles and took a step back.
-All the vehicles that went to the festival are stuck. There are nearly 5,000 of them. Dont you think it would be significant damage if all these people spend the night there? The temperature there is the lowest in the country right now.
5,000 vehicles?
Miles smile disappeared at this remark.
Got it. Ill climb up as soon as I can
Miles eyes fell on the fire extinguisher that Jeong-woo had on his back.
But for now, Ill hang up.
Miles lowered his phone and asked Jeong-woo.
Jeong-woo, by any chance, can you get more of those?
You mean this?
Jeong-woo pointed towards the line of vehiclesing down the road from the KG Chemical bus, carrying chemical substances.
Perhaps there might be spares in the Yujin Chemicals Mobile Research Center vehicles. If we add only the proteinpounds and manipte them
Miles suddenly grabbed Jeong-woos hand, making him flinch.
Its not perhaps, we need a definite answer. There are hundreds of vehicles here, but there are thousands of them stuck in Hwacheon. Theres a high possibility of casualties in this cold.
Hmm
As the KG Chemical bus parked on the side road and the trucks came to a halt one after another, Jeong-woo, who saw even the mobile research vehicles stopping, spoke up.
Ill ask right away. And if theres none avable, we can make them.
Make them?
Its not that difficult.
Miles felt an inexplicable sense of relief as he looked at Jeong-woo answering with a rxed smile.
Inside the mobile research center.
Jeong-woo examined the deicing agent created by Yoon Jaegil and turned his head.
Youve put together quite an uratebination.
Well, its nothing.
I mentioned 11 to 17, but apart from a slight deviation to 5 and 9 the difference isnt significant. The melting time is only about 0.5 seconds?
Upon Jeong-woos remark, Yoon Jaegil cleared his throat and turned his head. But as soon as Jeong-woo began mixing the proteinpounds, Yoon Jaegils expression became full of curiosity, and he turned his head again.
How on earth did you make it react properly?
Oh, this?
Since no justifiable exnation came to mind, Jeong-woo spoke.
I cant disclose the most crucial formtion. KG Chemical secured the contract for this. You know that you shouldnt casually use what you wrote down earlier, right?
Jeong-woo looked back at Miles, who was standing behind him. Miles smiled and raised his thumb, showcasing his robust arm.
Yoon Jaegil smirked.
Who would dare snatch it and use it to offend my pride? Since I personally wrote the production form under Han Jeong-woos name, if its used, it will bepensated ording to themission procedure.
Whats the usualmission percentage in such cases?
It would vary depending on the value of the patent
Yoon Jaegil gave a knowing smile while watching Jeong-woo shake the tube vigorously with his hand on the cylinder.
As much as you desire.
Yoon Jaegil still held a lingering attachment to recruiting talented individuals.
10 PM, a cleared intersection on a narrow road.
Miles, carrying a steel storage box and a sprayer in the trunk of his car, turned around.
Ill make good use of these. Weve already secured the contract with the Central Fire Station. Once the effectiveness is proven, well be contacted by the Seoul Fire and Disaster Headquarters. If things go well there, it will spread nationwide.
The production cost for these is expensive.
I know the Mayor of Seoul well. If he hears about this, hell buy them immediately, no matter the price.
Jeong-woo nodded his head and spoke.
You must have had a tough night, Captain.
Well, its part of the job. And today, Han Jeong-woo, you saved several lives. Who would have thought chemists could be like this?
It wasnt just me. Drive safely to Hwacheon.
Jeong-woo bid farewell and boarded the bus.
Miles watched the KG Chemical bus, trucks, mobile research center, and cargo vehicles gradually move away. Vehicles filled with chemists. Miles showed them a small gesture of respect by briefly bowing his head.
Finally, he looked at the treacherous road that had caused so much trouble for the past few hours.
When faced with an inevitable ident, people look up at the sky and hope for a miracle.
The same happened today.
For those trapped here on this narrow rural road, with nowhere to go for hours, this was nothing short of a miracle.
Warm consideration amidst the freezing mountain slopes.
Watching it all unfold, Miles couldnt help but admire Han Jeong-woo, the young man who brought about this change.
One chemist can change the world.
How is such a thing possible?
Not only here, but also in Hwacheon, over 5,000 vehicles stranded in the cold had the opportunity to return to homes with warm nkets as quickly as possible.
As Miles raised a ss of soju, he couldnt help but smile softly at the fact that another story of someone miraculously rescued from a crisis unfolded.
[This is the first news from News 24. Well start with a heartwarming story that unfolded near Cheonan amidst an unexpected heavy snowfall. Over 300 vehicles stranded on frozen mountain roads were able to safely return home using the miraculous solutions provided by KG Chemical and Yujin Chemical, who visited this area for a biddingpetition.]
Sitting in a four-person hospital room, Han Jeong-chan absentmindedly turned to his mother as he saw a familiarpany name on the news.
Mom, isnt that where Hyung works at KG Chemical?
[Based on the achievements of these exceptional chemists, the fire authorities have announced that they will assist the over 5,000 vehicles trapped on rural roads in Hwacheon using the same method.]
Ah, he wont be the genius chemist on the news, so what does that matter? Geez, Mom?
Oh, I dont know. Turn off the TV and go home.
Hong Ji-sook sat on the bed, closing her eyes, but she could sense the heat from her son, who had even put a temporary cast on her leg.
I should stay here to take care of you. Your blood vessels and tendons were severely affected. You were hit.
I just need to rest for a few days.
A young man suddenly entered from the direction of the ward door.
Is Mom the doctor? Even getting a diagnosis is annoying.
Hyung!
Jeong-woo appeared, and Jeong-chan stood up hesitantly.
After handing his younger brother a paper bag with steaming hot buns inside, Jeong-woo sat down lightly on the bed where Hong Ji-sook was sitting.
You can have a detailed examination tomorrow and still be discharged on time.
But how much does it cost? Insurance wont cover it.
Mom, lets not worry about money when ites to your health anymore. I have a job, and it wont be a big burden. So from now on, never hold back. Even if you have to beg, just go to the hospital. Just trust your eldest son.
When Jeong-woos said that she felt a sense of aplishment of raising his son, Hong Ji-sook couldnt help but smile.
I get surprised working at thepany. Im going crazy, scouting people left and right.
Hyung, dont exaggerate. You havent even worked at thepany for a month.
You little rascal. Lets talk when the timees. It will be fun to watch both of you genuinely surprised.
Jeong-woo opened a box of fruit drinks he had brought and took out an apple juice, offering it to Hong Ji-sook.
Congrattions on your first day in the hospital, our dear Hong Ji-sook!
Are you crazy? Everyone is asleep.
Rather than pping him on the back of his neck, she swiftly epted the drink, as if the anger towards him suddenly bringing them to the hospital had almost subsided.
Hyung, this is really delicious.
Have plenty, and stay here with Mom. I have to go home tomorrow because of work.
Okay. Mom, do you want to eat too? Red bean buns? Vegetable buns?
Just eat them all. Dont leave any. Dont sulkter.
Just before midnight.
As Jeong-woo faced his mother and younger brother, he felt a sense of exhaustion from the day dissipating without any particr thoughts. Was it because he felt like he had returned alive from a dangerous ce?
Ah.
Jeong-woo looked at Jeong-chan.
Hey, did you leave the tap running slightly?
Jeong-chan, who was stuffing his cheeks with a mouthful of steamed buns, blinked his eyes and shook his head, No.
Darn it. Mom, Im leaving. See you tomorrow!
Code: Molecr form
Case: Anti-freezing Megaton De-icing Agent
Research: Developed during a heavy snowfall in January, it immediately emits arge amount of heat upon application, demonstrating excellent effectiveness in de-icing and thawing. However, the production cost ratio is extremely low.
Chapter 48
Chapter 48
8.The Chemistry Behind Cooking (1)
Inside Dr. Cheon Seung-guks private researchb.
Jeong-woos hand lifted a test tube with a pair of wooden tongs.
A blue liquid flowed smoothly into the beaker, following the tilted test tube.
It took its ce alongside the pre-existing yellow liquid, separated by a single membrane.
Inserted between them was a type of ultrafiltration membrane called a nanosized filter.
Jeong-woo quietly observed as the liquid that passed through the membrane gradually mixed due to differences in concentration.
Great. Shall we give it a try?
With a gentle touch, the nano-sized filter, forming a boundary, vibrated as it absorbed the invading blue liquid into its entirety.
Not only that, it also absorbed all theponents responsible for the colors in both liquids.
It took less than three seconds for the liquid in the beaker topletely change color. It was the moment when the nanosized filter transformed into a nanosorption membrane.
Jeong-woo shifted his gaze to the Reverse Osmosis (RO) Filter installed on one side of theb bench. It was one of KG Electronics products, a device capable of removing ultrafine particles.
Inside the filter, the previously added blue liquid was being purified and now dripping one droplet at a time into the beaker. Judging by the quantity, it would take roughly 20 seconds.
Do the differences really matter like this?
The Reverse Osmosis (RO) Filter was a product that had achieved significant sess in the water treatment industry. With a market worth 1.5 trillion won annually worldwide, even a slight improvement in ranking would lead to substantial profits, as Center Director Jang Tae-seon had mentioned.
This was a research project conducted by Jeong-woo in secret from Wednesday until today, aimed at meeting those expectations through filter improvement.
A genius who doesnt make an effort is destined to fail.
Today, he wanted to gauge the extent of the improvement in the results through his ability tomunicate with molecules.
The achievements that cannot even bepared in terms of efficiency with just this one were impressive, but Jeong-woo found himself sighing as he looked at the green bottle ced on one side of theb bench.
Its an error thatmunication requires drinking alcohol. But its not moving like a dust particle.
He recorded this difference in his research journal and needed to analyze the modified nano-sized filter, but he felt frustrated and couldnt find a solution.
Looking at the clock, it was already past 9 PM, so Jeong-woo decided to finish the experiment, thinking, Ill do it next week or something. He still had plenty of time for his assignment, and except for the first day, the tasks at the Basic Materials Center within the dispatched period werent too burdensome.
As he organized Dr. Cheon Seung-guks researchb, he received a message from Dr. Moon.
[Ive seen the test results you received from the clinic. In my opinion, it seems better to continue and stabilize your sleep cycle. If its an adaptation issue, then you need to adapt.]
I want to do that, but I cant go tomorrow.
He had to spend Saturday helping his mother, who had injured her leg.
Jeong-woo turned off the lights in theb and walked out into the corridor, thinking about the tasks he had for the next day.
It was the day of the neighborhood gathering.
There was nothing particrly special about itjust helping each other with the problems that arose in the neighborhood, cooking together, and having dinner.
Perhaps this month, the main focus wouldnt be on thawing every corner of the frozen alleyways due to the snow.
It wont be difficult with a special de-icing agent.
When his family was going through a difficult time, Jeong-woo received a lot of help from the adults in the neighborhood, so this event held a special meaning for him.
It was more of a disappointment that the timing didnt align rather than not wanting to help.
I wont even get to see Yoon Yi-seol.
Thats where the biggest sigh escaped.
Last week, Yoon Yi-seol was too busy with the year-end stage and awards ceremony, and this week, Jeong-woo had his own work and couldnt go.
He had built a friendship with a big star, but at this rate, he wouldnt get to see her face for a whole month.
Jeong-woo picked up his phone and searched for Yoon Yi-seols number.
[Have you done a lot of checklists? I have work tomorrow. Its an important neighborhood event, so I cant miss it. Lets definitely meet next week.]
Jeong-woo sent the message while getting into the elevator.
After two weeks, the memories of Christmas felt somewhat faded. It felt like a dream. Who would have known that I would spend a day with Yoon Yi-seol and even watch a movie together?
Jiing.
[]
As I got off the elevator, that was the reply from Yoon Yi-seol. It felt like I had received a simr concise messagest week.
Seems like Im the only one feeling regretful. Well, I did fully immerse myself in the Christmas atmosphere. Thanks to Chan.
As Jeong-woo left thepany lobby, the phone rang again. Wondering if it was her, and with an excited heart, he looked at the screenit to see it was Park Soo-chan.
Ugh, why did I get nervous for nothing? Oh, Soo-chan. Whats up?
-Are you busy tomorrow?
I am!
-Why are you so annoyed? Im not suggesting we work part-time. Lets meet for a moment.
Upon hearing Park Soo-chans words, Jeong-woo had a slight suspicion and asked.
Arent you busy?
-I have a day off. Now that the year-end is over, I can finally breathe. I have plenty of free time until graduation season. When should we have our New Years gathering?
Having one more person to help makes the work easier. Jeong-woo smiled with a sense of relief.
Hey, then lets do something meaningful.
-Something meaningful?
That way, Jeong-woo made an early morning appointment with Park Soo-chan for tomorrow.
Saturday morning at 8 oclock.
Jeong-woo and Jeong-chan were sitting at the kitchen table, listening to Hong Ji-sooks instructions.
Since well be preparing a feast with the Womens Association budget this time, make sure to buy everything on this list by 2 oclock. I have to stay at the hall to answer the phone if someones call.
Got it.
Jeong-woo thought that he we did well calling Park Soo-chan because the list of items to buy was full.
It felt like when they worked together on stage as part-timers. When ites to shouldering responsibilities, Soo-chan is top-notch.
As for delivering coal to Grandma Hwangs house, just follow the team leaders instructions.
Upon hearing this, Jeong-woo quickly nced at Jeong-chan.
Youll have a tough time, Chan.
What about you, Hyung?
Ill be working with Soo-chan to clear the ice on the alleyways.
Very simple. However, it seemed like his younger brother considered this task to be more difficult.
While nodding his head, Jeong-chan expressed a hint of regret.
Soo-jin ising. Delivering coal seems too trivial. Ill help Mom with cooking instead.
What dont you understand? Its about showing a warm heart for Grandma. Show that, make it captivating. yfully tease while having a little bit of coal smudged on your nose. Hyung, you know what I mean, right?
Well, I think so?
Hong Ji-sook, who had seen a dating novice receiving coaching from a solo rtionship coach, raised an eyebrow.
Soo-jin?
Jeong-woo smiled and said.
Mom still doesnt know, huh? Chan has a girlfriend now.
What?
When Hong Ji-sook looked at Jeong-chan in surprise, Jeong-chan looked embarrassed and turned his eyes to the TV.
Jeong-woo stood up from his seat.
Anything else?
Oh, right.
Hong Ji-sook examined Jeong-woos clothes and said.
Theres a live broadcast in the evening, I think its at the broadcasting station. They said theyll cover our neighborhood stories. Dont dress like a slob. Like an unemployed person.
A coverage?
I dont really know either. I guess the team leader epted it because they expect a lot of sponsorship funds toe in.
Well, thats nice. Im really good at interviews.
At this remark, Hong Ji-sook and Jeong-chan chuckled.
Around 9 oclock, a knocking sound was heard at the front door, Jeong-woo went out and saw Park Soo-chans head.
Youre here?
Its cold. Open up quickly.
Jeong-woo opened the door, and besides Park Soo-chan, there was a man he hadnt seen before standing under the stairs. The looked to be in his early thirties, with a neat appearance, but there seemed to be a slight age difference to consider him a friend.
Who is he? Did hee with you?
Park Soo-chanughed and pointed to the man.
Hes the cameraman I mentioned before. He said he has something to say to you, so I brought him.
Im Shin Ki-joon.
Oh, hello.
Jeong-woo was surprised by the unexpected guest and gestured for them toe inside.
Come in. Pleasee in.
Is your mother here? I heard she got injured.
Jeong-woo nodded at Park Soo-chans question.
She went to the association. Shell be there all day.
I see. I should greet herter.
After opening the front door, Jeong-woo pointed to the kitchen.
Please have a seat over there. Can I get you some coffee?
While boiling water in the kettle, the two guests took their seats at the dining table. Jeong-woo tore open a packet of instant coffee and put it into a mug, then asked Shin Ki-joon.
Whats the reason you wanted to see me?
I mentioned it through Soo-chan, but it seems like the message didnt get properly delivered.
Shin Ki-joon took out a tablet from his bag and ced it on the table.
Its about creating your own channel and managing videos. I wanted to be a consistent part of it, so I came here.
Jeong-woo filled the mugs with hot water and mixed the coffee before offering them to Shin Ki-joon and Park Soo-chan.
Consistently?
Sitting across from each other, Shin Ki-joon clicked on a video on the tablet and handed it over. Jeong-woo was taken aback when he saw it.
The Line 1 Magician. Thats you, Jeong-woo?
H-how did you know?
I make a living with videos. You can tell at a nce. It even made it to the popr video rankings.
Park Soo-chan, watching the video for the first time, chuckled at the sight of the persons hair dancing on its own.
Jeong-woo, what is this? Its so amazing!
Its just an electrostatic effect.
Jeong-woo looked at Shin Ki-joon and asked.
It doesnt really matter to me, but consistently? Im not a celebrity or anything
These days, videos with high creativity from individual creators receive more attention than celebrities. You know the Skateboarding Goddess? The person who buys unique toys from abroad and ys with them? This is the era where popr creators overflow more than the celebrities you see on TV.
Shin Ki-joons gaze was firm and unwavering.
I see tremendous potential in you, Jeong-woo. With simple chemical theories that people consider insignificant, you became the Line 1 Magician and the White Magician.
Well I understand the meaning well enough. But what can I do?
You dont have to do anything in particr. Just what you usually do. For example, that video where you taught Soo-chan here how to assemble fireworks. Even a video at that level, with an editing footage of actual fireworks exploding on stage, has 300,000 views now. I dont see this as a one-time thing.
Seeing Jeong-woos contemtive expression, Park Soo-chan lowered his voice and spoke.
He graduated from a really famous photography department. Go for it.
Jeong-woo looked at Shin Ki-joon. The cameraman he had thought of as someone who simply filmed celebrity videos didnt seem that ordinary from his actions.
Well, I have nothing to lose.
Shin Ki-joons expression brightened at this response.
Ill create a page dedicated to Jeong-woos chemical everyday life. Ill make it and open it right away. Ill send you the contract for ad revenue and donations.
That sounds good. Oh, by any chance, are you busy today?
Today? I dont have anything special.
Would you like to do something meaningful?
Upon hearing this, Shin Ki-joon turned his head to Park Soo-chan, who chuckled.
Ill show you a magic trick that melts iceter. That way, it wont be a waste of time. Oh, did you bring your camera?
Its in the car.
Great.
Without realizing it, another worker was added. Jeong-woo was satisfied with that and stood up.
Ill get ready ande back soon, so please wait a moment.
Yoon Yi-seol was flipping the nket over on the bed, wriggling around.
It was azy Saturday morning. She had to prepare for an outing in the afternoon, but she felt too reluctant to get up. Yet, sleep didnte to her either.
Ugh.
She took a breath of the air outside the nket and covered herself again.
What am I doing? Like a fool.
Sometimes, there were days like this.
Days when her mood sank endlessly due to theck of anything to do.
Was it because she hadnt seen that persons facest week? There were hardly any good memories since Christmas.
Even the four consecutive performances on the year-end stage that went on until dawn felt bitter.
I cant evene up with a melody.
If we were to find a reason, this would be the biggest one. The fact that the songs werenting to her. Music was almost everything in her life, but if the music wasnt enjoyable, what was the point?
This onset of mncholy made Yoon Yi-seol feel helpless, unable to control it.
On top of that, Dr. Seong would definitely be angry when he saw the iplete checklist.
A meaninglessfort from someone. Whether it turned into a song or a person, it was a desperately needed moment.
But outside the nket is too dangerous.
She tightly wrapped the thick nket around herself and burrowed deeper inside.
Beep.
The phone sparkled, revealing a text message from Team Leader Ji.
[Are you going to the clinic? Shall I pick you up at 11 a.m.?]
Ugh.
With various thoughts popping up, Yoon Yi-seol abruptly got up. She felt sorry for Team Leader Ji, but in moments like this, running away was the best option.
She rushed into the bathroom, quickly washed up, grabbed her clothes, and stood in front of the front door wearing a beanie and a mask.
Where should I go?
It would be fun to storm into Sora Unnies radio booth. They could chat and gossip. Or maybe make a surprise appearance at a cafe in Hongdae? Take a quiet walk on a serene trail for meditation? Pretend not to be Yoon Yi-seol while strolling through crowded streets?
Yoon Yi-seol held her phone in her hand and checked the text she receivedst night.
[Ill definitely see you next week.]
Jeong-woos text made her sigh. And her surprised reply.
I cant see you! I have a studio recording schedule, I really cant make it! I wont see you again! And why did I only send such a short text! Im so frustrated! Everything is messed up!
While shouting only words with cant, she med the sky and stomped her feet.
Beep.
In the midst of it, her finger identally brushed against the call button. Yoon Yi-seol was startled and almost dropped her phone while trying to end the call.
Oops!
-Hello? Is this Yi-seol?
The other person had already picked up.
What should I do?
Yoon Yi-seol hurriedly ced the phone against her ear.
Uh, Jeong-woo.
-Whats the matter? Are you at the clinic?
No, its
Yoon Yi-seol tightly closed her eyes. Spilled water. At times like this, she had to spill it.
I couldntplete the checklist. The event you mentioned with Jeong-woo today. Can I participate too?
-Um
She involuntarily clenched her hand at Jeong-woos bewildered voice.
-It doesnt matter, but is it okay? Im quite busy, and it involves helping the elderly.
Im really good at that kind of thing. Ive done a lot of volunteer programs.
-I see.
Yoon Yi-seol believed that he would understand a bit of exaggeration and falsehood, so she asked for forgiveness from the sky.
-Can you still move with public around?
If I wear the hat, most people wont recognize me.
-I can easily spot you, though.
That wasnt me.
Yoon Yi-seol said as a final word.
And its okay if I get caught. If its volunteer work, its about making people feel good and getting the story out. The team leader is an expert at that.
-I understand. When will youe?
Now!
Yoon Yi-seol lowered her voice and spoke again.
Ill prepare and leave. Before 12 p.m.
-Heres the address
Chapter 49
Chapter 49
8.The Chemistry Behind Cooking (2)
Jeong-woo ended the call and his expression became somewhat surprised.
Is she reallying?
His gaze lingered on Shin Ki-joon, who was setting up the camera at the corner of the alley, and Park Soo-chan, who was exploring the neighborhood.
Even if she wears a mask and dont say anything, how do I exin the rtionship between me and Yoon Yi-seol? Wait. But what is our rtionship? Friends who share the same illness?
In any case, the fact that he was undergoing treatment for insomnia had to be kept hidden. He might not be known, but Yoon Yi-seol was a celebrity.
Jeong-woo!
Shin Ki-joon sent a sign that he was ready.
Jeong-woo sprinkled the powder he had brought on the icy steps of the alley, covered in frost.
The principle of de-icing agent is simple. This powder infiltrates between tightly frozen water molecules and forms a barrier. Then, the water molecules that want to stick together will extend their heat, see?
With a crackling sound, theyer of ice melted in an instant, captured by the camera.
Park Soo-chan, who had been watching, opened his mouth.
Jeong-woo, did you make that?
Why would I lie?
Wow, thats insane. Our Jeong-woo looks like a genius.
Jeong-woo turned his head to look at Park Soo-chan.
Really? Thats a normal reaction. When I showed it to my mom on the way here, she asked where I bought it from. She didnt even show any interest.
Your mom is so cool. I still remember when you had a big ident in high school, she silently took care of it without saying a word. She looked so cool.
She was cool. I didnt eat any meat for two months during that time. The soup was just oil floating, no substance. Chan was so mad.
Is the dog bigger than you because of that?
Since they said they would edit out casual conversations, Jeong-woo continued his work of melting ice, wandering through the alleys.
The areas where the sun was shining naturally had melted ice, but in the alleys with many shadows, there were thick piles of snow.
Jeong-woo, I want to try too! Ki-joon, would you like to try?
Yes, me too.
Park Soo-chan and Shin Ki-joon also joined in melting the ice, each carrying their own de-icing agents and scattering around.
In Jeong-woos field of vision, as he turned onto a downhill road, he saw a truck filled with charcoal parked in front of themunity center square.
Good luck, Chan. Im almost done with everything.
It was still a little past 10 oclock, so there was some time. He needed to finish all the physically demanding work before Yoon Yi-seol arrived.
As he sprinkled de-icing agent beneath the walls of a house and stood up, he heard rustling sounds from inside.
Oh? Jeong-woo?
Because it was a fence that reached up to his chest height, he could see a middle-aged man standing in the inner courtyard in his tracksuit.
Hello, sir.
Heo Do-young, who ran a rice store. Despite theplicated neighborhood streets that even puzzled delivery drivers, he was well-known to most residents as he delivered to the entire area.
Are youing to the banquet today?
Well, not sure. My back is hurting too much. I also need to do theundry. I think Ill just stay home this time.
Oh, I was going to treat you to some pork belly. The premium one from the Three-way Butcher Shop. What a shame.
The premium one with that amazing texture?
Heo Do-young swallowed his saliva.
A ss of soju would make your back feel better, right?
Why are you teasing me like that?
Haha.
Heo Do-young, who had given up and said he would go, waved his hand.
Jeong-woo entered the next alley when his phone in his pocket rang. It was Yoon Yi-seol.
Yes, Ms. Seol.
-Im here.
Yes?
-Its the Il-myeong Supermarket? Im in front of that.
Wha- already?
Was it already 30 minutes since their call ended? He thought she woulde for lunch, but it felt too soon.
Jeong-woo hurriedly ran and arrived in front of the Il-myeong Supermarket. Yoon Yi-seol, wearing a hat with a round fur ball, was standing there.
Ms. Seol.
With a curious expression on her face, she looked around, but when she saw Jeong-woo, she smiled. It was a smile that formed beautiful creases around her nose.
Wee.
Her round eyes, nestled under her thick and long eyshes, turned towards him as she greeted Jeong-woo.
Did Ie suddenly and burden you with work, Mr. Jeong-woo?
Not at all. But, more importantly
Jeong-woo paused his words as the owner of the supermarket walked out, pointing towards Yoon Yi-seol.
Mr. Sung, pleasee to the banquet.
If my wife takes over.
Mr. Sung, the owner of the supermarket, yawned and replied.
In this neighborhood, there are quite a few shops named after their owners. Jeong-woo told Sung Il-myeong, who had a sign on the counter that read 10 Mandarins for 2,000 won.
The rice store owner ising.
Oh, really?
Sung Il-myeong nced inside, then made a gesture as if pouring a drink.
Thats right. The side dish is pork belly.
Oh, I see. I have to go then.
Sung Il-myeong tossed two mandarins to Jeong-woo and said, Here you go~ with a voice full of excitement, then went back into the supermarket.
Jeong-woo pointed ahead to Yoon Yi-seol.
Lets talk while we walk. Hes someone well-known in the neighborhood. Would you like to have one of these?
He offered her one mandarin, and Yoon Yi-seol epted it with a bright smile.
Walking and eating mandarins happily, Jeong-woo turned towards the alley where he had just finished the ice removal work and opened his mouth.
I havent told anyone about you, Ms. Seol. It wouldnt be good if the rumor about insomnia spreads. Its a bit awkward to say that we bumped into each other at the clinic. My younger brother still doesnt know why things turned out that way that day.
Well in that case.
Yoon Yi-seol, who had involuntarily closed her eyes as she peeled the mandarin, voiced her opinion.
Childhood friend?
No. Theres someone who knows about our friendship.
Music academy?
I know how to y the xylophone, but are there any academies that teach that?
Yoon Yi-seol thought carefully and then touched her palms together.
Temporary manager!
Yes?
The roadie who helps with scheduling. If others find out, it can be an excuse. We mentioned it that way during Once as well. If we do that, even if were together, it wont be strange
As she spoke, Yoon Yi-seol suddenly felt tense, realizing that she might have hinted that she wanted to be with him.
Jeong-woo quickly organized his thoughts.
Lets do that. Ill work as a manager part-time on holidays and such. I started doing it during Christmas.
Sounds good.
Looking down at Yoon Yi-seol, who smiled again, Jeong-woo cleared his throat. Her face, covered by a fur hat, was beautifully captivating, making his heart flutter once again.
By the way, what about masks? There arent many people here, but can I just wander around without one?
Just be discreet. After all, youre an expert at sneaking around unnoticed.
Yoon Yi-seol tapped the pocket of her padded jacket. Jeong-woo couldnt help but find her unpretentiously awkward appearance endearing, wondering if people around her simply turned a blind eye to it.
What were you doing here?
Jeong-woo, holding a metal barrel on the stairs, replied.
We were doing ice removal work in the vige alleyways. With two friends.
Ice removal?
Jeong-woo sprinkled powder with a spoon onto the thickyer of ice under the shade. In an instant, it turned into water and flowed down, widening Yoon Yi-seols eyes.
Wow, I know this. Its that thing magic!
Its just chemistry.
Well, anyway!
Do you want to try?
Me?
When Jeong-woo offered her the spoon, Yoon Yi-seol hesitated and then, with a mix of nervousness and excitement, sprinkled a bit of powder. She crouched down carefully in front of the slippery ice and sprinkled it.
Oh!
Yoon Yi-seol seemed fascinated by the ice turning into water droplets. She stared at it with great interest.
Ive done this whole section!
A voice came from the stairs, and when Yoon Yi-seol looked up, it was Park Soo-chan pping.
This is so much fun. Give me more!
Yoon Yi-seol, who was sitting, instinctively put on a mask and leaned next to Jeong-woo.
Huh? Who are you with?
Park Soo-chan descended the stairs and stood in front of Jeong-woo.
Soo-chan, this person is
No way?!
ncing up and down Yoon Yi-seol, Park Soo-chan let out a groan and.
Eun-sil, right? Wow, nice to meet you.
Whats with the reaction?
Really? That posture of holding your arm is just perfect. Then who are you?
Yoon Yi-seol, who recognized Jeong-woos friend, removed her mask and looked at Park Soo-chan.
Hello.
GulpYoo, Yoo, Yoon Yi-seol?
Surprised by the unexpected face he saw in his dream, Park Soo-chan eximed, while Shin Ki-joon, who had taken a different path, approached them as well.
Shin Ki-joon paused when he saw Yoon Yi-seol.
Jeong-woo quickly introduced Yoon Yi-seol to the astonished duo.
You probably know who she is. Since youvee to participate in todays meaningful event, please treat herfortably. And Ki-joon, about the filming
Dont worry. I wont take random shots anywhere other than the stage meant for public viewing. Privacy and personal space should be respected.
Surprised by the unexpectedly polite response, Jeong-woo nodded.
Shin Ki-joon bowed his head respectfully to Yoon Yi-seol.
It seems like the first time Ive seen you up close like this. Im Shin Ki-joon, who runs the direct cam channel SP.
Yoon Yi-seol also returned the greeting with a nod.
By the way, ourpanys video director was a famous fancam photographer.
I know. Theyre a legend in this field. Anyway, its an honor, Yoon Yi-seol.
Please continue to take great stage videos.
Watching Yoon Yi-seol smile, Park Soo-chan firmly grabbed Jeong-woos arm and led him to the nearby wall.
Hey, whats going on?
We were keeping it a secret, but somehow I ended up being in charge as the temporary manager. I made some waves at TS Mall.
Wow, thats amazing.
Dont go around bbering about it.
Wow!
Jeong-woo divided the powder in the container and pointed to another alley, signaling them to go.
Go ande back quickly. Lets finish this and take a break.
My friend is Yoon Yi-seols manager
I told you to go!
Alright, see youter, Yi-seol! Im Park Soo-chan! Jeong-woos best friend!
Park Soo-chan greeted Yoon Yi-seol with a foolish smile and then quickly dashed down the alley. Yoon Yi-seol burst intoughter at his sight.
Ill go this way too.
Shin Ki-joon also started the snow removal work along another alley.
Jeong-woo turned to Yoon Yi-seol.
Phew, its hectic, right? Even if Soo-chan looks like that, hes nice.
Its fun.
Fortunately, Yoon Yi-seol didnt seem bothered, so Jeong-woo spoke with relief.
Lets go too.
The work ended before 11 oclock.
On the way to the meeting hall, Jeong-woo informed Yoon Yi-seol about the uing schedule.
Im going to the market to help my mother cook, then Ill go to visit the elderly in the neighborhood. In the evening, well have a small gathering or a feast. Once thats taken care of, well be done. We might also go to the neighborhood to help with any pending tasks. My younger brother is currently delivering charcoal.
Yoon Yi-seol nodded eagerly with a determined look in her eyes, even though the exnation was nothing special. The bells hanging on her fur hat continued to jingle along with her nods.
Oh, how cute.
It was just a nod, but why did his heart feel so ticklish? Jeong-woo found himself wondering more and more.
We mostly do cleaning. When theres painting to be done, or when there are electrical wiring or door problems, the team leader takes care of it. Oh, didnt you say youve done a lot of volunteer work?
Well, I guess so.
Yoon Yi-seols heart pounded as she wondered if she should ask for more details, but she breathed a sigh of relief as Jeong-woo moved away to answer a phone call.
Jeong-woo checked his brothers name and pressed the call button.
What is it?
-Hyung, do you know Grandma Choi Geum-soons ce?
That short-legged dog?
-Yeah. He went out yesterday and hasnte back yet. Grandma is extremely worried.
Thinking of the spaniel who used to wag his tail and pant heavily whenever he passed by, Jeong-woo asked.
Isnt he stuck somewhere in a corner of a warehouse? He usually differences the person in two types, the one who feeds him and does who doesnt. I only gave them a sausage once, but he seemed to like me every time I passes by.
-I dont know. The team leader told me to go but Im going to do that with Soo-jin.
What? You rascal. Already doing that in a filthy ce?
-What are you saying? Ah, right. Charcoal. Al
Jeong-woo smirked.
Since its on the way, Ill stop by and take a look.
After ending the call, Jeong-woo said to Yoon Yi-seol.
I need to go find Doo-chi.
Doo-chi?
A decent dog.
While they were talking, Park Soo-chan and Shin Ki-joon walked up from the corner of the alley. Park Soo-chan raised both hands and shouted.
Jeong-woo! Were starving!
Soo-chan, then you go to the bakery first. With Ki-joon.
What about you?
Ill go to Grandma Geum-soons and then join you.
Jeong-woo looked at Yoon Yi-seol.
Do you also want to go to the bakery?
No.
Yoon Yi-seol took a step closer to Jeong-woo, shaking her head. Park Soo-chan gave a significant look and said to Shin Ki-joon.
Theres a really old bakery here that serves amazing caste cake.
Soo-chan, order something for us too.
Okay.
Jeong-woo and Yoon Yi-seol took the upper path, while Park Soo-chan and Shin Ki-joon walked down the lower path.
Narrow alleyways lined with small houses, winding up the hillside.
It was a neighborhood where the scent of people filled the air, yet it was quiet and clean, making the phrase a delightful neighborhood more fitting than a neighborhood on the outskirts.
Its nice here
Yoon Yi-seol walked along the path with Jeong-woo, trying to calm her rapidly beating heart.
When she woke up in the morning, she never expected to be in this situation.
The stairs are high, arent they? This section has a nice view, but its difficult to move around.
No, its not.
Yoon Yi-seol replied and took a deep breath, trying to hide her shortness of breath.
Afraid that she might not be able to keep up and he would tell her to go to the bakery alone, she looked at Jeong-woo with an anxious expression.
Seeing her, Jeong-woo forced a smile and asked.
Are you holding your breath right now?
No cough.
Coughing, Yoon Yi-seol said to him.
Its not a cold
I understand. Im just tired. Lets rest for a bit.
Jeong-woo stopped walking and turned his back. Yoon Yi-seol smiled at his consideration and regted her rough breathing.
As Jeong-woo quietly observed the scenery of the neighborhood, he turned his head.
Oh, right. Its evening.
Yes?
Im going to the broadcasting station to cover this event. Shouldnt you avoid being seen then?
It probably doesnt matter much, but Ill see how it goes when the timees.
Is the appearance fee for you quite high?
Yoon Yi-seol smiled without answering.
Its high. And is there anything we need to check off the list? Lets get as much done as possible today.
Im doing one right now.
Jeong-woo sent a questioning gaze.
Can I ask what it is?
Walking on an unfamiliar path.
I see.
with someone I like.
Yoon Yi-seol omitted the following condition and pointed ahead.
Lets go now. Jeong-woo, you seem to have rested enough.
Do I? Ive restedpletely, right?
With a nonchnt question, Yoon Yi-seol stuck out her tongue, smiled, and walked ahead.
The house they arrived at after walking about 100 meters was a single-story house with a green fence and a green gate.
Grandma!
Jeong-woo knocked on the door and shouted. As there was no response, Jeong-woo peeked inside the gate. Not sensing any signs of life, he gently pushed the door open.
Creak. The door opened, and he looked inside again.
Grandma Geum-soon!
Jeong-woo said to Yoon Yi-seol, who turned around.
Shes not here, I guess. She must have gone out to find Doo-chi. Come inside for now.
As Jeong-woo stepped inside, Yoon Yi-seol followed behind.
Doo-chi! Hey, where are you hiding!
In one corner of the small yard, there was an improvised garden with styrofoam and stic containers lined up. Next to it was a small doghouse. Only food and water bowls were ced there, and the owner was nowhere to be seen.
Hmm.
Approaching, Jeong-woo started to carefully observe his surroundings.
It seems she really went out. Grandma loves him so much, why would he leave this ce? Is he upset because he didnt get a sausage?
Do you think we can find him?
Yoon Yi-seol asked, and Jeong-woo turned his head.
Just a moment.
As Jeong-woo closely examined the surroundings, he reached out his hand and grabbed something.
A brown fur that shimmered.
Its still warm.
Really?
Well, the trace indicates that.
Jeong-woos gaze seemed to be looking at a different world, as if seeing something different from what others saw. Yoon Yi-seol couldnt help but be curious as Jeong-woo continued to scrutinize the seemingly empty space in the yard.
What are you looking at?
Footprints.
Jeong-woo pointed his finger at a spot on the yard where the ice had formed.
These are recent footprints, and there are tiny droplets made of sweat. After they dry, there will be a slight amount of sodium chloride, a small amount of amino acids, ammonia, and elements
As Jeong-woo exined, he nced at Yoon Yi-seol, who was not nodding this time, and smiled.
Theres dog fur here. If we follow this, well find him soon. Shall we go?
Yes!
Chapter 50
Chapter 50
8.The Chemistry Behind Cooking (3)
Jeong-woo, got outside and cast his gaze at the chemical world hidden in Doo-chis fur.
The thin hairs, like small fibers, magnified into cylindrical structures, and the information of the molecules attached to the cross-section came into view at once.
Excluding the basic organicpounds.
He began to exclude particle-like substancesmonly encountered in daily life, such as feed particles, excrement, and molecules of soil seen in the backyard. Anything that shouldnt be here. Focusing on that, he noticed a yellow-colored molecule at the tip of the hair.
It was a paintponent he had seen several times before.
It seemed that these paint particles were periodically moving somewhere. The particles wereyered multiple times.
Jeong-woo thoroughly examined the front gate and yard of Grandma Geumsoons house once again. He didnt see any paintponents that matched the color.
Could it be a nearby house? I need to find out where this fellow went to narrow down the scope
While pondering, Jeong-woos attention was caught by Yoon Yi-seol, who was closely examining the hairs on the side.
What are you looking at?
Im searching.
Perhaps because her flickering pupils were too close. Jeong-woo stared nkly, captivated by Yoon Yi-seols delicate eyshes.
The warm sunlight descended, reflecting off her jewel-like eyes.
There was a natural beauty that made his heart race.
In that moment, a memory grazed Jeong-woos mind.
A while ago, when he threw a sausage to Doo-chi, the dog extended its head over the fence, concentrating its gaze on a certain spot. Just like Yoon Yi-seol was doing now.
Oh?
What?
I think I found it thanks to Yi-seol. Lets go.
Jeong-woo blew on his hand, as if blowing away the fur, and walked away in a hurry. Yoon Yi-seol followed closely, asking, Me?
I remembered where Doo-chi was looking. If we know the direction, weve found half of it.
Jeong-woo, I dont think I can understand chemistry, so are you just trying to downy it so I can understand it?
Yoon Yi-seol asked, her eyes filled with curiosity amid her hard work.
Oh, youre smart, arent you?
Yep.
Jeong-woo smirked. Yoon Yi-seols radiant face kept tickling his heart, and without realizing it, he mumbled.
It just naturally came to mind because youre dazzling.
Huh?
The words slipped out. Jeong-woo hastily spoke as he descended the stairs.
The sky is so clear. Can the weather be this good?
Why would your eyes be dazzled?
Yoon Yi-seols question, tinged with a hint of anticipation, made Jeong-woo scratch his chin.
Sunlight?
Its strange. Usually, my fans would say that my face is dazzling when they see me.
But today, Im not a fan, Im your manager.
Ah, and also the director.
Jeong-woo was surprised.
If I force you to eptpliments about your beauty, wouldnt you feel embarrassed?
If youre a celebrity, its only natural to have that attitude. My close sister said that. She always said that hearingpliments about being beautiful makes you even more beautiful.
Yoon Yi-seol looked straight at Jeong-woo with confidence.
Oh, apliment. Thats what you meant.
Jeong-woo regained hisposure and looked at Yoon Yi-seols face as he spoke.
In fact, it means that your eyes are dazzling. Its because of the difference in the refracted rays of light. In the case of someone like you, the skin tissue absorbs all the dull photons and only reflects the white ones
Oh my.
Yoon Yi-seol widened her eyes.
What kind ofpliment is that?
Thats why it means you have a beautiful glow. The refractive index of your skin is also exquisitely reflected, making it even more beautiful.
Enough with that kind ofpliment.
Yoon Yi-seol abruptly turned her head away. Jeong-woo chuckled and then his gaze rested in the distance on a distant alleyway.
Its Doo-chi.
Yoon Yi-seols head turned back upon hearing those words. On the other side of the alley, she noticed a blunt tail swaying above a fluffy, bobbing rear end.
Oh? Its leaving!
Yoon Yi-seol tried to run over immediately, but Jeong-woo grabbed her arm.
I found it. Where it ran off to.
Jeong-woo raised his finger above Yoon Yi-seols questioning gaze and pointed to a house with yellow paint. Yoon Yi-seol looked puzzled.
It just went in the opposite direction of that house.
It will probablye back.
Jeong-woo confidently walked towards the yellow door and peered inside.
This rascal, making itself at home.
As Yoon Yi-seol was shorter than Jeong-woo and couldnt see inside, Jeong-woo extended his shoulder. He held Yoon Yi-seols shoulder and lifted her head as much as he could, allowing her to see inside the door. A smile immediately formed on Yoon Yi-seols lips.
Oh, how adorable.
Inside the humble dwelling, several puppies with fluffy fur and overflowing cuteness were gathered, their buttocks exposed as they had not yet opened their eyes.
The unfamiliar mother dog barked appearing wary of the intruder. Yoon Yi-seol quickly lowered her head and said, Sorry.
Yoon Yi-seol spoke to Jeong-woo, who was standing in front of the door.
Are those puppies Doo-chis offspring?
Well, I wouldnt know. But they look simr. Their faces.
Doo-chis face, unseen by Yoon Yi-seol, made her extremely curious. Just then, a dog with a bone in its mouth appeared from the other side of the alley.
Hey, Doo-chi!
The dog, approaching in response to Jeong-woos shout, halted in its tracks. Doo-chi, who approached with a wagging tail, was a chubby dog that seemed to have lived well and eaten well for a small breed.
Do you know that your grandma raised you without a leash?
Whether Doo-chi understood the words or not, its gaze was directed towards the yellow door.
Lets first reassure grandma inside and thene back. How did you manage to squeeze through this narrow door?
As Jeong-woo attempted to lift Doo-chi, the little rascal tried to escape. However, before it could react and take even two steps back, it was caught. Yoon Yi-seol covered her mouth andughed at the struggling Doo-chi.
This little one is heavy. Yi-seol, please take the bone and throw it inside that door. It seems like this gluttonous fellow brought it, thinking its food for his wife.
How kind of you, Doo-chi. Thats right.
Jeong-woo held Doo-chis head, and Yoon Yi-seol took the pigs trotter bone and swiftly threw it inside.
Thats done.
As they made their way back to Grandma Geumsoons house, Yoon Yi-seol suppressed herughter, which kept bubbling up as she looked at Doo-chis lifeless expression. Then a thought suddenly crossed her mind.
Jeong-woo, how did you find the yellow house with Doo-chis puppies?
Oh, um The process was simple, but exining it would unnecessarilyplicate things. Lets skip it.
Yoon Yi-seol petted Doo-chis head as she spoke.
I cant understand your magical chemistry, Jeong-woo.
The moment I saw that houses door, it was dazzling, just like Yi-seol. Ahem. I must have looked like a big fan, right?
Not at all.
Yoon Yi-seols gaze turned towards Jeong-woo, who was joking.
Although Yoon Yi-seol had heard from Sora unni that it should be a two-way street, she couldnt help but feel increasingly anxious as it seemed to be one-sided from her side.
If that was a bad thing, it didnt feel like it at all, so Yoon Yi-seol felt the urge to firmly grasp her thoughts.
If thats the case, I hope the other side is the same as me.
As Yoon Yi-seols eyes met Jeong-woos, she quickly turned her head.
When I saw the namete, it said Lee Sang-myeong. The yellow door.
I know where it is. Oh, thank you.
No, pleasee to the feast tonight.
Watching Doo-chi, who had gone out of the house, engrossed in devouring his food as if he had never eaten before, Jeong-woo greeted Grandma Choi Geumsoon and stepped out into the yard.
Just a moment.
Grandma Choi reached out to Yoon Yi-seol, who was following Jeong-woo from behind, offering her some rice cakes.
Here, have this. Theres not much that can be given to young friends like you.
Thank you, Grandma. I really enjoy eating these rice cakes.
Grandma Choi smiled kindly at Yoon Yi-seols bright smile.
As Jeong-woo stepped outside, he said, We worked together, but theres only one rice cake.
Lets split it. Later.
Later?
Yoon Yi-seol smiled brightly and simply replied.
If Jeong-woo forgets, Ill eat it all by myself.
She seemed to enjoy teasing him as she giggled and hid it in her embrace.
Shall we go to the bakery now?
It might take a while, so we should go grocery shopping first. Can we eat while were at it? Caste cake.
Thats fine.
As Jeong-woo walked toward the market, he took out the list his mother had given him and pondered. Some of the ingredients for the dishes were bulky and heavy.
This is Soo-chans part. The rest is mine.
He picked up his phone and searched for Park Soo-chan.
-Where are you? Weve already finished eating.
Oh, Soo-chan. Can you gather whats left and meet me at the entrance of the traditional market? Come there.
-Go grocery shopping? Okay.
Jeong-woo handed half of the list he held in his hand to Yoon Yi-seol, who was scrutinizing it.
Do you want to check it out?
Is it okay?
Of course.
If he handed Yoon Yi-seol a heavy bag and let her walk through the traditional market, he didnt know what her fans might do. In that case, giving her a task like this would prevent her from feeling like she came along for no reason.
And so, Jeong-woo and Yoon Yi-seol headed to the market.
A ck van stopped at the entrance of a narrow alley with a sign that read [Trial Traditional Market].
The manager, who was in the drivers seat, spoke to a chef dressed in cooking attire and setting up a selfie camera in a shopping basket.
Hyun-shik, todays filming will be aired as a Lunar New Year special.
A special?
The PD suggested having a home-cooked meal showdown with the housewives in thatmunity center.
Hyun-min, the chef of thete-night show Delicious Treat on Channel Olove, burst intoughter at the sound of it.
A showdown with ordinary people?
Why not? The writer wants to capture something like a lively and heartwarming scene rather than focusing on winning or losing. And the local elderly residents can be the judges of taste. It creates a warm atmosphere, you know.
Just take it easy on me, okay?
Of course.
As Hyun-min opened the door of the van, he said, Lets just do it. If thedies there are overwhelmed by my cooking, well just treat them.
Ill ry that.
Ill carefully select the ingredients, soe for pickup in about two hours.
Okay! The filming starts at 5 oclock, so we have plenty of time.
As soon as they stepped outside, Hyun-min, familiarly switching on the small camera attached to the shopping basket, said.
Tasty Treat! Today, we will source fresh ingredients from the traditional market to create the best vors. Are you ready to join us?
As Hyun-min disappeared into the market, four men and women walked down the hillside.
The bread is really soft. Its delicious.
Yoon Yi-seols eyes sparkled as she closed her eyes while eating half of the caste. Walking beside her, Jeong-woo said.
We should have bought more.
No, if I eat too many sweet things, my face swells the next day. Im satisfied with this much.
I admire the difficult diet of celebrities.
But it doesnt mean I starve myself. Dont look at me like that with pity.
Jeong-woo moved the half piece of caste he was eating to the side.
You seemed really eager to have this.
I dont.
Your eyes were following it. If you dont mind, you can have some.
I wont eat it! Im not the type to announce what Im going to eat.
Listening secretly to the conversation of the two from behind, Park Soo-chans face became touched.
Shin Ki-joon, do you see? My friend is actually having a conversation with Yoon Yi-seol.
Thats fascinating. Even though hes a stage manager, its rare to see Yoon Yi-seol be sofortable with someone.
So, is that why he was chosen as the manager?
Since Starpiece is known for being very selective in choosing its staff, I think it might have something to do with the White Magician stage. She had the same expression back then.
Watching the seemingly close duo, Park Soo-chan felt a pang of envy.
I envy you, Han Jeong-woo. Youre getting closer to your dream before me.
Dream?
Park Soo-chan pretended tough and said to Shin Ki-joon, Do you have something like that?
Arriving at the entrance of the traditional market, Jeong-woo turned his body.
Soo-chan, if you buy everything written there, go straight to the banquet hall. Dont take a detour. Yoon Yi-seol is making special noodles for the event, and if you eat too much junk food, you wont be able to eat that.
Yeah, got it. Were going. See youter, Yoon Yi-seol!
Yoon Yi-seol bid farewell to Park Soo-chan and Shin Ki-joon with a nod as they walked ahead. Then she turned her gaze towards the direction of the traditional market.
Its been so long since Ive been to a market like this. Oh, Im excited.
Yoon Yi-seol, you should wear your mask.
Oh, right.
Jeong-woo saw Yoon Yi-seol finish putting on her mask and said, Now lets go
This way! This way!
Yoon Yi-seol had already started walking briskly. Jeong-woo, caught off guard by her speed, hurriedly followed behind her.
Yoon Yi-seol felt a renewed sense of excitement.
At the fruit corner, colorful fruits were stacked, and the aroma of savory oil wafted from the buckwheat pancakes. There were also traditional Korean sweets, jellies, peanuts, and a variety of confectioneries disyed on the shelves.
Everywhere she looked, the distinctive ambiance of the market captured her attention, providing an indescribable sense of liberation.
She had never thought that escaping from her daily routine would bring such joy. She eagerly eximed, Jeong-woo, hurry up! as she enjoyed the sights.
It was around the time when she was fascinated by the baby hanboks and flower skirts in front of a clothing store in the market.
Um, Yi-seol.
Yes?
Shouldnt we start shopping soon?
Oh.
Yoon Yi-seol finally noticed the shopping list tightly held in her hand.
Im sorry.
Why apologize? Im the one who interrupted your market outing.
Its been a while
Yes, it seems so. Very much.
Yoon Yi-seol, who had lowered her head in embarrassment, raised it again. Her round eyes, visible between the hat and mask, scanned the market.
Lets start with the vegetables. Although Ive already figured out where everything is located.
Jeong-woo casually remarked to Yoon Yi-seol, who was leading the way.
That area is the fish section.
Ah, I see. Fish.
Jeong-woo smirked and followed Yoon Yi-seol without saying anything more.
The two of them arrived in front of a disy filled with the pungent smell of fish. Yoon Yi-seol quickly searched on her phone and then spoke to Jeong-woo.
For cod, its best to look for ones with clear and protruding eyes. So, where should we look?
Yoon Yi-seol walked enthusiastically towards the area where the cod was piled up, closely examining the fish. She then turned to Jeong-woo.
What should we do? They all look the same.
Jeong-woo also tried to find a cod with clear eyes, but they all seemed identical.
Well, since were going to steam it, lets just pick any.
How can you say that? Jeong-woo, the owner herself wrote that they have fresh ones here.
In that case
Jeong-woo focused his gaze on the scales of a frozen cod. Examining the magnified world of chemistry, he searched for the cod with the fewest molecr structures that resembled bacteria and shifted his eyes.
As Jeong-woo silently examined the cod with his peculiar gaze, Yoon Yi-seol pointed to a different seafood shop on the opposite side.
Ill take a look at the goby over there.
Jeong-woo quickly nced at the cod.
The least spoiled one must be the freshest.
Among the piled-up cod, one of them seemed to be the least damaged, with almost intact scales.
Boss, Ill take
As he reached out to point at it, a sudden arm swiftly grabbed it before him.
Huh?
A man dressed as if he had juste out of the kitchen passed by Jeong-woo and stood in front of the shop owner.
Ill take this.
With your bare hands? Did youe from a restaurant or something?
Oh, its because of a cooking program.
As the man, in his mid-thirties with a charming appearance, pointed to the camera attached to his shopping basket and smiled, the shop owner chuckled and expressed her liking, saying, You look good.
I want them cleaned.
The man who took out the cod from the ck bag slightly showed it to the camera, with the gills reddened and the scales shining.
This is a good fish with bright red gills and shiny scales.
And then, he passed by Jeong-woo with a confident stride and disappeared.
I chose it first.
Even though he had devoted himself to analyzing the fishs chemical world while selecting it, the chef had effortlessly found and taken it away with his keen eye.
Left behind due to the difference in speed, Jeong-woo could only lower his head.
Its not like I spat on it.
The shop owner approached Jeong-woo.
What can I help you with, sir? All the fish in our shop are fresh.
Ill take a little more time to choose.
Even when searching for corroded screws under the Han River bridge, he hadnt been so diligent.
Jeong-woo searched again and selected the second and third cod with a lower level of spoge.
Please give me these two. I want them cleaned as well.
He put the cod in a bag and walked towards Yoon Yi-seol.
She was diligently examining the croakers lined up in front of a counter filled with anchovies and dried pock. Searching on her phone, she turned her head this way and that before choosing a bundle.
The ones here have the yellowest area around the eyes. The flesh is also firm.
Oh, miss, you know how to choose croakers.
Hehe.
As Jeong-woo approached, the ttered Yoon Yi-seol shrugged her shoulders and looked away at the praise from the shop owner.
Did you buy cod?
I did, but the best ones were taken by someone else.
Jeong-woo pointed to the man dressed as a chef walking towards the meat section.
That person.
Yoon Yi-seol turned her gaze and was surprised.
Oh? Hes a TV personality.
If someone hears that, they wouldnt think youre not on TV, Yi-seol.
Chuckling, Yoon Yi-seol spoke.
Its just fascinating to bump into someone like this here. Ive seen videos of him taking selfies while touring the market.
Do you think he would be more surprised to see you, Yi-seol?
Really?
Yoon Yi-seol yfully lowered her mask.
There are a lot of people here. Its inconvenient for me as the daily manager to tolerate such behavior.
Oh, Im sorry.
Lets go too. Were going in a different direction, so we wont have a chance to meet him again. We have an amazing meat restaurant in our neighborhood.
Jeong-woo tidied up without much thought and asked Yoon Yi-seol.
Now, what should we buy?
Yoon Yi-seol examined the list and spoke.
We need vegetables. But why is there only spring onions for the party food? Why arent there any other options?
The rest are heavy.
Jeong-woo thought to himself, recalling Park Soo-chan, who would be carrying boxes full of potatoes and zhinis, and silently apologized.
Yoon Yi-seol, who had been in a particrly cheerful mood since earlier, eximed brightly.
Well then, lets go for vegetables!
Thats the snack corner. Vegetables are this way.
Yoon Yi-seol took a step forward and abruptly stopped.
Oh, lets have some fish cake. Oh, Im getting hungry.
Jeong-woo couldnt help butugh at her once again throwing a fit. Even for Jeong-woo, who had beening to this market for years, the maze-like streets of this market were a part that he still hadnt quite adapted to.
Yi-seol, people keep disappearing around you. I wonder where the person who didnt reveal what they wanted to eat went.
Yeah, where did they go?
As they walked through the market and the distance between them became closer, Yi-seol couldnt help butugh bashfully at Jeong-woos teasing, which poked at a point that she didnt want to be reminded of.
After that, it took about an hour to finish the shopping.
Chapter 51
Chapter 51
8.The Chemistry Behind Cooking (4)
Madam Hong, why are you so picky?
Team Leader Kim Gwang-sik stood at the entrance of the kitchen, feeling restless.
They said all we need to do is cook. PD Yang Ban said so.
Hong Ji-suk, who was rinsing the somyeon noodles in cold water, turned her head. Team Leader Kim flinched at her cold gaze.
Isnt it just a filming? They said they would only shoot the banquet, but now its be some kind ofpetition. How bothersome.
Theyre giving away prizes too. Its a Lunar New Year special.
Thats right. If it werent for you, Ji-suk unni, there wouldnt be anyone else to do it.
Madam Im Geum-hee, the chairwoman of the womens association, who was cutting kimchi, interjected.
Why dont I do it quickly? Team Leader, you know my cooking skills.
Well, I know. Last time Madam Ims sundubu jjigae wasnt fit for human consumption
As Madam Im gave him a stern look, Team Leader Kim cleared his throat and spoke to Hong Ji-suk.
They said winning or losing isnt important, so just do it without pressure.
Dont you see this cast? I dont know what kind of TV appearance is going to be on when hes injured.
Team Leader Kims expression became speechless. He only licked his lips and had a desperate face.
Noticing this, Hong Ji-suk gently handed a bowl of somyeon noodles to Madam Im Geum-hee and whispered.
Team Leader, think about having our monthly gathering at our restaurant.
But we had it therest month too. This time, Park and Lee suggested going to restaurant in the market
Please dont say you dont want to.
Ah, Madam Hong. Who said I dont want to? Why are you so sharp-tongued today?
Team Leader Kim nodded as if he couldnt bear it.
Whats the big deal? Im not the type to speak one way and act differently after one bite, you know?
Can we just cook any dish?
Well, if we do well on the broadcast this time, it will spread good rumors in the neighborhood, and property values will rise.
Where do you see property values rising in a neighborhood thats falling apart?
Creak.
As the front door opened, Team Leader Kims eldest son shouted from the other side of the living room.
Father! The writer from the broadcasting station is here!
Already? Take them to the second-floor office! Ill be there soon.
Team Leader Kim turned his head towards Hong Ji-suk.
So, Madam Hong, that means you agreed!
While Yoon Yi-seol was catching her breath in ce after climbing up the hill, Jeong-woo approached her from the side.
Its tough, isnt it? Weve arrived.
Yoon Yi-seols gaze lingered on the building below the mountainside. It was a two-story house painted in pastel tones. That was their destination.
Its beautiful. It doesnt look like a vige hall.
A while ago, the president had it repaired. Although it used to be a senior center, now we all use it together whenever theres work.
Jeong-woo took a moment to rest and nced at the front yard of the building, only to pause. Among the parked cars, there was a van that appeared to belong to a broadcasting station. It had a logo that said Olove Channel.
Oh no, Yi-seol.
Jeong-woo quickly blocked Yi-seols path as she was about to proceed.
They said they woulde in the evening, but it seems like the broadcasting station is already here. Let me go in first.
Theres no need for that.
While Jeong-woo hesitated with a sense of unease, Yi-seol, on the contrary, took the lead.
Is it okay if we go like this?
Yi-seol shook the bag she held in her left hand.
We need to put the meat in the refrigerator while its fresh. Plus, I dont really know how to use this. I saw it at the market earlier.
Yi-seol lifted her mask that was resting on her chin and looked at Jeong-woo.
I have a small face, so you can only see my eyes.
With her round and lively eyes, she formed a bright smile. Jeong-woo, seemingly captivated by her face that could be seen even with just a part of it behind the mask, became dazed and had a vacant expression. Something thats beautiful, even in part, is beautiful.
As Yoon Yi-seol passed by the van in the courtyard, she carefully examined the broadcastingpany logo and tilted her head.
Its strange. This channel only does cooking-rted variety shows. Didnt they say it was for coverage earlier?
Well, I heard a little bit from my mother too.
Yoon Yi-seol nced at Jeong-woo yfully.
Its awkward when the manageres out like this.
Im sorry.
Do it properly. Otherwise, youll get cut off.
With her yful tone andughter, Jeong-woos mood softened. After experiencing the celebrity and market scenes together, having conversations like friends, and working as her manager, he found this job enjoyable even if he did it every day.
If I get cut off, Ill go back to being a fan. Can you handle that?
Psh. You cant even handle being a fan properly. You dont even know my name. You dont know my songs. You cant even find your way around the market, and you subtly make fun of me.
Yoon Yi-seol yfullyined, and Jeong-woos face became more serious.
It seems like your true personality is starting to show, Yi-seol.
Yoon Yi-seol hesitated. It was meant to be apliment about her liveliness, but now she seemed embarrassed. Jeong-woos lips gently curved upwards.
Thank you foring to such a small event today. I appreciate it.
Yoon Yi-seol quietly turned her head towards the entrance on the first floor.
Were checklist buddies, right? Later, if I call you, Jeong-woo, help me once. If this kind of volunteer work doesnt burden you.
I promise.
We made a promise.
As they opened the door, the savory aroma of anchovy broth filled the air.
Wow, it smells delicious.
Yoon Yi-seol took off her shoes and entered the house, casually greeting Park Soo-chan and Shin Ki-joon who were eating noodles on one side. They exchanged light nods of greeting with her while wearing her mask.
Yoon Yi-seol approached the kitchen located in one corner of the spacious living room. Two middle-aged women were busy working.
Maam, this is a variety of meat. Should I put it in the refrigerator?
As Yoon Yi-seol suddenly appeared, Hong Ji-suk, who was standing in front of the gas range, turned her head.
In response to Hong Ji-suks gaze, which seemed to question whose daughter she was, Yoon Yi-seol touched her mask and hesitated.
Oh, by the way, I um
Just as she was about to take off her mask, Jeong-woo quickly approached and grabbed her wrist, lowering her hand. Jeong-woo slightly shook his head to Yoon Yi-seol, indicating not to worry, and spoke to Hong Ji-suk.
Mom, shes my friend. She came to help for a moment, so dont pay attention to her. Its not a misunderstanding, so dont ask any questions.
Yoon Yi-seols pupils widened as she confirmed that Jeong-woo was his mother. Caught off guard by their sudden encounter, she was taken aback, but Hong Ji-suk showed no noticeable change in expression.
Oh, Jeong-woo. Your girlfriend? You brought her for the event.
On the other hand, Im Geum-hee, the chairwoman of the womens association who was washing dishes at the sink, turned her head in surprise.
Dont misunderstand. Dont scare my friend.
While Jeong-woo denied it emphatically, Yoon Yi-seol stood silently next to him, leaning against him without saying a word. Jeong-woo thought he should quickly resolve the awkward situation for her and said.
Lets start organizing the groceries.
As Jeong-woo spread out the ingredients he had bought, Yoon Yi-seol assisted him by putting them in the refrigerator.
Im Geum-hee leaned close to Hong Ji-suk.
They seem close. It looks good.
At thisment, Hong Ji-suks gaze turned towards Yoon Yi-seol.
Im jealous. Chan also brought his girlfriend earlier. Theyre really lucky.
Stop talking nonsense. Just prepare the dishes. The charcoal team will be back soon.
Despite being happy, she has quite the temper.
After finishing to organize, Jeong-woo spoke to Hong Ji-suk.
Mom, were hungry, so please make the noodles quickly.
Wait, its almost cooked.
As the water in the pot with the thin noodles started to boil, Hong Ji-suk added a little cold water. Once the foam settled, she skillfully stirred the noodles with chopsticks, showcasing the expertise of an experienced housewife. Jeong-woo, who quietly observed her skillful movements, suddenly remembered something and asked.
Oh, Mom. What kind of shoot is it that theyreing from the cable channel?
Is it Delicious Treat? Theyre filming a cookingpetition event hereter. Dont make a scene with the neighborhood men, eating and drinking like crazy. Just stay quiet.
What do you mean, make a scene? Its your son. And there are guests here.
Dont worry about it? You worry?
Ugh.
Jeong-woo nced at Yoon Yi-seol to gauge her reaction, but she didnt seem to be overly concerned. He chuckled, finding it amusing to see her only smiling in response to his words.
Curious about the shooting news, Jeong-woo became intrigued and asked.
A cookingpetition? Who ispeting against whom?
As Hong Ji-suk remained quiet, Im Geum-hee smiled brightly and answered instead.
Jeong-woo, your mom is the representative of our neighborhood.
Mom?
Jeong-woo looked at Hong Ji-suk with astonished eyes.
Mom, going on TV? And as the main host? Unbelievable. Should I call Aunt too?
Suddenly, Hong Ji-suks palm flew towards Jeong-woo, who was singing with a teasing tone.
Dont act all high and mighty. Whats the big deal about some unknown broadcasting station?
Its not like its a national broadcast, but nowadays, so many people watch things on the inte. By any chance, do you know who Yoon Yi-seol is?
Who?
Oh, seriously, you dont know. Shes my friend. Remember that.
Yoon Yi-seol, who was listening, lowered her head shyly.
After a while
Two bowls were ced on a tray, containing a steaming brown broth and in white noodles. A small te with seasoned soy sauce mixed with sesame oil was also ced on the tray. As Yoon Yi-seol saw the dish filled with sliced kimchi, she swallowed her saliva.
Lets eat in the inner room. Its morefortable. Mom, Ill eat ande back.
As Jeong-woo carried the tray and left, Yoon Yi-seol bowed deeply to Hong Ji-suk and Im Geum-hee before following him.
They arrived at a yroom.
Yoon Yi-seol immediately knew the purpose of this room as she saw a set of ying cards on a spread-out nket in one corner.
The tray was ced on a small table.
Dig in. Even though it doesnt look fancy, it tastes good.
Ill enjoy it!
Yoon Yi-seol, who had taken off her furry hat and mask, began to slurp the noodles. She emptied the delicious bowl so quickly that sweat formed on her forehead, and after setting down her chopsticks, she spoke.
What should we do now?
We can rest. Once everyonees back, well clean the neighborhood and prepare the feast together. Yi-seol, can you cook?
Um
Yoon Yi-seol thought she couldnt lie and honestly expressed herself.
Its either edible or inedible when I cook. It usually turns out to be one of the two.
Wow, thats scary.
Seeing Yoon Yi-seols wide-eyed reaction, Jeong-woo waved his hand.
No, Im not teasing you. Im saying that Im also terrible at cooking. I cant even boil ramen properly. Even the ss president sometimes makes fun of me.
Once the food enters your stomach, its all the same, right? Isnt the taste the most important thing?
Youre right.
Finding unexpectedmon ground, the two of them smiled. Jeong-woo folded the empty bowl and stood up.
Later, Yi-seol, you can assist in the kitchen. It will be more convenient than wandering around with a broom in hand. If you attract unnecessary attention and all the neighborhood kids gather, we wont be able to do the cleaning.
What about Jeong-woo?
Ill be in and out. Ill mainly run errands for the president. But around 4 oclock, when the TV filming starts, Ill quickly slip away.
After briefly contemting, Yoon Yi-seol nodded her head.
Shin Ki-joon was filming the neighborhood from the rooftop of a small building with a sign that read Longevity Nursing Home.
The houses were tightly packed together, clinging to the steep slope. The narrow alleyways beneath the eaves were so cramped that only one person could pass through. Children, grandmothers, and men walked along the streets, each with their own voices. Such ces, where the stories of time could be felt just by filming, were notmon even in Seoul.
The neighborhood is quite chaotic, isnt it?
Park Soo-chan handed a cup of hot coffee to Shin Ki-joon from below. Shin Ki-joon, receiving the paper cup, nodded his head.
Its quiet and nice. Theres also a walking path behind.
Before this park was built, there were a lot of troublemakers around here.
Park Soo-chan took a sip of coffee and pointed to the stairs near Jeong-woos house.
Especially over there. Jeong-woos father was among them
Hey.
Jeong-woo, who had just climbed up to the rooftop, interrupted Park Soo-chans words. Park Soo-chan asked Jeong-woo while leaning on the railing.
Did you have a good date with Yoon Yi-seol?
A date?
Jeong-woo had a bewildered expression, so Park Soo-chan poked him in the side as if asking why he was acting that way.
No matter how much of an angelic celebrity Yoon Yi-seol may be, why would shee to this neighborhood with no connections? Its because of you, dimwit.
Jeong-woo shook his head, rolling his tongue in response to Park Soo-chans clueless remark. They were friends who did things together, like going through a checklist. Even though he wanted to insist that it was a rtionship beyond that, they had only encountered each other a mere three times.
Park Soo-chan crumpled the empty coffee cup and threw it into the nearby trash bin.
What should we do now?
Cleaning.
Here? The building is already clean.
No, heeeeere.
When Jeong-woo drew a line from one point to another in the alley, Park Soo-chan was astonished.
Did you call me to be your servant or something?
Youre not just any servant, but a close friend who doesnt mind doing servant-like work. Shin Ki-joon has worked hard enough, so he can do whatever he wants.
Shin Ki-joon smiled and reassured them before focusing on filming the neighborhood scenery.
Park Soo-chan snorted and said, I endure it because I get to see Yoon Yi-seols face.
Not because you want to take a picture togetherter? To show off in our group chat. Im not your temporary manager today, am I?
When Jeong-woo subtly asked, Park Soo-chan immediately asked, Is it okay, Manager Han Jeong-woo?
No. I refuse on days when I havent done celebrity makeup. I wasnt prepared to receivepliments.
Youre so mean!
Yoon Yi-seol sat in one corner of the kitchen with her eyes filled with tears. A single tear rolled down her cheek.
Sniffling, she looked up at the ceiling, gathered her determination, and raised her hand.
Chopping green onions.
The task of preparing the green onions to apany the beef radish soup for fifty people was truly a tear-inducing job.
Ouch, Im done.
Yoon Yi-seol proudly looked at the bowl filled with neatly chopped green onions.
Suddenly, her movement was interrupted as a hand grabbed her wrist to stop her from wiping her eyes with her hands stained with green onion juice.
Wiping your eyes with hands covered in green onion juice?
Ah.
Yoon Yi-seol gratefully took the tissue that the person handed her and looked hurriedly at Hong Ji-sook, who was returning to the gas range.
Thank you.
You dont have to be so meticulous with the chopping. Theres no one here who cares since were all eating together.
Still.
Are you just going to chop all day? Finish quickly and take a rest.
Its okay. Its kind of fun. What should we do next?
Yoon Yi-seol, with eyes that had cleared from the tears, smiled like a crescent moon. Hong Ji-sook, who silently observed Yoon Yi-seol, a friend of Jeong-woo who could focus andplete the assigned tasks, pointed to the potatoes soaking in the sink.
When youre stir-frying, just thinly slice ten of them, okay?
Four!
With that, Yoon Yi-seol picked up the potatoes and sat at the table, while Im Geum-hee, who was making kimchi pancakes,ughed.
No matter how I look at it, you seem like a newlywed. Youre like a kind mother-inw, and Sook-ja, youre like a sister-inw. Isnt that right, Soo-yeong?
In agreement, Lee Sook-ja, the head of the neighborhood womens association, and Jeon Soo-yeong, the vice president,ughed together.
No need for useless chatter. Everyone, chat less and focus on cooking!
As Hong Ji-sook raised her voice, Im Geum-hee chuckled and flipped the kimchi pancake.
Yoon Yi-seol thought that the atmosphere wasnt bad. Perhaps it was because of her constant desire to get closer to Jeong-woos world, her face turnedpletely red, but she was d she had a mask to hide it.
Oh, Mrs. Hong Ji-sook?
A female staff member from the broadcasting station entered the kitchen wearing sses. Hong Ji-sook turned her head.
Whats the matter?
Im FD Oh Seung-ah. I brought this for you, a delicious treat. I have something to discuss regarding the shoot. This is a copy of the cue sheet.
Oh Seung-ah ced several sheets of A4 paper on one side of the table.
Take a look and familiarize yourself with the progress. Ill be here in front, so feel free to ask if you have any questions.
Having said that, FD walked towards the living room.
As it reached 3 oclock in the afternoon, the first-floor living room was bustling with the setting of lights and cameras by the staff members from the broadcasting station.
Yoon Yi-seol felt oddlyfortable because it was a familiar sight, but the mothers in the kitchen asionally became absent-minded and watched the scene in awe.
Cue sheet?
Hong Ji-sook, who had lowered the gas stove and sat at the table, stared at the document for a while.
What is this saying? BS. Opening. One, thirty.
Yoon Yi-seol, who was slowly cutting the potatoes into pieces, turned her head as Hong Ji-sook seemed to be hearing the word cue sheet for the first time.
BS stands for bust shot. It means that the host will give an opening statement for 1 minute and 30 seconds, and during that time, the camera will focus on the upper part of the chest.
As Yoon Yi-seol exined in a steady voice, Hong Ji-sooks head turned.
Is that so?
Also, Mom, you should look at the rundown for the cast members, not just that. FD kindly gave us everything.
Seeing Hong Ji-sook flipping through the pages and still not finding the right one, Yoon Yi-seol couldnt help but approach her and point out each item.
Here it is. Thepetition consists of 5 rounds, with a best-of-3 wins. The cooking theme is free. Each round is 20 minutes. Oh my, the judges will be local elders.
This time, it was a scene where the good daughter-inw exined something to her mother-inw, and the other women in the kitchen covered their mouths andughed.
Continuing to examine the cue sheet, Yoon Yi-seol found it important and read it aloud.
As for the professional chef, we need to rmend someone who seems to be the worst cook in this neighborhood to cook with us. Mom, you can choose anyone.
Someone who seems to be the worst cook? Geum-hee?
Im Geum-hee lifted the spat in surprise.
Oh, sis! My husband loves my cooking!
Thats why you guys are a good match.
While Hong Ji-sook and the womens association president bantered, Yoon Yi-seol thought of herself and Jeong-woo and smiled inwardly.
The thought crossed her mind that if one of them helps that chef, her mother might win. Of course, its unlikely, but still.
I think Ive exined everything roughly.
Sorry, what was his name? Jeong-woo mentioned it vaguely earlier. He said not to worry about it.
Yoon Yi-seol smiled and answered Hong Ji-sooks question.
Its Yoon Yi-seol.
Yeah, Yi-seol. Since I dont know much about broadcasting, can you help meter? These women here thought they could just watch the cameras, but theyck taste, unlike you.
Me?
It was an unexpected suggestion that made her eyes widen.
You can bring in one more person.
Well I cant cook. Ill just be a nuisance.
It doesnt matter. Home-cooked meals are all the same.
She was already going topete against an expert, and now she was being chosen. Yoon Yi-seol felt her tension skyrocket. If she fails, she wont have the face to see Jeong-woo.
Oh, the atmosphere for filming.
Jeong-woo, with a broom slung over his shoulder, entered the yard and let out a small exmation. Broadcast station vehicles filled the yard, equipped with all the necessary equipment.
President, were done.
At Jeong-woos voice, Kim Kwang-sik, who had been talking to another man, excused himself and turned around to approach them.
Youve worked hard. If it werent for you and your friends, I dont know when I would have finished alone.
Were helping each other out. President, youve helped with everything in our house, including the windows.
Kim Kwang-sik looked warmly at Jeong-woo and asked.
You made samgyeopsal, right?
Thats to celebrate my job.
Im happy that youre doing well, Jeong-woo. I thought youd only be good at making wraps when you grow up.
Jeong-woo smiled coolly, as if in agreement, while the president patted his back in an affectionate manner.
Youve grown up quite a bit, Jeong-woo, with a clear mind.
Yoon Yi-seol was about to go inside to see something, but her steps involuntarily stopped when she noticed the man standing next to the president.
Dressed as a chef. Traditional market.
Oh?
It was the man who had intercepted the cod that Jeong-woo had carefully chosen.
Startled, when Jeong-woo looked at him, Hyeon-min recognized that he had recognized his fame and nodded with a warm smile.
Im Chef Hyeon-min. Nice to meet you.
Ah, yes
That man was the one who would have a cooking showdown with his mother today. Jeong-woo felt that the world was truly small, he bowed his head, and entered the building.
Hyeon-min asked Kim Kwang-sik, who had returned.
President, do you have anyone you can rmend? It would be great if its a young person who canmunicate well.
Stay put. Someone young who cant cook, is that it?
Yes.
Kim Kwang-sik pointed towards the direction where Jeong-woo had just disappeared.
Hes the perfect fit. Unlike my mom, he cant even boil ramen properly. Last month, when I was drinking with him at the rice wine house, Mr. Heo spilled it all. He boiled ramen, but there was no soup. He said he wanted to have hangover soup, but he used the noodles instead.
Hyeon-min chuckled at the pitiful and absurd story and said.
If you ask me to rmend someone during the shootter, you can introduce him at that time.
Well, youre being fair.
A showdown should have that kind of vor.
Chapter 52
Chapter 52
8.The Chemistry Behind Cooking (5)
Jeong-woo, who just entered the living room, couldnt find a moment to rest his feet due to the busy scene inside. He licked his lips, captivated by the bustling sight.
Except for the long table set with a festive feast and the cushions, everywhere he looked, there were broadcasting equipment and staff members.
Near the window, there were four cameras, each the size of a cannonball, seemingly set up as a broadcasting stage.
There were also several small cameras, resembling what Shin Ki-joon used to carry around, which were initially thought to berge cameras.
So, this is a broadcast. My goodness, my mother must be on fire. Should I sneak in an advertisement for Jisooks Restaurant? Oh, but would that vite advertising regtions?
As he took off his shoes, a woman holding a sketchbook approached him.
Hello. Youre a resident of this neighborhood, right?
Yes, thats correct.
Im Hwang Ji-hyeon, the author of Delicious Treats. Can I interview you for a moment? Weve been doing interviews with the peopleing in and out.
Jeong-woo nodded in response to Hwangs request.
Standing in the corridor between the living room and another room, the VJ immediately turned on the camera. Hwang started with some basic questions.
Is your house nearby? Are you helping your mother in the kitchen today?
Yes, thats right. Ive been participating in this event for quite some time. I started it in middle school to fulfill mymunity service hours, and now
While he wanted to exin the profound reasons behind his continuous involvement, it felt like a story that should be told by his mother or someone like the president who had been doing this consistently.
Jeong-woo straightforwardly revealed his reasons.
If I dont participate, my mother wont give me food.
Perhaps due to the unexpected response, the VJ filming the scene chuckled. Hwang, the author, also smiled and asked.
What kind of work do you help with?
I do mostly what the elderly people in the neighborhood request. They say those who have made a mess are good at cleaning up. My younger brother and I can clean up an entire alley in no time if we have brooms, so the president usually assigns us to cleaning duties.
At that moment, a grandmother with white hair emerged from the nap room across the corridor. When the grandmother saw Jeong-woo, she smiled warmly and approached him.
Jeong-woo, have you arrived?
Yes, just sweeping the path. Is Doo-chi behaving?
He rushed straight to your house after eating. He must be hungry.
Again? Its still winter in the neighborhood, but that troublemaker already thinks its spring.
The two people exchangedughter amicably, captured by the VJs camera. Seeing Hwang, who was curious about their conversation, Jeong-woo pointed to Grandma Choi Geum-soon.
You can ask her directly. Ill finish the interview here. My mother seems busy.
In truth, it was Yoon Yi-seol catching his attention, who was busy assisting Hong Ji-sook rather than his mom. However, there was no need to highlight that in front of the camera.
As Jeong-woo disappeared into the living room, Hwang turned to the VJ and spoke.
He has a peculiar way with words, dont you? Like someone ustomed to broadcasting.
Yes, indeed. He even look directly at the lens.
I should make a note of that.
Hwang picked up her notebook.
In variety shows that involve regr people as participants, simply pointing the camera at them often leads to awkwardness and stumbling. Its difficult to capture good scenes. Thats why these pre-interviews were crucial preparations.
Jeong-woo arrived in the kitchen and approached Yoon Yi-seol, who was focused on dividing side dishes onto paper tes.
With her hair tightly tied back and wearing a white mask and a clean white apron, she seemed like a professional nutritionist at first nce.
Im here.
Yoon Yi-seol turned her head at Jeong-woos voice and greeted him with a joyful expression.
Its almost 4 oclock, so we should go now.
Jeong-woo,e this way.
Yoon Yi-seol grabbed Jeong-woos arm and pulled him toward a corner of the kitchen where the staff couldnt be seen.
Your mother suggested that we appear together in a cookingpetitionter.
What?
In a way, you could say Im a sous chef?
Seeing Jeong-woos widened eyes, Yoon Yi-seol made a hushing gesture.
Yi-seol, you shouldnt appear on this kind of show. Its not a music channel, its a cooking channel.
I already talked to manager Ji and received advice. Please pretend to be my manager until manager Ji arrives. Can you do that?
Well, its not a difficult request, but why?
Um Just go with the flow? Itll be fun.
Seeing Yoon Yi-seol was unexpectedly enjoying the idea, Jeong-woo nodded without saying anything. Then, a sudden thought crossed his mind.
What if theres a 50-50 chance of making a dish I cant eat?
Your mother says you have the knack for it.
Really?
Broadcasting sense.
There was even room for joking. Jeong-woo thought there must be a smile on Yoon Yi-seols face beneath her mask.
Yi-seol, heres the Japchae!
Yes!
Hong Ji-sook casually called Yoon Yi-seols name and extended a round frying pan containing freshly stir-fried Japchae.
After leaving the remark, Ill see youter, Yoon Yi-seol hurriedly ran over, epted the pan, and began dividing it onto tes.
Whats going on? Why do they seem so close?
Jeong-woo tilted his head. Since the kitchen was already crowded, he stepped back for now.
By the way, a showdown with that chef?
Feeling a vague uneasiness, Jeong-woo picked up his phone and searched for the name Hyun Min.
Graduated from the Department of Culinary Science at Hyejeon University. Served as a chef and manager at Hilton Hotel. Currently running a private restaurant.
In addition to the notable achievements, there was a dazzling track record. Winning difficult cookingpetitions in Italy, appearing on multiple broadcasts. In particr, he served as a judge in a cooking survival show that endedst year.
I lost, I lost.
It was evident just by looking at them. This was Yang Min tormenting Hyun Min under the guise of a showdown.
Jeong-woo clicked his tongue, knowing that he would soon be in trouble with Hyun Min. At that moment, he nced at the two people who were clearly destined for trouble.
As Yoon Yi-seol continued to transfer the Japchae, the microscopic symbols of chemistry began to appear in the world of slippery noodles covered in sauce.
Crisp pieces of green onions and oil, seared to perfection.
Thebination of amino acids from the proteins and carbonyl groups from the sugar reacted, emanating a captivating vor. Carrots, onions, and shiitake mushrooms intertwined to create an appetizing aroma and vibrant color.
The sesame seeds scattered sparsely within the Japchae revealed the elegance of unsaturated fatty acids, even within the dish.
Gulp
Despite the imagined chemistry of aroma and taste, saliva couldnt help but flow.
When ites to cooking or chemical reactions
Jeong-woo!
Jeong-woos fantasy world vanished at the sound of Park Soo-chans voice.
Hey, did you hear? Hyun Min is appearing on todays shoot.
Entering the living room, Park Soo-chans mouth fell open as he nced at the kitchen filled with cameras.
We were nning to go right after dinner, but I guess we have to stay and watch.
Just go.
Why?
Jeong-woo looked at Yoon Yi-seol. She had finished transferring the Japchae to a te and sent him a gaze that seemed to ask, Everything okay? Jeong-woo shook his head.
He was concerned that she might face difficulties in an unfamiliar entertainment setting. That was his worry.
Well, if theres a way to help, we should.
The two cameras focused on the staff member holding the te.
Two, three!
[0107, Take 1-1]
As the te closed with a sound, the camera turned its attention to Hyun-min, wearing a chefs hat.
A delicious feast! Yes, today we are here in a vige in Seongbuk-gu, Seoul for a Lunar New Year special.
Hyun-mins gaze shifted to the living room, where a beautifully set table was disyed.
Do you see these tasty dishes? I didnt make them myself, but they were skillfully prepared by the womens association in this vige. Pleasee in, elders!
As elderly grandfathers and grandmothers began to enter the table with cushions, Hyun-min bowed respectfully.
While waiting near the kitchen for serving duties, Jeong-woo nced at the filming location.
Seeing the actual broadcasting being filmed up close, everything was fascinating to him. The two makeshift cooking stations were filled with ingredients and cooking utensils, but the only tool Jeong-woo knew the proper name for was a knife.
-Today, rather than a feast, we will have a cookingpetition between a mother who is responsible for the taste of these festive dishes and our chef.
With his handsome appearance and gentle remarks, Hyun-min exuded a charming aura befitting a professional chef and entertainer. Upon closer inspection, it seemed he had undergone celebrity makeup.
My mother doesnt look nervous at all. Is she naturally suited for broadcasting?
Hong Ji-suk, wearing the same hat as Hyun-min, was introduced and joined the FD (Floor Director) on stage.
Hwang, the writer who had been crouching under the camera, held up a sketchbook with the word Apuse written on it, raising it above her head.
The local men who took their seats in front of the table, close to the stage, shouted, Hong Madam, do well! Among them, familiar faces could be seen.
The rice shop owner, the supermarket owner, and the neighbor next door. The trio known for drinking heavily once a month were all there.
Jeong-woo also shouted, Mom, fighting! and sent a small show of support with his eyes to Yoon Yi-seol, who stood on one side to assist.- Hello, may I ask for an introduction maam?
- I operate a Baekban (traditional Korean set meal) restaurant near the market. Im Hong Ji-suk.
- Ive actually tried the food there, and it was really delicious. Especially the beef radish soup. Oh, I wonder if you have any secret recipes of your own?
- Its not that amazing of a taste. Was it really that delicious? Thank you, though.
As Hong Ji-suk calmly evaluated her own food, Hyun-min, who was about to praise her, was slightly taken aback.
Jeong-woo, even though he was in front of the camera, couldnt help but chuckle at his mothers manner of speaking that was so familiar to him.- Before thepetition, we are nning to have a sous chef. I heard that you have already chosen someone. Would you like to introduce the sous chef briefly?
The camera focused on Yoon Yi-seol, who was standing on one side of the stage. Jeong-woo had expected her to keep her head down and remain silent without taking off her mask, so he was surprised by her next move.- Im Yoon Yi-seol. Please take care of me.
- Ah, Miss Yoon Yi-seol. Nice to you are?
Curious if she was a celebrity with the same name, Hyun-min asked, and Yoon Yi-seol lowered her mask slightly and smiled at the camera.- Yes, its the same Yoon Yi-seol.
Confident, isnt she?
Jeong-woo felt a slight surprise, but Hyun-mins astonishment was even greater.- Y-Yoon Yi-seol? What is this, PD? A surprise appearance?
Even the PD, who smoothly delivered the script, was taken aback by the unexpected appearance of a top star who rarely appeared on public channels, let alone cable channels.
The PD and writer, who were supposed to support Hyun-min, couldnt utter a word and could only stare at Yoon Yi-seol.
Seung-ah, the editing room!
At the PDs shout, FD Oh Seung-ah quickly ran and pped the te with her palm, bringing the filming to a brief pause.
Yoon Yi-seol turned her gaze towards the PD and spoke.
-Ive been secretly helping out in ces where I know people. I figured you would eventually find out if I kept moving around.
-If I had known Yoon Yi-seol was here, I would have changed the concept itself
-Should we just reshoot it as if you magically appeared right now? Dont worry too much since its a special episode and youre participating. Oh, theres my manager!
Jeong-woo, who had been silently observing the situation, raised his head at Yoon Yi-seols call.
Me?
Yoon Yi-seol looked at Jeong-woo with an expression that said, Yes, its you. Jeong-woo squeezed through the lighting staff and approached the PD, sitting next to the camera, and nodded respectfully.
Yoon Yi-seol, confirming Jeong-woos approach, spoke as if she had been waiting.
You can discuss the details with my manager. And this is what my manager told me
Jeong-woo nced at Yoon Yi-seol with a questioning look, but she calmly continued speaking.
Volunteering here is my personal matter, so it doesnt matter if its briefly shown on the broadcast. However, if you mention or advertise the program under the name of Yoon Yi-seol, youll need to follow the proper procedures. Do you understand what I mean?
Jeong-woo didnt fully understand, but the PD understood and nodded.
Her appearance fee, which was clearly beyond what a cable TV production could afford. Yet, they couldnt just give up on filming or not shoot Yoon Yi-seol.
In hindsight, her proposal was reasonable.
Just a slight hint of her presence would create buzz and greatly help with the viewership.
Moreover, with Yoon Yi-seols presence, they could create a different atmosphere even if it was a concept without her.
Hyun-shi.
The PDs eyes sparkled as he looked at Hyun-min.
Can you continue from here? Without getting nervous.
Well
As Yoon Yi-seol put her mask back on and stood in her original position, Hyun-min nodded.
Understood.
After a brief moment of chaos, the filming resumed.
Jeong-woo remained standing next to the PD, watching the filming up close.
While the FD adjusted the camera angle to match the editing room, the PD turned his gaze to Jeong-woo.
I was genuinely surprised. I cant believe Yoon Yi-seol goind something like this so secretly. Nice to meet you, Im PD Choi Chang-gyu.
Im Han Jeong-woo.
After officially shaking hands with PD Choi, it was clear that he was ying the role of a manager who couldnt be left out.
Hwang, the writer who conducted the earlier interview, looked at Jeong-woo with an intrigued expression.
It seems Yoon Yi-seol was volunteering in the neighborhood where the manager lives?
Well thats right. Haha.
The half-joke turned into a seriousment.
By the way, we captured the footage of the dog Doo-chi that Jeong-woo mentioned earlier.
Will Doo-chi also be on the show?
He was cute. His story fits well with the atmosphere of this neighborhood.
While talking with Hwang, Jeong-woo noticed Hong Ji-sook. He made a gesture to his mother, who was looking at him with a face that seemed to say, What are you up to?, indicating to follow Yoon Yi-seols lead.
Click.
The te moved, and the FD left. Hyun-min, taking a deep breath, continued thementary.
Well, the evaluation of the cookingpetition. We will select five elderly individuals here to receive a very subjective judgment.
After saying this, Hyun-min respectfully bowed towards the elderly individuals as a way of requesting their cooperation.
This time, I will choose a resident from this neighborhood as the assistant chef. For the sake of fairness, this person will be responsible for the main dish while I act as the assistant.
Thinking that this would not greatlypromise the fairness of the rules, Jeong-woos gaze involuntarily turned towards his mother.
Isnt this about winning? Our neighborhoods elderly folks are huge fans of Moms cooking.
Yoon Yi-seol whispered something to Hong Ji-sook, who simply nodded without much of a different reaction. They seemed to already know.
Have they be really close?
Hyun-min turned his head towards Kim Ban-jang, who was watching from the opposite side of the living room.
President, who did you say is the least talented cook in this vige earlier?
Hes right there.
Can you zoom in on him?
Jeong-woo. Its you, right? You.
Upon Kim Ban-jangs call, Jeong-woos head turned as he stood between the staff.
Yes?
As soon as he answered, two cameras focused on Jeong-woos face. The warm light from the lighting descended, capturing everyones attention in an instant.
Oh, president
Hyun-min smiled and gestured for Jeong-woo toe closer.
Come here, dont worry.
Lets cook together.
Hesitatingly, Jeong-woo looked at Yoon Yi-seol.
What on earth
Her eyes conveyed a mix of amusement and confusion, while his eyes were filled with both chaos and bewilderment, intertwining in aplex manner.
Chapter 53
Chapter 53
8.The Chemistry Behind Cooking (6)
1 minuteter.
Jeong-woo stood in front of the makeshift cooking station wearing the attire of a chef brought by the FD. There were eight knives disyed next to the cutting board.
There were fans and pots whose purpose was unknown, while the digital scale and measuring cup were the only things that felt familiar.
What am I doing here?
The nned evening was for Yoon Yi-seol to go home, and he would join the three old men over there for some pork belly with soju.
Hyun-min, who had briefly conversed with the PD, approached Jeong-woo and kindly ced his hand on his tense shoulder, speaking gently.
You dont need to feel discouraged. If you follow the prescribed method and measurements, I believe that anyone can cook.
I might betray your expectations. I feel like Ill disappoint you today.
That wont happen.
Confidently dering, Hyun-min began selecting the first ingredient next to Jeong-woo. Speaking as if having a conversation with the VJ who was filming up close, he started speaking.
The opposing team is making seafood green onion pancakes (haemul pajeon), so well make beef and scallion skewers with our special sauce.
Upon hearing Hyun-mins words, expressing his desire to showcase his skills as a chef while maintaining amon ingredient theme, Jeong-woos gaze shifted to the makeshift cooking station on the opposite side.
His mother was selecting ingredients, and Yoon Yi-seol waved discreetly.
I have to work hard, I cant give up.
What a twist of fate. If he was chosen, intentionally sabotaging the dish was out of the question, but he also didnt want his mother and Yoon Yi-seol to lose.
Amidst his dilemma, Hyun-min gave his first instruction.
Well marinate it, Mr. Jeong-woo.
Marinate? Whats that?
Its like seasoning the meat. But it has a greater effect. Since we have ingredients for five servings
2 ounces of soy sauce, 1 ounce of toasted sesame oil, 20 grams of sugar, minced garlic, and 7 grams of grated ginger. Hyun-min provided the precise measurements.
Oh?
As the clean instructions fell, Jeong-woo effortlessly moved, dividing the ingredients on a small ss te. In the meantime, Hyun-min swiftly sliced the piece of beef and handed the bowl to Jeong-woo.
Youre quick, huh? Now, coat the meat with all of that. Mix it well.
This task was also not difficult at all. As the mixed ingredients covered the surface of the beef, Jeong-woo observed it, giving it a glimpse of the chemical world.
The oilponents mixed on the surface had firmly adhered to the moisture of the meat itself, creating a solidyer.
Meanwhile, molecules with the fragrance of ginger, appearing to be cineole, gingerol, and gingerberry, were prating and relentlessly attacking the gamey odor of the beef.
So, youre trying to maintain the juiciness and remove the gamey smell with the marinade?
You know it well.
Thats right.
See. Cooking isnt that difficult.
Since the principle itself was chemistry, it felt familiar instead.
After marinating the meat, Hyun-min wrapped it with stic wrap and ced it in an icebox. This time, he ced a wide saucepan on a portable gas stove.
Well make a sauce with a hondaise base and add orange for a refreshing taste. The ingredients are
Under Hyun-mins gentle instructions, Jeong-woo found and ced the ingredients urately, as if he was possessed.
There were 18 grams of a red vegetable resembling shallot peel, 2 grams of whole peppercorns, and 3 ounces of vinegar in the pan.
Water, 3 ounces too.
Having a sense of proportion, there was no need to measure the water precisely from a water bottle. Once he became familiar, he could estimate by sight, just like mixingpounds.
Chef, what do we do now?
Youve already put everything in?
This is better than I expected. Oh, you want more to do?
While the water in the heated saucepan was bubbling, Hyun-min cracked 6 eggs and quickly separated the yolks. He then ced them next to Jeong-woo.
When the water is almost gone, strain it and pour it into this bowl.
Okay.
Suddenly, the sauce preparation flowed smoothly as if they were in sync.
Now keep whisking with a whisk. Quickly.
Like this?
The amount of butter
While Hyun-min briefly turned his head, Jeong-woo swiftly sliced off the butter with a knife.
Is this about 18 ounces?
Thats right. Did you weigh it on the scale just now?
Ah yes.
With my eyes.
While Jeong-woo continued to mix the sauce, incorporating the butter, Hyun-min took out the red oranges and swiftly peeled them with the smallest knife among the 8 knives.
Squeezing the juice into the whisked sauce, Hyun-min raised his head with a satisfied expression.
Is cooking faster than you expected? The meat needs another 5 minutes to mature, but I have nothing to do. Jeong-woo, what about you? Are you okay? Youre doing well.
Its just that this doesnt feel like cooking to me. You added 1.5 ounces of that juice.
Huh? How did you know? Your estimation skills are good.
Jeong-woo chuckled and spoke. He couldnt help but think that the kitchen with a professional chef who cooked only with precise measurements felt like aboratory.
We still have time, so we can even smoke it. Take a break when the sauce thickens, Jeong-woo.
As Jeong-woo watched Hyun-min start setting up the small grill, he turned his head, wondering what the opposing team was doing.
-Oh, sorry.
Yoon Yi-seol, who was mixing flour and water for the pancake, identally sttered the batter on VJs clothes, apologizing.
Hong Ji-sook was thinly slicing the squid next to them.
-Just mix it slowly until there are no lumps.
-Yes.
Yoon Yi-seol smiled at Hong Ji-sook, who returned a faint smile.
Jeong-woo felt strange watching the harmonious mother and daughter.
Shes my mother
He couldnt remember thest time Hong Ji-sook had spoken to him so gently. Was it when he got epted to college?
It had been almost 7 years. This intense feeling must be jealousy.
Jeong-woo, now you need to taste it. Salt, pepper, cayenne pepper. You have to mix these three in the right proportion
This time, it was an order to mix a very subtle amount ording to personal taste, not a precise measurement.
Chef, I really have no confidence in this. The taste of food depends heavily on the sense of seasoning. My taste buds are useless.
Trust your senses. When I look at it, Jeong-woo, you have talent. The vice-captain must have been mistaken.
Jeong-woos chest swelled with Hyun-mins continued praise. He thought he was just good at cooking, but he turned out to be unexpectedly kind. He didnt realize that it might feel even more pronouncedpared to his stoic mother.
This isnt how it should be.
Jeong-woo opened his eyes wide and looked into the microcosm of the sauce.
Yellow droplets of oil were softly coalescing as if they were attracting each other.
When he lightly sprinkled salt on it, the droplets that came into contact burst and some seeped through the bubbles like water.
I dont know. Its not like chemical products. I cant quite grasp it.
Since it had to be harmonious, he sprinkled it nicely for now and added the pepper. Then he tasted it with a chopstick, poking it into the sauce.
Wow.
Why are you like that?
T-The taste
Jeong-woo looked at the sauce with trembling eyes.
Its delicious. Its refreshing and savory, yet smooth.
Thats right. This sauce is hard to fail.
Perhaps this was the first sessful dish in his life. Jeong-wooughed happily, and Hyun-min ced the aged meat on the cutting board.
Jeong-woo, please chop the green onions into finger-sized pieces.
Yes.
With great care, Jeong-woo, who was determined, sliced the green onions, even though it was just one stalk. Then Hyun-min threaded the sliced green onions onto the skewers, alternating with the pieces of beef.
And thus, the first skewer waspleted.
Now, we grill it, right? This is something Im not good at.
Jeong-woo, you know in American movies, dont men often grill meat outdoors and have a beer?
Yes.
Its not difficult at all. Just put it on here, close the lid, wait for 30 seconds, flip it, and its done.
Hyun-min pointed to the grill, which was filled with heat, and smiled politely.
Jeong-woo was surprised. This handsome chef in histe thirties possessed not only skill but also the kindness to consider a novice in cooking. He was truly an attractive man.
Thanks to him, Jeong-woo couldnt help but think that cooking wasnt such a big deal.
As he nced towards the living room, he noticed the rice shop owner looking at them with an expression that seemed to say, Can I have some of that?
The image of his cruel mother asionally removing meat from the soup came to mind, ovepping with that scene.
Alright, lets do our best regardless of the oue.
As the beef touched the grill and sizzled, Jeong-woo made up his mind.
Hyun-min ced the first prototype on a small te and handed it to Jeong-woo, sprinkling sauce on top.
Try it. Jeong-woo, youve practically made it all.
Jeong-woo took a bite of the dish, which consisted of green onions, beef, and sauce.
Wow
He felt a luxurious taste that seemed like something he could only experience in an expensive restaurant, as it tantalized his taste buds and stimted his salivary nds.
Its amazing, the taste.
Hyun-mins confident face disyed an expression that seemed to say, I told you so.
Two tes were ced on the table.
As the five elderly people sat in a row, holding their chopsticks and slowly savoring the taste, Jeong-woo approached Yoon Yi-seol, who was standing in a camera-free area.
Was it worth it?
Nodding, her eyes were filled withughter.
I flipped the pancake for the first time.
You mean Yi-seol personally cooked it?
Yes, thats why Im a bit nervous.
Jeong-woo looked at Grandma, who was tearing off a corner of the seafood pancake and cing it in her mouth. Yoon Yi-seol also turned her head nervously.
-Oh, it tastes delicious.
Seeing Grandmaplimenting her, Yoon Yi-seol let out a sigh of relief.
Jeong-woo, its amazing, isnt it? Its fascinating how it turns into the dishes we usually see just by following the instructions.
Yoon Yi-seol seemed to have experienced a simr sensation to her own, creating a high-end sauce as she followed the instructions.
Wait, did I help my mom without realizing it?
Noticing flour on his forehead, Jeong-woo grabbed a towel and handed it to Yoon Yi-seol.
Why?
Its on your forehead. Theres a lot of flour.
Pointing to her small forehead covered in white powder, Jeong-woo surprised her, and she reflexively reached out to wipe it away.
Oh, what are you doing with flour on your hands?
Youre right.
Since there was even more flour on her hands, Jeong-woo naturally used the towel to wipe her forehead. Yoon Yi-seol slightly tensed her neck.
Thank you.
If Im the manager, its natural to do my job.
Thats right.
Yoon Yi-seol, with a blush on her neck, avoided Jeong-woos gaze and bowed her head.
Meanwhile, the elderly people who had finished tasting the food each chose their favorite dish and held the g in their hands.
Yi-seol, looks like the results are out.
Yoon Yi-seol raised her head, and her pupils trembled.
Hyun-min and Hong Ji-sook stood next to the table. When Producer Choi gave the signal, the elderly people raised their gs simultaneously.
Huh?
Jeong-woo, who had been watching together, let out a sigh. There were only five gs with thest name Hong. It was aplete defeat for Hyun-min.
-Its all delicious, but this is my taste.
-Pajeon is good for makgeolli (alcoholic drink, rice wine).
-This one has a hint of sweetness.
The elderly people continued with their straightforwardments.
Hyun-min, like Jeong-woo, had an incredulous expression at the results, but Hong Ji-sook remained calm.
Yahoo! Jeong-woo! Your mother won!
Yoon Yi-seol cheered and ran towards Hong Ji-sook. Watching that, Jeong-woo suddenly felt a surge ofpetitiveness that had been faint until now.
When Hong Ji-sook chose braised cod as the second dish, Hyun-min immediately dered that he would make cod skewers.
Jeong-woo, prepare the marinade. Ill continue with the preparations.
The cod, which had narrowly escaped at the market, was now on the cutting board.
Nice to meet you again. Here you are now.
With a quick eye, the cods head, body, and scales were separated by the chefs touch. Meanwhile, Jeong-woo urately gathered the ingredients called by Hyun-min.
Hyun-min, who was spreading the cod fillets on the grill, was surprised when he saw the cooking station in front of Jeong-woo.
Youve already measured everything?
I was in the zone.
About ten different ingredients, including cashew nuts, mung beans, and Thai peppers, were lined up on arge te. Jeong-woos eyes, shining with passion, were captured by the VJs camera.
20 minutester.
Two dishes were ced on the judging table.
Jeong-woo stood in the back, waiting for the results, and inwardly hoped that this time it would be different.
The skewers, which had a smoky vor and were mixed with a rare sauce called apple mango chutney, elicited admiration when tasted.
It was a wonderful meal with abination of minty spiciness and aplex bnce of sweetness and saltiness.
-Hmm, its tastier than it looks.
One of the grandfathers nodded his head.
Its fine.
Watching Jeong-woo, who was fervently engrossed with his fist clenched, Yoon Yi-seol smiled and spoke.
-Are the results ready?
As the elderly people nodded their heads, the PD gave a signal. And the gs were raised.
Why?
Once again, there were five Hong gs. Although I checked the other gs, they clearly had the name Hyun on them.
-Of course, its Hong. Her savory dishes always hit the spot.
-The radish is well-cooked.
-Whats this? Why does it taste like peri?
The subjective evaluations of the elderly people, with distinct preferences, continued. Jeong-woo, halfway bewildered by the unexpected results, looked at Hyun-min returning to the cooking station.
Jeong-woo, stay strong.
Yi-seol, you too.
Yoon Yi-seol showed a fighting gesture and walked towards Hong Ji-sook.
So, this is my mothers skill, huh?
Chapter 54
Chapter 54
8.The Chemistry Behind Cooking (7)
Jeong-woo was so curious that he lightly dipped his chopsticks into the daegujorim (braised cod) sauce left on the dining table to taste it.
Hmm?
A strong, striking saltiness hit his tongue. Along with it, the familiar aroma of seasoning that he had encountered daily in the kitchen emerged.
It was unmistakably the taste of his mothers cooking, unparalleled and distinctive.
Jeong-woos gaze turned towards the essence of that familiar taste, ced on his mothers cooking station.
Two packets of beef and anchovy broth.
That was what had captivated the elderlys ptes. Jeong-woo finally realized.
It wasnt a battle to win by creating a perfect dish. It was simply about satisfying the taste buds of those elderly individuals.
Hyun-min, standing at the cooking station, disyed an anxious expression as he contemted.
Chef.
Im sorry, Mr. Jeong-woo. The dish was perfect. It wasnt your mistake.
Well the seasoning. What if we mix this?
When Jeong-woo shook the bag of powder filled with MSG, Hyun-min let out a disappointedugh.
Im a chef who never uses that.
I know its a strange thing to say, but its for our neighborhood elderly. Their taste buds arent sophisticated.
Still, some things just cant be done.
With a firm standard, Jeong-woo felt even more determined to help.
Jeong-woo nced towards his mother, who had started cooking Stir-Fried Squid, and then turned to Hyun-min.
If we lose this time, its over. But this dish is tailored to the elderlys preferences.
Hyun-minsplexion darkened.
Theres one dish that can guarantee a win. Would you be willing to try it?
Is there such a dish?
With a sly smile, Jeong-woo covered his mouth with his hand and spoke in a low voice. Hyun-mins eyes widened as he listened.
Even so, thats?
Take a deep breath and think about it. 3-0. Would it be suitable for a TV broadcast? Isnt it too short?
Well alright. But are you sure about this?
Trust me. Theres no way it will fail.
Third evaluation session.
As it could be the final one, all the attention of the people gathered around the dining table focused on the five elderly individuals.
When the dish of stir-fried squid and vegetables, perfectly cooked with green chili peppers, was set on the table, murmurs of Its over could be heard from all around.
And then
Hyun-min, unable to even lift his face, presented a dish.
P-pork belly?
Mr. Heo, from the rice shop, jumped up and reached out his hand.
It smells just like a local butcher shop at the intersection! I want to be a judge too!
The enticing pork fat oozed out, drawing a river character () amidst the meat, and its natural juiciness was a visual that called for a shot of soju.
As soon as the evaluation began, the elderly individuals eagerly used their chopsticks to devour the pork belly dish, leaving nothing behind. Even if it was after eating the stir-fried squid.
-Chef, is there any more of this?
-Ah, I only grilled that.
-You did well. Good cooking.
-Th-thank you.
All five gs had the character Hyun on them.
Hyun-min, who had won the round, returned to the cooking station with his energy drained. Jeong-woo ced his hand on Hyun-mins shoulder, wearing a knowing expression, and offered himfort.
The elderly in the neighborhood they can be quite demanding, right?
Sigh
Jeong-woo let out a sigh and looked at Hyun-min, who seemed unable to even contemte the next dish. Suddenly, a thought came to Jeong-woo, and he spoke up.
Chef.
Yes?
What if we try to mimic the vor of the dashi seasoning using only natural ingredients? Would you be willing to use it?
Are you suggesting extracting broth-like vors from seafood? Thats a method even used in restaurants. However, it still has fundamental differencespared to MSG. Perhaps it would be better to focus on enhancing the fermentation vors or improving the texture to suit the elderlys taste buds, even if it takes more time
No.
Jeong-woo shook his head.
If it tastes exactly the same as MSG, then you can fully experience that stimting vor.
Is that even possible?
Just wait a moment.
Chemical symbols floated around in Jeong-woos mind, scattered across the cooking station and the broadcasting stage. He integrated them, recalling the form he had adjusted during a previous weekly meeting to match KG Foods new product.
Around the ck hole of nucleotides, the gxy of food additives gathered.
I think it can work. I didnt mention it earlier, but I actually work for a chemicalpany. Although its not dashi seasoning, I have also been involved in researching simr MSG alternatives.
A look of surprise shed across Hyun-mins face.
Werent you the manager of Yoon Yi-seol?
You could say I have a dual role. How about it?
Hyun-min looked at Jeong-woo anew.
The young man who was anxious andcking confidence in cooking had disappeared, reced by a confident gaze within the strange atmosphere.
Hyun-mins attention was drawn to Hong Ji-sook preparing knife-cut noodles at the opposite cooking station.
I will make New Ennd-style m chowder soup. Using the seasoning created by Mr. Jung Woo as a reference.
Then it would be more like a nursing home-style soup rather than New Ennd-style.
Their gazes crossed paths.
Ill determine the seasoning ratios. Ill have to adjust them based on instinct while observing.
Ill leave it to you.
The VJ who was filming suddenly exchanged a meaningful nce with the chief producer, seeing the two of them starting to work in a peculiar manner, splitting their tasks as if they needed to be filmed separately because their cooking processes were distinctly different.
If Hyun-min demonstrated his top-notch chef skills by skillfully handling vegetables and ms with tools, Jeong-woo meticulously mixed seasonings, inspecting each grain as if conducting research.
Cooking, chemistry, cooking, chemistry
As Jeong-woo pondered, he first established the molecr structures of the fourponents that wouldpose the vorful essence of the soup.
The first was water. Water molecules, which ount for over 80% of food, serve as the solvent that brings all the ingredients together.
Even the minutely mixed mineralponents such as calcium and magnesium were discerned from MSG, and a few granules of those were added.
The second was lipids. When the taste is infused with oiliness, it adds a slippery sensation to the tip of the tongue.
As Jeong-woo searched the cooking station like a hyena in pursuit of carbon atoms that would contribute to neutral fats, his gaze settled on the heavy cream.
Well, what does appearance matter? Come join us too.
The third was carbohydrates. Thisponent, abundant in white foods like sugar, flour, and rice, was readily avable and easy to obtain.
Emphasizing small molecules such as monosharides and disharides, he gathered granules by attracting them together.
Thestponent was proteins, responsible for the physical taste. Polymers that would aid in texture enhancement. The reason why chewy udon noodles tasted much better than fully cooked ones was also attributed to them.
Jeong-woo, is everythinging along properly?
Dont worry.
As Hyun-min, who saw a mixture of things that seemed ipatible ording to culinarymon sense, simply closed his eyes tightly and averted his gaze.
Jeong-woo continued thebination, even humming a tune.
I mustnt miss out on the savory taste that the elderly will enjoy.
For the elderly, a pleasant taste would evoke a sense of familiarity rooted in their life experiences and memories. Thats why mothers cooking gained recognition, and this soup also had to emte such a vor.
Mom used to make knife-cut noodles, right? A spicy taste, seafood broth. I need to find those vor molecules that canpete and win.
His hands moved swiftly.
Nucleotides of the nucleic acid family, contained within shiitake mushrooms, merged with the umami of skipjack tuna to form a gxy resembling the structure of a ck hole nucleotide.
It took about 10 minutes tobine the natural additives.
Phew.
Jeong-woo withdrew his hands from the bowl and rubbed his eyes.
Its an excellent molecr cuisine.
What?
Its done, homemade MSG.
As he said the words, he realized they sounded peculiar.
Well, anyway, heres the special seasoning.
Hyun-min epted the dish Jeong-woo offered, swallowing a sigh. Even though he had seen countless dishes and cooked countless meals, it was a modest lump of deep brown thatcked visual appeal. It could even be mistaken for fermented soybean blocks.
As Hyun-min caught a whiff of the aroma, his nostrils twitched, startled by something that pricked his senses, causing him to jolt his head.
The aroma will be strong. I considered that it will be diluted in water.
Do I put all of this in?
For now, please put in half.
Onions, potatoes, and small ms poured into the bubbling pot. Hyun-min scooped half of the spilled water and homemade MSG with adle, pouring it into the pot.
The fourth dish was ced on the table.
Homemade t noodles with a murky color and a clear brown m soup.
Naturally, the first spoonful for the elderly was the familiar t noodles.
Jeong-woo swallowed hard. Yoon Yi-seol also watched with interest.
Is it going to end this time?
Jeong-woos face turned unsure.
As one grandmother finished tasting the t noodles, she dipped her spoon into the m soup. With an Hmm? expression on her face, she took another spoonful and looked at Hyun-min standing next to her.
-What is this?
-Its m chowder soup.
-Is the m cold? Its warm, though?
-No. Chow. Der. Its like mixed soup, so to speak.
-The taste is really authentic. Delicious.
Watching the grandmother continue to eat, the grandfather sitting next to her also scooped some soup. The rest of the elderly followed suit, tasting the soup and all making expressions of Hmm?
-The taste of this
-It keeps drawing me. Its fascinating.
Then, an elderly person who tasted the t noodles again slightly furrowed their brow.
-Ouch, why is this so greasy?
The m soup caused a sensation in no time.
Yoon Yi-seol looked at Jeong-woo with an expression of Whats going on? due to the inexplicable reactions of the elderly.
What vor is this?
Its an enhanced umami vor at the molecr level.
What?
Yoon Yi-seols ears perked up at Jeong-woos answer that seemed like magic.
When the PD gave the signal, the gs went up.
Hyun 4, Hong 1.
-I have it wrong. I also like eating this m soup. Is there more?
Hyun 5.
Hyun-min raised his hand upon confirming the results.
We lost.
Yoon Yi-seol turned sharply to Jeong-woo.
I saw earlier that the VJ was filming you alone, Jeong-woo. Did you do something? Thats why we didnt get focused shots.
I did it together with Hyun. Its not like Im cooking alone.
Jeong-woo crossed his arms and slightly grumbled, but Yoon Yi-seol chuckled and said, Oops, with a smile. Jeong-woo looked at her.
What I just said, didnt it sound a bit like a chef? Its not like Im cooking alone Huh? Youre saying it isnt like that?
I was a bit proud. I guess.
When Yoon Yi-seol reluctantly praised him, Jung Woos shoulders straightened even more. Seeing Hong Ji-sook returning, Yoon Yi-seol spoke to Jung Woo.
The two of us were quite helpful as assistants in cooking. Its fascinating. Now its 2 vs. 2, so lets fight till the end.
And dont get hurt, Yi-seol. You were busy preparing the broth earlier.
Yoon Yi-seol paused for a moment and asked cautiously.
You saw that?
Well, I am the manager.
Youre reliable, really.
Yoon Yi-seol, who had been discreetly looking into Jeong-woos eyes, smiled and returned to her teams cooking station.
Hyun-min, who rushed over to the evaluation table, ced his hand on Jeong-woos shoulder.
Jeong-woo, can you tell me how tobine those seasonings? No, Ill buy them. I was truly shocked by the taste. Its stimting yet light. It feels like the taste of my hometown yet sophisticated. I want to make it our restaurants signature seasoning.
Well lets talk about that after its over. We need to prepare our final dish.
Hyun-min nodded at Jeong-woo, who was smiling.
Lets do it.
While the staff was preparing for the final showdown and tidying up the table, author Hwang rushed over and stood in front of Hyun-min.
Hyun-shi, the filming is going really well right now. Its thrilling. So, PD Choi wants to offer a prize for the final challenge for the elderly participants. They want to bring in a special spring edition.
What kind of prize?
A kimchi refrigerator.
Sounds good.
After voting on who will win, they will draw winners among those who guessed correctly. Is that okay?
Hyun-min nodded, and Hwang went over to Hong Ji-sook to convey the same message before disappearing.
If its a kimchi refrigerator, the elderly in the neighborhood will love it. Since weve been winning continuously, there will be a lot at stake on our side, right? I wonder what mom will do this time?
While observing the opposing teams cooking station, Jeongwoos expression changed as he saw the ingredients his mother had put up. It was evident what dish they were preparing.
Spicy stir-fried pork?
Jeong-woo quickly approached Hong Ji-sook.
Mom, thats cheating. Using the restaurants menu.
Now that everyones already full, they cant eat much, so Ill make just a little.
Upon hearing the name of the te, Mr. Heo from the rice house and the other two gentlemen eximed loudly, We want an extra te too!
Look, the ajusshis reactions. Are you going to go this far?
Im not going all out.
In response to Hong Ji-sooks nonchnt reply, Jeong-woo returned to Hyun-min with a worried expression. Even though it was tied 2:2, spicy stir-fried pork was unexpected.
Hyun-min asked Jeong-woo.
Why are you like that? Whats so special about spicy stir-fried pork?
Because they dont usually serve it even on days like this in the restaurant. The elderly in the neighborhood love it the most, more than grilled pork belly.
The elderly people scattered around the living room suddenly gathered towards the front. Despite having already eaten a feast, their faces showed a longing for something. Hyun-min couldnt help but be surprised.
Is it really that delicious?
Even though all of my mothers food are home-cooked meals, that one dish is worth acknowledging. Weve been selling spicy stir-fried pork since I graduated from college and have been living on it for 15 years at our house.
Upon hearing this answer, Hyun-min felt a deep sense of unease. Running the same restaurant for 15 years during a difficult time for the food industry like now must mean they have a killer menu.
Ha
In the midst of a situation where the judging panel had extreme variables, even more than any cookingpetition Hyun-min had participated in, there was the overwhelming advantage of being in the familiar home environment. How much mental strength was he pouring into a mere cooking battle with housewives for over two hours?
Frustrated, Hyun-min looked at Jeong-woo.
Is there no way?
Well, the local taste is so set in their ways. They dont even try to appreciate this great vor. The green onion skewers and fish fillet kebabs I made before were delicious. They were new and different.
Scratching his chin while pondering, Jeong-woo looked directly at Hyun-min.
Chef.
Yes?
Whats the most delicious dish you can make?
Yes?
If its not too much trouble, can I modify it to suit the tastes of the elderly?
Putting his hands on the culinary skills that he had developed over 20 years as a kitchen manager with an illustrious career, he was willing to touch the dish created by the head chef. Looking at Jeong-woo, who proposed a suggestion that would astonish the apprentices in the restaurant, Hyun-min felt more anticipation than disbelief.
For some reason, he had a feeling that if he followed the hands of this young man, he would create a dish that they had never tasted before, just like the elderly-style soup from earlier.
Author Hwang exined the prize drawing for the final challenge towards the living room.
-I am Mrs. Hong!
-Spicy stir-fried pork is the best.
Hyun-mins eyes zed as he heard the conversation among the elderly. As a chef, his ambition surged.
Capture those taste buds and dont let go.
Lets go. Lets give it a try.
The final dish. This time, the roles were reversed, and Jeong-woo became the head chef who set the final direction, while Hyun-min became the assistant chef.
Chapter 55
Chapter 55
8.The Chemistry Behind Cooking (8)
As thepetition began, the main camera focused intensively on Jeong-woo and Hyun-min.
Most of the guests who visit my restaurante for this.
Exining to the VJ, Hyun-min took out a piece of beef tenderloin.
Steak.
The epitome of a sophisticated feast that should be enjoyed only on special asions. Even with the same meat, the taste could fluctuate between heaven and hell depending on the cooking method, temperature, and the condition of the ingredients. This dish also served as a measure of the chefs skill in preparing it.
Hyun-min looked at Jeong-woo.
I can cook a steak that I wont be ashamed of, I assure you.
I believe you. Ipletely believe you.
Jeong-woos mouth watered as he saw the zing grill and the piece of meat, even though it hadnt been cooked yet.
Not using any sauce is the basic way to serve it. You can add sauce if you want. How would you like to do it? We can probably grill two or three pieces within the time limit.
Well lets n it this way.
Jeong-woo examined the five elderly people who were newly seated at the evaluation table.
We dont need to satisfy all five of them with the dish. Just the majority, three of them. Well grill customized steaks specifically for those individuals.
But everyone has different tastes. What criteria will you use?
What theyve eaten a lot of during the feast. How much theyve eaten. That kind of thing.
Are you able to figure that out now?
As Hyun-min asked the question, the VJ camera also focused closely. Jeong-woo smiled lightly to avoid any misunderstandings and answered.
Ive seen many of them before. You were right about the pork belly.
Jeong-woo seemed satisfied enough to ept the remnants of food particles around the elderlys lips as evidence.
Ive adjusted the grill temperature. How should we cook the first one?
Hyun-mins attitude, as if he were a seasoned apprentice chef, waiting for Jeong-woos instructions, was something even the staff members who had been working on the show for a long time had never seen before.
As a result, the PD fixed one of the main cameras entirely on Jeong-woo.
Staring closely at the elderly person sitting in the first seat.
Steamed egg custard, pan-fried tofu, and a bit of japchae. They prefer mostly soft textures. Not too salty.
A gentle cooking method, then. Would the elderly person like it rare with a juicy texture?
The sauce you mentioned, Chef. Lets cover it with that.
Mushroom sauce is the smoothest. Shallots, sliced mushrooms, white wine, butter. Season it with salt and pepper.
Drawing a molecr map of vors in his mind.
I noticed that they tried first the egg garnish in the noodles. It should follow the order of experiencing the moistness of the egg first, and as they chew, the original savory taste of the ingredients should emerge.
Hyun-mins eyes widened in curiosity.
Is that possible?
Well, tasting is also a chemical reaction. We consider the timing for the dish to touch the tongue and elicit a taste reaction, the time it takes to chew and mix, and the final time for the taste to stabilize.
Seeing Hyun-mins face, still struggling to fully understand, Jeong-woo chuckled.
Please understand it as an approach from a chemist rather than a chef. And could you call out the quantities of the mushroom sauce ingredients?
Oh, well
Finally, Hyun-min ced a piece of beef on the grill.
Jeong-woo quickly prepared the ingredients for the sauce on the cooking station and looked at the beef.
Oh, you aged it in advance? Marinating Was that what you did?
You certainly have the eye of an experienced chef, Mr. Jeong-woo.
Jeong-woo couldnt help but smile, even though he had only confirmed the protein in the meat breaking down through enzymatic action.
Different reasons, butpliments always feel good.
Chef, Ill start with the sauce preparation.
First, add butter and shallots to the pan.
The area around the cooking station was filled with the heat of the grill and the sauce pan, emitting from the dishes being cooked.
While the butter melted, Jeong-woo turned his gaze to the grill.
Uh, I think the steak would taste delicious even if you just eat it as it is.
As the fat tissue started to melt, the structure on the surface of the meat began to change. The steak was soon entering a statemonly referred to as rare.
At this moment, Jeong-woo observed the molecules of the blood scenting into contact with the meat fat and reacting with sulfurpounds.
The aroma of the meat is gradually bing more fragrant. It seems the elderly would prefer it more with the addition of glycolipids.
What is that
Ill sprinkle something.
Jeong-woo quicklybined his special blend of spices with a base of flour and spread it onto a te. Then, he reached out his hand.
I need the aroma reminiscent of pan-fried tofu.
He pushed aside molecules that could produce unnecessary scents, gathering them in the corners. With his hand, he sprinkled the remaining mixture evenly over the steak.
Due to the dust-like powder, mes flickered briefly in various ces on the grill and then disappeared.
Phew.
Simultaneously observing the chemical world, those mes provided Jeong-woo with a dizzying spectacle akin to an explosion of molecules.
Hyun-min grabbed Jeong-woos twisting arm.
Are you okay?
I got too absorbed in molecr gastronomy. The sauce. Whats next?
I need to add mushrooms, saut them, and then pour in the wine. Ill take care of it. Its a meticulous task that can be tricky for beginners.
Then Ill handle the flour preparation.
As mushrooms were thrown in by Hyun-mins hand and the moisture was almost evaporated by the intense heat, wine was poured into the pan.
Jeong-woo sprinkled the flour on the steak a few more times.
The way theyplemented each other in cooking. It was reminiscent of a bustling kitchen in a restaurant, and even the VJ capturing the cooking scene showed frantic camera movements.
Theyre all cooked.
Hyun-min picked up the steak with tongs and ced it on the te. As he briefly smelled the aroma, his pupils widened.
Jeong-woo, what kind of flour did you sprinkle earlier? The aroma is very unique.
Shall we say its a seasoning that reces the elderlys preferences at a molecr level?
The sauce waspleted shortly after. Jeong-woo carefully examined its chemical world.
It seems to hide the juiciness, but it feels like something is missing.
At that moment, a pungent and spicy aroma of the spicy stir-fried pork rushed in from the opposing teams cooking station. The aroma of the fiery vor that ignites ones appetite made Jeong-woo unintentionally swallow. It was a powerful culinary stimulus that could momentarily make one forget the allure of this high-end steak.
-Oh no, Mom! Its burning!
-Dont panic, just hurry up and go through it.
It was truly ironic that the person cooking was Yoon Yi-seol.
Jeong-woo looked at the pot where the thrown vegetables began to mix vigorously in the high heat and discovered particles that blended the taste of vegetable oil and sugar, emitting a savory aroma.
This is it.
Adding a mild sesame oil ingredient to cover the greasy and non-preferred butter vor. It was a point worth trying.
Hyun-min was taken aback when he saw Jeong-woo holding the vegetable oil.
Should I pour the sauce?
Just a little.
Theres already ayer of butter on it, so it wont mix. It would be better to pour new wine and use it as a vegetable oil base instead
We dont have time for that. Ill take care of this one, so get ready for the next step.
Jeong-woo recalled the chemical analysis that the ingredients in egg yolk would mix properly and took out an egg.
Mayonnaise?
Hyun-min asked, and Jeong-woo nodded. Hyun-min pointed at the egg yolk.
We make mayonnaise with the yolk. You have to slowly drizzle the vegetable oil while mixing it, or it wont turn into proper mayonnaise.
I see. Its not that we need the taste of mayonnaise, but that method seems better. Thank you.
Since Jeong-woo rarely pondered about cooking methods, when he received an unexpected tip, he immediately applied it to make the sauce.
How did you know about eggs without knowing this?
Do you know about emulsifiers that mix oil and water? The lecithin contained in the yolk is one of those emulsifiers. Its chemical inference.
Watching the sauce, a mixture of bizarrebinations, Hyun-min swallowed a sigh and took out the second piece of meat.
Whats the next preference?
Just a moment. Oh, wow. This person seems to have consumed an excessive amount of sodium ions. Its too salty.
I guess I dont need to be more moderate with the seasoning.
In the ongoing conversation that intertwined cooking and chemistry without a moments rest, theories about taste crossed paths and repeated the process of harmonizing.
And so, the second and third steaks werepleted and ced on the tes.
Two tes were ced on the table.
Spicy stir-fried pork, a synonym for its rich red ze.
Steaks emitting an infinitely deep fragrance with different sauces.
Just before the evaluation, the tripods of the VJs, who were filming only the food separately, continued to wobble. The visuals made ones mouth water just by looking at them, to the point where ones stomach would ache.
Hyun, shh. Well start in 30 seconds. Hong Ji-sook, please stand next to me.
At the voice of the PD sitting under the camera, Hyun-min stood next to the table with a stiff face. Hong Ji-sook, who walked alongside Yun Yi-seols support, looked at Hyun-min.
Chef Hyun-min.
When she called him with a nonchnt expression, Hyun-min turned his head slightly, feeling a slight tension.
Yes, maam.
Jeong-woo cant cook at all. Youre amazing with him.
No, its not like that. I received a lot of help from Jeong-woo.
Youre humble.
Its not about being humble, its really
That guy who cant even cook instant ramen properly asks me to cook for him. Its a hassle. But hes good at doing the dishes.
Hong Ji-sook cut her off as if there was nothing more to listen to.
By the way, what kind of show did you say this was?
Well, its a delicious treat.
Ill definitely watch itter.
With that, Hong Ji-sook turned her gaze away. Yoon Yi-seol, who overheard their conversation, suppressed herughter and returned to the cooking station.
Curious, Jeong-woo asked because Yoon Yi-seol had a mischievous smile on her face.
Why are you like that?
Because mother praised Mr. Jeong-woo.
Oh, thats impossible.
Well, she did. Hehe.
With suspicion filling his eyes, Jeong-woo turned his gaze towards the table where the dishes were ced without saying a word.
Thats right, whether you win or lose thispetition, your mother will receive a prize.
A prize?
A one-year membership to Chef Hyun-mins restaurant.
Wow, my mother is lucky.
But I want to go. Shall we go togetherter?
Jeong-woo looked at Yoon Yi-seol in surprise.
Together?
Well me and Jeong-woo
After a moment of hesitation, Yoon Yi-seol continued speaking.
and Soo-chan too, if she wants. The more, the merrier.
But it would bother the Chef.
Well finish a years worth of meals in one day, so what.
While Hyun-min was thinly slicing the steak with a knife, the tasting began. At first, the elderly guests only focused on the stir-fried pork, but after tasting the steak, they had expressions that it wasnt bad.
Hyun-min, who was extremely nervous, looked at Jeong-woo standing far away. Jeong-woo nodded to reassure him.
After about five minutes, the guests continued to choose gs. However, since only two gs were picked up, and the remaining three continued to eat the steak, the PD stepped in.
-Elderly guest, you need to make your choice now.
-Wait a moment. Wouldnt it be a waste to leave this behind?
-Did the chef cook this? Its savory, and I like it.
-Its strange. It tastes like tofu and fried food at the same time.
Before the gs were raised, the atmosphere seemed to indicate that the winner had already been determined, capturing Yoon Yi-seols attention. She focused on the three individuals.
You old folks said you were full, but youre eating a lot. I want to try the steak too.
I put in some effort. Adjusting the syrup concentration for the mushroom sauce was challenging.
Oh my.
What?
You really sound like a chef right now.
The result was as Jeong-woo had expected. Hyun-min won with a score of 3 to 2.
Hyun-min politely nodded to Hong Ji-suk.
-Thank you for your hard work.
-You too, Chef.
Hong Ji-suk lightly acknowledged the greeting and looked around. In that moment, her eyes met Yoon Yi-seols. Jeong-woo quickly intervened and gestured for her to look away.
With a chuckle, Yoon Yi-seol spoke.
It seems your mother is looking for me.
I wonder what she wants. She keeps looking for you, Yoon Yi-seol, whom just met today.
In your mothers team, I was the kitchen manager in some way. The key to the stir-fried pork is quickly mixing it on high heat.
Yoon Yi-seol shrugged her shoulders.
You didnt think I looked like a skilled cook just now, did you?
Lets agree that youre a newlywed who just learned how to cook.
Tsk.
Choi PD opened his mouth towards the living room.
-Since Chef Hyun-min won, we will randomly select one person from those who chose this team for a chance to win a kimchi refrigerator. Hwang, bring me the list of selections What? Only one person chose?
Everyone seemed to have bet on Hong Ji-suk, thinking the stir-fried pork would win.
Since there was only one person for the drawing, Choi PD immediately made the announcement.
-Grandma Choi Geum-soon? Where are you? Congrattions!
As Grandma Geum-soon, who was sitting in the back of the living room, stood up, people apuded.
Due to the staffs obstructed view, Yoon Yi-seol clenched her fists.
Oh? Thats Grandma Doo-chi, right?
Yes, I think she recognized my face and threw the g. Its true that affection matters more than taste. The chef also struggled because of this.
Wow, Doo-chi brings luck.
Grandma Geum-soon didnte towards the camera but waved her hand.
-Oh, I dont need it. It wont fit in my kitchen. Just leave it here, and Ill use it.
As the situation was settled with the donation to Longevity Elderly Care Center, Yoon Yi-seol sighed with admiration and looked at Jeong-woo.
That worked out well. Its all thanks to you, Jeong-woo.
No way.
Is this also some kind of chemical magic?
Why force connections like that? Its just that Grandma Geum-soons house is small.
Hehe.
-Cut! Great job!
After the filming ended, Hyun-min nced at the te with the steak, his gaze filled with curiosity about its taste. Even while cooking, he couldnt help but wonder what it would taste like.
Looking around, he picked up a piece of steak with his fork, unsure of which elderly person it was made for.
!
The piece that entered his mouth delivered apletely different vor than expected.
This is
How should he even describe this taste?
The richness of a simple mixed vegetable dish, the affection contained in a savory anchovy broth, and the longing for his mother who always served more saying, Should I give you more? Enjoy it all passed through his esophagus and vanished.
This was a dish that was structurally different from food prepared with technical precision.
The steak had be a soul food.
The impact on Hyun-min, who was a chef capable of empathizing with the emotions that a dish made for one person could evoke, was indescribable.
The taste that called forth precious memories.
Inspiration sprouted vigorously. Despite having gone through three hours of hardship for cooking, he found himself wanting to cook again in that very moment.
Hyun-min turned his head to find Jeong-woo, the one who brought all of this to life. But he was nowhere to be seen, neither at the cooking station nor in the living room or kitchen.
Where did he go? I need his contact information. Lets exchange contacts first.
Under the night sky with the moon shining, Yoon Yi-seol removed her mask and hood, taking in a deep breath of fresh air.
Ah~
Standing by the rooftop railing, as she looked down below, the events of the day reyed in her mind. It was all thanks to her decision to step outside the safety of her nket that she had experienced what happened.
The same applied to the day she watched the movie. All it took was a little bit of courage to experience such a delightful feeling.
Ugh, I cant stand this smell anymore.
Yoon Yi-seol snapped out of her reverie at the scent emanating from the mask and hood in her hands.
Taking in the fresh air, she checked her phone for messages, particrly from Director Ji.
[Yi-seol! Its so much fun that you havent contacted me? What time are you nning to leave? Im heading your way for now.]
Once the staff of Channel Olove finished cleaning up, they had all left around 9 oclock. Most of the elderly had also finished their meals and returned home, leaving only some local residents who were staying in the living room, drinking alcohol untilte.
Yi-seol, were leaving!
Park Soo-chan and Shin Ki-joon waved their hands towards the rooftop from the entrance of the yard.
Take care.
Yoon Yi-seol also raised both of her hands to bid them farewell. As the two disappeared, she turned her body around.
Hyun-min and Jeong-woo, who were engrossed in a serious conversation, came into her view.
Lets do it that way. Since thebination menu is challenging, Ill pay the training fees for the time being.
Ille to see you soon.
Well then, take care. The manager has been waiting for me since earlier.
Take care, Chef.
As Hyun-min descended the stairs, Jeong-woo turned his back. Yoon Yi-seol approached him and asked.
Seems like youve be really close with the chef, huh? Youve been talking for 30 minutes.
It just happened.
Jeong-woo let out a bitterugh. When he thought about it, he realized that he, as a chemist, and the culinary expert had used every possible means to impress their harmless mother.
Tsk, Im jealous.
Yoon Yi-seol muttered casually as she passed by. Jeong-woo smirked, saying that he was jealous of everything.
If you were on Chefs team, you wouldve been much closer to him than I am. Hes kinder than he appears.
Its not that I envy Mr. Jung Woo~
Jeong-woo didnt understand her words and looked at Yoon Yi-seol.
Yoon Yi-seol whispered, Never mind, and her expression turned gloomy as she shifted her gaze back towards the yard. Jeong-woo quietly approached her and cast his eyes towards the neighborhood scenery.
You only managed to check off one item on your checklist, right? Youve been helping my mother since lunch. Im sorry.
Well, thats true.
Yoon Yi-seol blinked her eyes filled with anticipation towards Jeong-woo.
We can do one more thing here.
What is it?
Feeling his heart pounding in her sparkling eyes, Jeong-woo asked.
Listening to someones meaningful memories.
You want me to do that?
Why not? Just give it a try.
Yoon Yi-seol stepped away from the rooftop railing and plopped down on the makeshift chair prepared for rxation.
Come on.
Um
Youre apologizing, arent you?
Jeong-woo scratched his head and turned his head awkwardly. Then his gaze settled on an alley near the house where the streetlight illuminated below. There were plenty of memories there too.
A ce they passed by every day. And the person who used to reign over that ce in the past.
My father. He used to say something on a regr basis. He said that everyone is equally great and miserable.
Oh, profound.
And then he said to me, Hey, do you have 30,000 won? Dad is broke and miserable right now. And he immediately took away my allowance.
Yoon Yi-seol chuckled.
Come to think of it, I havent seen your father, Jeong-woo.
He got divorced. Its been quite a while since Ist saw him too.
Oh.
Its not that serious though. Im just looking forward to seeing his greatness, now that Ive seen his misery. He was such a breezy person
Jeong-woos expression as he talked about his memories with his father was wistful.
Yoon Yi-seol couldnt take her eyes off his face.
His figure visible through the rooftop clothesline. Blending with the neighborhood lights, it felt like an affectionate photo framed in an album.
For a moment, as if the world had stopped, she slowly admired him within the frame.
Was it because her emotions were stirred? She unconsciously started humming.
A nameless song with a sweet voice resonated through the rooftop, intertwining with Jeong-woos memories.
Yoon Yi-seol couldnt believe it even as she sang. The chorus of the song that had been blocked and caused her trouble until yesterday unraveled like a lie.
Jeong-woo, who found himself naturally drawn to her singing asked.
Is it a melody Ive never heard before?
You havent even heard all of my songs.
Ive heard them all.
Feeling a sense of confidence from his response, Yoon Yi-seol smiled at Jeong-woo.
Ziing.
Seeing her phone ringing, she saw that it was Manager Ji who couldnt wait anymore and was calling.
It was time to leave now.
Yoon Yi-seol stood up, leaving her regrets behind, and spoke to Jeong-woo.
Do you know? Rtionships should be two-sided.
What kind of rtionship?
Fan, manager, checklist friend, cooking rival. What do you like about me, Jeong-woo?
Well
For your information, I like everything.
Yoon Yi-seol once again showed a bit of courage.
Could you give me an example, just one of these, about me? What kind of rtionship do I have with you, Mr. Jung Woo?
Faced with a serious and thought-provoking question, Jeong-woo couldnt answer hastily.
Thats right. What kind of rtionship did you have with Eun-sil?
Huh?
Jeong-woo became even more flustered.
Where did you hear that damn Soo-chan. Anyway, its not any kind of rtionship.
Like us?
What When we were very young, and back then, we didnt even know what the word liking meant.
Liking?
Jeong-woo realized he misspoke. It was salvageable if he tried to pick up the pieces now.
However, as he looked at Yoon Yi-seol, whose cheeks had turnedpletely red, he didnt feel like doing that anymore.
To me, Yoon Yi-seol is
Yoon Yi-seol swallowed hard.
someone I wouldnt even dare to think about meeting. But I can say that I have a strong liking for you. As a man, I want to get to know you more.
Suddenly, with a gasp, he started to hup uncontrobly, apanied by shallow breaths.
Is this kind of rtionship okay with you?
Yoon Yi-seol was speechless. Panic. Tension. Trembling. Various excitements overwhelmed her heart.
Then, with a gasp and spasmodic breaths, she started to hup.
I-Im really serious Hic. Ah, in this situation Hic.
I also like that you can be unexpectedly funny sometimes.
Its a j-joke Hic. Forget it!
Yoon Yi-seol closed her mouth, struggling to regainposure, then nced at the familiar van entering the yard and managed to say.
Im leaving Hic. This conversation Hic. Next time.
Okay. Take care.
Feeling utterly embarrassed, Yoon Yi-seol quickly descended the stairs. Once she got into the van, she disappeared from Jeong-woos sight in no time.
code: Molecr Combination Form
case: Handcrafted MSGbined at the micro level
research: A powder with a 1-micro richer umami taste than popr products on the market. Expected to be the signature seasoning of a certain restaurant.
Chapter 56
Chapter 56- A month in the life of a chemicalpany team leader(1)
The second week at the Basic Materials Center.
Jeong-woos days continued to be peaceful. Within the 15-day dispatch period, excluding holidays, there were limited tasks that external researchers could perform. The first day was strange.
Unless summoned by the center director, Jang Tae-sun, Jeong-woos daily life consisted of wandering around the Basic Materials Center and exchanging greetings with senior colleagues.
Even that didnt happen often. In this ce where research projects were carried out in teams, there were hardly any seniors who would engage in professional conversations with outsiders who would disappear the next day.
At the dinner celebration boasting the sess of the firefighting biddingpetition, there was so much joy and conversation when Jeong-cheol and Gong Gyeong-ho, both senior staff members, met.
Thanks to that, the biggest burden in this ce was dealing with Center Director Jang Tae-sun.
Take charge of a project.
Ill be leaving at the end of January.
Just for a short period, lead the team for 10 days. Bring whatever you want to work on, and Ill deduct it from the budget.
Its unlikely that a research project started that way will seed.
As the time spent drinking with Jang Tae-sun increased, Jeong-woo faced more and more pressure to take on projects at the Basic Materials Center.
Repeatedly refusing one request after another.
Perhaps because of that, Jang Tae-sun even went as far as assigning tasks that should be done by the center director.
The metal and resin adhesive technology being developed by Basic Team 3 seems to have room for improvement. We need to simplify the joining process to reduce weight.
Reduce weight? How?
Take a look at the report. I stayed upte working on itst night. Lets finish it quickly.
Haha. You could just take a nap here.
Im nning to leave early. Look at the next page. The interior coating film requested by KG Construction, Yoon Team Leader says itcks moldability
Do you want to have a meal with me or do research here?
I modified the thermostic synthesis and changed the surface treatment method. Please refer to this report as well.
Do you want to have a meal with me or live here?
Oh, its already 11:50. I should go now. You dont take early leave in the afternoon, right?
Jeong-woo!
When the third week arrived with only five days left, the office turned into the center directors room.
As Jang Tae-sun kept chasing after him regrly, instead of building connections, the Basic Materials researchers began to avoid Jeong-woo.
After spending 14 days at the Basic Materials Center, the final day of the dispatch arrived on Friday morning.
Still, its a bit bittersweet.
Jeong-woo, carrying a personal research material he had prepared in Cheon Seung-guks privateb, entered the center directors office as a parting gift.
Is the center director here?
The secretary gestured him to wait for a moment. Usually, he would be allowed to pass right through, but as he looked at the inner door, it seemed like someone was already inside.
While waiting in the reception area, he received a text message on his phone. It was from Song Boyeong.
[Can you spare some time to look at something? I still cant grasp one concept we talked aboutst week in the paper.]
He quicklyposed a reply.
[Unless the center director suggests we live together.]
[He said that again? Director Jang is really funny. Hes not just casually leaning against the wall today, right? Haha]
She was the only one at thepany with whom he could have such candid conversations, so she knew very well how much Jang Tae-sun cherished him.
[Even though he likes you so much, he pretends not to notice when you ask for a project. Opportunities like that donte easily.]
Being a team leader in charge of a project.
Jeong-woo had always wanted to try it someday. However, working under a center director who was extremely adventurous would be burdensome. Moreover, there were still four more centers to be dispatched to.
[Shall we meet for lunch? Ill pay.]
[I always end up paying. You really eat a lot, Mr. Jeong-woo.]
[Then Ill seize the opportunity. We can talk about the paper next week.]
[No! I dont have time this weekend, so we have to meet today, definitely.]
[Senior, are you casually leaning against the wall right now?]
[Get over here.]
A mischievous emoticon of an angry doll appeared and disappeared. Even though he was teasing her through text, Jeong-woo couldnt help but imagine Song Boyeongs face and smirked.
Mr. Jeong-woo, pleasee in.
He had expected to wait for quite some time, but the secretary gestured for him to enter. Jeong-woo put away his phone, stood up, and asked.
Is there a guest inside? Should I still go in?
Well, Im just rying Mr. Jangs instructions.
The secretary replied without divulging any further information.
Jeong-woo hesitated as he approached the door.
This is Han Jeong-woo.
Come on in.
When he opened the door, a bespectacled executive sitting on the sofa waved his hand cheerfully. Jeong-woo paused as he noticed another guest seated across from him.
It was a foreign woman with captivating blue eyes.
Her age was difficult to guess, but she appeared young, and above all, exuded a confident aura. So much so that even the usually energetic Jang Tae-sun was discreetly observing her.
The woman, with her red hair cascading down, shifted her gaze and looked at Jeong-woo.
H-Hello.
Im from France.
Jeong-woos eyes widened as he heard Korean words from the woman. She looked at Jang Tae-sun and asked.
That person. Does he have the qualification to attend this discussion?
Though her pronunciation carried a foreign ent, her grammar was impable.
Jang Tae-sun gestured for Jeong-woo to sit beside him before addressing the woman.
He is more than qualified. He can provide answers even to the questions that our CEO has.
Upon hearing this response, the womans gaze turned towards Jeong-woo, who was taking his seat.
Jeong-woo, this is Michle, the representative of Audrey perfume.
Audrey?
He vaguely recalled it as a luxury perfume brand.
Pleased to meet you.
As Jeong-woo bowed, he couldnt help but keep ncing at the other person. He had a strong feeling that Jang Tae-suns subtle nces were rted to this woman.
Shes Caucasian, but its hard to guess her age. She seems to be in her thirties, right? Oh, it feels unfamiliar.
A well-proportioned physique with slim ratios that one would never see in an Asian person, along with a head the size of a fist and a captivating nose bridge.
This was the first time I had encountered a foreigner who seemed like a character from a movie up close. It was to the extent that I could feel a nervousness I didnt even know existed.
Take a look at this.
Jang Tae-sun pointed to the document on the table. Jeong-woo quickly skimmed through the document as he held it in his hand. As he read, he felt like he understood why Michle, the representative, hade here.
It was about developing a new perfume product.
The document outlined the project and listed the necessary ingredients to create a fragrance tailored to the Asian market and Asian consumers. Among them, there were also ingredients that were difficult to obtain inrge quantities.
Are they nning to artificially recreateponents of endangered wild nts?
Yes, thats right.
It sounds challenging. Its not just one or two samples to extract and reproduce.
Fortunately, as soon as he saw the ingredients, the molecr structures came to his mind, and he silently imagined aromatic molecules.
Im not sure about others, but what about this parasitic flower? If we slightly modify the fragrance of azalea, we might be able to achieve a simr scent, dont you think?
It wasnt Jang Tae-sun who responded to this remark, but Michle.
Simr is not enough. It has to be identical.
We dont need topose the entire flower. By synthesizing only the top tenpounds with the broadest scent range, we can sufficiently mimic
As Michle listened, she thumped the table. Startled, Jeong-woo stopped speaking.
These are the chemists fanciful musings.
Although she pronounced it in a Koreanized way, he understood the meaning well enough. Michle looked at him angrily and spoke.
Perfume has the power to transform a person in just one second. In ourpany, where we create fragrances only with natural ingredients, it is an inevitable choice. If it cant be perfect, Ill look elsewhere.
As she became upset, her pronunciation oddly shifted to a more Korean style. Jeong-woo felt like she would curse at him like a typical Korean, so to defuse the situation, he spoke.
I just meant its challenging, not impossible. Smell molecules areposed of only five atoms, except for a few exceptions. Its just a matter of a few carbon differences to create a fragrance. We dont necessarily have to go to such lengths
Nonsense.
Once again, Michle cut off Jeong-woos words, then suddenly took out a small bottle from her bag. She looked at Jang Tae-sun and asked.
Did you spray Bourne Number Nine?
Oh? I sprayed a little, but maybe the scent was too strong.
Since it was a product from anotherpany, not an Audrey product, Jang Tae-sun yfullyughed and tapped Jeong-woos shoulder for no reason.
You have a good nose, representative. You truly live up to being a fragrance CEO.
I can smell it too.
Ahaha. Jung Woo, youve be quite blunt, like if it was thest day.
Michle opened the cap of the bottle she took out.
The scent that spread out brushed against the tips of Jang Tae-suns and Jeong-woos noses.
Oh.
Wow.
The two men eximed at the same time. It was a scent of soap that they felt like they had smelled somewhere before. Even though itsted only a moment, it was a captivating feeling that couldnt bepared to what Jang Tae-sun had sprayed.
Michle coldly smiled as if she had expected it and said.
The scent of the soap family bringsfort and rxation to people. Bourne Number Nine is not strong in artificial musk scent, so it cant evoke such feelings. In other words, that one is the worst, and this one is the best.
As the lid closed again, the scent faded. However, the lingering aroma gave a strong feeling of calmness, just as Michle had mentioned.
As someone who was experiencing the scent of an expensive perfume for the first time, Jeong-woo couldnt have imagined the effect to be this powerful.
I wonder how much it costs for a bottle of that.
As he paid attention and observed, the world of various scent molecules floating around the bottle unfolded before his eyes.
Some were in the shape of flower buds, some resembled fruits and leaves. There were even the scents of the wooden barrel itself floating around.
Everything was so intricately intertwined that it was difficult to determine which scent was caused by which molecule.
It felt like an insult for simply calling thisplexbination of scents soap.
The carbon clusters emanating from Jang Tae-suns wrist exuded a scent reminiscent of fathers skincare products, while the molecules in the bottle, despite having just a slight difference in the number of carbon atoms, emitted a luxurious woody fragrance.
KG Chemical ims they can do it, but I dont trust them.
As Michle spoke as if her mind had drifted away, Jang Tae-suns expression changed. Along with that, he sent a gaze to Jeong-woo, urging him to do something.
Uh, thats
The other person wasnt particrly fond of chemists from the start. Thats why it didnt seem like saying something would change their mind.
Jeong-woo looked at Michles bottle and said.
I misunderstood. To achieve such an excellent fragrance, even the atomic numbers need to be exactly the same. Itsposed in a more sophisticated ratio than any otherpound.
Our product is not a chemical.
No. Its chemistry.
Michle shot a sharp nce at Jeong-woo. Jang Tae-sun looked at him sadly, with a expression that seemed to say, Are you revealing your true colors now that youre going to another center?
Jeong-woo pointed at the perfume bottle.
This perfume, you extracted it through distition, right? The moisture content is roughly 96%. It emits fragrance with the remaining 4% of the ingredients. The scent with one less carbon atom turned out to be a molecule of fir trees. The proportion of the fragrance is roughly 3 out of 40. And this one is strawberry. ckberry? About 1 out of 20 of the overallposition. And this one Its kind of like feces No, secretions. It resembles a creature with furry hair, like a mouse. About 1 out of 40
As Jeong-woo began to effortlessly spout out thebination ratios that only thepanys perfumer should know, Michles surprised expression turned into a stunned one.
Stop. Did you analyze ourpanys product in detail?
Consider it pre-research. Anyway, I wanted to mention that even mixing natural ingredients is a chemical process. And that task KG Chemicals researchers are confident they can handle it.
Michle made a contemting expression, going Hm, before speaking.
We are considering establishing a fragrance manufacturing nt for a new product to be sold in the Asian market, in Korea instead of China. Im not sure if KG Chemical has enough capacity to handle that cooperative work. However, Im curious to see the results.
Jang Tae-sunsplexion brightened.
Are you epting KG Chemicals proposal, is that what youre saying?
For now.
Michle held up a small bottle on the table and looked at Jeong-woo.
I want to hear how you conducted pre-research on a product that hasnt even been officiallyunched in the EU market and the reasons behind it before making a judgment.
It wasnt being sold?
Jeong-woo was slightly taken aback. Jang Tae-sun looked at him with an expression that seemed to say, Please!
Since he would be leaving after this meeting anyway, Jeong-wooposed himself and looked directly at Michle before speaking.
Just now, the CEO presented a fragrance. That should be enough, even for someone like me, a chemist.
Absolute odeur?
Yes?
Out of nowhere, French words popped out, and Jeong-woo felt the typical uneasiness that Koreans have with foreignnguages.
He mentally reviewed the business conversation he learned for employment purposes, but luckily Michle spoke in Korean.
Are you an absolute olfactory perceiver?
Uh well, sort of.
Strictly speaking, it could be described as having an absolute visual perception of fragrance at the molecr level, but it didnt matter. Pretending to have a good sense of smell was an easier excuse.
Michle had a rather shocked expression.
Then why not be a perfumer Its a waste, a loss.
Isnt career choice a matter of personal freedom? Like in France, a democratic country. Oh, not North Korea, but South Korea, you know?
Jeong-woo was about to mention the spirit of the French Revolution when he saw Michle take out another bottle from her bag and open the cap, making him wonder what was going on.
Michle opened the cap of the new perfume bottle. As the familiar floral scent filled the air, she stared at Jeong-woo and spoke.
Try this one too.
Lavender and orange are the base notes. Its quite prominent overall.
What about the proportions?
Well, roughly one-fifth each. And this fresh scent is like the essence of wood, about 3 out of 40. As for the nt with white flower petals, Im not exactly sure of the name, but its about 1 out of 20. Anything else?
Orris. You knew the iris root, but how did you know the petals are white?
It was the reflection of light on the molecules, but Jeong-woo cleverly responded.
Because the fragrance is better that way.
Michle closed the cap and looked at Jang Tae-sun.
If we sign the contract today, until when can you work on the synthetic fragrances listed?
Jang Tae-suns face brightened. Jeong-woo sighed in relief and finally satfortably.
The subsequent conversation involved the exchange of contract terms between the twopanies, so Jeong-woo impatiently waited, finding it boring.
The secretary brought coffee, but Jeong-woo avoided caffeine to ovee his insomnia, so he continued to drink water.
Dont worry about the facilities. Our affiliatepanys research center, KG Life & Health Fragrance Center, is the best in the country. You can conduct the research here.
What about the location of the factory?
We can establish lines in Iksan, Ochang, and Ulsan, so you can choose the desired location
When will this end?
Realizing that he would have to postpone saying farewell to the center director andworking at the Basic Materials Center in the afternoon, Jeong-woo shook his head inwardly.
By the time Michle finished coordinating and got up from her seat, it was almost noon.
Please have a look, CEO.
Michle briefly nced at Jang Tae-sun standing near the door and immediately turned her gaze to Jeong-woo standing beside her.
Han Jeong-woo. Is that your name?
Yes.
You were very impressive earlier. Both your skills and sense of smell.
It should be impression rather than illusion. The pronunciation of some words with seemed to roll like that. Michle continued speaking to Jeong-woo, who lowered his head in response to thepliment.
I trust you to create a perfect fragrance.
After Michle left, Jeong-woo, who didnt fully understand her words, turned his head to Jang Tae-sun.
Why did the CEO ask me for this?
Take a look at this.
Jang Tae-sun pointed to the top of the contract, where only the directors approval was left. Jeong-woos gaze followed his finger. And there, he found the words.
[Project Manager: Han Jeong-woo.]
Wha- What is this!
Im supposed to write something and hand it to you so that we can proceed with the contract. President Michle naturally assumed that you would be handling it.
But Im finishing my assignment today.
Look at Michles beauty. If you do this, youll get to see her all the time.
What does that have to do with?
Jang Tae-sun chuckled and patted Jeong-woos shoulder.
Ill make a good suggestion to the director, Team Leader.
Team Leader. It sent a shiver down Jeong-woos spine.
Shall we grab a meal together?
I have ns!
Oh, really? But Ill treat you. Lets eat something expensive with that person you have ns with. Our Centers treasure~
A cunning move. Jang Tae-suns n to catch Jeong-woo with a bait was evident.
Chapter 57
Chapter 57- A month in the life of a chemicalpany team leader(2)
Audrey perfume?
Song Boyeongs eyes widened as she was setting down the tes. It was a familiar look, as if she knew something. Jeong-woo, sitting across from her, became curious.
Is it famous?
We cant sell it because were not there.
I dont have a good grasp for these things. The information is limited with just inte searches. I wonder why there are so many perfumepanies.
Song Boyeong quickly continued her exnation, sensing Jeong-woos curiosity.
Not manypanies make perfumes that cost 100 million per bottle. Audrey is one of the top ones.
1, 100 million?
A liquid with a value that evaporates several million won with each spray. The thought of gathering a years worth of bone-crushing sry just to buy a single bottle of perfume sent shivers down his spine.
Its quite surprising. With limited production, the premium price is at least two to three times the base price.
However, Song Boyeong seemed unfazed by the price. Instead, she couldnt believe the fact that Michle hade looking for basic ingredients.
Audrey establishing a new factory in Korea. My friends would go crazy if they found out. They alwaysin about not being able to buy it because its always sold out.
Do you have a senior friend who buys 100 million won perfumes every time? How wealthy are they?
Jung Woo eximed in admiration. Song Boyoung, who had once struggled to make ends meet, felt a shiver run down her spine. Jung Woo extended the cup of water ced next to him.
Why? Are you afraid Ill ask for an introduction? Im not that shameless.
No, its about the daughter of a friend I know.
Seeing Song Boyoungs firm gaze, Jung Woo lightlyughed.
I might have a friend like that if I cross six or seven degrees of separation. If I meet them, Ill introduce you.
Its fine. My preferences
Song Boyeong nced briefly at Jeong-woo and pursed her lips.
Theres no need to disclose my preferences. Anyway, Im not interested in wealthy men at all.
Well, I am.
Song Boyeongs yful spoon motion with the spoon suddenly froze.
W-when you suddenly say it like that, I wasnt prepared mentally
What?
Jeong-woo quickly corrected Song Boyeong, who seemed to have misunderstood something.
I said I like men with a lot of money. Soo-chan needs to win the lottery quickly.
Song Boyeongs ears perked up.
Who cares what others say? If Soo-chan wins the lottery and bes loaded, Ill have to give him a resounding p on the cheek with a bundle of cash.
What are you talking about?
When Jeong-woo chuckled, Song Boyeong lightly bit her lip and muttered, Oh, forget it.
Enough! Lets talk about cells without a genome instead.
Whats blocking you this time? I feel like youre always in a rush, senior. If you cant do it on Sundays, you can do it during the week, and if you cant do it during the week, you can do it on Sundays.
Just because its urgent. Its not that I cant meet Jeong-woo for the sake of studying.
While discussing Dr. Cheon Seung-guks thesis, Song Boyeong suddenly remembered something and asked.
By the way, whos going to be in charge of the Audrey project? If its big enough to establish a factory line, its not just a typical coborative task. At least someone with a high seniority like Seung-ju or Jin-gi. For the basic materials, maybe Ho-chan senior?
For now, its me.
Upon hearing this, Song Boyeongughed again.
Oh, surprise! I might actually faint from that! Ah, Im just kidding!
I wish it were just a joke too.
Day 1 Central Research Institute
On Monday morning, Jeong-woosmute began with a sense of tension.
No matter how unpredictable Director Songgus intentions were, it wasmon sense not to assign him as the team leader, considering he was the youngest member of the research institute. With a small hope that he would be ced in the next center after the basic materials, he spent the weekend in anticipation.
He sat down in the researchb and took out his newly acquiredptop, turning on thepanywork program.
As he logged into his ount, he noticed that there were emailsing in from various sources.
[Patent Analysis Team, Assistant Manager Kim Da-hee. The patent application for the de-icing agent formtion has beenpleted.]
[Previous nanotube research. The team leader suggested exploring its potential and pushing forward. If it is designated as a research patent application, substantial support can be obtained.]
It was a wee sound, but Jeong-woo shook his head with a bitter smile. If he wasnt careful, all of his personal research could be postponed indefinitely.
[Technical Support Team. The Air Purification Research Team is interested in the modifications to the Eksamtu RO filter. They have requested detailed research data]
Even other departments were showing interest in the research data that he had intended to pass on when he left the basic materials division. It seemed like they had caught wind of it despite working with open-source materials and registering a few results on thepanywork.
Passing it on to Jang Tae-sun first was now too burdensome. If he showed any morepetence here, he might be pressed to stay, or worse, they might use it as an excuse to keep him. Besides, it was a research project bearing Han Jeong-woos name, so it didnt matter where he went or what use it served.
Air purification team, Mr. Ha Won-il, team leader. Pleasee forward and receive it~
As Jeong-woo was carefullyposing his reply, the door of Research Lab 1 opened, and he turned his head to see a man who instantly captured his gaze.
D-Director Jang.
It was Jang Tae-sun. The three other senior colleagues who were already present at work also nodded respectfully to Jang Tae-sun.
It was still a long way from 9 AM, so his sudden appearance caught him off guard. He closed hisptop unnecessarily and stood up, making his way towards the entrance.
Why didnt you answer the phone?
Did you call?
As I picked up my cellphone, I saw that it was around 7:50 AM, right in the midst of the chaotic morning rush hour. Just as I was about to apologize for not picking up the call, Jang Tae-suns words sent a sudden jolt through my heart.
Ive been eagerly waiting all weekend to tell you this news. Congrattions, Team Leader Han Jeong-woo. Its official now.
The word team leader echoed in my ears.
Did Director Songgu give approval?
Well, you were the one who proactively pursued and secured the contract. I argued fiercely about who should be entrusted with it.
The initiative was taken by the center director. Unfortunately, I happened to be there at that time
Oh, well! It doesnt matter. From today onwards, pour all your efforts into forming the team. Ill vigorously push to set up the researchb for the project in the Fragrance Center.
Laughter filled the eyes behind the horn-rimmed sses. Jung Woo, halfway giving up, asked with curiosity.
What about my assignment?
Well, itll be on hold until this is finished.
Its an experimentbining thousands ofpounds. Its not a short-term project. It could take more than a year, or even longer.
Isnt it a divinemand for you to bury yourself in basic materials? Seize this opportunity andplete your masters and doctoral degrees under my guidance. Once Director Songgu retires, Ill be the youngest director, and youll be the youngest center director. Kya~ Its a beautiful picture.
If I were to take Jang Tae-suns ambitious words at face value, it was simply an invitation to embark on the path to sess ahead of time.
But there were secret contracts and the future of my career as a chemist at stake. I couldnt make such a decision about something that carried such weight in such a casual manner.
Its fate and luck that Michle happened to meet you on that day. It was worth arranging cough.
Arranging?
Yeah, I had my eyes on you! I didnt know you would be so good to me. If things go wellter on, maybe we can have noodles together? Ill be the one treating.
How far are you going, exactly?
Haha! Im just happy.
After happily patting Jeong-woos back, Jang Tae-sun left the Research Lab 1.
Jeong-woo returned to his seat with a dejected expression. Hong Ki-pyo, a senior researcher sitting across from him, approached with a concerned look.
I heard rumors that you had a hard time from day one in basic materials. What did the director pressure you about? Tsk tsk. Hes so greedy for talent.
If only Hong seniors misunderstanding was at that level, it would have been better. Jeong-woo mustered a bitter smile and absentmindedly turned his gaze to theptop.
Get yourself together. Work has started.
He reconsidered the proposal from Audreys team that he had seen on Friday.
Rbining nine natural nt fragrances with the same molecrposition as in their natural state.
Added to this were the clients conditions of pursuing perfection without any regard for efficiency.
Nature isplex. There are 500 molecules in the scent of a rose alone, but ordinary people simply call it rose fragrance.
However, Michle was a demanding perfumer who could detect subtle changes within it and imbue it with meaning.
A crisis arrived in Jeong-woos life as a chemist within just one month and ten days. He began to agonize over how to proceed with the research quickly, his mind bursting with thoughts.
Jeong-woo, what are you doing?
Startled by the touch on his shoulder, Jeong-woo snapped out of his thoughts and turned his head. Song Boyeong was looking at him with a strange expression.
Oh, I was lost in thought.
They could see Oh Seung-ju giving the morning briefing. He seemed to have contemted for about an hour.
The weekly meeting today is organized by the Electronic Materials Center. Only two representatives will go. In-beom and Dong-su. Someone from KG Electronics said that their low-carbon-certified gas stove, which reduces carbon dioxide emissions, needs to be presented. Yoon-su, youll go. Have you ever worked on thermoefficiency?
As the usual personnel allocation continued, Oh Seung-ju looked at Song Boyeong and spoke.
Microbiologyb.
Ah!
Why are you screaming? Your beauty wont die just because you remove your makeup.
But my nose will die!
Song Boyeong pointed at Jeong-woo with her swollen cheek.
Our youngest, who left home earlier, has returned today, but why is it me?
Oh? Right, Jeong-woo is here too.
Perhaps because he had been contemting quietly all along, it seemed like they only noticed him now. Oh Seung-ju responded to Jeong-woos eye contact with a weing expression.
Jeong-woo should have an inauguration ceremony too. After all, youre still officially part of this ce.
Well, thats
Next to him, Song Boyeong let out a sigh and smirked ominously. She pretended to cover her nose and gestured with her thumb for Jeong-woo to do well.
With a cheerful expression and humming, she left Jeong-woo dumbfounded.
You look the happiest youve ever been since meeting the senior.
Whats so special about happiness? Its the little joys of everyday life. Thats what it is.
Did you know, senior? Our Boyeong senior looks the prettiest when she doesnt wear makeup?
Hmm, hmm.
Song Boyeong shook her head, not falling for it.
Today, the juniors are in charge. Lets experience the scent of their hometown.
As she was speaking, Oh Seung-ju btedly held a freshly printed document in his hand.
Keep quiet, everyone. Theres one additional matter.
Oh Seung-ju held the document and began reading it with a professional demeanor.
Its a statement from Jang Tae-sun, the head of the Basic Materials Division. Were recruiting new project researchers, so if anyone wants to explore or participate in research rted to fragrance molecule synthesis, they should talk to Jeong-woo, the team leader. Everyone got that huh?
Oh Seung-ju nced at the document again, wondering if he had read it incorrectly.
Jeong-woo, the team leader?
Jeong-woo realized that it had arrived and let out a deep sigh.
Is it already here?
What are you talking about, Jeong-woo?
I literally got assigned to work on a small project with a perfumepany.
As a team leader? Director Jang is quite hot-tempered.
I didnt expect it to be this extreme either.
Congrattions. You might be the youngest team leader, huh? Dong-gil had his first project when he was 29 too. At this rate, he might even lose his title as the youngest responsible member.
I hope not Seriously.
Jeong-woo pointed at Song Boyeong.
Starting today, I have to gather team members and visit the researchb. As forpost research
Song Boyeong, who wasughing, suddenly stopped.
Day 2 Fragrance Center
Ding-dong.
As Jeong-woo stepped out of the elevator on the 11th floor, he faced a corridor with a different logo, indicating it belonged to a subsidiarypany rather than KG Chemical.
From the 1st to the 10th floor of the East Wing were the centers of the Central Research Institute. From here up to the 20th floor were the research centers of the subsidiarypanies.
Today, among them, Jeong-woo visited the ce known as the Fragrance Center, which belonged to KG Living Health.
The actual research wouldmence a few days after the contracts were signed and approved, so there was still some time to spare. However, Jeong-woo had a reason to be restless.
No one volunteered.
As a newly hired researcher without connections or position, he was in charge of the project.
There were no senior researchers who wanted to listen to themands of someone from the lowest tier of the Central Research Institute, let alone general researchers who would support the synthesis research that hinted at long-term development.
Research is not something done alone, and the burden of failure is not borne alone.
This was a part that even Jang Tae-sun, who followed the atmosphere of KG Chemical, emphasizing free research participation, could not solve.
Dont worry, Jeong-woo. If theres no one, Ill join. You know, Im an all-rounder. I can do anything.
This was the only assurance given during their morning meeting. If he made a slight mistake, the Center Director could end up as a single team member. The project should go smoothly.
Sigh.
What brings you here?
At the end of the corridor, the receptionist asked Jeong-woo, and he recalled the name of the research associate introduced by Jang Tae-sun.
Im here to see Assistant Manager Yoon Hyeong-seok. My name is Han Jeong-woo.
Upon contacting someone inside, the door soon opened, revealing a man in his mid-thirties. With a chubby figure and a warm demeanor, he looked around the corridor and spoke.
The team leader?
His eyes are on the people going to and from the elevator, not on Jungwoo.
Right here.
As Jeong-woo raised his hand, Assistant Manager Yoon seemed taken aback.
Jeong-woo for the Audrey Project?
Yes.
Assistant Manager Yoons initial disbelief at such a young man being the team leader quickly faded, and he regained hisposure, gesturing for Jeong-woo to enter.
Im Assistant Manager Yoon Hyeong-seok. Please follow me.
They walked along a long corridor, passing by centers for cosmetics, household products, and groceries.
As they walked, Jeong-woo started to understand why this entire ce was referred to as the Fragrance Center, epassing the entire Central Research Institute.
A fresh scent lingered in the air from the moment they stepped out of the elevator. It felt as ifundry freshly sprayed with fabric softener was spread out in one ce.
Finally, Jeong-woo arrived at the entrance of the center, marked with the [SH] emblem.
Scent House.
Just before swiping his ess card at the ss entrance, Assistant Manager Yoon spoke.
We were quite surprised when we heard about the coboration with Audrey Company. Audreysbination fragrances have received worldwide acim. Though we cant apply their licenses due to the high cost.
Ding.
The door opened, revealing a spacious research area that upied half of therge refrigerated facility. It wasnt drastically different from the Basic Materials Center.
Jeong-woos gaze paused on the wall lined with familiar shampoo and body wash bottles, as well as air fresheners andundry products. Beverages were also visible.
The researchb you will be using, as a team leader, is the fragranceb at the far right. Once the HR formalities areplete, you will also be issued an ess card.
Assistant Manager Yoon still seemed unfamiliar with the fact that Jeong-woo was the team leader. Jeong-woo felt the same way, so he smiled awkwardly before proceeding to the workspace.
Just before opening the door, Jeong-woo asked a question.
Ah, I already have an ess card. Can I use this one?
Give it a try. Im not sure what level of ess privileges it has.
Jeong-woo took out the research building ess card he used to go to Dr. Chun Seung-guksb.
Ding.
The door slid open with a flickering green light.
It works.
Suddenly, Jeong-woo became curious about how far this card would grant him ess.
Inside was a small room measuring 5 square meters.
One side of the wall was lined with cabs, giving the impression of a regr kitchen in a household. If it werent for the scale and various ss bottles on the dining table, it would have felt like a ce to sit and enjoy a cup of tea.
As Jeong-woo looked around, his attention was drawn to a mini refrigerator with a Danger sign hanging in front of it. The transparent door revealed dozens of brown bottles inside.
Whats that?
Its a sample for olfactory tests. To be a member of this researchb, you need to identify a minimum of seven to ten bottles correctly. Usually, it takes about a year of concentrated training to distinguish the basics. Assistant manager-level staff can easily identify twenty bottles.
Assistant Manager Yoon exined while shrugging his shoulders slightly, disying a hint of professional pride.
Would you like to take a look around? Ill inform the department manager that the team leader for the Audrey Project has arrived. The restroom and breakroom are located at the far left from the entrance of the center.
Oh, yes, please. Ill take my time exploring.
Jeong-woo sat down on a chair and admired the objects in the room.
There probably wont be any candidates in the Central Research Institute, so Ill have to gather them from this center.
He thought that the researchers here would be better suited for the task of reconstructing scents. The problem was Assistant Manager Yoons reaction that he had witnessed earlier.
Even I, if a rtively young guy,e in as the team leader, I might not want to work with them. They might perceive it as arrogance no matter how humble I try to be. What should I do?
He sighed heavily, feeling exhausted today. He had even considered analyzing andbining everything on his own, assuming the worst-case scenario.
If thats the case, all thebor-intensive experiments will have to be postponed to Jang Tae-sun.
Lost in thought, he sensed some activity in the hallway. Wondering if Assistant Manager Yoon had already returned, he strained his ears and could hear the sound of a conversation between a man and a woman.
Nayeon, did you hear about the new projecting to the center?
You mean the Audrey Project? Isnt that amazing?
Not really. I heard from my colleagues in the Central Research Institute that a rookie who joined at the end ofst year is the team leader. What could this be? Some sort of nepotism? Is he the bosss son or something?
Ding.
As the door opened, the man who was walking in noticed Jeong-woo.
Who are you?
Jeong-woo wanted to retort, Im the rookie team leader, but he held back and simply replied, Im Han Jeong-woo.
Huh?
Yes, Im in charge of the Audrey Project.
He responded as politely as possible, considering that the person in front of him might reveal their willingness to participate.
The two individuals walked in and exchanged a brief nce with Jeong-woo.
The man wearing a employee ID card with the name Shin Ki-woo around his neck was tall with small eyes, giving off a studious vibe. The woman wearing an ID card with the name Jung Nayeon had a cute style, with her front teeth slightly visible like a rabbit.
Feeling the need to exin why he was sitting there, Jeong-woo spoke up.
I came with Assistant Manager Yoon. Just ignore me, Im just observing.
Shin Ki-woo, who was standing in front of the mini refrigerator, gave Jeong-woo a brief, scrutinizing look, as if he was very peculiar.
Jung Nayeon took the samples Shin Ki-woo had taken out and spread them out on the table, then spoke to Jeong-woo.
Our team members are gathering for a lunchtime bet.
A bet?
An olfactory test.
While the two were chatting, three more researchers entered the room.
This time, I made a reservation for 15 samples. I even groomed my nose hair devoutly for this.
Try to do that not just for the bet, but also in your daily life.
I disinfected with alcohol. It feels refreshing, you know.
In no time, the fragrance room became lively. Jung Nayeon looked at the bewildered Jeong-woo.
Just dont look at it too strangely since were taking a little break to have fun. This is like a y child test for our Fragrance Center.
Should I step out?
No, its okay.
Ziiing.
However, Jeong-woo lowered his head and stepped out into the corridor when his phone in his pocket rang.
It was Jang Tae-sun.
Why, Center Director?
-Oh, well. Michle is bringing the first batch of samples in the afternoon. Around 3 oclock. Just wanted to make sure everything is prepared.
Preparation goes without saying. Its the first visit to the Fragrance Center, after all!
-Then lets meet in my office.
Id rather not. Shouldnt we tour the researchbs where Ill be working? Since I know there are no team members yet. Id feel morefortable and at ease if the contract were to be broken.
-Sorry, Jeong-woo. Its because Im not good enough as a center director
Dont fake your tears.
Jeong-woos gaze swept over the researchers inside the fragrance room.
A bet based on who can distinguish fragrances better inside those bottles. Assistant Manager Yoons pride that he had seen earlier.
Hmm.
A simplistic idea crossed Jeong-woos mind: to pretend to have an extraordinary sense of smell that even Michle would recognize, and gain recognition for his abilities.
Do we have to go to such lengths?
-If we dont find it within this week, Ill gather all the researchers working on basic materials and bring them under your supervision. Hold onto your worries, Team Leader.
Amidst all this, the gentleman spoke in a nonchnt tone.
Just wait. Ill try to find a solution.
After ending the call, Jeong-woo took a deep breath.
As someone bearing the title of team leader, situations where he had to put on a brave face and lower himself were bound toe frequently.
He had to ovee this obstacle effortlessly to finish the project within a short period.
Beep.
Jeong-woo opened the door and entered with a wide smile on his face.
This is an interesting bet. Can I participate too, by any chance?
Seong Ki-woo, who was standing between them, brightened up.
This is not an easy test. But since its our first time meeting today, Ill treat you to lunch.
Well, honestly, the chances of sess are slim.
Then, instead of wasting money, why dont you sit back and watch
Its difficult to get everything right. As humans, we can make a mistake or two.
Ki-woo looked at Jeong-woo, wondering if he had misheard.
How about this? Would you like to try a more challenging bet than lunch?
Jeong-woos strong provocation caused silence to fall over the fragrance room.
Chapter 58
Chapter 58- A month in the life of a chemicalpany team leader(3)
A young team leader?
Hes been with thepany for 2 months, twenty-seven.
Cha Jin-seong couldnt help but burst intoughter at Deputy Yoons report.
Having witnessed spectacr personnel changes throughout his 10 years in corporate life, it was rare to see such a disregard formon sense. Because of that, he felt that it was too hasty to make judgments.
Cooperate ording to thepany regtions, up to a certain extent, follow the principles. Where is that team leader?
Hes in the fragrance room. What should we do, manager? Should we send him back?
Lets meet him first. Its burdensome for everyone when Director Jang Tae-seones up.
On the way out of the office towards SH Center, Deputy Yoon criticized on the absurd personnel arrangement in the Central Research Institute.
Does this make any sense? They may have a close rtionship as juniors and seniors among themselves, but this is apany after all, and there are positions. A new employee coborating on research with Audrey, of all people. I dont understand this appointment of a team leader, at all.
Cha Jin-seong could somewhat understand Deputy Yoons critic. Coborating with a high-ss perfumepany in Europe, which was even considered prestigious in Europe, to infuse a pleasant fragrance into their own products was like a dreame true in this ce where they researched day and night.
However, from the perspective of a business manager rather than a chemistry major, this matter needed to be handled with caution. Thats why he had to correct that attitude.
Deputy Yoon.
Yes, manager.
Theres efficiency thates from a horizontal rtionship. In arge-scale organization like Jung-yeon, its necessary. If we have to work by meticulously checking which researcher is from which department and background, Deputy Yoon, can you focus on the research?
Well
Research that is restricted in creativity carries disadvantages from the start. Lets respect each other even if were different. Its not that difficult.
Deputy Yoon let out a small sigh and nodded, saying, I understand, calming down his frustration.
The two people walking towards the fragrance room became puzzled when they saw the corridor filled with employees.
They could hear murmuring voices and conversations.
What number is it now for that person?
Thirty-six? Thirty-seven?
This is insane. How can they get every single one right without a single mistake? Its like theyre a god.
Curious about what they were talking about, Deputy Yoon squeezed his way through them and raised his head.
Why are you all gathered here?
Deputy Yoon, do you know that the Fragrance Design team has formed a group for olfactory tests?
As Deputy Yoon turned his gaze inward, his eyes widened at the sight of the young team leader facing off against the Fragrance Design team members.
Jeong-woo counted the number of bottles he had checked for fragrance molecules so far.
A total of 37 bottles.
The task of randomly selecting and distinguishing scents and defining them from 40 bottles inside the mini refrigerator had significant implications in this ce.
Even after Shin Ki-woo correctly identified 24 of them, determining the final winner, rumors spread, and researchers from all directions flocked in. They had been watching to see how many they could guess correctly.
The Audrey Perfume Project?
That luxury Audrey? That person is the team leader?
I guess he was scouted after working as a perfumer.
The gaze of the senior researchers dealing with exceptional sessors during their military service was intense.
Thanks to them, promoting the project became much better than expected.
The problem was the greatest drawback of this test that even Jeong-woo did not know.
Oh, gosh, its exhausting.
Despite hardly using his sense of smell, various scents had irritated his nose to the point of paralysis.
Particrly, the concentrated essence of certain flower petals had an extreme scent variation, even bringing the smells of vinegar and pickles together.
Now, even refreshing scents were bing repulsive. Jeong-woo understood why they couldnt guess many of them, despite receiving training.
Maybe limiting it to 40 is due to the limitations of olfaction. Even if I try to smell more, I cant.
With a strained expression, Jeong-woo opened the 38th bottle. Pretending to smell it, he examined the molecr structure.
There are various types of fruit essential oils.
Essential oils have six different concentrations, so its called the trap of deception. The differences are subtle. There arent many people at the center who can distinguish all of them.
Jung Nayeon, who shared this information, was quite kind. Since surpassing 30, she had been advising Jeong-woo and even helping him on the side.
Shin Ki-woo, who had been hostile before, didnt shoot him such res anymore. It didnt seem like he had epted Jeong-woos abilities, but at least he wasnt as confrontational.
Jeong-woo spoke up.
It seems like the limonene content is high. Around 70% concentration? Its not as fresh as lemon, but I can sense a slightly sweet aroma.
One visible aspect was the structure of monoterpene hydrocarbons. Jeong-woo examined theposition ratio of carbon aggregates with petroleum-like scents within the cluster of fragrance molecules.
It feels like the base note is simr to grape, lime, or orange.
Since everyone in the room could also smell it simultaneously, there were both agreeing nods and shaking heads.
As Jeong-woo continued to analyze the spreading fragrance molecules, he suddenly felt a twist in his stomach even though he hadnt eaten anything. He covered his mouth and thought, Ah, I cant imitate the sense of smell any further. Ive showcased enough.
Ugh, I cant mimic the sense of smell at all. This should be enough to win them, right?
While he was thinking that, Shin Ki-woo suddenly handed him something.
Take this.
In his palm was an alcohol swab.
What is this?
The scents get tangled and make your head dizzy. Just hold it near your nose for 10 seconds. It should help reset your senses to some extent.
Ah, I see.
Although he spoke bluntly, it was considerate. Jeong-woo nodded his head and epted the alcohol swab. As he held the swab to his nose, he indeed felt refreshed.
An outsider who knows nothing about it is about to break the record. Its frustrating and irritating.
Jeong-woo turned his gaze towards Shin Ki-woos muttering.
The record, you say?
39. There are only 2 left now. And think carefully about the base note. You seem to have dulled your sense of smell, so youre not catching scents well.
Shin Ki-woo even provided advice. Jeong-woo carefully examined the fragrance molecules floating in the air.
Oh?
It was an ethyleneponent. He saw particles of gas emitted with a fragrant smell when the citrus peel was pressed firmly.
It was an essential oil blend of citrus base with basil and cedarwood.
Jung Nayeon checked thebel stuck to the bottom of the brown bottle and nodded her head.
Citrus 65%, basil 20%, cedarwood 10%, other 5%. Its urate.
Although the exactposition ratio was written on thebel, Jeong-woo didnt bother matching it precisely.
Only two left for the all-clear. If you solve just one more, youll tie the centers record.
Jung Nayeon said this and handed him the 39th brown bottle. As Jeong-woo took it in his hand, the voices of the people outside also subsided.
What should I do?
He had already achieved his goal. There was only a choice left whether to challenge the record or not.
Jeong-woo contemted it. Breaking the record could potentially damage their pride. Its not like he had a strong ambition for the record either.
The, the manager is here.
Suddenly, one of the researchers in the room looked startled and nced at the door.
The crowd split, and two men entered the fragrance room. It was Deputy Director Yoon Hyeong-seok whom he had seen earlier, and a sharp-looking middle-aged man.
Deputy Director Yoon spoke to Jeong-woo.
Mr. Han Jeong-woo, this is Manager Cha Jin-seong. Please continue the test. We wont disturb you. We had toe in because we couldnt see well from outside.
Jeong-woo turned his gaze to the man who clearly appeared to be a superior.
Hello, Manager.
Cha Jin-seong nodded briefly in acknowledgment and stepped aside without saying a word.
Unlike the central research institute, in the subsidiarypany, they address researchers by their ranks.
Even Assistant Manager Gong at KG Industries, who had a masters degree in chemical engineering, was referred to as an assistant manager.
If someone is referred to as a manager here, it means they are a senior doctor with many years of experience. Jeong-woo nervously raised his hand to the stopper with a slightly tense expression.
As the 39th stopper was opened, Shin Ki-woo swallowed saliva. Deputy Director Yoon turned his head towards Cha Jin-seong.
The seemingly unbreakable record seems to be broken after three years. Who was it back then? That doctor who resigned from here.
Dr. Cheon Seung-guk.
Yes, him. Just mentioning his name set off a real uproar.
Jeong-woo hesitated at their conversation.
The person who set the record was Dr. Cheon?
Chills ran down his spine at the mention of that person. Thepetition for the highest record was already meaningless.
Jeong-woo made his decision here. The main culprit who had inflicted a blow to the prestigious pride of the Fragrance Center was none other than Cheon Seung-guk. He had to protect him, from the perspective of his disciple.
This is also a fragrance oil. The misty scent is strong. Is this the smell of cypress?
Rather than pretending to know nothing, he meticulously examined even the insignificantponents.
It seems to contain phenylpropane in lemon, and the fragrance mistisin was extracted from nutmeg.
As Jeong Nayeon handed over the bottle and checked thebel at the bottom, she had a subtle expression on her face.
Are you sure?
Its really suspicious, but since Ive already mentioned it.
Ugh. Although nutmeg is also in the misceneous ingredients, the predominant note is definitely anise fruit.
Anise fruit? It was hole, thats whats bothering me.
Failure.
Jeong Nayeon felt more regretful than Jeong-woo. Shin Ki-woo smelled the failed bottle up close.
Its definitely confusing. Nutmeg is too stimting.
The 40th fragrance, aimed at the record, failed to ovee the subtle difference inponents. This makes a total of 38 now. Jeong-woo quietly apologized to Cheon Seung-guk and stepped back.
Now I understand why a record is a record. Its really tough when your concentration is disrupted.
It wasnt an empty statement. Jeong-woo thought that if it werent for the prescription of alcohol swabs, he would have been eliminated earlier.
Shin Ki-woo, standing in front of the mini fridge for organization, nced at Jeong-woo, this time with a quite friendly gaze.
Jeong-woo, you were also amazing.
Oh thank you.
With unexpected praise, Jeong-woo smiled happily.
Team Leader Han Jeong-woo.
When the test was over, Cha Jin-seong, who had been standing aside, called Jeong-woo in a polite tone.
The aura of a real decision-maker emanated strongly from him.
Jeong-woo immediately straightened his posture.
Please feel free to speak. Were in the same team after all.
Isnt it only kind to make the other person feelfortable if we want to impose? I dont know much about Team Leader Han Jeong-woo yet, so I appreciate the cooperation letter from Director Jang Taeseon.
Cha Jin-seong kept a sharp professional distance. As soon as Jeong-woo felt the stringent atmosphere, he realized that this was someone who wouldnt easily fall for ttery.
You can proceed with the project here from now on. As you can see, this is a space with many essible researchers, so please take care of the materials yourself. If you have any specific requests, you can go through Deputy Yoon Hyeong-seok.
Cha Jin-seong was about to turn around after finishing his words.
Director.
Yes?
This was part of the bets conditions. I think I should mention it. In the afternoon, Audreys representative, Michle, will be visiting. They are the fragrance design team consisting of five people. Can I receive their assistance for about an hour?
Cha Jin-seong turned his head to Shin Ki-woo.
Employee Shin Ki-woo, will it not cause any disruptions to your work?
Oh, it wont be a problem for just an hour.
Cha Jin-seong turned his head back to Jeong-woo.
I see. Thats all.
As the director left, the people who had gathered dispersed. Yoon Hyeong-seok gave his phone number to Jeong-woo and immediately followed Cha Jin-seong.
He seems like someone who is decisive in making decisions. Unlike Director Jang, theres no need to be overly cautious.
Jeong-woo found it reassuring to see someone who appearedposed.
Jeong-woo.
Shin Ki-woo, who had finished organizing the mini fridge, spoke to Jeong-woo from the side.
Theres something you should keep in mind. Director Cha Jin-seong just now. He doesnt have an ordinary background figure.
After checking the surroundings, Shin Ki-woo spoke in a low voice.
He may not show it openly, so people dont mention it, but he is one of the direct grandsons of the CEO. Even within the same Royal Club, if the background is a president, director, or executive, mistakes can happen. And considering that our Center Director is also someone whom Director Cha cannot take lightly
Cha Jin-seong, a third-generation conglomerate heir. It was an astonishing story, but one thing seemed strange to Jeong-woo, and he tilted his head.
The same Royal Club?
Anyway, I will definitely assist at 3 oclock without any hesitation.
Jeong-woo felt perplexed as he watched Shin Ki-woo move away.
Are you misunderstanding how I became a team leader? A sudden promotion to department head?
He would have to unravel things little by little, but it felt a bit unfair.
3:20 PM.
Jeong-woo waited anxiously in front of the elevator. He had just received a message that Michle would being up with Director Jang.
As he straightened his white coat cor, the elevator disyed the number 11.
Theyreing, theyreing.
The doors opened, and Jeong-woo found himself face to face with a blue-eyed woman dressed in a suit. Director Jang, who had greeted her first, made a facial expression that seemed to say, Im in trouble from behind.
Jeong-woo respectfully bowed.
Wee, Representative.
I know its a hasty visit. However, we need to see the working environment in order to n for the long term. I hope for your understanding.
I understand. Pleasee this way.
Jeong-woo guided Michle and entered the corridor of the Fragrance Center. The male researcher who was performing the scent task followed behind her.
Stay calm.
People who were interestedly looking towards the famous CEOs visit could be seen here and there. There was even a male researcher who discreetly took photos, captivated by Michles beauty.
As Jeong-woo walked ahead, he took another deep breath. It was his first face-to-face business meeting with a client. He continuously recalled the hospitality script he had prepared in his mind, as there was no room for mistakes.
We will be conducting the work in the fragrance room here. It has good storage facilities, and its easy to move thetest equipment. Director Jang has paid a lot of attention to it.
He nced at Jang Taeseon, giving him a warning look. Jang Taeseon responded by standing at a distance and sending a finger-heart gesture.
Michle, who had been silently following along, stopped abruptly in front of the fragrance room. Jeong-woo swiped the card on the door.
Click.
The interior of the ss door became visible.
Shin Ki-woo was analyzing the fragrance while holding a paper tester against a wind turbine. Jung Nayeon was dividing the beakers into ethanol and distilled water in containers. People were also rearranging the boxes containing dyes and antioxidants and organizing the fragrance bottles in the cab.
Everyone. This is Audreys representative, Michle.
At Jeong-woos voice, everyone turned their heads and greeted her lightly. So far, everything went ording to the prepared n.
After scanning them, Michle entered the room without a word.
Phew.
The cooperation of the Fragrance Design Team seemed to have achieved some results in creating the atmosphere in theboratory. Additionally, all the members of the design team had a curious gaze, full of interest, as they saw Michle in person.
Please observe carefully and spread the word. We need to recruit team members by the end of this week.
Jeong-woo silently made a request in his mind as he arrived at the table with Michle.
I heard you brought the first samples.
Secretary Kim.
At Michles call, an assistant ced a bag on the table.
With a click sound, Michle took out a small bottle from the opened bag.
This is a finished product made entirely from natural ingredients. This is the first public unveiling.
As soon as she opened the cap, a captivating fragrance filled the room.
Shin Ki-woo, who was turning the wind turbine, was momentarily captivated and looked at Michle with wide eyes.
An ideal perfume emits a living scent the moment you breathe it in. It creates a spontaneous euphoria and unpredictable emotions.
Michle closed the cap and looked at Jeong-woo.
What did you feel?
Jeong-woo felt that Michle didnt want him to analyze the fragrancesponents, so he simply shared his impression.
Thats great. To the point where I want to keep smelling it.
Hmm.
With an expression that could be interpreted as either a smile or a sigh, Michle spoke.
And this is the unfinished product that is missing the nine synthetic fragrances that should beposed by your team.
As soon as she opened it, a peculiar scent reached their noses. It wasnt unpleasant, but it also didnt give off a typical perfume vibe.
Perfume is aprehensive art that embodies elegance, characteristics, and rity. Any scent that doesnt possess that is worthless, the worst.
Michles gaze turned toward Jang Tae-sun.
Wow, Representative. I didnt spray any Bourne Number Nine today.
Jang Tae-sun, feeling guilty, waved his hands, but Michle pointed towards the door, not him.
The scent that permeates the entire floor. What on earth is it?
Michle was asking about the reason behind this ce being called the Fragrance Center. Jeong-woo turned his head towards Shin Ki-woo, indicating that he should answer.
Shin Ki-woos face took on a slightly proud expression as he nodded his head.
Its KG Life Healths signature scent. Its the base fragrance of the number one fabric softener, Sharprin. Itbines the scents of herbs, violets, and oranges
Bang.
Shin Ki-woo flinched as Michle mmed the table.
I feel sad and angry. Such a cheap and worthless fragrance.
Jeong-woo cautiously asked Michle, revealing a hint of politeness.
Representative, why is this scent called Wongteori?
Intentionally mispronouncing it to make it difficult to understand, Jeong-woo saw Michle swiftly turn her head.
Its a standardized, lifeless scent that evokes no emotions. In Korea, you can find the same floral category of scents everywhere. Its as if the world only smells like flowers.
The Fragrance Design team couldnt refute the CEOs criticism. The fragrance they first revealed was exceptional, leaving mouths agape. The woman before them had created dozens of such scents and gained worldwide fame, making her a leader in the industry.
Im disappointed in the level of fragrance in this research center. Jeong-woo, can proper work be done here?
Michle directly asked Jeong-woo.
What is this question?
Jeong-woo couldnt easily find an answer.
If he said no, there would be no solution. But if he sided with Michle, rumors would circte that he disregarded the Fragrance Center.
Whose side should he take?
Ugh
It seemed that the heavens had not yet finished testing him in this cursed position of team leader.
Jeong-woo hesitated, and his gaze lingered on the nameless flowers in the bag brought by Michle.
For now, lets focus on the work.
He quickly proceeded with analyzing the molecr world, while at the same time, his mind was bursting with the search for an answer.
Representative, we
Chapter 59
Chapter 59- A month in the life of a chemicalpany team leader(4)
In the bag, the scent molecules emanating from the stem of the dried flower petals were simr to those I had seen from the jasmine during the morning olfactory test.
Antranilic acid methyl is exactly the same.
While skimming through the list of nine endangered wild nts in the Audrey Project proposal, he recalled the name of a nt with a simrposition of ingredients.
As the analysis was roughly finished, Jeong-woo quickly retorted.
We are chemists, not fragrance experts. Oh, or should I say perfumers? If you only speak from that perspective, we have nothing to say.
Michle stared at Jeong-woo as if asking him why he was saying that again. The uneasy gazes of the fragrance design team members were focused on Jeong-woos defiance towards the CEO.
The first sample, the cottonseed oil scent. Do you know that this fragrance is simr to jasmine?
We dont need anything simr.
I understand. However, I need to exin how the research will proceed from now on. Mr. Shin Ki-joon.
In response to Jeong-woos call, Shin Ki-joon, who was sitting in a dazed manner, turned his head and said, Yes?
Please bring a sample of jasmine.
With an intense look that seemed to say please do as I say, Shin Ki-joon immediately got up and fetched a vial from the cab-shaped fragrance storage.
Thank you.
Jeong-woo epted the vial containing the extract and looked at Michle.
First, we will start the work with the jasmine extract as a base, which has a molecr structure about 87% simr to the cottonseed extract. You would say that the 13% difference represents a significant gap. However, antranilic acid methyl exists in both cottonseed and jasmine. Its exactly the same.
The fragrance design team nodded in agreement with Jeong-woos words, but Michle showed no sign of reaction.
Can I use a small amount of the unfinished sample? After all, you called me here to evaluate it.
As Jeong-woo spoke, he put on thin rubber gloves. When Michle nodded in approval, he used the dropper to add a small amount of the unfinished sample liquidbeled A to a test tube.
The ratio for the cottonseed mixture is 40 to 1, right? The fragrance in the finished product earlier was like that
The perfume manufacturing form is not included in the contract.
Alright, then.
Michle didnt mention anything about this part. Her gaze just became heavier.
Jeong-woo turned his head to look at Jang Nayeon.
Please pass me the distilled water.
She sent him a pleading look and mimicked tidying up before taking out a sk and handing him the distilled water.
Well dilute it for the convenience of the experiment. It will be about 1/100, but you should be able to appreciate the scent sufficiently.
Thats fine. What about you?
Of course, we too. This is what these people do every day. They can detect the scent of even one element mixed in at a ratio of 1/100,000. Thats who they are.
After giving them apliment, Jeong-woo looked at Jang Taeseon, who had been standing there discreetly.
Thats right. Director Jang Taeseon is
Consider me nonexistent. My nose is the same as the team leader.
He replied evasively. Sighing, Jeong-woo mixed the jasmine extract with the cottonseed extract in the A test tube.
He handed it to Michle.
How is it?
Its simr, but the note is different. It has only improved slightly from the worst.
Thats expected. We havent added the ingredients of styrallyl acetate and geosmin from the cottonseed yet. Shin Ki-joon, Mr. Shin Ki-joon.
When called again, Shin Ki-joon hesitated and looked at Jeong-woo.
Regarding the two ingredients I just mentioned, which fragrance should we look for?
If its steryl acetate, its also included in the fabric softener microcapsules, and it has been spread in the adjacent refrigeration facility.
May I ask for your help?
Sure, Ill go and get it.
With Shin Ki-joons gesture, a team member who was organizing the cab went out.
And for geosmin, we dont have it here. It might be in the warehouse for organicpounds Hmm, wait a moment.
Shin Ki-joon went out to the corridor and returned with something in his hand.
We can extract it from here.
He said as he ced a handful of dirt on a ss dish. Jeong-woos eyes widened as he looked at Shin Ki-joon.
From where?
From the potted nt in the corridor.
Ah, I see.
Jeong-woo poured some of the ethyl alcohol he received from Jang Nayeon into the beaker containing the soil.
The earthy odor from tap water is unpleasant, but the smell of the soil after rain is pleasant. Its all about the ratio. The scent is created when all the elements from leaves, soil, and grass are dissolved little by little in the water droplets covering them.
As he stirred the solution with a ss rod in the beaker, Jeong-woo finally poured a portion of the solution into the A test tube using a dropper. At that moment, a team member came in carrying a bottle containing styrallyl acetate capsules.
Jeong-woo ced a pill-sized capsule into the beaker and, just before pouring the distilled water, he told Michle.
Close your eyes.
What are you talking about?
The reaction from the protective capsule ingredients can be a bit intense.
Other team members had already turned their heads. Jeong-woo ced his left palm in front of Michles eyes and poured the distilled water with his right hand.
With a crackling sh, the capsule dissolved in the distilled water.
Michle flinched and let out a surprised Ahh. Her upper body leaned back, but Jeong-woo casually held her to support her and smiled.
It feels even more refreshing when it cools down.
Ha.
Feeling embarrassed about being the only one startled, Michle turned her head toward the operatives, but seeing Jeong-woo standing calmly, she furrowed her eyebrows slightly.
Jeong-woo collected the liquid that had melted into a diluted solution and put it into a dropper, then added it to the A test tube. He spoke again.
Earlier, it was 87% identical, and now, with the addition of two more ingredients, its 93% identical. Of course, you would say that this 7% represents a significant difference, right?
He brought the A test tube closer to Michles nose. Michle sniffed and looked at Jeong-woo with a puzzled expression.
How much better is it from a tiny difference?
Michle couldnt give an easy answer. It was a task to distinguish the scent from among the nine elements that she had immersed in earlier, and one of them was even a synthetic fragrance. However, it emitted a much moreplete fragrance, one that was much closer to the finished product than before.
Hmm.
Michle, who had been observing Jeong-woo while he tidied up, finally spoke with some hesitation.
I cant fully trust thebs fragrances, but the experimental process is impressive.
At this response, Jang Taeseon, who had been watching with bated breath, let out a sigh of relief first.
After finishing the sample delivery andboratory inspection, Michle stood up from her seat.
Mr. Han Jeong-woo, I will provide new samples each time a finished product is ready. n the production process ordingly to match that speed.
Ill be prepared.
From 93% to 100%. In fact, this was the biggest challenge. Dealing with hundreds of different molecules was a daunting task.
Thats why Jeong-woo didnt give a definite answer on when it would be finished.
As Michle left for the corridor, Jang Taeseon waved his hand to Jeong-woo and said.
Ill apany her. Well done, team leader. Rest well today.
After Jang Taeseon left to apany Michle on her task, Jeong-woo finally let out a relieved sigh.
Thats right. Advertisement for team members.
Turning his body, Jeong-woo opened his mouth to thank the fragrance design team members who had assisted him.
Thank you for your help.
Two researchers named Lee Seokhan and Kim Myungho approached Jeong-woo.
Wow, the CEOs personality is no joke.
How do Audreys employees even manage to work with such pressure?
Jeong-woo chuckled gracefully and replied, Thats true. He bowed once again to the departing two people to express his gratitude.
Jeong-woo, there was something I was curious about when you were mixing the fragrances earlier. You dont have precise measuring equipment, so how do you adjust the ratios with a dropper?
He couldnt answer that he measured even the molecules, so Jeong-woo simply said it was just a matter of familiarity.
Huh, youre like someone who has spent decades in theb. Your skills are impressive. Now that I saw it, you really are talented.
Jang Nayeon also came closer and brought up a topic about sample analysis.
Youve already finished analyzing the cottonseedponents, right? Theposition ratios of aromaticpounds separately. It seems you werent assigned to this project for nothing.
Both of them were in awe. They were the strongest personalities in the fragrance design team.
At that moment, Jeong-woo skillfully changed the topic, feeling that this was the perfect moment to slip away.
The coborative research project with Audrey will progress sessfully. With the help of the experienced members in the fragrance center, we can achieve even more positive results.
He thought everything had gone well.
He smoothly handled the positive reactions from the two people and boosted the chemists pride with his response.
However, what came from Shin Ki-joon waspletely different from what Jeong-woo had expected.
I dont see any room for my abilities to contribute to this project.
What?
Its like spoon-feeding on a project that already has its basic designpleted. I cant do it; its embarrassing. Andpared to the CEO earlier, I find Mr. Han Jeong-woo scarier.
Sca-scarier?
Shin Ki-joons gaze towards him was anything but light.
You can tell at a nce. The perfection in sample analysis,bination, and measuring techniques. Even the top-ss olfactory ability I saw this morning. Genius chemists like you are hard to catch up with for people like us. It might be called pride, but I wont waste my time on a project where I cant make a meaningful contribution. I cant just say I researched what the team leader told me to do. Anyway, thanks for the opportunity. Junsoo, lets go put away the capsules.
After greeting Jeong-woo, Shin Ki-joon left the room with another researcher named Sung Junsoo.
Jang Nayeon, the teams standout and always kind-hearted, gently spoke to Jeong-woo.
It seems like Ki-joon was quite shocked. He considers himself the ace of the fragrance team, but he cant keep up with a young talent like you in all aspects.
Thats
And, maybe it will be difficult to find project team members here at the center. They have their regr tasks, and the new productunch period ising up soon, so everyone will be extremely busy.
Jang Nayeon subtly expressed her intention to decline and left the room.
It was a deting sound.
He wouldnt participate just because he was doing too well, because he was too well-prepared, and because he didnt want to be dragged in.
Being a sessful team leader meant more than just being able to excel in everything.
Research was not a solitary endeavor.
When he had been arbitrarily interfering in others research, he hadnt realized the weight of it.
Day 5 Fragrance Room
With an anxious expression, Jeong-woo opened hisptop.
He typed in his ID and password for thepany email and pressed Enter.
He closed his eyes tightly, then slowly opened them to check if there were any new applicants.
Ha
It was Friday, the final day of the public recruitment, and there were still zero applicants.
The contract had been finalized yesterday, and the payment was alreadypleted. Jang Taeseon had even given him a corporate card with the name of the basic material to use freely, but there was no team member to use it.
Beep beep.
The door opened, and a staff member from the Fragrance Center walked into the closet-like storage room. Spotting Jeong-woo sitting in the corner, the staff member gave a slight bow.
You came early today.
My transit time lined up perfectly.
There are days like that. Well, then.
Thump.
The staff member picked up one fragrance bottle and left the room. Jeong-woo had exchanged greetings with many people while going back and forth to the Fragrance Center for three days, but there was still a certain distance between them.
Doing research alone is just
He had clearly drawn the line with Jang Taeseon as well. He threatened to resign as the team leader if he forced the affiliated researchers to participate using his authority. This was a matter of his reputation in the research institute for the future.
He had also refused Jang Taeseons personal participation. It would be futile, as Jang Taeseon was only aggressive in spirit and wouldnt be of any help.
What am I going to do now?
It was a morning filled with worries and sighs.
Zzzzzz.
A message arrived, and Jeong-woo picked up his phone.
[I have a free schedule tomorrow. How about you, Jeong-woo? Are you going to the clinic? It would be nice if youe. Its quite boring wandering around alone for the therapy course. I feel restless.]
Her message felt like that of a close friend all of a sudden.
Despite feeling a sense offort, Jeong-woo couldnt help but smile at the thought of Yoon Yi-seols refreshing face, which added even more freshness.
[Im fine too. I cant miss the rare sight of Yi-seol getting a neck massage. Just dont get a cramp in your foot this time.]
[That wasnt me. Ill be receiving that therapy for the first time tomorrow.]
Until evening, Jeong-woo worked on filling the remaining 7% of the Somdari fragrance molecules. It wasnt too difficult, except for two issues.
There were only two test tubes that he could shake in his hands, and no matter how much he tried to minimize his movements from the fragrance warehouse to the material library, he still had to make the trip approximately every 30 minutes.
To construct the approximately 150 synthetic molecules required to fill the 7%, the tasks in his mind kept osciting with no clear focus. Time and routes constantly tangled.
Though his body was one, in his mind, he had the potential for at least ten different tasks at any given moment.
If only there were just one more person with abilities like his own, he could achieve not twice but four or even eight times the efficiency. But such individuals were exceedingly rare in this world. He wondered where that person was and what they were doing.
Ugh, Im thirsty.
Looking at the clock, it was already 7 PM.
Forget about enjoying the good life and skipping dinner for overtime. Lets go home.
Jeong-woo organized the test tubes and sks he hadid out, turned off the switch of the reflux cooling device he had set up for the esterification reaction, and ced the unfinished sample in the cab, locking it securely.
Finally, as he was about to close theptop, he noticed the number 1 on his work email inbox.
No way?
Feeling a flutter of excitement, he clicked on it.
A, an applicant!
He immediately picked up his phone and dialed the number.
Jeong-woo waited eagerly in front of the elevator on the 11th floor, looking all cheerful.
As the doors opened, Cho Seong-hwan, with his distinctive cabbage-like hairstyle, walked out. He was one of the six new recruits and had often given Jeong-woo friendly advice.
Wee!
Seeing Jeong-woo approach with such enthusiasm, Cho Seong-hwan seemed taken aback.
Did you wait long?
Just a bit. Shall we go to the break room?
With a slight sense of guilt, Cho Seong-hwan followed Jeong-woo, who was leading the way.
You were surprised by the message, right? Im a bit embarrassed that I applied right after joining thepany through the open recruitment.
Oh, not at all.
As they stood in front of the vending machine, Jeong-woo smiled and asked, Do you want milk?
Cho Seong-hwan nodded in agreement.
After sitting across from each other at the table, Cho Seong-hwan cautiously opened up.
To be honest, I received a transfer to the Pharmaceutical Bio Center. My mentor is Senior Moon Chae-eun.
Dr. Moon?
Jeong-woo felt like bursting intoughter and had to bite his lips to hold it in. Cho Seong-hwan let out a deep sigh.
From the first day, she says that people are full of vitality. When they ask if I dont sleep much, they say it like a joke, so I thought it was just a jest.
Oh, its not a joke. She doesnt understand the concept of going home.
Yeah, exactly. Even though theres a mountain of things to understand, she keeps asking if I want to go home. And she never leaves the office, so how can I go home?
Having spent three weeks under the guidance of Dr. Moon, Cho Seong-hwan marveled at her remarkable consideration for her juniors as she taught them while being mindful of their well-being.
Dr. Moon used to be a doctor, so she treats us like interns. Its standard practice there, apparently. Come to think of it, doctors are really amazing, arent they?
Jeong-woo tried to console him, but Cho Seong-hwan just hunched his shoulders even more.
Jeong-woo, can I apply for your project here? When I asked her, she immediately allowed me to. She told me to go there, learn well, ande back.
Of course
For her to readily give away one of her team members just showed how much she desired sess in his work. Jeong-woo was grateful for everything she did.
Starting from Monday, Ill being to work here. Ill talk to Manager Yoon about it.
Really?
By the way, Sung-hwan will be the first team member. Haha.
As expected. They didnt apply at all, just as the rumors said. Maybe its because of jealousy.
Jeong-woo expressed his gratitude to Cho Seong-hwan, who was providingfort in a reverse manner. When their conversation came to an end, Cho Seong-hwan stood up.
Ill participate with a learning attitude. Jeong-woo I mean, Team Leader Han Jeong-woo, youre really skilled.
Wee aboard.
Their first handshake as team members.
It was the fifth day since Jeong-woo took on the role of team leader.
Day 6 Cheongdam Sleep Clinic
Ah Ah
Are you trying to make meugh?
Yoon Yi-seol, sitting on the vibration-intense autonomic nerve stimtion machine, opened her sleepy eyes and red at Jeong-woo.
Jeong-woo pushed her foot back yfully, and as the Director Seong, who had left the seat, was currently busy, he took over his duties.
Ive been feeling down all week, but because of you, Yi-seol, Imughing a lot.
Yo Youre down?
Its not something serious. Working with someone else is not as easy as I thought.
As the timer on the machine turned off, Yoon Yi-seol, who was fidgeting with her toes without knowing what to do, quickly escaped from Jeong-woos grip and covered her reddened cheek.
I really hate this treatment.
Hehe.
Afterughing so much, you keepughing at me?
Im being serious. If Yi-seol goes on a real variety show, shed be a big hit. Youre naturally humorous in your daily life.
I wont do it.
Yoon Yi-seol, who had turned her body quickly, only nced back slightly, and then herughter stopped as she saw Jeong-woo looking gloomy again.
She asked carefully, Do the people you work with dislike you?
Well, thats great then. No one dislikes me.
How How is that an outcast?
Why are you jumping to such conclusions? Its just that trying to do everything on my own makes it burdensome to work with me.
Yoon Yi-seols expression turned serious as she heard Jeong-woos concerns for the first time. She said, I was talking about finding someone to help you. When you enjoy doing something, people naturally join in and participate.
Are you talking about music?
Nodding, Yoon Yi-seol said, To enjoy it Even doing chemistry with a team leader like you can be enjoyable.
Whispering to Jeong-woo, she continued, What does it matter? If you enjoy it, thats all that matters. For me, anything rted to music is great no matter who Im with. Even my younger brother, who used to secretly listen to me y the guitar in our room and tease me. Back then, he was my only audience.
Yoon Yi-seol, a singer-songwriter with a super-positive mindset that sweeps away anyplicated worries and thoughts, beamed at Jeong-woo.
With such advice, Jeong-woo couldnt help but respond.
Ill give it a try. If I fail
If you fail?
Ill make youugh again. Itll be hrious.
You cant do that! Forget it then.
Day 7 AN Hospital Pharmacy Support Center
Doctor Moon sat in front of Jeong-woo, holding a document with the test results.
How many days do I have left, doctor?
He tried to joke, but as there was no response at all, Jeong-woo had to force a wry smile.
A joke that isnt received feels like an empty echo. These days, Jeong-woos mood was somewhat simr.
On a Sunday afternoon, Doctor Moon was still working at the hospital to check his condition.
About the special ability you mentioned, its hard to believe, but when you use that ability, your neurohormone levels fluctuate. We need to continue monitoring the sleep-rted symptoms caused by the shocks and see if they can be ovee through training.
Understood.
And
Putting down the document, Doctor Moon stared intently at Jeong-woos face. With a face that any man would be nervous about when ites that close, Jeong-woo felt slightly flustered.
Youre going to examine me? Or use that as a pretext to tease me or tempt me
As Doctor Moon reached out and lifted the area under Jeong-woos eyes, he abandoned any unnecessary expectations.
Its an examination.
You said you slept for 8 hours, right? I can see symptoms of fatigue. Your eyes are congested. Are you under a lot of stress? Lets give you an intravenous drip.
Isnt it supposed to find the cause of the tiredness and rmend treatment? Nowadays, even sleeping is interrupted by the CEO of the clientpany Ah. I said I slept for 8 hours, right, right.
As Jeong-woo trembled with nervousness, Doctor Moon finally smirked ever so slightly.
For goodness sake, youre not going to quit your job. This level of stress is like amon cold for modern office workers.
Amon cold? No wonder Seonghwan wanted to run away Ugh! It seems like you just pinched and flipped my other eye on the opposite side?
If you dont want to meet a doctor who cant find a vein to administer an IV, then shut up now.
Despite Doctor Moons threat, Jeong-woo didnt give in. He had to make a request.
Starting from next week, Ill have to work overtime tightly, so please give me the top-of-the-line intravenous drip. Seonghwan mighte back to see Doctor Moon again. All because of this team leader who only knows this job.
Youre going to work overtime under this much stress?
Ill try to enjoy it as much as possible.
Doctor Moon raised an eyebrow. Her gaze seemed to ask where on earth there could be enjoyable overtime in the world, and Jeong-woos expression turned resigned.
In one way or another, its hell, but I have to keep a calm mind. Thats how it is.
Chapter 60
Chapter 60- A month in the life of a chemicalpany team leader(5)
Day 8 Fragrance Room
Its been two weeks since I took charge of the project.
I wasnt filled with great enthusiasm as I set out for work. Its just a job, after all. The number 0 in my bank ount, where my paycheck from a few days ago was deposited, automatically led my footsteps to thepany.
Its the charm of a sry-earning worker, relying on that 0 at the end. Rain or snow, you still have somewhere to go.
As I swiped my card at the entrance of the fragrance room, I entered without much thought and saw Cho Sung-hwan sitting upright in front of a neatly organized table. I paused for a moment.
You came early?
Jang Sung-hwan turned her head and greeted me with a warm smile.
Its be a habit, so I end up punching in before 8 oclock. Im curious about what well be doing today.
Its currently 8:55 AM. Seeing Cho Seong-hwan, the only team member and also hade early and already prepared, made me feel a twinge of emotion in my heart.
It was as if the passion for being a team leader, which had been buried, hade alive again, worth three digits of 0.
Lets get to work!
[Solvent-Based Synthetic Fragrance Currently 94.5% Simr to Natural Extracts]
[Production: Audrey Project Han Jeong-woo]
Jeong-woo felt a sense of pride as he skimmed through the project records in the central research institutes material library.
The significance of having the name of the creator who secured the original technology recorded.
Once registered, this synthetic fragrance can be used by anypany, including other departments, subsidiaries, and even by paying royalties if necessary.
Audrey Corp, which funded all the development costs, would practically provide it for free. However, now that Jeong-woo had gained some knowledge about the fragrance industry, he also knew that the expected added value from this was substantial.
Considering that apany producing a natural jasmine fragrance called Hedion generates annual sales of over 100 million dors.
If Audrey Corp gains poprity with this fragrance, it will be an advertisement in itself.
While it might not bring money directly into his pocket, just imagining the number of zeros in the revenue made Jeong-woo hum a little tune. Call him materialistic, but with so many 0s involved, it felt exciting.
Team leader, this reagent is showing no reaction at all.
At the sound of Jeong-woos co-worker, Cho Seong-hwan, he turned his head.
The newly added aromatic molecules to the synthetic fragrance, which showed a 94.5% simrity, were not bonding properly.
As Jeong-woo was analyzing the original fragrance, he wiped his eyes and looked at Seong-hwans test tube.
The reagent was deficient in free electrons, and it was filled with [+]-charged cations, making it difficult for the reagent to amodate the new molecules.
Using a molecr perspective to infer which reagent should be used, Jeong-woo had not exined the approach to save time, which seemed to be causing Seong-hwan some trouble.
We should consider a substitution reaction rather than an addition reaction. Substituting the benzene ring itself. Lets try adding a derivative with two methyl groups attached to benzene.
Xylene?
Yes, thats it.
As Seong-hwan swiftly rearranged the reagents, Jeong-woo began jotting down the new molecr structure to try.
Analysis Experiment Trial and error Retesting Drawing conclusions.
This research process continued with each addition of new molecr structures to increase the simrity.
Whether to synthesize it using petrochemical substances, transform it through microbial enzyme reactions, or blend it with extracts from alternative nts, various improvement methods for finding the simplest process were added. The final touch toplete the synthetic fragrance would be the preparation for mass production.
After immersing himself in the research for a few days, Jeong-woo had a clear picture of the entire process in his mind.
With another ten days like this, the first synthetic fragrance would bepleted.
Got it!
Seong-hwan eximed as he looked at Jeong-woo.
How did you determine the structure of this reagent among all those possibilities?
Well It started with the analysis. If you remove a few carbon and hydrogen atoms from acetophenone, which is in the solvent, it bes benzaldehyde. So, I chose benzaldehyde as the base reagent. We just needed to find a way to add carbon and hydrogen back.
The story about this chemical deduction continued for about 15 minutes. Seong-hwan kept nodding along, asionally asking for rification and taking notes to understand it better.
By the end of the afternoon, the simrity rate increased by 0.7%, reaching 95.2%. As it approached 100, the speed could only decrease, as there were difficulties in perfectly replicating a single naturalpound artificially.
Just like human DNA varies, the hundreds of flowers contained in the extracts also showed subtle differences in aromatic molecules. The extract was a collection of all of them.
Jeong-woo spected that once it reached around 98%, the work speed would significantly slow down.
Feeling sluggish after lunch, he was stretching his body when the door to the fragrance room opened.
Thump.
Three members of the fragrance centers microbial management team entered the fragrance room.
Hello.
After a brief greeting, the three individuals picked up fragrance samples disyed on the wall and gathered around the analyzer, engaging in conversation.
Recently, the fragrance center had been extremely busy with research on a new deodorant series based on chaffrine, so everyone was deeply engrossed in their research.
-Mr. Lee. Were causing the scents to clump together and be rather repulsive. The fragrance team is under immense pressure.
-So what are we supposed to do? Release it without the suppressor? Then tell people to use the old one?
-If the smell isnt good, theyll me us andin to the department head.
-Who?
-Mr. Yoon Hyeong-seok.
-Mr. Yoon, that guy.
Even though Jeong-woo disliked hearing their conversation, he couldnt help but overhear.
They were experimenting with fragrance by adding microbial suppressors.
From a molecr perspective, the microbial suppressors and fragrance molecules were notpatible; they seemed to be engaged in a chaotic battle. Especially in some molecr systems, the fragrance molecules were either powerless, getting consumed or evaporated.
It was fine for them to kill mold and bacteria, but when it affected the scent itself like this, Jeong-woo could understand the concerns of the Fragrance Design Team.
That analyzer, Seong-hwan, need to use it soon.
Jeong-woo didnt need it, but Seong-hwan needed a chemical sense and knowledge of the molecr world to understand it. It was crucial, as the more Seong-hwan understood, the faster their work would progress.
Excuse me.
Feeling that it was his duty as a team leader, Jeong-woo approached them.
Its benzylisothiazolinone, right? The suppressor?
A temporary worker named Lee Bong-chan turned his head slightly, giving Jeong-woo a questioning look.
The curious look asking, Why? caught Jungwoos attention. He was reminded of Shin Ki-joons guarded demeanor.
I wont be able to work with this center in this life anyway.
Jeong-woo disregarded any surprise or remarks from others about his chemically induced sense, triggered by AF-12, that would made fun of him.
This is a lily extract fragrance, you know. Benzyl salicte from olives would be much morepatible than this. Try mixing it as a base with olive fragrance at a 13:1 ratio. The current lily fragrance with a ratio of 20:1 wont hold up for long.
After finishing his exnation, Jeong-woo turned and walked away. He could hear grumbling behind him, but soon, he saw them taking out the olive fragrance from the cab.
A whileter.
-Huh?
-The scent seems fine.
-Yes, indeed.
The three peoples gazes turned to Jeong-woo. With a look that said, How did you do that? Jeong-woo calmly smiled and pointed to his nose.
Thump.
While they rushed towards the Fragrance Teams researchb, Jeong-woo was joined by Seong-hwan.
Did you enjoy your lunch?
Yes, its the first time since the public exam period that Ive had such a rxing lunch.
As Seong-hwan sat down next to him, Jeong-woo spoke carefully.
To reach 96%, we need to work overtime today
What now? We can still get a good nights sleep.
Day 10 Fragrance Room
On Wednesday morning, Jeong-woo opened the door to the fragrance room and was surprised to see someone unexpected sitting with Cho Seong-hwan.
Bae Ki-tae?
Bae Ki-tae, the top recruit, stood up abruptly and walked towards Jeong-woo.
I sent you an email yesterday, but you didnt see it, so I came in person.
An email?
Its about applying for the project. It changed to permanent recruitment.
Well, thats true
Seeing Jeong-woos sudden change of mood, Bae Ki-tae gestured towards Cho Seong-hwan.
Seong-hwan keeps boasting too much. Saying theres so much to learn.
Cho Seong-hwan scratched his head. Bae Ki-tae sighed as he spoke to Jeong-woo.
When I finished the public exam and came to the center, I thought Id be doing something significant. But all Ive been doing for the past six months is following the supervisor around, trying to get used to the centers atmosphere. When I see it, youre much more skilled than that supervisor. So, the answer is obvious.
Bae Ki-tae held Jeong-woos hands together and pleaded.
Please ept it, Team Leader Han Jeong-woo. Even if its just running errands, Ill be grateful to participate.
Moved by Bae Ki-taes request, who was exhausted from running errands for an ipetent supervisor, Jeong-woo nodded willingly.
It was already challenging to find enough people for reconsideration.
Ill work hard!
[Synthetic Fragrance 96.3% Simrity]
After updating the fragrance records in the material library, Jeong-woo turned his gaze to the two people working.
Although it was a bit judgmental, unlike Cho Seong-hwan, Bae Ki-tae, as the top recruit, had a fast understanding speed and worked well in his assigned tasks.
He managed to show respect to his seniors without being overly submissive, and because of that, he often praised Jeong-woo with encouraging words.
Seriously, these fragrance center researchers are something else. Yesterday, they even asked me to rbine deodorant ingredients.
They kept chattering next to me.
They should get recognized by the New Product Development Team, right? Chaffrin was the name, I think. Its quite catchy.
Enough already.
As Jeong-woo turned his head back to the monitor, the fragrance room door opened, and Park Jung-ho, the assistant of the Fragrance Centers Container Design Team, entered.
Are you Team Leader Han Jeong-woo?
Yes?
Park Jung-ho rushed to Jeong-woo and said, I contacted KG Industries regarding the improvement of the air propulsion agent, and they said Assistant Director Gong Kyung-ho told me that you would know much better.
Assistant Director Gong?
He said that during the fire bid, Assistant Director Gongbined some chemicals on the spot and blew away the propulsion agent.
It seemed like Assistant Director Gong, who they asionally kept in touch with, had praised them a bit.
Its fine to ask for help, but it would be inconvenient if it takes up too much time.
This is aplicated issue, so it might take some time.
Alright then. How about the Design Team temporarily assigns us two people to support us for today? Someone whos good at what they do.
That wouldnt be difficult.
Jeong-woo said to Bae Ki-tae, We have some pending experiments onpoundbinations, right? If theye to support, lets start with that.
Understood.
The two of them brightened up at the thought that they might not have to work overtime today.
Assistant Park, what inquiry do you have?
Here it is.
Jeong-woo looked at the data regarding the diffusion rate problem of the Nitrogen Synthesis Injection that Assistant Park handed over.
At first nce, it was evident that the issue arose because it did not integrate well with otherpounds developed by other teams for the new product. The same goes for the previous suppressor and yesterdays deodorant. They were all the same.
The Fragrance Center is good at division ofbor, but they arecking in overall management.
Pardon?
Oh, I was just talking to myself. This is one of the deodorant ingredients. It contains cyclodextrin, right? Extracted from corn. It seems like it sticks too much, causing this problem. If we use castor oil, it might help it spread better.
Day 11- KG Life Health nning Headquarters
Team Leader Cha Jin-seong was surprised when he looked at the Chaffrin Project report that Assistant Yoon Hyeong-seok submitted.
How did the evaluation test jump from 70 to 87 in just 3 days? Did the research team collectively bribe the reviewers?
Thats what it may seem like.
Assistant Yoon quoted the reports he heard from each team leader.
Microbes, deodorants, and design teams have all improved, and the surfactant dedicated team didnt mention if they received it or not, but they suddenly requested a change in ingredients to hydrogenated castor oil.
Cha Jin-seong let out a sigh of disbelief.
Thats definitely Han Jeong-woos doing, right? It came from the Fragrance Room.
Thats correct.
He had been contemting not making any personnel decisions regarding the Audrey Project, but in reality, he concluded that it was all because of Jang Tae-suns stubbornness.
However, Han Jeong-woos capabilities in the Fragrance Center, particrly regarding the new fragrance product, surpassed any other researcher that Cha Jin-seong had encountered during his time at thepany.
Oh, there was one person.
What?
Never mind, just talking to myself. Dont mind.
Three years ago, during the development of Chaffrin, the problematic Dr. Cheon Seung-guk, who had been invited as a quality inspector, amazed the entire center with his skills.
Is Team Leader Han Jeong-woo in the Fragrance Room right now?
He should be. They practically live there day and night.
Cha Jin-seong walked down the hallway and arrived at the door of the Fragrance Room. Before opening the door, he nced inside through a transparent window.
-Seong-hwan, the percentage is still stuck at 97.
-Just wait. Team Leader is contemting it.
-The closer it gets to the margin of error, the more the match rate fluctuates with just one drop of additive. No matter how unique Mr. Jeong-woos intuition is, will it work?
The two individuals engrossed in conversation seemed to be new team members.
ncing at Han Jeong-woo in the corner, Cha Jin-seong quietly observed him as he scattered dozens of fragrance bottles and pondered incessantly.
He judged that he shouldnt disturb him when he was so focused on his research. There would be time to express gratitude for the helpter.
-I found it!
-Really?
-How did you do it?
-For now, Ki-tae, set up the cumtion reaction experiment, and Seong-hwan,e with me to the material library. We need to search through all the hexanol derivatives.
-Yes!
With a click, the door opened, and Cha Jin-seong took a step back.
Oh? Team Leader, hello.
Han Jeong-woo greeted with a slight bow and hurriedly left the hallway with Seong-hwan.
Cha Jin-seongs eyes lit up as he smiled at the cheerfulness of the two as they ran.
Chapter 61
Chapter 61- A month in the life of a chemicalpany team leader(6)
That afternoon.
Jeong-woo clenched the results sheet with a 97.83% match rate in his hand and rubbed his neck. After hours of pulling his hair and looking down only at the bottom, his whole back felt stiff.
9:30 PM.
When he turned his head, he saw Bae Ki-tae and Cho Sung-hwan dozing off. He asked them toe inside, but they were enduring it because they were close to a 98% breakthrough.
To raise the 0.17% match rate, he had toe up with another molecrbination form.
It would be nice if it were a simple task like cutting a thread with scissors and then sewing it back together with another thread.
However, in chemistry, the threads wereplexpounds, and the role of scissors and sewing was yed by even more intricate catalysts and reaction experiments.
Ugh~
He yawned and rubbed his eyes.
Ding.
A message came, and when he checked, it was from Song Boyeong.
[Are you still at thepany? Im on my way to buy some amazing dumplings. Should I get some for your team too, Jeong-woo?]
A timely message when he was feeling hungry.
[Are you also workingte, Senior Boyeong?]
[We started in earnest this week. Seung-ju senior is the first to buy! ^^]
[Id appreciate it if you buy some for us. Please get three servings.]
15 minutester.
Song Boyeong sent a text to Jeong-woo from the entrance of the KG Life Health Research Center. From the dark corridor on the other side, footsteps were heard, and soon the door opened.
Ta-da~
She extended a bag filled with the tantalizing smell of meat towards the open door.
Huh?
The person who appeared was not Jeong-woo but another familiar face, a man.
Jin-seong oppa?
Hey, Boyeong.
Cha Jin-seong looked at Song Boyeong as if asking what brought her here.
I brought somete-night snacks for my junior whos working here.
Theres only the Audrey Project team workingte tonight.
Yes, that team. Han Jeong-woo.
You know team leader Jeong-woo? Hes quite talented.
Upon hearing this, Song Boyeong smiled brightly.
Cha Jin-seong walked towards the elevator since he was leaving work.
Its so hard to meet each other even though were in the same building. Except for you and me in our family, no one really understands the research work in theb. So Ie up here asionally.
Hehe.
Song Boyeong stood by the elevator to see Jin-seong off and spoke quietly.
Ive left home.
I heard.
And my family registry
Boyeong, even though Ive almost cut ties with my grandfather, I still live my life. Our values might differ, but hes not a bad person.
Song Boyeong lowered her head deeply.
Like my little uncle and aunt, Ill support you too. If you have any problems,e find me anytime. If you dont want things to be known at work, thene to my ce. My wife also wants to see you.
Okay.
Ding Dong.
Jin-seong got into the elevator.
As Song Boyeong waved goodbye and the elevator doors closed, she took a deep breath. She had hesitated toe here because she didnt want to hear about her grandfather, but she had forgotten for a moment.
Jin-seong oppa is still straightforward. He doesnt even give me a chance to make excuses.
Boyeong, senior!
A voice was heard from the other end of the corridor. Then she remembered, meeting her cousin was all because of Han Jeong-woo.
Why are youing out sote?
As Song Boyeong approached with a sharp question, Jeong-woo showed an apologetic expression.
Thank you for the dumplings. Next time, Ill treat our team to a feast.
You even make remarks that only a team leader can make. So annoying.
Is it something to get annoyed about?
Just go to sleep.
As Song Boyeong handed the packaged dumplings to Jeong-woo, she pressed the elevator button.
Did Seung-ju senior tease you again? Today, he looked surprisingly normal. His eyes are round too.
Round? Thats funny. Seung-ju senior doesnt tease me as much as you think.
Jeong-woo smirked at Song Boyeongs grumbling.
Ill treat everyone next Sunday, if nothinges up.
Something wille up.
What?
A friend of a friend. You need to see them.
Song Boyeong turned her head abruptly.
Instead, tell me about the current situation of Dr. Cheon Seung-guk.
Now?
Yes, or dont say anything.
That I might not be able to tell you.
She thought she wouldnt hear anything again today.
You might get a quicker answer if you ask Dr. Moon.
It was the first time Jeong-woo answered without making an excuse, and Song Boyeongs eyes widened in surprise.
Dr. Moon?
The one from the Pharmaceutical Bio Center, senior Moon Chae-eun.
The super beautiful doctor? The one selected through special recruitment like you?
Why do you emphasize on her being super beautiful?
Ding Dong.
As Song Boyeong entered the elevator, she snorted.
Since I also know people in Germany, Ill find out on my own.
If you find out, let me know, share the news.
Forget it!
Song Boyeong, who lost her temper once more, pressed repeatedly the elevator close button.
Why is she angry?
Jeong-woo returned to the fragrance room, scratching his head.
The rtionship between Dr. Moon and Dr. Cheon Seung-guk was a part not covered by the strict confidentiality agreement. There was no reason to gossip about it, but he decided it was okay to tell Song Boyeong.
Maybe she got upset about the rumored rivalry between the two most beautiful researchers at theb
Objectively speaking, Jeong-woo thought it was hard topare them. Song Boyeong had a cute and lively charm, while Dr. Moon exuded the allure of a sophisticated city woman.
Ah, who am I to rank them anyway.
He chuckled at himself for entertaining such irrelevant thoughts on a busy night.
Ding.
Anyone up for some dumplings!
Bae Ki-tae and Cho Sung-hwan, who were dozing off, immediately opened their eyes.
Day 12 Fragrance Room
Yawning, Jeong-woo nced at the clock and shook his head upon seeing it was 4 AM.
He had spent the entire night pondering.
Two of his team members had left before the subway stopped running, but he unknowingly ended up staying here all night trying to break through the seemingly unyielding 98% barrier.
Is it addiction to work or is it just fun?
At this point, he couldnt quite tell.
Even though he had given up his ambitions and was now living with less effort, he strangely felt a surge in work efficiency.
He wondered if Dr. Moon might feel the same way while working so diligently. He didnt know what kind of research she was dedicated to, though.
Oh, I should get an IV infusion today Huh?
Due to exhaustion, his mind was hazy, and now even the world of cottonseed extract looked distorted and seemed to waver just by gazing at it.
It reminded him of the vibrating molecules he had observed when he was tipsy.
Tock.
He touched the bottle of the extract.
With a gentle ripple, the vibrating molecules vanished, revealing a clear boundary between the moving and stationary molecules.
Huh?
As his mind cleared, the strange wavering disappeared. However, the memory of it remained vivid.
If this is it, I can significantly increase the match rate.
A clear boundary. He had never seen a simpler molecrposition ratio before.
Jeong-woos hands got busy.
8 a.m.
Entering the fragrance room with a bright spirit, Cho Sung-hwan noticed Jeong-woo lying face down on the table like a corpse and flinched.
It was clear that Jeong-woo hadnt left for home yet, so he silently approached and started organizing as he did every day.
While doing so, he noticed the information window on Jeong-woosptop monitor, disying the substance library information.
[Cottonseed Synthetic Fragrance 99.13% simrity]
Whats this?
The match rate, which had been struggling below 98% just yesterday, had dramatically increased.
Ugh. Youre here, Sung-hwan.
Jeong-woo raised his head groggily.
Oh, I woke you up.
No, I had to wake up anyway. We have a visit from Michle during the morning.
The clients CEO ising in person?
They requested a new sample. This one
Jeong-woo tapped the monitor with his fingertips.
is done as of today. Any further deviations are meaningless. Ill exinter.
The news of Michles visit stirred up the entire fragrance center.
After cleaning up neatly and finishing shaving, Jeong-woo walked towards the fragrance room and sensed the tense atmosphere, which made him hesitate for a moment.
Last week, rumors about the heated conversation between her and the fragrance design team had already spread like wildfire.
Cultural differences and different perspectives on fragrances. Jeong-woo could somewhat understand, but the people here were a bit different.
Anyway, I need to hand over the samples and send them as quickly as possible. I should clearly set the boundaries regarding the research direction.
As he entered the fragrance room, Bae Ki-tae and Cho Sung-hwan were waiting nervously.
Jeong-woo looked at the table where the finished samples were ced and said to Cho Sung-hwan.
Sung-hwan, could you bring me one disinfected bottle? You can tell Manager Yoon about it.
Are you refilling the samples?
Yes.
Then he nced at Bae Ki-tae.
Also, contact the fragrance design team and ask them toe over for a moment. Its a request for cooperation in their work. If Shin Ki-joon says anything, respond with, We helped you with the new product, and you cant spare 10 minutes?
After giving instructions, Jeong-woo received a text message while tidying up theb. It was from Jang Tae-seon.
[Im on my way to the parking lot for a meeting.]
30 minutester.
Michle, apanied by the agents and Jang Tae-seon, entered the fragrance room.
Jeong-woo greeted her with a bow and said, Wee.
Michles gaze went straight to the samples on the table.
I was surprised when I received the call in the morning. I didnt expect it to be ready so quickly. So, I am concerned.
Instead of a long exnation, why dont you try it yourself?
As Jeong-woo handed her the bottle with the sample, Michle grasped it. While she was slightly opening the cork of the cottonseed synthetic fragrance, Jeong-woo noticed that a considerable number of fragrance center staff had gathered in the hallway.
He wasnt sure if they were here to watch Michle or to see what she had to say today, but the influence of this foreign CEO was palpable.
This is
After smelling the fragrance, Michle looked at Jeong-woo.
Jeong-woo pulled hisptop closer to Michle so she could see better.
99.13% match rate. Isnt this enough to conclude that the scents are the same?
Michles expression turned subtle as she deeply inhaled the fragrance again. Then she spoke.
The remaining 0.87% is missing. This is not perfect. Ourpany cannot use such synthetic fragrances.
Startled by Michles straightforward response, Jang Tae-seon, who had been waiting at ease, looked at Jeong-woo. Jeong-woo smiled lightly and gestured for him to wait before speaking to Michle.
Chemically, it may not be the same extract. However, the fragrance could it really be that different?
It is different.
Why?
Are you underestimating my level of perfuming?
Im absolutely not. The CEOs sense of smell, which can detect changes down to the level of one in a million, is truly remarkable.
Michle looked at Jeong-woo with a puzzled expression.
Jeong-woo pointed to the sample she was holding.
Thats true. Its the natural fragrance extracted using the supercritical extraction method from the actual cottonseed sample given by the CEO.
Quoi?
Even though Jeong-woo didnt understand what French word she had said, Michles expression clearly conveyed that she didnt understand what I said.
And this.
Jeong-woo handed her another bottle on the table.
This one is the synthetic fragrance that shows a 99.13% match rate, which waspleted today.
Unable to believe it, Michle epted the sample and opened the cork. After smelling the fragrance, she couldnt say anything for a moment.
Is this better?
Jeong-woo briefly nced at Shin Ki-joon standing in the corridor.
Just to avoid any doubts, we conducted a cross-verification with the top fragrance experts in Korea. I omitted attaching the certificate, but there are about five witnesses.
Then, he nodded slightly at Shin Ki-joon.
Michle looked at Jeong-woo and asked.
Why is there such a difference?
Firstly, synthetic fragrances dont have any contamination. Natural materials, on the other hand, may have traces of scent altered by microorganisms. Thats one difference. And, do you know that the type of container for the sample can also affect the fragrance, CEO?
Michle focused on Jeong-woos words and nodded slightly.
Even though you may not be aware of it, your nose is. The scent that blends with the molecules of this sample bottle. The synthetic fragrance bottle is the one you brought. It feels more familiar, so its more tolerable. To put it meaningfully, its mixed with memories and emotions associated with that bottle. Well, thats probably why theres a difference.
At Jeong-woos revtion about the container switch, Jang Tae-seon was left speechless. The fact that it was so well-received made Michle unable to say anything.
The remaining 0.87%. Our chemists can work on it and make it exactly the same. But its unnecessary. A fragrance within the margin of error. Compared to the daily changes in fragrance, that 0.87% is extremely minute. But to restructure it on a molecr level, it will take at least another month.
Jeong-woo concluded and added onest thing.
If this is still unsatisfactory, Im sorry, but well have to stop this project. I cant tolerate a method that I know will be a waste of time.
Stop? Non. We cant. This margin of error. I insist on it.
Michle said, surrending.
A series of actions: showcasing their abilities, convincing the other party, and taking control all of this unfolded before the people in the hallway who had been watching anxiously, causing a suddenmotion.
It seems likemunication is good with the Frenchdy.
As Jeong-woo held his ce, a disheartened Jang Tae-sun looked at him with a gaze that seemed to say, Is that what you callmunication? Jungwoo met Jang Tae-suns eyes with an expression that said, Its a connection exclusive to those with a keen sense of smell.
Michle gestured to the agents, and the bags were ced on the table.
I brought the two samples as requested. Can you handle two at once?
Ill get back to you by next Friday.
Jeong-woo confidently replied.
Amazing. Even IFF or Givaudan cant produce fragrances this quickly.
Michle praised, mentioning world-leading fragrance manufacturingpanies. Jeong-woo shrugged and pointed his finger at Bae Ki-tae and Jo Sung-hwan.
My team members are getting more ustomed to it. We found a decent process today too.
As Michle was about to leave the room after finishing her business, Jeong-woo remembered something and spoke up.
CEO.
Michle turned her head.
You mentioned that the floral fragrances from this center are uniform and can be smelled everywhere.
Thats right.
As Jeong-woo brought up the sensitive topic, Jang Tae-seon, who was preparing to leave, paused. He looked at Jeong-woo with a look that said, What now?
Just as perfumes are an art with elegance and distinct characteristics, fabric softeners also have their purposes. Such as disinfection, removing detergent residues, preventing static, and deodorizing.
Surveying the microbiologists, deodorization experts, and fragrance design team members gathered in the hallway, Jeong-woo spoke slowly.
The ammoniumpound used for sterilization. It generates ammonia quite easily, you know? That pungent bathroom smell. No matter how excellent the Audrey perfume is, it cant simply eliminate this fart smell. However, we can do it. Well change it to a standardized but reliable scent.
Michle seemed to ponder the chemical attack on fragrances. She made a thoughtful sound, Hmm.
Theres a new product called Chaffrinunching this time. Try spraying it when you encounter a challenging situation with human gas idents. Youll be surprised.
Ive had enough surprises. I thought this research center was extraordinary, not Wondend.
Without saying anything further, Michle looked around at the people gathered in the hallway before silently walking away.
Check it out.
Jang Tae-seon approached Jeong-woo as he greeted Michle. He made a gesture of Well talkter, definitely! and quickly followed after Michle.
After the CEOs visit, Jeong-woo loosened his tightly tied tie and slumped into the chair in front of the table.
Phew.
After staying up all night and having a lively conversation, he felt drained of energy.
Ki-tae, Seong-hwan, could you please refrigerate the second batch of samples we received today?
Yes, Team Leader.
As the two hurriedly moved around the fragranceb, someone walked up to Jeong-woo. He turned his head and greeted them with a warm expression.
I called you suddenly earlier, but thank you for responding so willingly.
Silently observing Jeong-woo, Shin Ki-joon finally spoke.
When our productunch is over may I support this project? Team Leader Han Jeong-woo.
Jeong-woo smiled.
Its an ongoing recruitment. We still need eight more people. Youre wee to join in advance.
Chapter 62
Chapter 62- A month in the life of a chemicalpany team leader(7)
After taking a rest all morning, Jeong-woo looked for Jang Tae-seon before starting his work in earnest.
As he entered the office of the Basic Materials Center, he was greeted by a secretary he hadnt seen in a while.
You can go right in.
Knock, knock.
When he opened the door, Jang Tae-seon weed him with a bright smile.
Wee, Team Leader. Have you had lunch?
Jang Tae-seons gaze was filled with affection. At his endearing disy, muttering Our centers treasure, treasure~, Jeong-woo let out a small sigh.
Why did you call me? If its not urgent, you could have left a message.
Oh my, our Team Leader. I shouldnt have disturbed your precious time; I was just being thoughtless.
Just go on as usual. When did you start thinking about my time?
Our Team Leader is getting colder and colder. So attractive.
Sigh.
As they sat on the sofa, Jang Tae-seon got to the point.
When Michle left, she specifically told me this: Make sure Han Jeong-woo never gets left out of the project. Get things done properly and deliver excellent results. Your bold actions are causing Michle toe out very humble.
Well, our CEO is so determined to create the perfect perfume. Did you call me because she thought Id quit the project? Dont worry; Ill solve all nine problems and leave. Ill make sure of that.
As Jeong-woo was about to leave after finishing his words, Jang Tae-seon quickly raised his hand.
No, thats not why I called you. Take some time on Sunday.
This weekend?
Michle invited our Team Leader to a party.
Jang Tae-seon handed a note with the address to Jeong-woo as he spoke.
Its Audreys Night of Support for Cultural Artists event, but its not just any party that anyone can attend. Even if youre the head of the research institute, if you dont get an invitation, youll be turned away at the door. Do you get it?
Why would I go to such a ce?
Its because Michle really likes you that much. You know most of Audreys customers are incredibly wealthy women from prestigious families, right? When you go, youll see young and wealthydies all around!
Jang Tae-seon, who had a dreamy expression, suddenly became serious and looked at Jeong-woo.
Networking opportunities like this, you cant measure their value. You have to go. From now on, youll be dealing with many clients. In the upper echelons, you build as many connections as possible, especially at times like this.
Jang Tae-seon, who was passionately speaking, suddenly covered his mouth and lowered his voice.
Still, Id rmend Michle over the wealthy heiresses. Have a ss of wine, and just boldly approach them.
I just want to build professional rtionships with the people I meet through work.
Even with me?
More than anyone else.
Jang Tae-seon ced his hand on his chest with an exasperated expression.
Ill take that as a partial approval!
Im leaving.
Partial approval! Jeong-woo!
Leaving Jang Tae-seon, who now mixed jokes and earnestness in his speech, Jeong-woo walked out.
He looked at the memo he held in his hand.
It was for a famous hotel in Yeouido.
How should I handle this?
Jeong-woo, who had meticulously nned the experiments to be conducted next week until evening, left a message for Bae Ki-tae and Cho Sung-hwan to take a good rest over the weekend and headed home.
Inside the crowded subway.
Due to theck of sleep, he found himself staring out the window absentmindedly, trying to stay awake and avoid dozing off.
Even though it was time to leave work, the sun was still shining brightly.
It was early February, graduation season was approaching, and spring would soon arrive.
Unlikest year at this time when his mind was preupied with job hunting, now he was thinking about how to prepare for the party on Sunday.
I dont even have proper clothes to wear. Ah! What about that luxury suit?
He remembered the Italian luxury suit he had received as a gift from the TS Mall CEO, which he had tucked away in the corner of his closet. Unbelievable. Who would have thought there woulde a moment to wear that suit again?
Sigh.
A message came in, and he checked to see that it was from Yoon Yi-seol.
[Because of the K-pop concert this month, Ill be rehearsing with the broadcasting station band from tomorrow onwards. ]
[Where will you be doing it?]
[In Paris.]
A concert abroad.
The memory of her happily making bibimbap in the vige hall kitchen seemed so distant and out of reach, and now she was having such a different experience. It made him feel a sense of distance from her, like they were worlds apart.
Day 14 Conrad Hotel, International Financial Center
As Jeong-woo got out of the taxi, he felt overwhelmed by the grandeur of the 200m tall high-rise building covered in shimmering ss.
Even though he had be a well-paid office worker, this hotel was filled with rooms he couldnt afford to stay in for even a few days with his sry.
Upon entering the lobby, he noticed a massive spiral staircase extending up to the 5th floor.
The event hall was on the 3rd floor. Instead of taking the elevator, he explored the interior while climbing the stairs.
Due to the higher number of foreigners among the attendees, there was an exotic atmosphere.
Is that it?
Following a group of two or three people each, Jeong-woo also made his way to the banquet hall. Most passing guests were dressed extravagantly.
He absentmindedly brushed his cor and checked his outfit. A white suit. He had discarded the most ridiculous hat he couldnt possibly pull off at home and tried to dress as fashionably as possible.
At least I have this kind of outfit.
He even used wax on his hair, something he rarely did, and ended up feeling uneasy. When his younger brother asked if he was going to a club, he just nodded, knowing he wouldnt be believed if he said he was going to a party attended by rich families.
I cant even believe Im standing here myself.
Jeong-woo stood at the entrance of the banquet hall and looked inside.
Everywhere his eyes fell, there werevishly decorated ornaments. Circr tables lined up under sparkling chandeliers, emitting a dazzling white light. On one side, unfamiliar ssical music flowed.
Wee.
A beautifully dressed hotel staff member holding a guest list smiled and asked for his name.
Im Han Jeong-woo.
Have a pleasant time. The event schedule is right here.
Thank you.
Jeong-woos polite response made the hotel staff member cover her mouth and smile. It wasnt particrly amusing, but he wondered if this was the power of luxury clothing.
Entering the banquet hall, Jeong-woo slowly looked around.
There were hardly any people sitting at the tables yet; instead, groups of people were gathered around the cocktail bar on the other side, engaging in conversations.
I need to find someone I know.
A staff member carrying a tray with champagne sses gave Jeong-woo a look as if offering him one.
Please.
The ss contained a carbonated liquid of an unknown origin. He wasnt sure if he was meant to drink it or just carry it around as an essory, but Jeong-woo held it in his hand anyway because he saw many others doing the same.
If they were inviting someone, they should have invited Director Jang. Why did they call me? Its boring.
He didnt have any strong desire to make a splendid debut in the social scene.
After tanking a sip of his ss, Jeong-woo found it surprisingly tasty, and his eyes widened. He was about to take another sip when suddenly, he had to suppress a cough.
It was because an unexpected person was standing there.
Senior Boyeong?
Song Boyeong, wearing a red mini dress that exposed one shoulder, quickly turned away when she saw Jeong-woo.
As she anxiously looked around, her friends across from her yfully shouted.
Boyeong, just one ss of champagne for me!
Me too!
Song Boyeong sighed, shrugged her shoulders, and turned back.
What brings Jeong-woo here?
Oh, well
At first nce, Jeong-woo couldnt recognize Song Boyeong, who seemedpletely unfamiliar, but after a moment of silence, he managed to speak.
She added some makeup and essories to her cute appearance, and he sensed a feminine grace about her.
Was it the way she elegantly tied up her hair? Or was it the unexpectedly voluminous silhouette suggested by her boldly exposed left corbone and snug dress?
What am I looking at?
Jeong-woo closed his eyes briefly, then shook his head before asking Song Boyeong.
You, on the other hand. Why are you all dressed up here? I came because I was invited by CEO Michle.
Oh, I
Hey, Boyeong. What are you doing?
A young woman who suddenly appeared next to Song Boyeong nced at Jeong-woo and giggled.
Looks like you were having a conversation with this man. Who is he?
The woman looked Jeong-woo up and down. Adorned with expensive jewelry all over her body, she appeared to be around the same age as Song Boyeong, but her face seemed strangely familiar.
A Gangnam beauty, right?
Song Boyeong quickly turned her body and removed the womans hand as she spoke.
Shes just someone I know. You go over there.
Hey, who just knows someone? Hes handsome. Ill definitely find out. So, you go over there.
Song Boyeong narrowed her eyes at the woman whoplimented Jeong-woos looks and spoke with a sharp tongue.
I told you to back off. Im going to drink a lot tonight and pass out, got it?
Okay, okay.
The woman calmly held a champagne ss from a passing tray, maintaining a thin smile while continuously scrutinizing Jeong-woo. Seeing this, Song Boyeong grabbed Jeong-woos arm.
Come with me for now.
Where to?
Anywhere!
As they walked away, Jeong-woo nced back at the woman who seemed strangely familiar.
Following Song Boyeong, they arrived at a cafeteria on the second floor. As soon as they sat down, Song Boyeong looked at Jeong-woo.
Dont misunderstand. I just followed my friend and happened to met you. They kept pestering me about the party and stuff. Although this is my usual outfit, I dont usually dress like this.
In her disorganized words, Jeong-woo gestured for her to calm down.
Okay, okay. But what should I be misunderstanding right now?
Well, thats
That your friend is wealthy? Thats not a misunderstanding; its true. I heard this party is only for VIPs. I thought you might want me to introduce you?
Jeong-woo was already feeling burdened by the artificial beauty of the women he saw earlier.
Song Boyeong smoothed her chest and looked at Jeong-woo apologetically.
No, I was worried that you might misunderstand that I dress like this normally. Im not one of those gold-diggers, you know?
If you go into the microbiologyb, youll be considered simr.
Even if she dressed differently, she gave off the same impression.
Just kidding, just kidding. I was really surprised earlier when I saw you dressed like that. As if I didnt know you, all prettied up.
Hearing Jeong-woos casual remark, Song Boyeong averted her gaze to hide her flushed cheeks.
That friend who likes Audrey perfume, is that her?
Then, looking at Song Boyeong, Jeong-woo noticed the fragrance molecules emanating from her neck and wrists, realizing that she was also wearing perfume.
Did you buy it too? It smells nice.
As Jeong-woo seemed to smell the fragrance, Song Boyeong blushed even more.
Its my moms. She bought it before but couldnt finish using it. I havent used much, but can you tell?
Ive been living with fragrances every daytely, so my senses have be more sensitive. Ive gained more knowledge about it too. It feels soft and warm. Its a perfume from the SAVON series. A fresh and cleanundry scent.
As Jeong-woo was speaking, he suddenly paused.
You washed yourundry properly, right?
Im doing myundry properly now!
Seeing Song Boyeong puffing her cheeks, Jeong-woo chuckled and stood up from his seat.
I think I misunderstood the part I should misunderstand. Ill keep your little escapade a secret at work.
Thank you so much.
No problem.
Once again, Jeong-woos gaze lingered on Song Boyeongs corbone line, and he shook his head saying, Ah, well, yfully.
Then, see you at work. Have fun with your friend who seems a friend of a friend, but not really.
On his way back to the banquet hall, Jeong-woo received a phone call and picked up his cell phone. Looking at the screen, he saw an unfamiliar number.
Hello?
-Is this Team Leader Han Jeong-woo? This is Michles secretary. She wanted to see you briefly before the event. Will youe this way?
Where are you?
-Its on the 5th floor, in the Business Room.
Oh, Ill go right now.
Taking the elevator, Jeong-woo arrived at the Business Room, and a staff member opened the door for him. Inside the spacious reception area, Michle was standing. She was giving instructions in French to the employees who were moving boxes, and the staff member next to Jeong-woo provided a brief trantion.
Shes preparing for the auction.
An auction?
Todays event will raise funds for artists and cultural professionals by selling the items in the auction.
Jeong-woo waited on one side and looked around the items lined up on the reception table.
Paintings, jewelry, and perfume. Each one of them seemed to be high-priced items.
That perfume looks like its worth 100 million won. Are these paintings worth that much too?
Two Western paintings and three Oriental paintings.
As Jeong-woo had no knowledge of art, he ended up analyzing the chemicalponents rather than appreciating the artwork. As he stared at them, the molecr world seemed to expand before him.
Hmm.
These were undoubtedly old paintings. Among the residues on the paper material, in addition to pigments, there were traces of insects and microorganisms that had umted over decades, if not centuries.
On top of that, there were conservation materials added to prevent damage, making it more like a joint tomb of insects rather than a painting.
Even if I had money, Id never buy these.
While trying to look away, Jeong-woos gaze lingered on the three Oriental paintings in turn. One of the three, which seemed to be painted by the same person, had different chemicalponents.
Oh well, whatever. It still looks like the same painting. Maybe someone else painted it.
Five minutester
Michle approached Jeong-woo and apologized for making him wait.
Its alright. I enjoyed looking around. But why did you call me?
Michle gestured for him to sit on the sofa in the reception area before speaking.
Audrey is nning to establish a foundation for artists and, at the same time, create a sponsorship association for perfumers in Korea. The Korean government has a very good system for intangible cultural heritage.
Oh I see.
When he pronounced intangible, Jeong-woo felt a sense of being surplus, and he gave a faint smile while nodding.
I believe that Team Leader Han Jeong-woos perfumery skills are on par with this intangible cultural heritage. Therefore, you are fully qualified to receive sponsorship from this foundation.
Excuse me?
Jeong-woo was taken aback by the unexpected statement.
Sponsorship?
You dont need to feel burdened. It means that we want you to contribute more to the development of the perfume industry as a perfumer.
But Im not a perfumer.
Michle smiled as if she wanted to say something but hesitated.
Your talent for perfumery would be a waste, and it would be a loss for the country if you dont pursue a career as a perfumer.
Is it really a loss?
Though it sounded sweet, Jeong-woo couldnt help but feel that it wasnt a free offer.
If chemists are included in the category of this intangible cultural heritage, Ill consider it.
I expected you to refuse. However, the offer is always valid.
With a warm smile, Jeong-woo stood up. He felt that the only way to repay the CEOs kindness was toplete the project properly.
The banquet is prepared with the finest hotel dining. Enjoy it.
Yes, Ill enjoy it.
As Jeong-woo was about to leave, his gaze lingered on the three Oriental paintings. He turned to Michle and asked a question.
This, they were all painted by the same person, right?
Thats correct. They are the works of a very famous Chinese Oriental painter, Louis Shen.
I see.
Jeong-woo pointed at thendscape painting in the middle that looked like a watercolor.
This painting has an unusually thin and long fiber structure in the paper material. The other two have a consistent direction, but this one has a crossing structure at a 90-degree angle. No matter how old the paintings are, the paper-making technology is vastly different.
Quoi?
Michle seemed to say, What did you say? in French, and Jeong-woo roughly grasped that it was French. He continued to exin more information he found while examining the painting closely.
Also, theres some kind of ash mixture, or should I say, bones mixed in this one. The other two have only pine ash. It seems like something doesnt match well with the era. If that Louis Shen lived for about 150 years, maybe its understandable.
After saying that, Jeong-woo nodded politely and stepped outside. Michle pondered Jeong-woos words for a moment before calling out to the assistant, Appelez le dgustateur Art!
Ugh, when will this end?
Sitting among unknown people and engaging in casual conversations was tiring for Jeong-woo. The table was filled with real estate tycoons, executives fromrge corporations, and small business owners, all talking non-stop.
Today, theyre auctioning perfumes. My wife insists on buying a limited collection.
Im thinking of buying some paintings.
Are you talking about the French artist Long nc?
Im more interested in Louis Shens works.
The auction talk about one months worth of Jeong-woos sry starting as the base price waspletely uninteresting to him. He felt like he had to stay until the end since he was invited by Michle, but after filling up on the banquet food, he just wanted to leave quickly.
Killing time next to Senior Boyeong is a bit awkward.
Across the table, next to Song Boyeong, there were young women with artificial facial features sitting in abundance. No matter how much money they had, they didnt exude much charm.
These naturally beautiful people are really something.
As Jeong-woo nced at Song Boyeong, he saw her yawning. Even she seemed bored.
-We will now begin the auction.
At the announcers words, everyones attention turned to the stage. Jeong-woo wasnt interested in the auction, so he took out his phone and sent a text message to Song Boyeong.
[Are you tired?]
She looked down at her phone and immediately replied.
[Im bored.]
[Me too!]
As the auction items were sold one by one, Jeong-woo and Song Boyeongs yawns continued, and they exchanged text messages to pass the time.
Ding.
[This perfume right now. They will bepeting against each other. It will be interesting. ^^]
Upon receiving Song Boyeongs message, Jeong-woo turned his head.
When Audreys limited edition perfume, Fantasia Dream, was put up for auction, just as she had predicted, chaos erupted.
Bidding paddles were raised all around, and the price quickly soared to two thousand, three thousand! It soon surpassed 100 million won.
Jeong-woo felt chills on his arm.
This isnt my world.
The perfume was eventually sold to a woman for the staggering price of 150 million won. She was the same woman who had been sticking close to Song Boyeong earlier.
[Shes the richest among them.]
Another text message came through.
Oh, my wife will scold me. How can I buy something thats worth 100 million won for 150 million?
A real estate magnate at the same table sighed, and Jeong-woo politely nodded in agreement.
Ding.
[After this, do you want to talk about our thesis? The lounge here has a great atmosphere.]
Jeong-woo looked at Song Boyeong. She had a hopeful look in her eyes, expecting him to say yes.
[You want to study on this golden weekend? Are you crazy, Senior?]
Song Boyeong responded with a smirk.
Jeong-woo considered typing, [If youre dressed like that, I might be enticed to study], but he stopped when he heard the announcers voice.
-Three of Louis Shens paintings are under precise examination as one has been identified as a forgery. We ask for your understanding. We will now proceed with the auction of the jewelry.
A forgery?
Suddenly, he received a phone call, so Jeong-woo picked up his phone.
Hello.
-This is Michles secretary. Can youe to the business room quickly?
Right now?
As Jeong-woo got up and headed towards the back door of the banquet hall, Song Boyeong looked at him as if asking what was going on. Jeong-woo shrugged, indicating that he didnt know either, and gestured towards the upper floor.
Chapter 63
Chapter 63- A month in the life of a chemicalpany team leader(8)
Upon arriving at the corridor, there were unfamiliar people standing in front of the door. One was a bald man in his fifties and the other was a man in his early thirties with a polite demeanor.
Enough!
As the bald man shouted out with a sigh-like tone that was exactly like Chinese, causing Jeong-woo to immediately feel uneasy around foreigners and instinctively step back.
While waiting for the business rooms door to be opened, the two men continued their conversation in Chinese.
Thud.
The door opened, and Michles assistant appeared in front of Jeong-woo.
Pleasee in. Chairman Wang Liming would like you toe in as well.
Upon hearing the assistants words, the man turned to the bald man and spoke as if interpreting for him.
Chairman?
Jeong-woo was slightly surprised by the bald mans distinguished status.
As he entered the room, he noticed three paintings, which he had seen earlier, ced on the table. In front of them stood Michle and a well-dressed man in his mid-forties.
Michle!
Before exchanging greetings, Chairman Wang hurriedly passed by Jeong-woos side and approached Michle, saying apologetically.
So sorry
He spoke in English, pouring out like a storm, and Jeong-woo tried to trante what he heard, recalling the time when he was studying hard to improve his TOEIC scores.
I had no idea it was a forgery. Please do not misunderstand my intentions.
I didnt misunderstand. You showed goodwill through this carelesness. If this had just gone to auction, Audreys reputation would have plummeted. We will verify everything youve sponsored, and well paid ordingly. Our rtionship ends here.
Please reconsider withdrawing from this contract. Audreys Chinese distribution rights are a matter of life or death for thepany.
Despite Chairman Wang repeatedly mentioning terms like goodwill or good friendship, Michles demeanor conveyed the belief that once a rtionship was strained, it was finished. Eventually, she swiftly forced Chairman Wang to withdraw with the words Get out.
Jeong-woo noticed that not only the paintings but also the pottery, books, and decorations that Chairman Wang seemed to have brought were allid out on one side. Listening closely, it was a deration that they would just buy all the sponsored items with money and end the rtionship.
Hes ruthless.
The stern CEO, Michle, turned his head towards Jeong-woo.
Mr. Han Jeong-woo.
With aplete change in tone from when he was dealing with Chairman Wang, Jeong-woo approached nervously.
Why did you call me?
We need cross-verification. It was you who initially discovered it. We will pay separately for the appraisal cost, so please verify the remaining art pieces. This is an important event with many invited figures from the art world. Professor Hong Suman, a renowned art appraiser, is here.
As Michle introduced, Professor Hong Suman greeted Jeong-woo. Michle continued speaking.
Please assist us in this work. The auction is underway, and time is short.
Jeong-woo nodded his head, but he couldnt help but feel stunned. A chemist conducting appraisals, really?
Professor Hong looked at Jeong-woo and asked, You recognized it as a forgery right away? You have quite an eye for it. The level of forgery is exceptional, and this alone would have significant value in the market.
Oh If this were an authentic piece, how much would it be worth?
Its from the prime of Louis Shens career. It would be worth nearly 100 million. In my opinion, not only this painting but also the other artworks Chairman Wang gave are likely to be authentic. This forgery must have slipped in by ident.
As Jeong-woo examined the paintings through a magnifying ss, he realized that most of the auction items seemed to have a base price of around 100 million.
How many of my annual sries are sitting here?
Professor Hong, holding a magnifying ss, spoke.
Chairman wants a thorough verification, but its impossible given the time constraint. Just conducting proper carbon dating alone would take a day. Even if I call my assistant and activate theb immediately, it would still take at least two days.
Radiocarbon dating?
Radiocarbon or thermoluminescence dating methods.
Im not familiar with that field
Jeong-woos words surprised Professor Hong.
Arent you a specialist in analytical chemistry? I heard you analyzed theposition of this painting earlier.
I majored in chemistry.
Ah, well. When you look closely, its a connected field.
Professor Hong nced at Chairman Wang and Michle, who were once again in conflict, before speaking in a low voice.
Without objective data from mass spectrometry or neutron activation analysis, it will inevitablye down to the subjective judgment of an appraiser. But that CEO is quite strict. Ive mentioned it a few times, but she insisted on waiting for you. She seems to trust you a lot.
After listening carefully, Jeong-woo felt even more burdened.
Professor, you can quickly make subjective assessments, but providing objective data requires the tools and time of theboratory, right?
Yes. But I believe the chance of my subjective judgment being wrong is almost non-existent.
Professor Hong asserted confidently, as he was an expert in this field and came here to be precise.
I thought about giving up while waiting for you, if his attitude hadnt been so demanding. His requirements are too FM.
I understand. The CEO is a bit obsessive, to the point of pursuing perfection.
Having experienced it for a few weeks, Jeong-woo was more rxed than Professor Hong. He focused his gaze on the carbon visible in the painting.
The principle of radiocarbon dating seemed to be vaguely familiar to him.
Radiocarbon, which makes up only 0.000001% of all carbon on Earth. Although it might be present in the paint of that painting, it was not easy to find, and calcting its half-life just from molecr perspective was even more difficult.
Professor, what is thermoluminescence measurement?
The amount of light emitted when a mineral is heated varies with temperature. Collect the crystalline structure of minerals like quartz, feldspar, or flint
As Professor Hong exined, Jeong-woo quickly scanned the painting. Fortunately, he found some crystalline substances.
Heating, right? We just need to provide stimtion?
Inducing the dust particles, Jeong-woo concentrated his efforts, and soon a group of elements began to emit light. By applying the criteria Professor Hong provided, he came up with a rough estimate.
It seems to be around 200 years.
What? How did you figure that out?
Jeong-woo grinned, iming it was a chemists know-how.
But more importantly, if this is an authentic piece, we just need evidence that Chairman will ept. We can handle the verification issueter in Professor Hongsb.
What can I do?
For now, I need you to trust my intuition and eyes. Luckily, we have a connection with the Chairman, so
Jeong-woo pointed to the pair of tweezers-like tools among the equipment that Professor Hong had brought.
Can I borrow this for a moment?
Sure.
After wandering around the living room, Jeong-woo went to the minibar and brought back two ss cups with some water in them. He carefully examined the painting identified as a forgery and used the tweezers to dip the outer edge of the paper into one of the ss cups, repeating the process. Then he did the same with the painting suspected to be authentic, dipping it into the other ss cup with water.
Done.
Professor Hong, curious about what Jeong-woo was up to, kept watching him.
Jeong-woo approached Michle, who was in conversation with Chairman Wang, cautiously.
Excuse me.
Michle waved his hand to get Chairman Wangs attention. The chairman, who had stopped speaking, was sweating profusely, with his entire forehead glistening.
Seeing this, Jeong-woo couldnt help but feel sorry, as it reminded him of Super an old man who always got nagged by his wife. He looked so much like him.
Could you smell the scents in these cups for me?
Why?
One of them contains the scent extracted from the forgery, and the other from the authentic piece.
As the secretary standing next to Chairman Wang tranted the words, the chairmans gaze turned towards Jeong-woo.
Michle epted the two ss cups and sniffed the scents one by one. Then handed the cup in her right hand to Jeong-woo.
Hmm, this is a heavily damaged fragrance. A failure in the maturation process, just trash.
Upon hearing the word trash, Chairman Wang flinched.
Jungwoo spoke with a faint smile.
The process where hemiacetal transforms into acetal. Its a part of the chemical reaction that alters the fragrance. In this case, its gotten so severe that the original scent is practically gone. For the fragrance to be adulterated to this extent, it would take at least over 150 years. But what youre holding in your left hand right now
Jeong-woo gestured, and Michle smelled the scent again.
The paper scent is still faintly alive. Its not more than 10 years old.
Im familiar with natural maturation scents. Are you saying this is the scent of the forgery?
Yes. Unless Mr. Louis Chen was still alive 15 years ago, then the items here need a thorough investigation. But for now, if you trust my eyes and nose, I can appraise them before the auction. The final verification will be done by Professor Hong within three days. What do you think?
In response to Jeong-woos confident attitude, Michle nodded, relieved.
Having received permission, Jeong-woo returned to Professor Hong.
Lets start the appraisal, and Ill assist.
With shining eyes, Professor Hong asked, The period of scent alteration? This is an unexpected measurement method.
Intrigued by Jeong-woos theory of dressing up chemistry with scents, Professor Hong continued to ask questions.
Jeong-woo exined while exploring the chemical world of the items, Fragrances are mixtures of raw materials that do not chemically react with each other. Sometimes, when theye into contact with air, the unsaturated monoterpenes double bonds are deprived of oxygen, leading to the destruction of the scent. Also, thepounds of Schiff bases undergo condensation reactions
Engaging in a back-and-forth conversation, they spent over an hour appraising the remaining items. During this time, Jeong-woo had to send a text message to Song Boyeong, saying he couldnt make it.
After each appraisal, the items were immediately taken down to the event hall on the third floor. When they finished appraising a book with Chinese calligraphy filled with characters, Professor Hong straightened his back, exhaled heavily, and said, Thats it.
This was thest one.
Youve worked hard, Professor.
Jeong-woo, you truly amazed me. Your precise analysis without sophisticated tools gave me goosebumps more than once.
Professor Hong looked at Jeong-woo, who demonstrated remarkable analytical skills in art appraisal with only his chemical knowledge, and once again praised him.
He realized that the CEO, who seemed so hard to please, wasnt sending unwarranted trust.
If its not too intrusive, may I ask where you work?
I work at the KG Chemical Central Research Institute.
As Jeong-woo answered, he nced at the door where Michle had disappeared, as she left first to see off the guests.
I did a good job, but what am I doing here on this golden weekend?
It was 9 PM.
After being invited to the party by Michle and ending up working all day instead, it wasnt as fun as he expected.
Well, at least the banquet food was quite luxurious.
Jeong-woo gave it some significance, thinking he probably earned a decent score for his work. However, that didnt necessarily mean he wanted to engage in another project with Audrey. That was a problem he needed to think about a little more.
Suddenly thrown into a job that was not an ordinary part-time job but not exactly an ordinary part-time job either from leaving the business room to the corridor, Jeong-woo encountered a man waiting there.
Excuse me.
Yes? Are you talking to me?
Seeing the face, Jeong-woo recognized him as Chairman Wangs secretary whom he had briefly seen earlier.
Chairman Wang wanted me to give this to you. Are you Han Jeong-woo?
Jeong-woo epted the ess card with the number 3502 written on it and showed his curiosity.
Fortunately, thanks to you, Michle, the CEOs mood improved, and the contract resolution went well. Chairman Wang wanted to thank you for your help. He has paid for all the room services, so feel free to use them.
After finishing his words, Chairman Wangs secretary politely bowed and disappeared.
What is this?
The world of CEOs was full of surprises, even for someone who knew it.
Now, Jeong-woos steps, originally intending to go home, turned into a curious exploration as he headed to the 35th floor.
Wow.
The moment the door opened, Jeong-woo was taken aback by the opulent atmosphere that was instantly palpable, leading him to exim in awe.
He walked slowly towards the wooden interior decoration, where a faint scent of wood wafted through. Inside the living room, the breathtaking panoramic view of Seouls skyline through therge windows left Jeong-woo momentarily stunned.
This is the height of luxury. Is this the suite room?
It seemed to be at least 100 pyeong in size. So, it had everything one could imagine. The bathroom alone was probably the size of a fragrance centers testingb. (100 pyeong is around 330 m2)
Jeong-woo opened an unfamiliar bottle of whiskey on the minibar, poured it into a ss, and thenfortably sank into the plush sofa.
Is this it? The leisure of the social elite.
While enjoying the view, he sipped the whiskey in a sophisticated manner.
Cough. Ugh, its so strong.
The unfamiliar burning sensation of the liquid spread from his throat to his stomach. Looking at the name on the bottle, it was something called bourbon. It was a taste that didnt suit Jeong-woos pte, as it was a strong alcoholic drink mixed with plenty of sweeteners.
I cant handle more than two sips of this.
Sighing, he ced the ss on the table.
When will I get to feel like this again? Lets enjoy it to the fullest.
Stretching his legs on the sofa, hey down. Then, he opened a group chat with his friends and started typing.
[Do you guys know what its like in a luxury hotel suite room?]
Snap, snap. He uploaded two pictures, one of the living room and one of the Seoul skyline.
[Hey, dont go searching for hotel photos and posting them. Its annoying. Do we look like were rich or something?]
[And we dont even have a girl to go with.]
One friend was job hunting, and the other was preparing for his fathers civil service exam. Jeong-woo chuckled and was about to take a selfie for another post, but hesitated.
Dont bother these guys who are diligently preparing for their careers. Lets save the bragging for Park Soo-chan.
He immediately sent a private message with the certification shot to Park Soo-chan.
[Wow!!]
As expected, he received a surprised reaction. Jeong-woo chuckled and sent another message.
[Im staying here tonight. Want toe over? Its the Conrad Hotel in Yeouido.]
[Hey, are you crazy? I have a local event today! Im in the middle of my performance.]
[Well, nothing I can do about that.]
[Lets do it again tomorrow!]
[Are you insane? Why would I pay to do this again? Its just a brief stay, and its free.]
Soo-chanined through messages. He asked Jeong-woo to steal a towel as a souvenir, and then Jeong-woo closed his phone.
Tsk, that unlucky guy.
Afterward, Jeong-woo lost himself in the living room and watched therge TV, flipping and turning around as if he were at home. He looked at the clock and realized it was only 10 oclock. He wasnt sleepy, and there was nothing much to do.
After indulging at the banquet, he didnt even feel like ordering room service because he wasnt hungry. He spent another 30 minutes ying mobile games on his phone.
It was his first night in such a luxurious suite room. The payment had already been taken care of, but there wasnt much fun in doing things alone.
Are my social connections really this limited?
But calling a girl he knew
Im at the hotel right now. Do you want toe?
That would be the perfect way to get pped.
He felt that it would be much morefortable to receive snacks in the familiar living room of his home, where his mother asionally gave me a pitiful expression, rather than wandering around. It felt much more soothing.
Living life as if you were born wealthy, after all.
He had rented a hotel suite, but being bored like this would be a waste of money.
He couldnt ignore the Chairmans goodwill. Thinking that this wasnt the right way to enjoy it, he suddenly got up and went to find the bathroom.
When youre at a hotel, you should take a bubble bath.
He filled therge bathtub with water and added bath salts. As he waited, his phone rang, and he picked it up.
Senior Boyeong?
Along with the sound of music ying in the background, he heard someone elses voice on the phone.
-Is this Han Jeong-woos phone?
The number was Song Boyeongs, but the voice belonged to another woman.
Yes. Who is this?
-Im Boyeongs friend, Seo Mi-hee. We met briefly earlier, remember?
She seemed to be the young woman who was surrounded by luxury goods and jewelry next to Song Boyeong.
-Boyeong keeps saying weird things, so Im looking for Han eoung-woo. If you have some free time, could youe over here? When she gets drunk, she bes stubborn
-Hey, Boyeong. Dont cling to me like that, I cant breathe. Ah, thats not allowed. I need to get new silicone Oh dear. Anyway, were at the Conrad Sky Lounge, on the top floor.
Oh Its nearby. Ille over.
He thought that if it was just a short elevator ride away, he might as well go. There was also a slight sense of boredom that motivated him to go.
Chapter 64
Chapter 64- A month in the life of a chemicalpany team leader(9)
Shortly after.
The lounge on the 37th floor wasnt the scene of wild dancing that Jeong-woo had imagined. Instead, it was a pleasant space akin to a bar, where music flowed loudly.
How did you get here?
An employee standing in the corridor blocked Jeong-woo. Jeong-woo pointed inside.
Is here Seo Mi-hee? She called me and told me toe here.
Director Seo? Please wait for a moment.
Hearing that the woman on the phone was an executive, Jeong-woo suppressed a sigh. Could it be that shes the executive of this hotel?
Pleasee in. The verification is done.
The employee, using an earpiece, gestured to Jeong-woo after hearing something.
Passing through the entrance, a luxurious bar with a simr ambiance to what he had seen in the suite was revealed. There were hardly any people around.
From the inside, he could hear the giggles of a few women, creating an atmosphere that seemed to restrict guest entry for some kind of private party.
Where could she be?
Seated around an expansive table with partitions, there were five women. In the midst of the yful aura exuded by the older sisters, there sat Song Boyeong, whose appearance seemed rather youthful.
I dont want to! I said Im going to study.
Boyeong, why study after drinking like that? Lets just go to a second round of dancing.
Ugh!
Snatching a drink from her friend, Song Boyeong gulped it down and spoke.
Dont be so stubborn. Can you recite the periodic table backwards in 10 seconds?
What are you saying?
When Song Boyeong pouted, Seo Mi-hee, who was beside her, supported her head and said to their friends.
Dont provoke her, you guys. If Boyeong loses her focus, all of you will end up grabbing your heads together to study. When she says she wants to do something just before drinking, she always does it. And then she cant remember.
Mi-hee~
Song Boyeong pulled Seo Mi-hee into a hug and lightly pped her cheek.
Hey, you keep saying youre envious of these and you keep touching them. Hey, touch yours. Yours arent small either.
Cut it out!
Song Boyeong pouted and yfully shed a baby-like innocent smile at Seo Mi-hee, as she tousled her hair.
Mi-hee, your surgery went well, seriously.
Seo Mi-hee made a resigned expression and shook her head.
Yeah, its been six months since we met. Do whatever you want.
Studying?
Not that. What kind of studying are you going to do with someone of lower caliber like me?
Why not? Mi-hee, your cars license te is 5050. Do you know its the ratio of nitrous oxide and oxygen mixed to create anesthesia gas? You drink it every time you have stic surgery.
Seo Mi-hee was left speechless. Song Boyeong pointed her finger at the woman on her left.
Your waist size is 66. Lanthanides series, double~
No, its 55!
55 means cesium. The cesium atomic clock is the worlds standard. Its off by 1 second every 300,000 years. Your luxury watches are off by 1 second per year, right?
Can you stop saying weird things that ruin the taste of alcohol? Lets talk about something simpler and more down-to-earth. Guys, alright? Guys. Mi-hee was talking about a good-looking guy she was with earlier.
I dont want to! Thats a secret.
Seeing Song Boyeong, whos so tipsy like this, mumbling about chemistry all the time, the friend in the front burst intoughter and asked.
Boyeong, my cars license te is 2260, what does it mean?
Nothing. Youre out.
Come on, seriously!
If you subtract 1 from there and divide by 100, you get osmiums density, 22.59.
Upon hearing the response from outside the table, Song Boyeong turned her head.
Right. You can see it that way too. Impressive~
Her face lit up as she recognized the man who had just appeared.
Wow. Its Jeong-woo.
.
You have to be careful when dealing with someone drunk. After nodding to Song Boyeongs friends, Jeong-woo spoke.
Senior, are you quite drunk?
Im not drunk!
Seeing her trying to take a friends ss from the side to drink, Seo Mi-hee hastily grabbed Song Boyeongs hand.
You should study. Jeong-woo is here.
Study? The papers are just too difficult for me to understand. But Jeong-woo can. Because hes smarter than me.
Suppressing theughter that was about to burst from him at the cutest tone Song Boyeong had used so far, Jeong-woo leaned closer to Seo Mi-hee and whispered.
Senior isnt feeling well, right?
Well, thats true. She might pass out in about 30 minutes. Just hold on until then.
I see.
What are you two whispering about?
Seeing Song Boyeong ring at him, Jeong-woo calmly smiled and asked.
When I asked about the gene cloning technique in the paper, you didnt seem to know. Whats the restriction enzyme that creates DNA fragments with sticky ends?
With this question, Song Boyeong suddenly fell silent. As she became quiet, all her friends eyes narrowed.
Why is Boyeong acting like that?
When shes drunk, shes uncontroble.
Seeing Song Boyeong start to ponder something, Seo Mi-hee smiled and then stood up, suggesting that she should sit next to Jeong-woo.
Come sit here. Boyeong can be on the other side.
Thank you.
Jeong-woo took Seo Mi-hees ce, and Seo Mi-hee moved to the opposite side.
Whos this person?
In response to a friends question, Seo Mi-hee spoke.
Boyeongs junior from work. The one we were looking for earlier.
Oh, is that Jeong-woo?
The gazes of the women, who were likely to be Song Boyeongs friends and heirs to conglomerates, all turned towards Jeong-woo. Under the weight of their intimidating stares, Jeong-woo cleared his throat and turned his head.
Lost in thought, Song Boyeong suddenly nudged Jeong-woos head.
I know. EcoRI cuts between the G and A in the sequence 5GAATTC3.
Well done.
Great!
Upon receiving praise, Song Boyeong smiled broadly. Jeong-woo immediately continued.
However, whats in the paper is a non-sticky end. Which enzyme should be used for that?
What? Hold on a sec.
Song Boyeong started pondering again. As she transformed from being scattered to bing a focused and diligent student, her friends were left in astonishment and turned their surprised gaze to Jeong-woo as she finally closed her mouth.
Its not even a foreignnguage, yet it seems like it.
In response to Seo Mi-heesment, Jeong-woo grinned.
Were talking about a doctoral thesis that were interested in.
Looks like you know Boyeong well.
I thought I knew her to some extent, but now Im not so sure.
Jeong-woo was taken aback by the fact that Song Boyeong was so friendly with women who lived in an entirely different world.
As Song Boyeong finished her contemtion, she pped her hands together.
Pvu 2!
Well, thats possible too. To properly activate the enzyme that connects the DNA cutting sites, you need to use moreplex rbinant molecules.
There are so many types of rbinant molecules!
Even with many types, you need to remember them all.
As Jeong-woo calmly exined step by step, Song Boyeongs expression turned focused, and she nodded along, engrossed in his exnation.
For about 20 minutes, Song Boyeong, who had been nodding off, eventually fell into a gentle slumber.
Senior, are you asleep?
There was no response from Song Boyeong. She seemed to bepletely lost in dreand. Jeong-woo turned his head towards Seo Mi-hee, who was still observing him.
I didnt expect this from Senior Boyeongs drinking habits.
Its a rare sight today. Last time, she got obsessed with painting when she was supposed to be doing some coating research. She left one abstract paint on this wall. The chief had a bit of trouble dealing with that.
In response to Seo Mi-hees words, some of the friends chuckled as if remembering something. Jeong-woo wore a slightly awkward smile in this unfamiliar atmosphere and spoke.
Seems like everyone is used to it.
Dont be too surprised. She only lets loose with her drinking when were around. Would you like a drink?
Jeong-woo shook his head.
Im going to be busy starting tomorrow.
Seo Mi-hee gazed meaningfully at Jeong-woo, who declined, and then at Song Boyeong who was sleeping with her back leaned against him, snugly.
Jeong-woo nced at the peacefully sleeping Song Boyeong.
It seems like youre close with Senior Boyeong.
We practically grew up like sisters. Youre aware that Boyeong is the heir to KG Group, right?
Uh
He had vaguely expected that her family background would be impressive, but for a moment, Jeong-woo was taken aback.
You didnt know? Well, if youre close to the managing director of this hotel, you might have guessed, even if youre not sure.
Should I have guessed?
No. Actually, Im gonna ask you to pretend you dont know. Jeong-woo, you might not understand, but being the heir whos not first or second in line for session, but on the twentieth ce its painful. Itsplex enough that I dont want to dig into it if I dont have to.
At these words, Jeong-woos gaze involuntarily turned towards Song Boyeong. Her face portrayed a carefree expression while she lived her life in the research institute, but in contrast, there seemed to be someplexity to her family circumstances.
In the meantime, Seo Mi-hee raised her hand to call over a staff member.
Prepare a room for me. A suite.
At the moment, all rooms of suite-level or higher are fully booked.
What? None avable?
Thats correct.
Why is business so good today? But its not like we can let our Boyeong sleep in a business-ss room.
At this remark, Jeong-woo recalled the suite room that had been assigned to him.
Use the room Im staying in. I was about to leave anyway.
Jeong-woos room?
Was it 3502?
You booked a suite?
Its not really a reservation It just happened.
Jeong-woo smiled warmly. As he extended the room card, Seo Mi-hee raised her eyebrows.
Why dont you personally take her and put her to sleep in the room? Its less embarrassing than having our staff carry her. Being a senior, you can do that much, right? Well head to the club for a second round. Then well be on our way.
Why do you trust me?
Look at her. Does she look worried?
Leaning on Jeong-woos shoulder, Song Boyeong was peacefully sleeping,pletely unaware of the world around her.
Beep beep.
Room 3502s door opened, and Jeong-woo entered carrying Song Boyeong. Despite it being just a few floors, carrying a person who had lost consciousness was quite a tricky task.
He struggled to find the nearby bedroom door, muttering as he opened it andid her on the bed.
Wow. Carrying a woman into a suite, how daring.
A bitterugh escaped him.
Using a fan, he cooled himself off from the sweat and looked at Song Boyeong. She was dressed in a dress that perfectly highlighted her bodys curves.
In addition to the already sweltering heat, the intense passion had him immediately lifting the nket over her.
Ill wait in the living room until Seo Mi-hee arrives. Oh, right., the bathroom.
Jeong-woo closed the door and headed to the bathroom. The bathtub was partially filled. Although the water was still warm to the touch, undressing and taking a half-bath in this situation was just asking for misunderstandings.
Regretfully, he let all the water drain out.
When will these people arrive?
Returning to the living room, Jeong-woo sat on the sofa and turned on the TV.
Inside the bedroom, a desk clock disying [AM 02:04] was ced.
Mi-hee, Im thirsty
With her eyes closed, Song Boyeong reached out her hand to the side and, upon feeling the texture of the pillow, lifted her head.
The room was illuminated by a soft mood light.
She vividly remembered entering the Sky Lounge, thanking Seo Mi-hee who had reserved all the lounge seats for her and raising her ss in gratitude.
Ouch, my head.
As she retraced her steps, a headache began to emerge. It was probably due to the detoxification process initiated by her liver.
Sitting up, Song Boyeong reflexively felt the wall and then opened the mini fridge. After gulping down water, she ced the bottle on the table and headed out of the room.
The living room was dimly lit, with only the glow of the TV visible.
It seems like they left me here and went out to have fun.
It was a scenario that had urred before.
With her makeup still on and her clothes feeling ufortable, Song Boyeong headed to the bathroom first.
She turned on the water in the bathtub, removed the pin that was painfully holding her hair, and set it aside. Her hair, freed from the tightness, cascaded down, covering the back of her neck.
She took off her earrings and let her dress hang loosely.
She dipped her toes into the warm water that was filling the bathtub.
Ah, its so warm.
In the foamy tub, Song Boyeong indulged in the luxury of washing away her fatigue, the effects of alcohol, and a sense of mncholy that had umted over a while.
30 minutester.
Wrapped in a long towel and with a towel turban on her head, Song Boyeong walked into the living room and headed to the window overlooking the citys night view.
The city lights, always managing to calm her heart, caught her gaze.
In the distance, she could see the KG Chemical headquarters building. Looking at the time, it was somewhat uncertain whether I could make it home, and I likely had to head straight to work from here
Um.
At that moment.
A unfamiliar sound reached Song Boyeong from behind.
Senior?
Then, a familiar voice. Song Boyeong froze in ce, only turning her head to look back.
In the dimness, a figure rose from the sofa, where Jeong-woo had been sleeping hunched over.
Je, Je, Jeong-woo?
Why are you?
Yawning and turning his gaze, Jeong-woo lost his words for a moment. Reflected in the lighting through the window, he saw Song Boyeongs slender silhouette, covered only by a thin bath towel.
2.24 seconds.
A static moment spanning 0.1 moles of volume.
Kyaa! Dont look! I said dont look!
With a shriek, Song Boyeong dashed into the room.
The living room was lit up.
Jeong-woo was in the process of preparing coffee from the espresso machine, thinking that he needed to wake up his groggy mind.
Unintentionally admiring senior Boyeongs figure.
He shook his head, determined to forget. His own face felt hot, so how would the other person be feeling?
Thud.
The door opened, and Song Boyeong emerged from the suite, wearing the pajamas provided. With her head lowered, she sat on the minibar stool where the coffee was being poured, and she turned to Jeong-woo and asked.
Why are you here?
Dont you remember?
If I remembered, I wouldnt have been doing that earlier!
Song Boyeong, who had been about to explode, realized that showing anger wouldnt help and calmly, or rather, under a calm faade, turned her gaze towards Jeong-woo.
What happened? And Seo Mi-hee? The others?
Well, they said theyd be here soon, but it seems like theyre still dancing at the club even though its 3 in the morning.
These guys
Clenching her fist, Song Boyeong cautiously asked Jeong-woo.
I didnt do anything wrong, did I?
You didnt do anything significant.
Huh? I didnt do anything.
Jeong-woo chuckled at Song Boyeongs disbelief in her own actions. She was taken aback by hisughter.
What? So I did it, something weird?
No, not really. You just kept saying, Jeong-woo or Hey! repeatedly. You mostly said things like Thats right and your words became a bit shorter, like Ya!
Ugh.
Song Boyeong sped her hands together and apologized.
Im sorry. It wasnt supposed to be like this.
If senior Boyoung is older than me, that could be possible.
Were the same age.
Senior Boyoung birthday is earlier than
June.
May.
Song Boyeong hesitated for a moment, then looked at Jeong-woo with an awkward smile. It seemed like she had made up her mind as she closed her eyes and said with determination.
Jeong-woo oppa~
What, what is it?
Since you used casual speech. Its returning the favor, oppa.
Wiping off her makeup, Song Boyeongs face looked more youthful, and as she continued to call him oppa, Jeong-woo couldnt help but feel his heart race.
With a ding sound, the espresso machine came to a stop.
Jeong-woo ced a cup of coffee in front of Song Boyeong and shook his head.
What is with the oppa? Still feeling the effects of the alcohol?
Oppa~
Youre still not awake, huh? It seems like your eyes wont even open properly.
Song Boyeong, who had been giving a mischievous grin with slightly puffy eyes, soon had a serious expression on her face as she looked at Jeong-woo.
I think I have a rough idea now. About my situation. And about these friends.
Im pretending not to know much. Seo Mi-hee seriously asked me to.
Mi-hee Shes a friend whos irreceable to me. Shes deeper than she appears, she has a serious side and understands me well.
A praise. Should I really introduce myself?
Startled, Song Boyeong responded hastily.
Even if she wanted to, her ideal type isnt you, Jeong-woo. She has a very different style.
Wow. You called me oppa earlier, and now youre teasing me for having a bad style.
No, its just that if its not a suite like this, she wouldnt be able to sleep due to being extremely picky. It would be unbearable.
Huh? You didnt know? I borrowed this.
Song Boyeongs eyes widened.
Here? How much is this worth? Is this because of me? Oh my, oh my.
Why are you making such big assumptions?
If Jeong-woo borrowed it, then
Under her single-lidded eyes, her ck pupils trembled uncontrobly. Seeing her reaction, Jeong-woo restrained hisughter and asked.
Youre aware that I have two cards, yeah?
Are you crazy? If you use something like this improperly, youll be in debt.
Consider this a favor from your oppa. If you get caught, well share the me and write an exnation together. Fifty-fifty responsibility. Ill be going now.
Jeong-woo stood up from the mini-bars chair. Song Boyeong grabbed onto Jeong-woos arm.
Cancel it right now! Ill pay for it.
Wow, seems like youre rich?
I am, really! So, give me your card. Ill cancel it and make a new payment.
No can do. Its a credit card payment with Chairman Wangs kindness in it.
Chairman?
Seeing Jeongwoos face, which looked like he was dying to tease, Song Boyoung eximed Oh! and patted her chest. Having heard the rough exnation of the situation, she breathed a sigh of relief and nodded.
Im surprised again. What a shock. Im totally sober now.
I really need to go and change. I should drop by home to get ready for work. In this state, its just not doable.
Pointing to his all-white attire, Jeong-woo bid farewell to Song Boyeong.
Senior Boyeong, you can feel the chairmans kindness and leavefortably.
Jeong-woo.
Yes?
After hesitating, Song Boyeong finally spoke.
Thank you.
Why mention it. See you at thepany.
The gaze of Song Boyeong lingering on Jeong-woos back as he walked into the living room was veryforting. As if it had nothing to do with themotion of the night.
Day 15 Fragance center
After experiencing the world of the upper ss over the weekend, Monday arrived, and it was time to focus on his team leader role again.
Having returned home in the early morning, Jeong-woo changed his clothes, and headed straight to work, his mind was too preupied to even think about Monday blues.
Beep.
Because of this, when Jeong-woo opened the door to the Fragrance Center early in the morning, he was taken aback by the scene that unfolded before him.
Even though it was 7:30 in the morning, almost all the employees had arrived early and were bustling around. Everyone looked serious, as if something significant had urred.
Walking towards the Perfumery Room, Jeong-woo ran into Assistant Manager Park from the Design Team and asked.
Why are you here so early?
Oh, Jeong-woo. Were on high alert right now. Apetingpany unexpectedlyunched a new product yesterday. Its not only coinciding with our release date but also receiving positive reviews.
Apetingpany?
P&Z. Check it out.
Assistant Manager Park hurriedly walked away down the hallway.
Jeong-woo entered the Perfumery Room, opened hisptop, and searched for thepany P&Z.
Air-like freshness. Perfume infused into fabric deodorizers. Innovative deodorizer DeZone Air.
The interview with the CEO of P&Z in the article revealed ambitious ns to increase their market share from the current 50% to 70% with this DeZone Air in the line of deodorizers that already held more than 50% of the market.
At the final development stage, what could be going wrong? We should be more at ease here so that we can provide better support for our project.
Thinking about this, Jeong-woo couldnt help but sigh as he realized that the situation couldplicate the promised addition of Fragrance Design Teams Shin Ki-woo to their project.
Chapter 65
Chapter 65- A month in the life of a chemicalpany team leader(10)
Starting from the second batch of samples, were changing the synthesis method. Abination that can be created all the way to the final stage in one go.
Jeong-woos words left Bae Ki-tae and Cho Seong-hwan with puzzled expressions. Given that even incrementally adding and mixing them didnt easily raise the match rate, it was quite a statement to suggest doing it all at once.
Is that even possible?
In response to Cho Seong-hwans question, Jeong-woo chuckled and turned theptop screen towards them. The aroma molecule analysis table for the second batch research samples asian lizards tail and plum blossoms appeared.
Were looking at it holistically. A fragrance is, after all, a collective of molecules that generate it. Instead of cutting and connecting them one by one, its a three-dimensional process.
On theptop screen appeared the work schedule Jeong-woo had been working on all day on Friday.
Removing heliotropin from lc, eugenol and cinnamaldehyde from carnation, and benzyl acetate from jasmine.
A process of eliminating the dominant fragrances from the existing flower aroma molecules and mixing the remaining ones to find the desired molecrposition.
Bae Ki-tae and Cho Seong-hwan stared at the monitor for a long time.
This wasnt about attaching threads one by one to make a long string; instead, it was a proposal that, by cutting bundles of threads, mixing them together, and shaking them, they would all be connected, a logic on par with that idea.
Team leader Han Jeong-woo was saying that it was possible.
Where and how to cut and blend. I will handle the boundary analysis of the fragrance molecules. Your role will be to assist in the extraction work from the analyzed base fragrances. Since were working on both asian lizards tail and plum blossoms, please take care of them one by one. Well start with magnolia base for asian lizards tail
As he exined the step-by-step process, the two listeners couldnt help but have their mouths gradually fall open.
Strangely, while listening to Jeong-woos exnation, it seemed that even if they roughly held and mixed the clusters in their hands, they were convinced it would still connect properly.
Te-Team leader, this molecule rbination technique. Youll patent it, right?
Bae Ki-tae asked absentmindedly.
If its necessary
Jeong-woo replied and immediately immersed himself in the analysis work.
The two people who had gathered to follow his instructions were left dumbfounded.
How did the direction of the core technology change so drastically within just two weeks of starting the project? Its giving me chills.
Were part of that change.
Come to think of it, thats even more chilling. If Seong-hwan hadnt bragged about it, I wouldnt have even thought ofing here. When will we get to witness something like this again?
Jeong-woo gazed at the two vials containing the fragrance oil extracted from natural ingredients.
The fact they had discovered through the vibrational analysis of the molecr boundaryyersst week.
In the time it takes to lift a ball into the air in a forest made of trees, its much more efficient to scatter all the seeds and eliminate the unnecessary parts.
The goal was toplete these two samples within this week. That means the work speed with this technology has doubled.
As the evening approached, Jeong-woo nced at the clock. It was ten minutes to 5.
Ki-tae, Seong-hwan.
Yes!
Both of them, who were peering through electron microscopes, simultaneously looked up.
Go home.
And they both hesitated at the same time.
I, quitting at regr hours? Audreys CEO ising on Friday. We dont have time in our team.
Currently, theres only a 24.78% match on this side.
Jeong-woo stood up from his seat, assuring them it was okay.
As nned. If we work the same way for another 4 days, it should reach around 99.1%. Set aside a day for error analysis. By Friday, it should bepleted.
Despite Jeong-woos confident attitude, the two of them remained uncertain.
If we dont expand the team, we might need around 4 more weeks like this, but theres no helping it.
Cho Seong-hwans eyes widened.
Youre thinking ofpleting the project in 4 weeks?
Why? Is that a bitte?
Bae Ki-tae, who was sipping his drink, choked. After clearing his throat with difficulty, he looked at Jeong-woo and said.
I heard from a senior that projects like this usually take more than six months.
Six months? Then, if it takes that long, the training period set will be over, and Ill have to go back the basics. Thats just not possible. How can I continue with work life alongside Director Jang and the Center Manager?
The n of Jeong-woo was to wrap up with at least 2 per week, as there were 8 left, aiming to finish within 4 weeks.
Seeing the two individuals who still showed no sign of leaving work, Jeong-woo snapped his fingers.
Oh, I see. Youre unable to leave work because the team leader isnt leaving, right? You dont have to be so formal with your superiors like that. I have amitment, so Ill leave. Youve done a good job with todays tasks. Please make sure to leave at the regr time.
Jeong-woo, after putting his coat in the fragrance room cab, shook hands and left.
The two remaining individuals looked at each other with puzzled expressions. As if muttering to himself, Cho Seong-hwan said.
I want to continue with this project. Compared to being under Dr. Moon, this ce is like heaven. Theres so much to learn.
Me too. Its weird, but I want to go home quickly. Its even weirder when research is going so well.
When things are this odd, how about some chicken and beer? What do you say?
Sounds good.
Jeong-woo opened the door to the cafe in front of thepany and looked around inside. In the corner, a colleague from thepany, Shin Ki-joon, raised his hand towards Jeong-woo.
Over here!
Spotting Ki-joon, Jeong-woo exchanged a nod and walked over.
Have you been waiting long?
No, I just arrived.
Once Jeong-woo sat down, Ki-joon ced a document titled Streaming and Video Transmission Rights Agreement on the table.
Your channel name, as we discussed before, is officially set as Chemistry.
Jeong-woo skimmed through the document and asked, Will many people really watch this?
With a yful smile, Ki-joon pulled out a tablet and handed it over.
See for yourself.
Jeong-woo took the tablet and checked the video channel.
Channel Chemistry [Subscribers 20,034]
Line 1 Magician [Views 60,312]
White Magician (feat. Firework Teacher) [Views 530,542]
Snow Removal Captain in Seongbuk-dong [Views 50,385]
Snow Removal Expedition [Views 72,329]
What, whats the Snow Removal Expedition?
Someone recorded it and uploaded it. We got in touch and moved it here. I wonder when did you even go to that region. Its the same for the Line 1 Magician, it had its time in the spotlight, but the impact isnt all that substantial.
Ki-joon pointed to the video that garnered 530,000 views among the four.
People who found Yoon Yi-seols stage video and came through that link are clicking the subscribe button a lot. Even though theres no regr update schedule yet, and there are only four videos, already 20,000 people are subscribed. The potential is there.
How many subscribers do sessful people usually have?
Between one to two million.
Jeong-woos mouth hung open at this answer. A channel that had a million people tuning in for everyday content, he couldnt grasp it at all.
This Lunar New Year, when the Delicious Feast special episode in which you participated airs and that video is updated, your subscribers will increase again. But before that, I suggest doing a live stream once.
A live stream?
For the channels opening celebration.
Recently, Im so busy with projects that I dont really have anything worth broadcasting. What Im doing now is quite static. Fragrances arent something the camera can capture.
If youe up with content youd like to try, please let me know anytime. Inte broadcasting is flexible. You can broadcast from anywhere with just a phone.
After finishing the signing, Jeong-woo divided the contract with Ki-joon and then asked.
How much money do those million viewers make?
I heard that some bought an apartment in Gangnam. Theyre also considering whether to establish a corporation or operate as a sole proprietor due to tax concerns.
Wow
As he listened, Jeong-woo started feeling quite ambitious.
As Jeong-woo was organizing the contract and putting it into his bag, he noticed Song Boyeong passing by the window with her hands full of bags.
Ill be up first. Please take care of things from now on.
Im confident well have a good rtionship.
After shaking hands with Ki-joon, Jeong-woo stepped outside and called out to Boyeong who was ahead of him.
Senior! Are we going to have overtime from Monday?
Boyeong, walking with a heavy load and making strained sounds, halted her steps at the sound of his voice. However, since she refused to meet his gaze, Jeong-woo judged that she might still be embarrassed about yesterdays incident and approached quietly.
Lunch boxes, huh? Why are you carrying all of this by yourself? Just because youre the youngest on the project? Seriously, other seniors should help.
Jeong-woo took the bundle that Boyeong held in one hand and moved closer.
In the morning.
What?
I met Chairman Wang Liming.
Walking ahead, Boyeong spoke without meeting Jeong-woos eyes.
Since Mi-hee never showed up and I was checking out alone, in the lobby, someone asked if you and I were a thing
Jeong-woo noticed Boyeongs long, soft eyshes trembling slightly.
I cant just say we had a one-night stand. They obviously know that Mi-hee and I are friends.
Well, I mean, you can just y it off casually. And its not like well see those people again.
Thats why I casually said we were friends.
Wondering why Song Boyeong acted that way, he sighed.
So, they interpreted it as a male friend with whom I spent the night in a suite. I couldnt express the subtlety of the tone.
What does it matter?
Bang- Boyeong turned her head to look at Jeong-woo.
Even thought he paid for the honeymoon package?
Yes?
A voucher for a penthouse stay that can be used at any Conrad Hotel chain around the world, plus a lounge event pass. Right in front of the Chairman of the Board.
Jeong-woos mouth dropped open.
Wow, Chairman Wang is really powerful.
Its not just about marveling right now. A twenty-seven-year-old girl with a promising future has booked the honeymoon package with her name on it, usable at any Conrad Hotel branch around the world. Its already spread like wildfire in the hotel. No, I mean, can you even imagine? Mi-hee kept asking what that was all about. Chairman Wang didnt even listen but said its good and left. Because of that, I waste and won the evening delivery prize.
Listening to Boyeongs grumbling that sounded like she was talking to herself, it seemed like he understood why she was carrying the lunch boxes.
Seeing her flustered, Jeong-woo opened his mouth with an apologetic expression.
You should contact him.
After showing up like that at night, how am I supposed to contact him? He needs to disappear from my sight for at least a week to be forgotten.
Hmm is that the expertise of someone who often gets into embarrassing situations?
Are you being serious?
Despite her puffy cheeks, within Boyeongs round eyes that were fixed on Jeong-woo, embarrassment filled the gaze.
Because of that, the memory of the bath towel silhouette came back to Jeong-woos mind, causing him to tilt his head.
Receive whats due. Just clear up any confusion. Theyre saying the Chairman of the Board himself took care of the mural at the Sky Lounge there? Compared to that, its not that significant Oh, yeah, Mi-hee said to not bring it up.
Mi-hee? When did you hear about the mural story?
When you passed out, senior. You remember, when your friends were bothering you at night? No, why were you even studying there at that hour? Your injections were quite unique.
Boyeongs cheeks turned red. Jeong-woo pushed the revolving door at the entrance of thepany and spoke.
That honeymoon package. If you really find someer, make good use of it. I dont need it.
Standing in front of the employee gate, Song Boyeong handed over the lunch box to Jeong-woo and asked as she passed by.
Why? Dont you have a girlfriend, Jeong-woo?
If I did, she wouldve been lying on that bed instead of you, senior.
Jeong-woo shook his hand and spoke.
Im off work. Good luck with your overtime.
Watching Jeong-woo move away, Song Boyeong ced the lunch bag in front of the elevator and took out her phone for a moment.
[Boyeong, do you want me to cancel it?]
A text from Seo Mi-hee, sent earlier in the morning. Song Boyeong replied.
[Just leave it. Treat the Chairman of the Board nicely.]
Ding.
[That overbearing Chairman!]
A new message arrived immediately, startling Song Boyeong. She quickly put her phone in her pocket and chuckled to herself.
Day 16 Fragrance Lab
Upon opening the door and entering, Jeong-woo was taken by surprise. The reason was that all six researchers from the Fragrance Center were lying sprawled across a table in one corner of the workspace.
Among them was Shin Ki-woo.
Jeong-woo pointed them out to Cho Seong-hwan, who had arrived earlier.
Looks like theyre pulling an all-nighter?
Seems that way. They were like this when I came in too.
Shin Ki-woo groaned as he lifted his upper body and rubbed his neck. While he was doing so, his eyes met with Jeong-woos gaze. Yawning, Shin Ki-woo stood up.
We had an emergency, so we stayed up all night. Bongchan, Seokhan, wake up.
As the group rose one by one, looking as if they had spent the night working feverishly, Shin Ki-woo approached Jeong-woo.
Ill take care of the GC analyzer quickly.
Whats the emergency? Is it because of the new P&Z product? DeZone Air?
Yes. They publicly disclosed all the ingredients there. Were analyzing that anding up with countermeasures.
They disclosed the ingredients?
Shin Ki-woo continued with his exnation.
Specific ingredients that are almost like trade secrets in products like these are kept as corporate secrets, but P&Z aims to give consumers an image of being able to use their products with peace of mind by openly disclosing each chemical ingredient. Along with its deodorizing performance, theyve beening out with marketing strategies that were unprecedented. Thats why the Fragrance Center has entered emergency mode as of yesterday.
P&Z holds 50%. The rest of the market is divided among domestic chemicalpanies. With this Chaffrin product, we were aiming to solidify our position as the secondrgest, but were facing a crisis. If our market share drops even further after releasing our own product
Shin Ki-woos unfinished story was still understood by Jeong-woo as well. The conclusion was that the key personnel of the project would face consequences.
Ah, our project still needs another four weeks. The atmosphere here is going to get even more tense. By the way, are these people the core developers?
They were the top talents brought in from various departments. Truly exceptional individuals. Jeong-woos eyes glinted with a wicked idea.
Watching them start to clean up, Jeong-woo turned to Shin Ki-woo and asked, When you disclose the ingredients, theres a risk of others copying them. It might seem beneficial right now, but what if someone else uses the same ingredients and sells their products for a lower price in the future?
They must be confident in themselves, thinking that they wont be able to replicate it as well as they can.
Do you think I could take a look at the disclosed ingredient list?
Shin Ki-woo handed a document to Jeong-woo. As Jeong-woo quickly read through it, chemical information flitted through his mind.
DeZone Air uses citric acid as a pH regtor. Environmentally friendly, I suppose? The diffusing surfactant is modified polydimethylsiloxane? Its more effective than the caster oil used in Chaffrin. Perhaps because its a foreignpany, their synthetic level is
Looking at the traces of experiments on the table, Jeong-woo turned to Shin Ki-woo and said, If I were to make something exactly like this right away, what approach could be taken?
Im sure you could help quite a bit, but we dont know the proportions at all. The most crucial ingredient ratios havent been disclosed.
The world of deodorizers has somemonalities.
Really?
Jeong-woo smirked and shouted to the group busy cleaning up, Hold on a moment! He quickly put on gloves with both hands.
Thunk.
Bae Ki-tae, who had just arrived for work, rushed over as he saw Jeong-woo frantically working.
Oops, sorry for beingte.
Oh, Ki-tae, take a 20-minute break with Seong-hwan.
What are you working on right now?
Gathering talent I mean, as a chemical specialist at KG, Im helping out with foreignpany P&Zs takeover attempt.
As Jeong-woo focused on thepounds on the table, the microcosm of DeZone Airs deodorizing universe unfolded before his eyes.
KG Lifestyle Health SH Center Meeting Room.
A time for an emergency meeting with over 30 individuals involved in Chaffrin development.
Cha Jin-seong looked at the words on thebel of the sprayer ced on the central table and made an expression of disbelief.
Is this DeZone Air? Did we nt a spy in P&Z or something?
Jung Yeon, Team Leader Jeong-woo created this.
In response to Shin Ki-woos exnation, Cha Jin-seong let out a surprisedugh.
Jeong-woo again?
We tested it among ourselves, and it seems like weve replicated it almost perfectly. The deodorizing performance has improved by about 30%pared to the original P&Z product. Just as they advertise.
What about inparison to our own product?
Well
Shin Ki-woo let out a deep sigh and replied.
The fragrance evaluation isparable, but the deodorizing effectgs behind by about 10%.
It was a despairing situation. Their ambitious new product was falling behind apetitors new product, without any preemptive advantage, and evengging behind in marketing.
They needed a solution of any sort at this point.
Cha Jin-seong looked around at the Fragrance Center researchers and shouted.
Summon Team Leader Han!
Yes? For what reason
If they cooperate here, tell them that Ill provide full support for the Audrey Project. Ill guarantee it.
Jeong-woo handed a memo with forms to Bae Ki-tae.
Rose geranium, you need to extract not just the flowers but also the leaves and stems for synthesis.
And the remaining after removing menthone and linalool?
Yeah, exactly. Do you understand the principle?
Not fully, but taking out those two should result in a goodbination with the fragrance molecules we cut from the ck currant here, I think.
Thats the key. Great. We might be done by 4 oclock today.
Bae Ki-taes shoulders perked up at Jeong-woos praise. Next to them, Cho Seong-hwan concentrated on the experiment tubes as if he couldnt afford to lose focus.
And then, it happened.
Thud.
The door opened, and a Fragrance Center researcher hurriedly entered.
Team Leader Han Jeong-woo!
Jeong-woo turned his head. The researcher spoke urgently.
Currently, theres a Chaffrin team meeting going on, and the director asked if Team Leader Han could attend.
Me?
If you could cooperate on the Chaffrin development issue, after that, there would be full support for Team Leader Hans project
I should go!
A bright smile formed on Jeong-woos lips as he listened.
Chapter 66
Chapter 66- A month in the life of a chemicalpany team leader(11)
Excitedly running forward, but pretending not to be, Jeong-woo stood in front of the conference room. He took a deep breath and opened the door.
Excuse me.
The atmosphere inside was more solemn than expected. Jeong-woo felt a slight tension as the key team members of Chaffrin development looked at him.
Pleasee in, Team Leader Han.
Cha Jin-seong, who was sitting in the middle of a long rectangr table, gestured to the empty seat opposite him.
Most of you probably know each other, but this is Han Jeong-woo, the team leader from Central Research Institute. Hes here as a special consultant. Continue the presentation, Deputy Yoon.
Jeong-woo took his seat and nced at therge monitor attached to the wall. The modified schedule for the existing Chaffrin Development Roadmap was disyed.
We should aim to release it around the same time aspeting products to gather marketing momentum. Focus on targeting homemakers who have a preference for Chaffrin fabric softener, with a mild fragrance that isnt too overwhelming. We should highlight a familiar scent that evokes warmth.
As Deputy Yoon, who was in charge of marketing for the overall nning team, presented the direction, some researchers nodded in agreement while others showed skepticism. One of the dissenting members, Lee Bong-chan from the Microbe Management Team, spoke up.
Consumers purchase this for the purpose of eliminating unpleasant odors from fabrics. Despite alreadygging in performance, pouring money into advertising wont necessarily boost market share.
But isnt it possible to further improve the already boosted performance of Chaffrin? Without the input of Team Leader Jeong-woo, couldnt the performance difference be not just 10%, but 15 or 20%?
As Deputy Yoon and Lee shed, there was a continuing debate between those who wanted to focus on marketing and those who wanted to dy theunch date and go all-in on development.
Consumers wont notice a 10% difference. If the deodorizing effect iscking, we can enhance the active ingredients. By making the scent of Chaffrinst longer.
Going any stronger with the scent will backfire!
Observing the atmosphere in the conference room, Jeong-woo nced at Director Cha sitting directly in front of him. He nodded in response to Director Chas gesture, which seemed to indicate, If you have something to say, go ahead.
If I may Should I share my thoughts?
Silence fell over the conference room at his voice. All eyes turned to Jeong-woo, causing him to inwardly sigh in apprehension before he stood up.
Deputy Yoon, may I use theptop?
Jeong-woo walked up to theptop connected to therge screen and disyed Chaffrins ingredientposition.
The specialization of the Fragrance Centers research is well-organized and efficient, but it seemscking in terms of harmony. Previously, I suggested adding caster oil to help cyclodextrin, a deodorizing ingredient, spread more effectively.
The surfactant researcher and the spray agent researcher both nodded simultaneously.
While the surfactantponents have changed significantly, both the microbe management team and the fragrance design team only focused on stabilizing their respective ingredients. As a result
As Jeong-woo nced over the ingredientposition, Chaffrins deodorizing structure unfolded before his eyes.
The reinforcement effect for better fragrance dispersion interfered with the microbial inhibition effect of quaternary ammonium chloride, resulting in a degradation of the deodorizing effect.
Manipting theptop, Jeong-woo input new values and added forms to organically connect different ingredients.
The deodorizing structure inpetitive products also includes a mechanism to block specific odor molecules that wemonly perceive as bad smells, such as tobo smoke or food odors. Merely improving the performance in the same way wouldnt give Chaffrin a distinct deodorizing advantage.
Thud.
Perhaps it would be better to reconfigure the structure to adsorb and neutralize these entire odor molecules fundamentally, allowing forplete removal.
As the ingredients in their respective fields were being modified, the gaze of the core developers became even more focused on the screen. Jeong-woo continued to speak.
This is something I felt while observingpetitors marketing strategies. If consumers have a desire to precisely understand how all theponents work due to concerns about chemical ingredients, what if we rece them with scents that closely resemble natural ingredients as much as possible?
Chaffrin scent? How would that work?
In response to Director Chas question, Jeong-woo spoke with a faint smile.
If you participate in my project, youll be able to experience thetest trends in that technology.
Starting with advertising, Jeong-woo began to addbinations of natural fragrances that could rece the existing ingredients.
With this, I think we could appeal to housewives with a new selling point. Ive looked into why Audreys perfume sells so well even though its so expensive, and its partly because theypose their scents entirely from natural ingredients.
As Jeong-woos lengthy statement came to an end, the development team members were plunged into a state of mental shock. It wasnt just one or two things that had changed; everything had changed, and there seemed to be potential improvements that could be quickly implemented.
Am I the odd one here? Microbial team improvements seem feasible, dont they?
Our team can too. Well just have to put in a few extra days of overtime.
With the prospect of working intensively starting from today, most of the attendees hurriedly began coordinating with their respective team members.
Director Cha turned to Jeong-woo as he returned to his seat.
Team Leader Jeong-woo, after these improvements, how much better do you think the performance of the Chaffrin will bepared to P&Zs DeZone Air?
Well, its hard to say. It will likely be better at capturing odor-causing bacteria in fabrics, the scent willst longer, microbial contamination prevention will be slightly improved too. Deodorizing power will naturally be higher. Roughly around 50%?
As everyone was murmuring and discussing, all heads turned simultaneously toward Jeong-woo.
Youre saying we can overwhelm them in the performance?
Well, over there, they messed up the efficiency by using citrus extract as an eco-friendly pH adjuster. They might as well lower the ratio to 9:1. Just use malic acid. Whats wrong with that?
At this, Director Cha cleared his throat and spoke.
Pay attention, everyone. Be careful not to let this information leak topetitors. If theres a spy from P&Z, nows the time to raise your hand.
No one raised their hand. Director Cha banged the table.
The meeting ends here. Well proceed with improvements based on Han Jeong-woos advice. This is my unteral decision, and I take full responsibility for the results.
The bold statement left many faces among the research team astonished. Director Cha stood up and shouted.
Get moving! We dont have time!
After the emergency meeting, the fragrance centers researchers and staff quickly walked out and headed to their respective workspaces.
Team Leader Han Jeong-woo.
Director Cha approached Jeong-woo and spoke.
I think this week is going to be chaotic for all the center researchers. But as promised, well provide support next week. Even if I have to issue deployment orders.
Ill be nning ordingly.
Jeong-woo couldnt help but smile, thinking that perhaps the project that still had four weeks left might be shortened even more.
Day 19 Perfumery Room
Friday morning.
As soon as Bae Ki-tae arrived at work, he was taken aback by the sight of the research center employees in the perfumery room, who looked like lifeless bodies.
Wow, these folks. They havent gone home again.
Cho Seong-hwan, who had arrived earlier, roused Shin Ki-woo, who was lying facedown on the table, and sent him to the adjacent seat. As he prepared for the uing meeting with the client representative today, he spoke.
This week, were basically living at thepany.
It looks like everyones eyes are bloodshot. I feel like Im going to die from working so much.
It started after Team Leader went into the conference room.
As the happy nces of the two people who didnt know how rxing the past week had been crossed paths, the door to the perfumery room opened.
Good morning~
With a bright greeting from Song Boyeong, who was holding a document, Bae Ki-tae perked up.
Hey? Hasnt Jeong-woo arrived yet?
At her voice, one of the people who had been lying down under a coat raised their groggy head.
Senior Boyeong?
With a slight frown and an expression that disyed fatigue on his face, Jeong-woos presence startled Cho Seong-hwan.
Team Leader, were you sleeping here too?
Oh, Ki-woo asked me to help with a problem rted to Chaffrins natural fragrance blend.
Jeong-woo, massaging his stiff joints, asked Song Boyeong.
Why so early in the morning?
I have something to convey. Its for Research Room 1. Huh? Are you awake now?
ncing at the swollen-eyed Jeong-woo due to overtime, Song Boyeong smirked.
Heh, so this is how it feels.
Jeong-woo smiled wryly.
Its saddening. If you only feel this way just from my tired eyes. If seniors eyes get swollen
Lets stop there.
Yawning loudly, Jeong-woo gestured outside.
I need to wake up a bit. Shall we go to the break room?
Pouring juice and sitting at the table, Jeong-woos expression turned surprised as he looked at the document Song Boyeong handed him.
Overseas training? Abroad?
We take turns each year among the offices, and this time its our Research Room 1s turn. Since youre part of this team too, youll need to sign up if youre participating. Its for a week, but theres a concept of vacation, so you can take two days off.
The timing was around summer.
Well, I guess I can go. But where are we going?
Its a research institute were affiliated with in Europe. Sometimes we go to Germany, and other times Switzend or the UK. This is my first time participating, but Ive seen others go. Oh, do you have a passport?
Thinking of the passport that must be somewhere buried in a drawer since his ambitious attempt at backpacking during his university days ended in failure, Jeong-woo replied.
It would probably turn up if I searched for it.
Where are you going to search? City hall?
I made it and stashed it away. Ive never been on a ne, you see.
Oh my.
Song Boyeong, who had been observing Jeong-woo with a side nce, chuckled significantly.
When you get on a ne, you have to take off your shoes. Otherwise, youll vite aviation regtions. And since the meals are ridiculously expensive, make sure to pack a lunch.
Hmm
Youll only be able to stop at rest areas every three hours to use the bathroom, so dont drink too much water Ah,e on! At least pretend to humor me a bit!
Wanting to tease but unable to do so, Jeong-woo suddenly had a thought and asked Song Boyeong.
By any chance, did you fall for that story before, Senior?
Uh No!
Your reaction was a bit slow.
As the matter concluded, Song Boyeong quickly stood up. After taking a sip of juice, Jeong-woo spoke.
Senior, we have a team dinner tonight. Would you like to join? We have dumplings fromst time.
A team dinner? Ill talk to Senior Seung-ju. But what are we eating? Beef? Pork?
It doesnt matter, but well be having a drink. But I assume you wont drink much tonight, Senior? If the person fromst time happens toe, it might be good to mentally prepare
Ill see youter!
Before Jeong-woo could continue, Song Boyeong walked away as if fleeing. Jeong-woo chuckled, thinking he might not get anywhere if he kept talking.
3 PM.
Michle, who had brought four boxes of samples, approached Jeong-woo with a puzzled expression and asked.
Are you saying that the research team will stay the same, but the speed will be increased?
Next week, the team will at least double in size. Some have already been recruited. And theres no need for the usual adaptation process since these are elite professionals.
Jeong-woo turned his gaze to Shin Ki-woo and Lee Bong-chan, who were busy moving around in one corner of the fragrance room.
Now, not only them but also most of the fragrance center employees no longer felt that Audreys CEO visiting the center was anything special.
Im looking forward to it. If the research progresses at this pace, we can reconfigure the perfume production facility within a month.
Jang Tae-seon quickly responded to Michles words.
Weve set up the fragrance production line near Paju. Thanks to our team leader Jeong-woosbination technique, the process is rtively simple.
Holding synthetic samples of asian lizards tail and plum blossoms in his hand, Michle extended a small perfume bottle towards Jeong-woo before leaving.
This is a token of appreciation for helping with the weekend event.
Thank you. But what kind of perfume is this? A new product?
paradis.
Since it was in French, Jeong-woo epted it with a grin.
Just before Michle left, Jang Tae-seon asked Jeong-woo.
Theres a team dinner today, right? Where is it? I cant miss a foreign team leaders first dinner.
Only project team members are allowed to participate.
There wasnt a specific rule like that, but if high-ranking officials attended the dinner, it would be hard to create a rxed atmosphere.
Jeong-woosposed response made Jang Tae-seon raise an eyebrow.
Thats my rule. Technically, Im a team member too.
Use my rule, not that one. Attaching basic material receipts is a hassle. Well, maybe Ill buy some snacks.
Well Thats support money I fought tooth and nail for, but the HR department at the center mimunicated. Well, well, a junior team leader can eat. In that sense
As Jang Tae-seon tried to slip in a remark, Jeong-woo shook his head.
The reservations are all set. If you want to eat there, buy some meat and go home early. The center director, I mean.
Wow, cold. Feels like a chilling winds just blown. A junior team leader. What kind of rtionship do we have? Youre too much.
In the process of handling this project, lets see who was too much, and should we bring it up to CEO Michle?
Jang Tae-seon immediately burst intoughter.
Eat well and relieve your stress. Ki-tae, Seong-hwan, you too!
Cheering on and leaving onlyughter behind, the scene of the center director walking away was enough to make Bae Ki-tae and Seong-hwan, who had been waiting behind, burst intoughter.
Seong-hwan spoke in a hushed voice, Ive been thinkingtely. Dont you think Jeong-woo might get punched?
It seems like the basic materials have already been inaugurated.
I agree.
After finishing up the tidying, as Jeong-woo was leaving the fragrance center for the team dinner, Shin Ki-woo hurriedly ran up to him.
Team Leader Han Jeong-woo!
Yes?
The first batch of revised Chambre dAmendement samples is ready.
Handing over a small atomizer to Jeong-woo, Shin Ki-woo caught his breath and continued, Were evaluating it internally, and the response has been really positive. Could you please confirm if this aligns with the direction you, as a team leader, have set?
Since Im on my way out now, is it okay to review it by tomorrow?
Ah, of course. I apologize. Ill hold onto it throughout this week. Its not urgent, so Ill present it to you on Monday.
Jeong-woo ced the atomizer into his bag and shook hands with Shin Ki-woo.
Im heading home now. Youve worked hard, Ki-woo.
Thank you, Team Leader.
Were still meeting next week, right?
Naturally. Jung Nayeon from the fragrance design team also expressed her intention to participate.
Thats good to hear.
As Jeong-woo walked out of the center with a smile, Shin Ki-woo politely nodded his head.
After finishing up the tidying, Jeong-woo was leaving the fragrance center for the team dinner when Shin Ki-woo hurriedly approached him.
Team Leader Jeong-woo!
Yes?
The revised Chaffrin first batch samples are ready.
Handing over a palm-sized atomizer to Jeong-woo, Shin Ki-woo took a controlled breath and continued.
Were evaluating them internally, and the response has been very positive. Could you please confirm if this aligns with the direction youve set?
Were leaving now, so can I do it by tomorrow?
Oh, I see. My apologies. Ill keep you in touch throughout this week. Its not urgent, so Ill catch up with you on Monday.
Jeong-woo packed the atomizer into his bag and shook hands with Shin Ki-woo.
Im heading home. Thanks for your hard work, Ki-woo.
Youre the one whos been working hard, Team Leader.
Were still on for next week, right?
Of course. And Jung Na-yeon from the Fragrance Design team expressed her intention to participate as well.
Thats good to hear.
As Jeong-woo walked out of the center with a smile, Shin Ki-woo respectfully nodded his head.
Inside a shop with the sign Legendary Beef Ribs, a group of KG Chemical researchers were grilling meat at the booth inside the restaurant, with partition walls set up around them.
So, itll be over in two weeks?
As Oh Seung-ju raised his soju ss, he looked at Jeong-woo in disbelief.
The facilities at the Fragrance Center are excellent, and weve established the processes properly. So, all thats left is the actual work.
Speaking of establishing those processes, its astonishing that you managed to finish that in less than 20 days since taking on the project. Chief Director Jang is definitely not going to let this slip by, is he?
Jeong-woo made a shiver-inducing expression, clinked his soju ss with Seung-jus, and took a sip. Cheers.
After a week immersed in work, the taste of the sweet and bitter liquid they were sipping was so enjoyable that words couldnt quite describe it.
As Jeong-woo savored a well-cooked piece of beef rib, he noticed a strong gaze from the woman sitting next to him, staring at him as he savored the drink. Upon closer inspection, he realized that her gaze was directed not at him, but at the soju ss he held.
Senior Boyeong. If you want to drink like that, go ahead.
No, thanks.
Song Boyeong firmly shook her head.
Ive decided not to drink this week.
Then, dont give me that pitiful face. Are you not drinking because you feel sorry?
Ugh.
Eat this. Its well-cooked.
As she took the meat onto her te and enjoyed it, Song Boyeong couldnt help but cast lingering nces towards the sses of soju and beer that her colleagues were passing around.
As the atmosphere at the dinner table with Oh Seung-jus team grew more rxed, Jeong-woo searched through his bag, thinking about the perfume he received from Michle.
Senior. Do you happen to know what perfume this is?
Song Boyeong, who was sipping her drink and seemingly lost in thought, turned her head.
Jeong-woo slightly opened the cap. In an instant, the fragrance spread out and swept through the dinner table. Piercing through the scent of greasy meat, the incredibly captivating aroma molecules invaded the space.
Huh? Where is this scenting from?
Oh, its lovely.
The diffusion was so good that it prompted even the researchers at the far end of the table to look around. Jeong-woo examined the molecrndscape and was surprised to find aplex olfactory stormposed of at least several hundred natural ingredients. This was far from an ordinary perfume.
Wow, its Paradis, right?
Song Boyeongs eyes widened as she caught a whiff of the scent.
Paradis?
Yeah, thats the one. Its the most expensive from Audrey. You can hardly get it because the production is limited. People even have to reserve it and wait in line to get their hands on it. Mi-hee hardly uses hers; she saves it for special asions.
Really?
Song Boyeong mentioned that it costs nearly a hundred million won for an ounce. Shocked, Jeong-woo reflexively closed the cap. That meant this bottle was worth roughly fifteen hundred million won.
So, this is supposed to be a gift? Thats outrageously expensive.
However, it wasnt something he could make much use of himself. He didnt wear fragrances, and selling a fragrance from a nonmercial bottle would also be impolite.
Should I give it to my mom? If this is worth fifteen hundred million won, she might only use it as a fancy air freshener.
While contemting what to do with Paradis, Jeong-woo noticed that the clusters of molecules within the bottle were trembling slightly.
Perhaps due to the alcohol, the moleculesposed of different isomers were all trembling.
When he turned to take a sip of soju, even Aspitam seemed to be shaking as it cried out, Join us for a drink! Seeing this, Jeong-woo murmured, Stay put, you guys, under his breath. Of course, not even a speck of dust got down.
I wonder if its fragrance has changed.
All the various aroma molecules within the bottle seemed to be enticing Jeong-woo, dancing wildly.
Out of curiosity, he lightly tapped his fingertip against the bottle.
In an instant, all the fragrance molecules stopped trembling and transformed into their opposite enantiomeric form.
When Jeong-woo opened the cap, there was no scent, so he kept sniffing, trying to catch something.
Whats going on?
He traced the scent with his molecr vision. The altered fragrance molecules were jumping out and spreading in all directions. However, there was no scent at all.
Jeong-woo carefully observed the process of the fragrance molecules spreading. To his amazement, he noticed that the reason these altered fragrance molecules were bouncing outward was that they were pushing all the other scent molecules away.
The action is fascinating.
The powerful effect of the altered fragrance molecules seemed to convey that they couldnt tolerate any other scent besides themselves. Jeong-woo was awestruck by the potent behavior of these transformed fragrance molecules and couldnt tear his gaze away.
Suddenly, Song Boyeong wrinkled her nose.
Why isnt the smell of the meating through?
As the highly diffusible fragrance took over the area around the table, a temporary ceasefire zone for scents seemed to have been established. It wasnt until some time after closing the cap that the smell of meat finally reached Jeong-woos nostrils.
Its just driving away all the other scents without mercy. This is so much like Michle.
Amused by the perfume bottle, a sudden idea popped into Jeong-woos mind, prompting him to retrieve the atomizer from his bag.
Earlier, Jeong-woo opened the cap of the Chaffrin improved product he had received earlier and let a drop of the Michle Paradis perfume fall into it.
Jeong-woo, why are you doing that to something so expensive? Are you crazy?
Just wait and see.
Holding the atomizer, Jeong-woo shook it well to mix the contents and then said to Song Boyeong.
How about trying an outstanding fabric deodorizer?
Since you mixed in Paradis, the fragrance should be good, right? Still, it feels like such a waste.
We need to try the experiment, so just step outside for a moment.
Experiment? Right here? Weve been drinking, you know? Ive had three sses.
Jeong-woo stepped outside the barbecue restaurant, and Song Boyeong followed him. He sprayed the atomizer on her clothes here and there.
Capitalizing on the existing deodorizing effect of Chaffrin, the audacity of the Michle transformed fragrance molecules swiftly drove away all other smells.
Ta-da!
Song Boyeong, who had been sniffing her coat, was left speechless.
What is this? Its like my clothes were justundered.
To put it simply, apart from the Chaffrin fragrance, everything else has been eliminated.
How does that work?
I think well have to research the Paradisponent more to understand that.
Jeong-woo nced at the entrance of the barbecue restaurant, where customers wereing out. If Song Boyeong was this surprised, then others would likely have the same reaction.
If this effect holds, the reaction should be great, right?
He suddenly thought that he should upload a video on the recentlyunched channel.
Senior, can you help me film something with my phone?
What kind of filming?
Im actually a promising YouTuber.
With a half-joking tone, Jeong-woo managed to hand over his phone to Song Boyeong.
What should I film?
Just focus on me.
Song Boyeong pressed the record button. Jeong-woo held up the atomizer.
Starting now, well be installing an aroma-free zone in front of the barbecue restaurant.
Chapter 67
Chapter 67- A month in the life of a chemicalpany team leader(12)
Day 22- KG Health nning Headquarters
[Han Jeong-woo. Graduated from Myeong-Woon University with a major in Business Administration. Work experience None. Qualifications None.]
As Cha Jin-seong examined Han Jeong-woos profile, received through someone he knew in the HR department, he couldnt help but let out a chuckle.
A person with an unremarkable history, not special enough to be handpicked. His background was too pristine to be called a high-ranking parachute.
Rumor has it that Center Director Jang Tae-seon didnt push to secure the project for him. Hes solely standing on his skills.
Flipping through the back page of the profile, Cha Jin-seong paused.
How did he amass suchmissions in such a clueless manner?
Yujin Chemicals, TS Mall, KG Industries. Add to that the bonus from KG Health nning thates if Chaffrins sales continue to rise. The year-end bonus was already surpassing the annual sry of most deputy managers.
Whats more frightening is that all of this happened within just 2 months of joining, and there are still 10 more months until the end of the year.
Cha Jin-seongs gaze turned to the Chaffrin evaluation team test score report conducted over the weekend.
The evaluation of the product, which the entire center staff had worked on tirelesslyst week, had dramatically risen from 87 to an impressive 96.
Everything was at an A level.
It had to be acknowledged that Han Jeong-woo yed the biggest role in achieving this outstanding result.
Who he was affiliated with upon joining wasnt even an important question.
For someone running a research center, it was evident they would seek out talents who could deliver such results.
Now the most significant issue would be Han Jeong-woos affiliation and future trajectory.
The power struggle among the center directors is bound to intensify.
From Cha Jin-seongs perspective as part of an affiliatepany, it would be best if this exceptional talent stayed within their basic framework for easier interactions. However, it seemed that Director Son-gu had no intentions of keeping this talent in just one ce.
Thud.
The office door opened, and Yoon Hyung-seok, the assistant manager, walked in.
Ive brought in Team Leader Han.
Seeing Jeong-woo enter as Cha Jin-seong had been waiting, he moved towards the refreshment area.
Come over here.
Jeong-woo looked at the photos spread out on the table by Manager Cha and had an expression that seemed to ask, Whats all this? Pointing to the rightmost photo, Manager Cha spoke.
This is Seong Soo-won, an assistant in the Lifestyle Medicine Development Department. He earned his masters degree from Berkeley. Over the past 5 years, he has participated in seven projects, all of which have yielded remarkable results.
Hes quite skilled.
Manager Cha gestured to the second photo on the right.
Kwak Bong-su, an assistant in the Surface Materials Research Department. Graduated from KAIST. Currently in a doctoral program, and holds a patent for independent surface activation material application technology.
Wow!
SH Center Fragrance Design Teams employee, Shin Ki-woo. Hes on the verge of a promotion to assistant and is the ace of the promising Fragrance Team. He has a masters degree in Biochemistry from the University of Toronto.
I do know Shin Ki-woo.
As Jeong-woo listened to Manager Cha read through the profiles of the individuals in the photos one by one, he realized that these were indeed the aces among aces at KG Health Research Center.
After the descriptions for all 8 individuals were finished, Manager Cha spoke.
Choose the person you want.
Pardon?
Manager Cha was someone who tackled work with a fiery passion, without any hesitations.
Pick anyone from these.
Are you saying I can just choose anyone?
We keep our promises. And youre a team leader. No, Jeong-woo. I want to speak morefortably from now on. Is that okay?
Cha Jin-seong. He heard he wasnt the president of an affiliatepany, but rather the grandson of the head of the KG Group.
With such a background, he was a figure who had risen solely based on his abilities, starting from an ordinary employee and overseeing the nning of all KG Health products.
Shin Ki-woo really looks up to him.
Cha Jin-seong, who used to seem distant, was now suggesting a morefortable senior-junior rtionship.
There was no reason to refuse. It wasnt a situation where he was hesitant to work together like with Jang Tae-seon.
Sure. If its not too impolite, may I call you Senior?
Of course. I heard you studied business administration. I majored in that too. Although Im not an actual researcher like you, Jeong-woo.
Anyway, were senior colleagues from the same field in that sense.
Jeong-woo pointed to the photos on the table.
All of them, just lend them to me for exactly 5 days. Ill finish the project.
5 days?
Confirming whether he had heard correctly, Jeong-woo nodded in agreement to Manager Cha.
Cho Seong-hwan and Bae Ki-tae were taken aback as people suddenly crowded into the fragrance room.
Did you receive orders for our project?
Yes. I just received a call from the HR manager. Its Kwak Bong-su, an assistant in the Surface Materials Research Department.
Bae Ki-tae was taken aback.
Could it be the legend of the Chemistry Department, Bong-su senior?
Oh, that nickname. Did youe from KAIST?
Its an honor!
As more people entered, the fragrance room became cramped with around 10 individuals.
Five minutester, Shin Ki-woo looked around the fragrance room and approached Cho Seong-hwan.
What about Team Leader Han?
Hes on a call with a client due to the remaining samples. Ah, there he is.
The door opened, and Jeong-woo entered the fragrance room.
Is everyone here? Please take a seat for now.
People gathered around the central table.
Lets keep calm. We have a total of 12 people.
Finishing the headcount, Jeong-woo smiled and said, Now, Ill divide you into pairs. Each pair gets one sample. Out of the 9 synthetic fragrances requested by the client, 3 were deliveredst week. We willplete the remaining 6 by Friday.
Shin Ki-woo, who had been ncing at Jeong-woos research from behind, raised his hand in surprise.
The neers to the project are interns, but theyre expected toplete this intricate synthesis in 5 days?
Well, if you think about it, 5 days is actually quite long. The process is already established.
Only Bae Ki-tae and Cho Seong-hwan secretlyughed at Jeong-woos logic, which made something seemingly impossible sound trivial.
You dont need to feel burdened, everyone. You are the best researchers at KG Health. Like the Avengers or something.
With a proud expression, Jeong-woo scanned his team members and gave further instructions.
Bae Ki-tae will cover the molecr rbination technique, and Cho Seong-hwan will exin the experimentation and review process. We will start working on the remaining 2 samples from this afternoon.
As soon as Jeong-woo finished speaking, he opened hisptop on the table and began dividing the wild nts that each group would be responsible for.
While Bae Ki-tae and Cho Seong-hwan exined the processes they had been working on with sweat dripping down their faces, Seong Soo-won, who hade from the Lifestyle Medicine Development Department, approached Jeong-woo.
Team Leader Han.
Yes?
Theres something I dont understand. To carry out this rbination technique, shouldnt we start with sample analysis? The most important part
Looking at theptop screen briefly, Soo-won was left speechless. The page was densely filled with materials to be extracted and molecr structures to be synthesized. The analysis was alreadypleted.
Did you do this, Team Leader?
Oh, Im in the final stages. Just a moment.
Staring at the molecr structures disyed on theptop as if enchanted, Soo-won couldnt take his eyes off them.
The other team members, who had been listening to exnations from Bae Ki-tae and Cho Seong-hwan, gradually gathered behind Jeong-woo.
Why is the analysising out so fast and precise? Comprehensive synthesis? Is that possible?
I heard rumors before I joined, but is this the style of Team Leader Han? He also worked on the Fragrance Center project, right Shin Ki-woo?
I received a lot of help.
Jeong-woo, who had been typing away on his keyboard absentmindedly, turned his head.
Huh? Why are you all like that?
No, we were just looking at what samples we would be handling.
Take a 5-minute break. The coordination will be finished soon.
Jeong-woo continued his work while whistling.
Day 23- Fragrance Center
Jeong-woo was slightly surprised toe face-to-face with the two people who had been waiting at the center entrance since morning.
What brings you here?
Kim Jong-chan and Won Jin-soo. The two responsible researchers who had gone out for a fire bidding coboration task on their first day at the Basic Materials Center were standing in front of him.
Oh, Jeong-woo. I dont even know. I have no idea why were supposed to be here.
Kim Jong-chan chuckled. Won Jin-soo sighed and spoke.
There was a meeting with the department heads yesterday, you know. Director Jang was bragging about your project so much; it seemed like they were all really annoyed. They were wondering why you werent there showing it off.
Thats well
Although Jang Tae-seon might have had a hand in this, the main reason was the strong request from the powerful client.
Won Jin-soo ced his hand on Jeong-woos shoulder.
Its from the Material Science Center Director. He wants you toe and do a top-notch research.
At this, Jeong-woo remembered the face of Director Noh Jong-seon that he had seen during the nning assessment.
They sent you here for this coboration project since we know each other. Its like a voluntary forced assignment. Thats how things go for us.
Thats right, senior.
Seeing Jeong-woo hesitating, Kim Jong-chanughed and said, Dont feel pressured. You came here for a reason. Worried about not having team members? Ill help.
To send two research leaders like himself and Won Jin-soo just to earn points, Jeong-woo knew Noh Jong-seons intentions.
However, if it had beenst week, it might have been possible. But now, it felt like thest train had left to achieve the points.
I dont really have much to do
As Jeong-woo said this, he remembered the 2 samples that arrived yesterday. If he handed over the remaining analysis to them, he could move around freely andmunicate with his team while they worked.
Then, could you help with the material analysis?
Arent we researchers who only do that? What is it?
Eoreum orchid, a nt from the orchid family, and Prickly lily from the water lily family. Both are endangered species.
Do these go into perfumes?
Kim Jong-chans eyes widened.
Dont even mention it. They put all sorts of things in, its audacious.
Hey, this is different from what Seung-ju said. Sounds like a tough project.
Upon hearing Kim Jong-chans distressed voice, Won Jin-soo clicked his tongue.
And Jeong-woo is doing it alone.
As expected, Jeong-woo. We saw it in Cheonan, but youre truly amazing.
Jeong-woo said to the two admiring individuals.
Lets go for now. The team members are all working in the fragrance room.
Apanied by two PhDs from the Material Science Center, Jeong-woo tapped his card on the door of the fragrance room.
Click.
Kim Jong-chan and Won Jin-soo, who were caught off guard as they faced the 12 team members busily preparing for their experiments, widened their eyes.
I heard from Seung-ju that you dont have many team members.
Turns out, weve actually increased quite a bit this week.
Jeong-woo, smiling coolly, surprised the two individuals who looked at him. And they realized it. Noh Jong-seon was one step behind.
Please pay attention for a moment. Two individuals from the Material Science Center joined us today.
After the introduction, the total of 14 team members started their work.
As Jeong-woo looked at the bustling fragrance room, he chuckled inwardly. Truly, these were days of abundance in terms of team members.
No longer working alone.
On the 23rd day of the project, he wasnt overly concerned.
Day 26- Fragrance Room
Friday morning.
Jeong-woo quietly sat in the fragrance room with six sample vials ced on the table, which he had finished working on the previous evening.
Only the final inspection from the client remained.
Recalling the gloominess of the first day as the team leader, it was hard to believe how the research had beenpleted at such an unbelievable pace.
Should I find this kind of experience refreshing?
Opening hisptop, he sent individual thank-you emails to the 10 researchers from KG Life Health who had wholeheartedly assisted him during this short assignment.
If he ever encountered them again in another project, these connections would be valuable assets.
I dont n on taking up the role of team leader immediately, though.
Bncing external matters that needed his attention with internal ones was quite tiring.
Did they say they woulde at 11?
While waiting for Michles arrival, a bored Jeong-woo picked up his phone and opened a video app.
A video from the previous week, shot at a barbecue restaurant, which he had sent to Shin Ki-joon. Watching the increasing views on this video had be quite entertainingtely.
Channel Chemistry [Subscribers 26,034]
Fragrance Neutral Zone [Views 75,023]
[0m 15s]
We have brought along two individuals who just finished their meal.
St, a liquid sprayed from Jeong-woos handnded on the clothes of the two men and women who stood in front of the barbecue restaurant.
Huh? It doesnt really smell.
You neither? Wow, thats strange.
Jeong-woomented while looking at the screen.
As you can see, it pushes out different odor molecules. It doesnt tolerate anything else except its own scent. Quite a snobby fellow. Should we call it the gangster of the fragrance molecule world?
Pfft.
The phone vibrated briefly. The cameraman was chuckling.
Why such an exnation?
Do people like it when you talk aboutplicated chemical forms?
[1m 12s]
Whats up? I dont even smell like alcohol. Heh. How is it? My wife wont suspect anything, right?
Sir, your face is getting so red. Your pronunciation too. Its better to just act like you drank it without making a fuss.
[3m 7s]
If I spray this, do I not need to wash my hair? Its been two days since I washed it. Its cold.
I dont know about the smell, but greasy hair is a lost cause.
But still, spray it on my hair once more~
Yes, sure. Hey! Dont overdo it.
[4m 28s]
An old man with a chefs hat walked out of the restaurant.
What are you people doing?
Oh, were getting rid of the meat smell for the customers.
Not that!
The kitchen man pointed his finger at Jeong-woo.
The meat smell should spread all the way down that path so customers can catch the scent and maybe another person wille. Right now, its just the floral scent!
Um well
Youll ruin our business!
I apologize.
Jeong-woo quickly lowered his head, and the person recording also bent over, causing the camera to briefly capture the floor before rising again.
The old man asked Jeong-woo as he entered the barbecue restaurant.
But what kind of air freshener eliminates the meat smell?
This isnt an air freshener, its an air deodorizer.
It works well. Lets buy one after closing for business.
Its still in development, so were not selling it.
[End of Video]
Jeong-woo watched thest part of the video again and let out a sigh. The conclusion wasnt very favorable. He had thought that Shin Ki-joon would edit it nicely, but instead, he had even added captions emphasizing that part.
He also checked the newly addedments below.
-This guy,st time he shattered a lot of ice, and now hes deleting meat smells.
-Snow Removal Captain -> Fragrance Serial Killer
-Hahaha!
-The barbecue owner seems really angry. When I went to the PC bang, if someone ate instant noodles, they would get upset like that. But what does this person do?
-Hes a chemist. You can see it in the video from Seongbuk-dong.
Sigh.
A text message arrived saying that Michle had arrived. While waiting for her, Jeong-woo looked around the neatly organized fragrance room once again.
Todays work in this ce is done.
Together with Jang Tae-seon, Michle entered the fragrance room. She looked at the table where six sample bottles were ced and her expression showed disbelief.
Are you really saying that youpleted six samples this week?
Jeong-woo smiled yfully and handed her the first bottle to confirm. Michle opened the cap slightly and smelled the fragrance, then let out a brief exmation of admiration.
Its hard to distinguish this from natural fragrance.
The synthetic fragrances of yellow bucket flowers were worked on by Ki-woo and Na-yeon. They have a good sense, maybe because theyre from the Fragrance Design team, so the match rate was the highest, 99.63%?
Make sure to pay the bonuses properly to the team members who put in the effort.
Jeong-woo was surprised by Michles words.
Is that really okay?
With a cheerful expression, Jang Tae-seon replied, Most of the remaining funds from the first development budget are going as bonuses. Even the team leader can expect something. The project ended without using nearly half of the initial development funds.
Hearing that unexpected money mighte in, Jeong-woo felt happy too.
After confirming the second bottle, Michle nodded. As they went through the third one, she turned to one of the assistants.
Cleaning.
It seemed like she was trying to restore her dulled sense of smell by smelling deeply consecutively and then using something like an alcohol pad.
Right.
Jeong-woo remembered the Paradise scent mixed with Chaffrin and took out a sprayer from his bag.
CEO, hold on a moment.
Spritzing it around Michle, the fragrance molecules that had spread from the three samples were pushed away into the distance.
In an instant, the unique floral scent of the Fragrance Center remained faintly, and as the rest was purified, Michles eyes widened.
What was that just now?
In case the aftertaste remains too strong and interferes. Please check the others now.
Whats this, Chaffrin? Is this the ambitious project you mentioned before?
Jeong-woo shook his head at Michle, who read the temporarybel on the sprayer.
Its a mixture with that as the base. Chaffrin is a fabric freshener, and this one works more strongly in the air.
Spray it here.
Michle said this while pointing at Jang Tae-seon.
The low-quality fragrance of Scent Number Nine is bothering me.
Oh dear.
Jang Tae-seon, who had sprayed on the cologne of the gentleman again today, scratched his cheek as if embarrassed.
I forgot. Its be a habit for me to spray after showering.
Spritz.
Without hesitation, Jeong-woo sprayed the liquid at Jang Tae-seon.
Oops, youre here! Haha. Jeong-woo, youre acting all strict again just because you said youre leaving today.
Its harmless, so just stay put. Its not really that cold either.
Jeong-woo meticulously traced the trace of the sprayed liquid using his molecr vision.
The molecules of the gentleman-like scent emitted from Jang Tae-seons body trembled and fled far away upon the approach of the modified Paradise molecules and the scent molecules resembling Michle.
After smelling the remaining fragrance, Michles astonished expression deepened as she spoke to Jeong-woo.
That. Its a very good deodorant for perfumers.
Is that so?
Is this a product under development?
Its not like that. I identally made it
It doesnt matter. Im willing to invest in that product. Even if you have to put in all the second and third development costs.
Jeong-woo was surprised by Michles attitude, which highly valued this.
This CEO really spares no expense for a good fragrance.
As soon as the word investment came out of Michles mouth, Jang Tae-seonsplexion changed. His eyes that were just being sulky suddenly turned sharp, then heposed himself and spoke in a polite voice.
CEO. You know our product, right? Its all chemistry. If were to get funding and turn it into an official project, it would require our Team Leader Han Jeong-woo to be fully dedicated!
Enough already.
Jeong-woo promptly cut off Jang Tae-seons words as he threw a meaningful nce. Seeing Jang Tae-seons expression that seemed to say Why are you doing?, Jeong-woo let out a wryugh and then spoke to Michle.
This isnt chemistry; its the miracle of the perfume that CEO Michle made.
A miracle?
I mixed molecules extracted from the Paradise that the CEO gave as a gift. If you really think about it, the value of this single sprayer is enormous. Theres no reason to invest in it. The production cost is just too high. And this, no matter who researches it, they can never replicate it. Its just something personal I did for the CEO
Jeong-woo held out the sprayer.
Ill give it to you as a gift. If its not enough, just let me know. I can make a years worth with what the CEO gave me.
Michles expression brightened.
Can you really give it to me? Im so sorry.
Were people who enjoy fragrance, after all. Please think of it as my heartfelt offering.
Having finished speaking, Jeong-woo saw it. Michle, who had a heart as icy as her heart, who never smiled like a normal person, was now looking at him with a gentle smile.
A little whileter.
After finishing the confirmation of the remaining three samples, Michle came to Jeong-woo and extended her hand for a handshake.
Mr. Han Jeong-woo, youve been very inspiring all this time.
CEO Michle, you too.
Jeong-woos first project, which had been ongoing for about a month since the end of January, ended like this.
Chapter 68
Chapter 68- A month in the life of a chemicalpany team leader(13)
After escaping from the pressure of being a team leader, Jeong-woos days returned to a peaceful state. With the added ovep of the Lunar New Year holiday, he found himself spending an extended period of time at home, away from the office.
The holiday wasnt particrly special. Since they didnt perform the traditional rituals separately, they simply had rice cake soup and bowed to a few elders in the neighborhood.
He met Soo-chan for a drink in his room, gave his younger brother some pocket money to establish his elder brother status, secretly gave his mother the new spring clothes he had bought, and appealed for extra meat in the beef soup. And just like that, a week passed in the blink of an eye.
Compared to the days spent focusing on the projects sess, it was a modest and ordinary time. Yet, as the end of the holiday approached, Jeong-woo couldnt help but feel a sense of regret.
Who would have thought that a period marked by the continuous attachment of red markers for just two months of work could be so sweet?
As thest day of the holiday approached, he wanted to stay at home even more, and the fact that he had to go back to work tomorrow made him all the more disappointed.
Mom, Iming out!
At Jeong-chans shout, Jeong-woo, who was washing his face in the bathroom, rushed out as he was.
Ah,e on! Finish wiping yourself before youe out.
Its fine if you wipe me~
Ugh, seriously!
As Jeong-woo wiped his face on his clothes, Jeong-chan grimaced and rolled to the side.
Shake it off, you guys!
At Hong Ji-sooks call while she was cutting fruit, Jeong-woo reached out and took a bite of an apple, smiling.
-Today, weve brought fresh ingredients from the traditional market to create the best vors.
As the show Delicious Feast from Channel Olove yed on the TV, the attention of the three people sitting in the living room was drawn to the screen.
Wow, Mom, the camera captures you well.
Just be quiet.
Despite Hong Ji-sooks curt response, she smiled a bit, as her face on the screen looked quite decent.
Jeong-chan pointed to the youngdy trailing beside his mom.
Whos that older sister? Does Mom know her?
At this question, Jeong-woo clicked his tongue.
Ignorant guy. Because he was just hanging out with Su-jin instead of helping, he probably didnt notice.
Who are you talking about?
Yoon Yi-seol.
Jeong-chans eyes widened.
Why is Yoon Yi-seol there? Did she make a special appearance? Oh geez, I should have gotten her autograph.
The contents on the screen transitioned to the final cookingpetition. With a 2:2 tie, Jeong-chan looked nervously at Hong Ji-sook.
Shes taking out the stir-fried pork. Moms secret weapon.
Just something I did.
So who won? That quiet, Mom?
Instead of revealing the result, Hong Ji-sook turned to Jeong-woo and asked, Whats Yi-seol up totely?
Shes really busy. She went to Paris for a concert.
Paris? By airne?
Dont be surprised. Shes a big star, a big star. Mom treats Yoon Yi-seol as if shes the girl next door.
At this, Jeong-chan snapped his head around.
How do you even know that big star?
Shh, youll get hurt if you know.
Youre the one pretending to be familiar with her for no reason, and youre the one wholl get hurt by Yoon Yi-seols fans. Be careful.
Youre the one whos going to get hurt right now. Come here.
When Jeong-woo tried to grab him, Jeong-chan quickly stood up and hid behind Hong Ji-sook.
Mom says youre making dust fly around!
On thest day of the holiday, the scene inside the house at 8 p.m. was no different from usual.
Jeong-woo walked to the kitchen to get a drink of water, but his phone buzzed, and he picked it up.
Oh?
It was Michles secretarys number.
Yes, Secretary.
-The CEO asks if you can meet briefly.
Right now?
-She has a business trip to China in the early morning, and shes at the Conrad Hotel Sky Lounge.
After hanging up and thinking about why she would want to meet at this time when she has to leave on a business trip, Jeong-woo felt a sense of wonder.
That affectionate look she gave him after sessfullypleting the project. Ate-night call right after the holiday ended.
Could she be interested in me?
It seemed very possible.
30 minutester, Jeong-woo arrived at the 37th floor of the Conrad Hotel.
As he stepped out of the elevator, a staff member approached him and guided him to his seat.
On the other side of the quiet area, tables were set up, and Michle and her secretary were there.
CEO.
As Jeong-woo approached, Michle exchanged a nod and gestured toward the seat in front of her.
Would you like a drink?
Michle had already been sipping on a cocktail. Jeong-woo shook his head.
No, I have to work tomorrow.
Kim, order a drink.
While the secretary was away, Jeong-woos gaze lingered on Michle. She was an elegant woman with blue eyes, exuding charm as she wore a sophisticated suit with a coat draped over her shoulders.
Is this for real? Did she call me out here to suggest a casual meeting or something?
A foreign woman of great stature and beauty. However, Jeong-woo didnt feel entirelyfortable with her attention.
Even if he felt some affinity due to her appearance, he didnt quite enjoy meetings that felt forced.
Um
As Jeong-woo was about to decline definitively, he was taken aback by Michle sliding a leather-bound notebook across the table, making him go, Huh?
Mr. Han Jeong-woo.
Yes?
Do you have any interest in working at Audrey as a perfumer and special researcher? Were willing to offer a signing bonus of any amount you desire.
Michle indicated the leather-bound notebook she had pushed forward.
Jeong-woos gaze followed hers and cautiously opened the notebook, revealing a single sheet of paper. It was a check issued by the Bank of Korea, without any numbers.
Again? A scout offer?
While it was an invitation driven by genuine interest, it wasnt the type of interest Jeong-woo had been expecting.
By the way, this nk check gives off quite a feeling.
Compared to the various conditions that Yujin Chemicals Yoon Jae-gil had been proposing to treat him well, this straightforward and heartfelt means was much cleaner.
For a while, Jeong-woo observed the check, then smiled at Michle.
I appreciate the offer. The world of perfumery is intriguing, but I still have work to do as a chemist.
And theres still 10 months left on my contract.
As Jeong-woo closed the leather-bound notebook and was about to return it, Michle calmly nodded her head.
I thought you might refuse. However, the offer remains valid.
As a staff member brought their drinks, Jeong-woo epted it and nodded his thanks. Michle spoke quietly.
The number of fragrant ingredients in Paradise is 613. If you had mixed these ingredients together randomly, it would have been olfactory noise. Mr. Han Jeong-woos research is the same. If you had mixed fragrance molecules without any thought, you would never have created such fragrances.
Michle raised her ss for a toast, so Jeong-woo raised his drink as well.
Watching you, Han Jeong-woo, Ive be convinced that perfumery and chemistry are not so different.
Its an honor. To be recognized as a chemist by the worlds greatest perfumer.
In a morefortable atmosphere than he had anticipated, Jeong-woo continued the conversation. Conversing with a European beauty in a ce like this Sky Lounge was a form of enjoyment in itself.
Their rtionship as client and team leader had ended, but the conversation flowed smoothly.
Brandy. Double.
Seo Mi-hee sat at the bar, ordered a drink, then turned her head and her eyes widened. Sitting at a table by the window was Michle, the CEO of Audrey Perfumes, a figure of respect for her.
Wow, Im trembling. Since when was she there? Huh? The guy with her is Han Jeong-woo?
The man she only knew as a friends colleague was actually engaged in a conversation with Michle. It looked like they were on a date.
Song Boyeong. Are you interested in this guy?
Seo Mi-hee discreetly took a photo with her phone and sent it to Song Boyeong. A quick reply came back.
[Are you an idiot? Didnt I tell you that Han Jeong-woo was involved in the Audrey project? Hes probably entertaining clients.]
Ugh, seriously? I sent that to make you jealous.
Seeing Song Boyeongs nonchnt response, Seo Mi-hee hesitated, then nced at Michle. The CEO, known for her icy and strict demeanor, was looking at Han Jeong-woo with a soft expression.
Her intuition as a woman strongly conveyed that this was more than just favorability.
Even though I dont think Boyeong isgging behind in terms of looks, this girl is way too strong. It shouldnt be like this.
Seo Mi-hee observed Jeong-woo, her expression deep in thought. Then, she sent a text to Song Boyeong.
[Once this client meeting is over, Ill also do some entertaining. They say Han Jeong-woo is quite handsome~]
While sending a series of mischievous animal emojis, her phone rang. Seo Mi-hee grinned.
That settles it then.
The conversation with Michle, where they had shared useful information about perfumes, ended around 11 oclock. Jeong-woo left the Sky Lounge and entered the elevator.
After pressing the button for the 1st floor and waiting for the doors to close, someone else entered.
Oh? Seo Mi-hee?
Oh my, running into you here.
Coming for drinks again Oh, you work here, right? My apologies.
At Jeong-woos muttering, Seo Mi-hee smiled brightly.
The elevator began to move. Having only met twice before, their interaction was still a bit awkward. Jeong-woo nced at the floor numbers, staying silent.
Seo Mi-hee stole a quick look at Jeong-woo and then asked, Could I ask you a favor while were at it?
To me?
Its nothing serious. I called a friend to drive me after having a drink, but something suddenly came up. Could you tell them to wait for 30 minutes? I just asked in case you could help.
Why not call them?
That friend is Boyeong. If I tell her to wait, shell pluck out my hair. Shes waiting outside. Please, Im begging you. Ill show my gratitude.
Ding dong.
The elevator stopped on the 9th floor.
By the way, this is where my office is located. Feel free to visit the hotel anytime. You know, because youre quite interesting Jeong-woo.
With a yful smile and a wink, Seo Mi-hee walked out, leaving Jeong-woo stifling a sigh.
Why? Why would she find me interesting, someone like me?
Musing over this, Jeong-woo descended to the 1st floor, passed through the lobby, and stepped outside.
Where are you senior?
Looking around for Song Boyeong, Jeong-woos gaze was drawn to a car parked in the waiting line. The car had the number 5050 disyed on its yellow background, with a ck horse emblem a sports car so impressive that it was hard to miss, let alone think about getting inside.
Wow, amazing, so cool~
As he marveled at the car, Jeong-woo realized he hadnt found Song Boyeong yet, so he took out his phone and made a call. He had intended to meet in person and talk, but he worried he might lose his signal.
A signal went through, and Song Boyeong answered her phone.
-Yeah? Whats up at this hour?
Senior, where are you now? In the parking lot? I just met Mi-hee and she said shell be a littlete. About 30 minutes.
-What? Mi-hee, seriously I already warned her!
Thunk.
Jeong-woo was startled as Song Boyeong suddenly appeared from the drivers seat of the sports car.
Se-Senior?
Jeong-woo?
In casual attire, with her bangs swept back into a high ponytail, Song Boyeong had the look of a typical student.
Perhaps because of that, the fact that she was driving such a shy sports car left Jeong-woo even more surprised and bewildered.
Honk!
A ck sedan waiting behind the sports car honked its horn. Song Boyeong awkwardly got back into her car.
The window rolled down, and Song Boyeong turned her head toward Jeong-woo.
If youre heading home, get in.
In this car?
This one, yeah. Its not like shes going to use it anyway. She has nowhere to take it by herself.
Jeong-woo climbed into the passenger seat in a hasty manner, and his eyes wandered around the opulent interior decorations.
This is my first time in a car like this.
Me too, unless its Mi-hee or Mom!
As she pressed the elerator, the engine roared, startling Song Boyeong. Despite not elerating too rapidly, the dull growl of the exhaust system that transmitted through the seats and the interior was enough to elicit admiration from Jeong-woo.
5 minutester.
Jeong-woo looked at Song Boyeong, who was driving while hunched over, then turned his gaze to the front windshield.
The speed at which the scenery was passing by was far from the kind of rapid pace one might expect from a car like this.
A taxi zoomed past in the adjacentne with a swish, while countless other vehicles had already overtaken the sports car and sped ahead.
In the blink of an eye, apact car had overtaken them with shing hazard lights and a mocking gesture, then sped ahead and vanished from sight.
Senior, I just got overtaken by a Matiz. Theres a difference in engine discement between that car and this one
Keep quiet!
A sedan swished by from the rightne. The window rolled down, and the driver shot them a scornful look that seemed to say, Are you going to drive such a fine car like this?
Sorry, Ferrari. My heart hurts so much.
Jeong-woo reached forward and gently patted the sports car, as if consoling it for the wounds inflicted by Song Boyeongs driving skills.
This action earned him a suspicious look from Song Boyeong.
Its the other cars that are weird! The sign says the speed limit is 50!
That section ended a while ago. Its 80 here. Senior Boyeong, you know how to read the GPS, right? Its written here too.
But, but you need to have some leeway with the speed for safety. Dont you know safe driving? Its my rule.
Its actually worse to disrupt the flow when everyone else is going over 80.
As Song Boyeong regted her breathing, she increased the speed to 80, and the number of vehicles overtaking them gradually decreased.
Senior, does Mi-hee know of your driving skills? Why did she entrust her car to you, a substitute?
I was just teasing her. I dont want her finding weaknesses in my driving.
Weakness?
In response to Jeong-woos inquiry, Song Boyeongs face turned flustered, and she pressed the elerator.
Vroom!
Mom!
With mere speeds of 50, Song Boyeongs driving alternated between sudden eleration and abrupt deceleration, making Jeong-woos heart race. He could do nothing but apud Song Boyeongs unique driving style.
Senior, can you tell me something?
What?
How many times are you nning to look for your mom while driving? I want to be prepared. Before I have a heart attack.
You keep making fun of me.
Whoa, keep your eyes on the road!
Oh my!
The sports car safely arrived in front of Jeong-woos neighborhood.
Phew. Youve been through a lot, my heart.
Tch.
Song Boyeong, who had received constant teasing throughout the ride, red at Jeong-woo, but suddenly remembered something and chuckled.
Jeong-woo, tomorrow were meeting in Research Room 1, right?
Yes.
Finally, I can pass on the microbeb work to the youngest. Since the new assignment hasnt been decided yet, you cant escape this time.
Oh, right.
Seeing Jeong-woos bitter expression, Song Boyeong shrugged and cheered up.
Go in safely, see you tomorrow. For sure!
Same goes for you, senior. Lets see each other tomorrow. Make sure to turn on thene departure prevention option and drive.
Hmph!
The sports car turned its head and disappeared down the hill.
After waving goodbye, Jeong-woo walked down the alley toward his house.
Ring.
Suddenly, his phone rang, and he looked at the screen. The iing call was from a restricted number.
Who could it be? Hello?
After a brief pause following the beep, a voice came through.
-Is this Han Jeong-woo?
Yes, but who is this?
-Youve probably heard my name before. Im Dr. Cheon Seung-guk.
Jeong-woos steps came to an abrupt halt.
Really Dr. Cheon, is it?
-Is there any reason not to be? Why would someone impersonate Cheon Seung-guk?
Well, youre right about that.
-Ive heard about thepany from Dr. Moon asionally. He mentioned that youre ate bloomer in chemistry. Now its time to do real work.
The tone of the voice on the phone was overflowing with confidence.
-Inside mybs cab, theres a safe. Ive marked thebination for you to find. If you open it, contact me. Ill send you my contact information via text.
As the realization that this person was indeed Cheon Seung-guk dawned on him, even though it wasnt the way he had imagined, Jeong-woos heart raced with anticipation.
Upon receiving the call, Jeong-woo rushed to thepany and arrived at the private research area on the 25th floor. He urgently opened the door.
Beep.
He opened the door to the office space inside and stood in front of the cab.
Jeong-woo took a deep breath and opened the door.
Inside was a pile of research-rted documents.
He took out a box and carefully examined the inside of the cab.
Something caught his eye that he hadnt noticed before.
Is this it?
There was a slightly different colored section on a metal te. When he touched it and pulled, it came off easily.
In the revealed space, there was a dial-operated safe door that looked very sturdy.
Where is the password?
He looked for a while, but there were no numbers, not to mention any simr scratches.
Wait.
Jeong-woo extended his molecr-level vision to examine the safe again.
On the handle of the safe, there was something so finely crafted that it would be imperceptible without an ultra-precision microscope.
Is it numbers? 38 27 19.
It was like a molecr-level numerical model left just for him. Jeong-woobined the numbers in a trance and turned the dial.
Thunk, the safe door opened.
Whoa.
Inside the safe, there was a cylindrical container sealed tightly, containing only two fingers worth of space.
The sealed container was filled with liquid, and within the container floated blobs of greenish jelly. No chemical information came to mind. It was self-evident that it was apound that hadnt existed before.
One thing he could infer was that the content inside the AF-12 capsule looked very simr to the blue jelly he had seen inside the blue capsule, as revealed by Cheon Seung-guk.
Jeong-woo dialed the number Cheon Seung-guk had provided on his phone.
After a while, the signal connected, and finally a voice came through.
-Did you find it?
Yes. Its green. Is it a proteinpound?
-Exining that over the phone would beplicated. First, lets meet face-to-face.
Where are you now?
-Im in Innsbruck. Im about to head to Bolzano across the border.
Jeong-woo had to be suspicious of this. It was a ce he had never heard of before.
-Since the final destination is Venice, lets meet there.
Fortunately, Venice was a ce Jeong-woo knew. A city in Italy.
Yes, then lets meet in Venice What?!
-Why are you so surprised? Bring what youve found ande to Venice right away.
But I have to go to work tomorrow.
-Did you forget how you ended up traveling for thatpany? Take a few days off, it wont take too long. When you get to Venice, give me a call. You have a passport, right? If not, even illegal entry will do.
Click.
The call ended.
Jeong-woo alternated his gaze between the unidentified substance in the safe and the phone that had just transmitted Cheon Seung-guks voice. Just a few hours ago, he had been lying on the floor watching TV with his younger brother. But now
As if a storm had swept through, countless thoughts raced through Jeong-woos mind.
Is this for real? What could it be?
Code: AF-?
Case: Effects Unknown
Research: Appears to be a protein polymer with a greenish appearance based on its external characteristics.
Chapter 69
Chapter 69- Special Research: Venice Entropy(1)
At 3:30 in the morning, near his homes intersection, Jeong-woo stood, waving his hand towards the modest sedan that had just arrived. The car came to a stop, and he climbed into the passenger seat, nodding respectfully.
I apologize for contacting you out of the blue, doctor Moon
Its alright, I wasnt sleeping.
Jeong-woo shifted his gaze to Doctor Moon, who had started driving, with his passport and bag in hisp. She appeared to have juste from the hospital, wearing a white gown.
As Doctor Moon turned the car, she spoke.
There are documents in the back seat.
Turning around Jeong-woo saw an envelope and picked it up.
Ive reserved the fastest flight for you. Its a direct flight to Rome, and from there, youll go to Venice. Since youll arrive at night, itll be more convenient to take a night train than Italys domestic flights.
Jeong-woo expressed his gratitude to her for not only assisting him immediatly but also making the reservation right there, because of Cheon Seung-guks request.
Thank you. I wouldnt have been able to handle this smoothly if I had prepared it myself.
I had a rough idea when I asked for Mr. Jeong-woos phone number. Feel free to ask for help like this anytime. Its in the terms.
Jeong-woo paused. He never expected this much help. He thought he should read the terms thoroughly at some point.
Is this how Dr. Cheon usually assign tasks?
In response to this question, Doctor Moonughed lightly and increased the speed.
He has a talent for surprising people.
And its for a trip to Venice. Quite a different scale.
On a road where vehicles were scarcely passing due to the early morning hour, they were heading to Incheon Airport.
Jeong-woo felt a slight excitement, knowing that the familiar Seoul skyline outside the window would soon transform into a sight he had only seen in videos and photos somewhere in Europe.
I still cant believe it.
He searched on his phone for how to enable roaming and downloaded apps suitable for using abroad. In the meantime, they passed through Incheon Airports tollgate and arrived at Yeongjong Ind.
Five minutester, Doctor Moon stopped in front of Gate 7 at Incheon Airport.
We have a little over three hours, so ticketing should be rxed.
Okay.
Exchange currency moderately and use your card. Famous tourist destinations are no different from Seoul. Theyll overcharge you. Since this flight is an Italian route, immigration might ask a few more questions. How long youll stay and where youre going. Be prepared to answer in English.
Got it.
Listening to Doctor Moons advice, which sounded like she was worried about something precious, Jeong-woo continued to nod before getting out of the car.
And one more thing.
The passenger seat window opened, and Doctor Moon spoke again.
Even if you end up doing something unexpected, stay calm. Hes not asking you to do something wrong.
Her final advice was meaningful.
Im off. See you when I get back.
With a face mixed with anxiety and anticipation, Jeong-woo shook hands with Doctor Moon and entered the gate.
The departure process waspleted in no time.
In a dazed state fromck of sleep, Jeong-woo waited at the departure gate and then boarded the ne, surrounded by passengers conversing in Italian.
Alitalia Flight AZ 759.
Looking at the ticket information that indicated a flight duration of 12 hours and 5 minutes, Jeong-woo followed the guidance of foreign flight attendants and took his seat near the wing.
Late February. It wasnt the peak tourist season, so there were plenty of vacant seats, and Koreans were hardly noticeable.
Shortly after, Korean broadcasting followed the Italian announcements.
-Ladies and gentlemen. Thank you for choosing Alitalia Airlines. Now, for your safety
The announcement continued with instructions to fasten seatbelts and turn off mobile phones. Jeong-woo took out his phone from his pocket. There were several messages, with the most recent one from Doctor Moon.
The message conveyed that her vacation request had been approved. Typically, afterpleting a long-term project, he would receive over a week of vacation, but this time, havingpleted Audreys project, he had received a three-day holiday and had already used it.
After spending a whole month, the reward is disappearing like this.
Amidst the restless night, Jeong-woo also received a message from Yoon Yi-seol.
[The Paris performance is over. Once we finish shooting the cover for the album, I can go to the clinic this Saturday. How about you, Mr. Jeong-woo?]
Come to think of it, I havent seen Yi-seol in a while.
In just one day out of a month, and that too briefly at the clinic. Jeong-woo replied to Yoon Yi-seols message.
[I have a work trip-like thing, so Im on my way to Venice right now. If it gets extended there, I might not make it on Saturday. Im currently on the ne. Ill contact youter.]
Sir, could you please turn off your mobile phone?
The only Korean flight attendant approached Jeong-woo as she passed by.
Oh, Im sorry.
Jeong-woo pressed the end button and showed it to the flight attendant, who nodded with a friendly smile and continued down the aisle.
Just before the screen went dark, it seemed like a message was about to arrive, but it turned off before he could read it.
The seatbelt sign blinked, and Jeong-woo leaned back in his seat.
Atst, were departing.
The ne ascended into the skies above Incheon Airport.
Feeling the sensation of floating, he admired the sky and clouds outside the window for a moment. Then, overwhelmed by fatigue, he rested his head on the seat and soon drifted off to sleep.
Han Jeong-woo Rome, Leonardo da Vinci International Airport.
The sight of Romes night skyline outside the window made Jeong-woos heart start to flutter. Even though the aircrafts air hadnt changed, it felt as if a chemistry of excitement had been sprayed into his chest.
The nes distinct vibrations and deep noises intensified, and soon the wheels touched down on the runway.
Ah, that was tiresome.
Enduring 12 hours in cramped seats took more of a toll on his stamina than he had thought.
He retrieved his bag from the overheadpartment and, as he disembarked the ne, was greeted warmly by an Italian flight attendant waiting at the entrance.
Buon Giorno, Italia!
Buon Giorno? Was that a greeting like hello?
Jeong-woo nodded with a smile.
As soon as they disembarked, signs directed them towards immigration. Unfamiliar surroundings and unfamiliar faces passed by from all sides.
Following sporadic English instructions and universal symbols, he eventually reached a long queue at immigration.
After a while of standing there, the awkward feeling of being alone in the midst of unfamiliar Europe started to settle in.
He yawned but didnt expect the line to shorten.
It wasnt until he had a strong desire to get out of there as soon as possible, rather than the excitement of arriving in Italy, that he finally reached the immigration officer.
Hi, he said, handing over his passport.
tourism?
Yes, tourism. Maybe three days?
The stampnded with a loud thud, and the officer gestured to the next person.
Wow.
After purchasing a ticket for the Leonardo Express and standing on the tform, he realized that, apart from the passing Italians, the atmosphere at this Italian railway station was quite simr to Korean train stations.
Even the appearance of the airport railway resembled the KTX, so Jung Woo shook his head in amazement.
It still doesnt quite feel real.
As he struggled to ce his luggage on the shelf, a fellow Asian traveler offered to help, a gesture of kindness born from a sense of familiarity due to their shared skin color. Jeong-woo thanked him and took his seat.
The train departed.
He looked outside, but as it was nighttime, there wasnt much of an impressivendscape to behold.
Yawning for about 30 minutes straight, Jeong-woo arrived at Romes Seoul Station, Termini Station.
After booking a night train to Venice at the counter, he entered a store next to the tform with a plethora of pizzas on disy and pointed at one with his finger.
He sliced a square piece right there, wrapped it in paper, and handed it to him. Jeong-woo paid the attendant and walked out.
They sell pizza like street food stalls sell hotteok.
His first meal in Italy. He took a bite with anticipation, but it was just a strong cheese vor that filled his mouth, nothing particrly special.
I need some soda.
He grabbed a c from wherever he was and gulped it down.
Jeong-woo confirmed the approaching night train he needed to board and dialed Cheon Seung-guks number on his phone. The call went through, but there was no answer.
Is he asleep?
It was 10:30 PM local time, not toote. But suddenly, he felt a bit lost on this journey he embarked on relying solely on Cheon Seung-guk.
Stay calm. You said youd call when you arrive in Venice. This is Rome.
Since he couldnt reach him, he opened a map app and checked the route to Venice. Suddenly, he received several consecutive text messages.
It seemed that roaming wasnt working properly, and these werete messages from Yoon Yi-seol.
[Venice? Really? Wow~]
[Well I might go there for a shoot]
[Let me know if youe! Shall we meet briefly?]
[Are you still on the ne? Im about to depart.]
She had sent some before he left, and more hade after that.
Wasnt Yi-seol in Paris?
In this unfamiliar ce, receiving messages from someone he knew made Jeong-woo feel a bit more at ease.
Yoon Yi-seol Paris, Lyon Station
Beside the night train with Venezia as the destination, Yoon Yi-seol and manager Ji Seong-jae, who was carrying a bag, walked over.
Yi-seol, why are you in such a hurry? We could have gone together tomorrow morefortably.
I wanted to arrive early and do some sightseeing. I also wanted to try the sleeper car. It doesnt feel like a vacation when Im with the staff.
Yoon Yi-seol smiled yfully at the worried look on manager Jis face.
Do you know how much the overseas department manager and I worried when you went alone to the LA concert?
Back then, I sneaked away secretly. Now Im telling you openly.
Youre saying it with such confidence, Yoon Yi-seol, the escape artist.
Sheughed, and manager Ji took the bag from her.
Youre flying there, right? Ill try to create as much Yi-seol TV content as possible during your one-day stay.
Venice will provide beautiful scenery wherever you go. Somewhere like a market or a good restaurant. Its best when fans can experience your sightseeing together.
How many views did you say we got from the Japan concert?
2.7 million.
Wow, thats a lot. We cant disappoint those fans. Ill work hard to film everything.
Just before Yoon Yi-seol boarded the train, manager Ji gave her a word of advice.
Tomorrow, when the album jacket shooting team arrives, please refrain from any impromptu actions. Its a relief that its the off-season. We almost couldnt book amodations.
Ill keep that in mind!
And dont trouble Jeong-woo too much.
Yes! Uh, what do you mean I dont know what youre talking about. Im going now!
After shaking hands once, Yoon Yi-seol boldly boarded the train. Manager Ji watched her, and after she yfully shouted the French phrase bientt, he sighed in relief.
Well, she spent time with Han Jeong-woo andposed the title track together. I can only wish her a good time. That friend surprisingly handles the managers work well.
Even though Yoon Yi-seol excelled at writing songs when she was full of emotions, the rule was to take care of her with aissez-faire approach as much as possible.
But safety measures were still necessary. Manager Ji sent a message to several overseas staff members on his phone before walking out of the station.
Eutcha~
Druruk.
Yoon Yi-seol, who entered the single-bedpartment, sat down and checked her phone. She had been sending messages to Jeong-woo since she heard that he wasing to Europe, but there had been no response.
What am I even expecting?
She might not have had time to meet him if he had work. In that case, tomorrow might be spent shooting tourism videos for fans all day while wandering around Venice.
Idiot, idiot. What kind of n leaves you so clueless.
She contemted sending more messages but ended up just lying on the bed.
Part of the reason she impulsively decided to depart after the Paris concert and ended up in Venice was due to her sister, Sora, who had barged into her hotel room.
-Hey, Yi-seol. You have to go and make your move. Whats with this half-hearted show of interest? You didnt even confess your feelings properly. Why are you acting so flustered? Im just teasing you.
-Am I supposed to confess first?
-Whats up with you, trying to be picky about every little thing? What if another girl shows up? Youre in a romantic atmosphere in Europe. You have to seize the opportunity. Hes a good guy, right? Well, there are plenty of women looking for a catch.
How often in a lifetime would someone carry someone in their heart like destiny? Thats why she made up her mind, changed her schedule, and chose to go to Venice.
But hes not contacting me
While pouting and dragging her feet, the departure announcement came over the speakers.
Now it was an irreversiblemitment.
Thats when it happened.
A message alert sounded from her phone, which she had tossed aside. She grabbed it like lightning and checked the message, her face brightening.
[Im in Rome right now. Im on a night train to Venice. Are you really going to Venice too? Wow, what a coincidence.]
Its not a coincidence.
They were juggling their already packed schedule, trying to fit me in and take someone else out. The train began to move slowly.
She contemted what to reply, a smile filling her face. It seemed like she would stay up all night today because of excitement. Even though she shouldnt.
Han Jeong-woo Venice, Santa Lucia Station
The train that departed from Rome made repeated stops throughout the night, winding its way through several cities in central Italy.
Jeong-woo, struggling with the fatigue of the flight and the issue of jetg, tossed and turned in his semi-conscious state. He woke up when he saw the dawn breaking outside the window.
After a quick wash in themunal washroom, he returned to find the train conductor offering a tray with coffee and croissants.
G-Grazie.
He thanked in Italian, and the conductor smiled. Since he was in a 4-personpartment, the tray contained four cups of coffee and four pieces of bread.
Ive cut down on caffeine, but I guess Ill need it today, given the weather.
As the tray was ced on the table between them, the aroma of strong coffee began to fill the air, gradually waking up the other passengers.
About 20 minutes passed as they savored the soft bread and looked outside. The outside scenery started bing more distinct.
Wow.
The world outside was entirely unfamiliar.
A railway extending over the turbulent blue waters of the Adriatic Sea, elegant Gothic buildings rising gradually beyond the horizon all of this captivated Jeong-woos gaze in an instant.
This is a foreign country.
The realization hit him strongly. Everything, from the salty smell carried through the window to the views, felt different. Before he knew it, the train had arrived at its final destination, Santa Lucia.
As Jeong-woo walked out of the station into the bustling square, he encountered fellow travelers and water buses that carried them.
The transportation means in this city constructed over the sea consisted solely of boats. There were canals in every nook and cranny. Although he had looked up information beforehand, seeing the city in person left him in awe.
As Jeong-woo was absorbed in taking in his first impressions of Venice, he noticed a young woman not far away, gazing beyond the square, seemingly lost in thought.
Huh?
Long, flowing hair that reached down to her back, lips that appeared even redder against her sun-kissed white skin, and a warm-looking knit cardigan. She was a captivating youngdy who seemed tomand attention no matter where she went. It was Yoon Yi-seol.
She carried a small bag on her back and held a booklet in her hand, scrutinizing something intently.
Yi-seol.
At Jeong-woos call as he approached, Yoon Yi-seol turned her head abruptly.
Wow
Yoon Yi-seol couldnt help but exim when she saw Jeong-woo.
Its fascinating to see it like this in a foreign country.
I was thinking the same thing.
Amidst the exotic backdrop, Jeong-woo couldnt help but think of a scene from a European-set movie. Was the actress in those scenes more beautiful than usual because of her natural beauty or the ambiance?
Mr. Jeong-woo, did you see it? Riding a train on the sea?
I did.
Jeong-woo couldnt help but smile as he watched Yoon Yi-seols cheerfulughter amidst the crowd of fellow travelers from different countries. Then, he suddenly regained hisposure.
I actually have to meet someone first. If you have something to do, you can go ahead, and we can meetter
No!
Yoon Yi-seols abrupt response surprised Jeong-woo.
Wasnt there a shoot scheduled here today?
Well, yes. But its not urgent. I came a bit earlier than the staff.
After answering like this, Yoon Yi-seol buried her face in a travel brochure called Lets Go Italy and mumbled to herself, Where should I explore?
Ill make a quick phone call.
After getting Yoon Yi-seols understanding, Jeong-woo raised his phone and dialed Cheon Seung-guks number.
Ding.
This time, the call was answered promptly.
-Han Jeong-woo?
Yes, Doctor. Ive just arrived at Santa Lucia Station.
A sound like a yawn could be heard, and then Cheon Seung-guk spoke.
-Why did you arrive so early? Isnt it around 8 AM there now?
Well, yes. I was afraid I might bete, so I just took the earliest train avable to sync with the appointment time.
-There seems to be more to this story.
Laughter emanated from the other end of the phone.
-Itll take me about 4 hours. Ill be resting at theb during that time.
Theb?
-Yeah, its my private researchb. It might be hard to find. Its an old neighborhood, and the address system is a messpared to Korea. Do you speak Italian?
Me?
Could he possibly speak it? In response to Jeong-woos question, Cheon Seung-guk asked, sounding a bit surprised.
-Have you not taken AF-12? I didnt think Id have to exin this roughly; you should too Ah, I see. You must have set the sudden neural shock precaution.
A neural shock precaution?
It was all too unclear what he was talking about.
-Anything rted tonguage can sensitively affect the brains neural pathways. When you go to theb, there should be active agents.
Jeong-woo grinned at Yoon Yi-seol, who was looking at him curiously, then covered his mouth and asked in a hushed tone.
An agent that makes Italian possible?
-More precisely, its a molecr switch that activates existingnguage knowledge. Youll need to make somebinations since the G-protein stored there is quite old. Youll receive the address. Once you arrive safely, contact me.
By the way, Doctor, can I bring a friend with me to theb?
Jeong-woo looked at Yoon Yi-seol, who was engrossed in the travel brochure.
-Did youe with Dr. Moon by any chance?
No way.
-Do as you wish.
After ending the call, Jeong-woo shook his head. No matter how much he had taken the medicine to acquire abilities simr to Cheon Seung-guks, he couldnt quite grasp the concept of activatingnguage.
Ill figure it out when I get there.
Jeong-woo turned to Yoon Yi-seol and asked.
Do you want to go directly to the ce I need to visit? You dont have to wait for the staff, right?
Its fine. They might bete. While were here, we can catch up on the checklist weve fallen behind on.
In Venice?
Well, why not? Theres no one we know here, and its quite free-spirited.
Herughter filled the air as usual. In a ce like this, Jeong-woo felt like they could quickly be friends despite their usually reserved rtionship. It was the European magic that had found them since they were intoxicated by the air of Venice.
And so, Jeong-woo took his first step in the city above the sea, unexpectedly apanied by a fellow traveler.
Chapter 70
Chapter 70- Special Research: Venice Entropy(2)
Yoon Yi-seol Santa Lucia Station Dock
Standing at the water bus dock known as Baporettora Yoon Yi-seol held up her 1-day unlimited pass to the ticket machine in front of Santa Lucia Station and turned her head. As Jeong-woo scanned the routes listed on the information board, she pointed ahead.
Was it the Castello area? Its this way. B line.
Are you sure? I remember thest time you went grocery shopping, you got lost finding the way
Oh? Did I?
Yoon Yi-seol, now at ease, waved her travel booklet with a confident smile.
Dont worry. Im quite resourceful when Im abroad. In LA, I even went to Disnend on my own.
Youve been to LA too?
Where else would I have gone? Ive umted quite a bit of frequent flyer miles.
She cleared her throat and then observed Jeong-woos reaction.
She didnt want to give the impression that she was following him around for no reason. Since she hade all the way to Venice on purpose, she hoped to stay close to Jeong-woo as long as he didnt mind.
There was also a small sense of anticipation that if the right moment and atmosphere presented itself, she might just confess her feelings.
Fortunately, Jeong-woos gaze turned toward the canal.
Well then, Ill trust you, Yi-seol. I came here suddenly without any preparations.
Having achieved her goal of apanying Jeong-woo, Yoon Yi-seol sighed in relief and signaled the approaching vaporetto.
Thats it. The B line.
With the heavy engine noise, the boat set sail.
Leaning against the railing, Yoon Yi-seols attention was quickly captivated by the cityscape that unfolded along the wide canal. There were old buildings with beautiful brown roofs, standing like sentinels. Small andrge waterways extended in all directions like spiderwebs.
Yoon Yi-seol, who had been eximing Wow repeatedly, took a deep breath, reminding herself to appearposed, just like someone with a lot of experience traveling abroad. Then, she nced at Jeong-woo and grinned.
Wow. Whats that? Everywhere you look is like a painting. Yi-seol, could you take a picture with that background? I want to show it off to Soo-chan.
Jeong-woo, who was too busy looking around to pay much attention to Yoon Yi-seols dilemma, dismissed it in one breath.
As they moved further into the city along the S-shaped canal, the movement of the gonds, traditional Vian rowing boats, increased. At some point, Yoon Yi-seols gaze was fixed on a couple sitting in one of them.
They leaned on each other, exchanging heartyughter, unmistakably a newlywed couple. Lovers whispering to each other while gazing at the same things. It was envy-inducing and heartwarming.
What are you looking at, Yi-seol?
Lost in the romantic sight, Yoon Yi-seol pointed toward a dock where several gonds were neatly anchored.
That.
Watching the oak stake caught at the tip of Yoon Yi-seols fingertips, Jeong-woo responded casually as he passed by.
Oh. Thats aged wood, more than a hundred years old. Its be incredibly solid due to the rich minerals in the water, like a fossil.
Jeong-woos gaze, strangely luminous, always seemed to make Yoon Yi-seols heart race. With curiosity sparked, she turned her finger to point at an elegant wooden bridge.
How about that? Is it also solid?
No. They applied wood preservative to that one. Ah, it wontst long. Maybe about five years. After that, the joints will wear out, so dont pass through it.
When that timees, Ill be careful. What about that?
Most of the stone bridges are fine, but some parts are made of sedimentary rock. You know, sand mixed with various rocks. The moment the reaction rates differ significantly in the sedimentaryyers, it bes dangerous. Not immediately, though. Maybe in about 50 years?
With each movement of her finger, Jeong-woo exined without hesitation when and where the structures might break. Some parts were easy to understand, while others werepletely unfamiliar, but Yoon Yi-seol kept listening. It somehow reminded her of the conversations she had observed among the couples on the gonds.
When I be a grandmother, you have to be careful. I might forget, so it would be nice if you came with me, Jeong-woo.
In 50 years? I dont even know if Ill be alive.
Yoon Yi-seol watched Jeong-woo, who was scratching his chin, and a yful smile formed on her lips.
Under the sky covered with soft, white clouds, the pleasant smell of the salty breeze wafted over, carried by a gentle wind that rustled their hair.
As the boat passed under stone bridges, Jeong-woo, wiping his eyes, said.
Weve talked about everything. It must be boring, Yi-seol.
No!
Twenty minutes passed, and Yoon Yi-seol hoped they could stay like this forever. The vaporetto arrived at a dock in the Castello area.
Han Jeong-woo Calle Magno Street
Jeong-woo walked down a street lined with modest-looking houses, carefully inspecting the house numbers posted above the doors.
2696. Where the heck is this?
Usually, house numbers were sequential, with the next number being one higher than the previous one. However, here, it seemed they assigned numbers based on the order in which the buildings were constructed, resulting in a chaotic sequence. Most of the houses were so old that the numbers werent even visible in some of them.
As he wandered through the maze of alleyways not shown on the map, he found himselfpletely disoriented.
Seeing Yoon Yi-seol struggling to keep up, Jeong-woo turned his head. But before their eyes met, Yoon Yi-seol apologized.
Im sorry. I cant find it.
Jeong-woo shook his head.
In a ce like this, anyone who can find a house in one go is the strange one.
As he passed through yet another alley, Jeong-woo suddenly stopped and stood still. He had spotted a peculiar building with an unusual venttion structure near the roof. Despite other buildings deteriorating, this venttion structure remained intact.
Wait a moment.
Yoon Yi-seol stopped in her tracks at Jeong-woos gesture.
The house number on the door had thest digit faded, but Jeong-woo examined it carefully. The traces of dye confirmed that this was 2696.
Trying to tell Yoon Yi-seol that he had found it, Jeong-woo hesitated for a moment, then pointed to the door and asked.
Doesnt this look like it?
Yoon Yi-seol, showing the address on her phone, carefully examined the door.
2696? It might be, or it might not be
Jeong-woo, who had been fiddling with thebination that Seung-guks had provided, sighed in relief when it clicked open.
Wow, we found it. Youre amazing, Yi-seol.
Yes? It was just a month ago when we went to the market. I didnt know much about the world then.
Yoon Yi-seol epted Jeong-woospliment with an air of confidence.
They were interrupted by the sound of creaking stairs.
Theres no first floor. This structure is peculiar.
Jeong-woo, who had opened the door to reveal a dusty table and disy stand, faced a facility that was far from KG Chemicals privateb. Except for beakers, sks, and simr equipment that weremon in experiments around the world, the ce was filled with equipment that seemed like something out of a 19th-century scientistsboratory.
Yoon Yi-seol followed behind and admired the interior.
It looks like an old movie set.
Thats how everything is around here.
Jeong-woo picked up a pair of tinum forceps that had not corroded despite the rest of the equipment, confirming that this was real silver. He guessed it was Seung-guks personality to leave expensive tools lying around like this.
Yoon Yi-seol, standing close to Jeong-woo, asked, What is this ce?
Its someones private researchb. I need to make a call first.
Jeong-woo opened the wooden window on one side of theb to let in some fresh air and dialed Seung-guks number.
-Have you arrived? It took you an hour. You must have gotten lost.
Doctor, this ce doesnt look to be clean at all.
Jeong-woo wiped the dust off the table with his hand and shook his head.
-Then clean it up.
Clean?
-If you go down there with adder, youll find a row of storagepartments. There should be cleaning supplies among them. The water tank should be full too.
Having flown nearly 9,000 km from Seoul to do nothing more than dusting was somewhat heartbreaking, but the other person was a person who had the ability to give Jeong-woo a new life and was also his employer. He had no choice but toply.
Sure, Ill take care of it.
-Oh, and among the storagepartments, theres one with electricity. Its apound refrigeration facility. Find G proteins in there and try thenguage activation switchbination I mentioned earlier.
After the call ended, Jeong-woo looked at a square passage and adder on one side. Then, he nced at Yoon Yi-seol, who was curiously ying with an antique scale.
Yi-seol, it looks like I have to clean up around here
Shall I help?
In that case, I feel even more sorry for you. You can take a break here.
If you feel sorry, buy me a delicious lunch.
Yoon Yi-seol replied like this and ced her bag on the table, rolling up her sleeves.
After a moment.
Jeong-woo began the task of scrubbing the floor, filling a bucket with water and using a mop. Yoon Yi-seol, with a handkerchief on her face, started dusting the shelves above. Unlike her, who was humming a tune, Jeong-woo let out a deep sigh.
As he rinsed the mop, ck water dripping from it, Jeong-woo shifted his gaze to the view outside the window. A city filled with awe-inspiring buildings as far as the eye could see.
What are we doing here?
After thirty minutes of cleaning, the floors pattern was revealed. Jeong-woo, pushing the mop back and forth in the bucket, finally stood up with a groan.
Ah, my back.
Yoon Yi-seol, who was tidying up the table, looked at Jeong-woo with a yful smile.
You worked hard, Mr. Jeong-woo.
You did too, Ms. Yi-seol. Lets stop here, shall we? Weve cleaned enough. Lets find a nice restaurant for lunch.
Just this onest thing. This pair of tongs sparkles so much; its hard to resist polishing it some more.
Jeong-woo said to Yoon Yi-seol, who was smiling while holding up the tongs.
Its silver, thats why.
Is that so?
Yoon Yi-seol examined the tongs closely. They even had the initials CSG engraved in elegant italics.
The tools were scattered so extravagantly, almost to an absurd degree whenpared to their value. She was surprised to learn that all of it was silver.
After giving therge mop one final rinse and hanging it by the window, Jeong-woo descended to the first floor using adder.
He opened a refrigerated box in the storage room.
With a slight hiss, the cold air brushed against Jeong-woos fingertips.
Where is the active protein?
Inside the box, thumb-sized vials were neatly organized. Jeong-woo took one out and held it up to the light pouring in from above.
A transparent liquid. It was a solution with diluted protein molecules.
Seems like something from the epidermal growth factor family?
A specific chemical released when the skin is damaged, helping stimte the growth and division of certain cells, aiding in the healing process. When he picked up the vial beside it, he noticed that it had simrponents to epinephrine. In other words, adrenaline. This was a substance that needed to be used carefully.
Most of the items inside the refrigerator werepounds that sent signals to cells, converting the bodys neural responses.
Combine signaling proteins that stimte thenguage neural circuit, is that what he meant?
As he contemted this, a few molecules floated into Jeong-woos field of vision like ethereal apparitions.
Shall we mix these?
Jeong-wooid out several vials on the table and took out a pipette. As he skillfully transferred the solutions to test tubes and mixed them, Yoon Yi-seol, who had been admiring the silver tools, grew curious and approached.
What is this?
This? This one is trisodium phosphate, and this is diascylglycerol
Jeong-woo, who had been immersed in the world of molecules, suddenly snapped back to reality.
Its just a simple medicine. I have to take it in a little while.
Oh, where does it hurt?
It was a task that would be over soon, so there was no need for borate excuses.
Oh I feel a bit of a colding on.
Jeong-woo answered this way and examined the solution in the test tube, which had just beenpleted.
Can it really handle all fournguages? Well, if it works, thank goodness.
He made up his mind and swallowed it as it was.
The solution entered his stomach and quickly broke down, spreading throughout his body along the nerves. It felt simr to when he had taken AF-12, causing difort.
Ugh, it tingles.
As Jeong-woo frowned, Yoon Yi-seol, who had been watching him silently, rummaged through her bag and pulled out a small pouch.
Emergency medicines provided by the staff. From within, she took out aprehensive cold medicinebeled Pancool-S and handed it to Jeong-woo.
Take this too. It was a bit chilly on the ferry earlier.
Seeing Yoon Yi-seols concern, Jeong-woo tried to reassure her. However, as he was about to say, Im fine words from differentnguages, such as Im fine / es geht mir gut / sto bene / je vais bien simultaneously popped into his mind. His tongue got tangled, and he ended up making a strange noise.
Ugh
Contrary to his intentions, his pronunciation remained uncontrolled, and Jeong-woo closed his mouth.
Why are you like this?
He had tried to say something, but his tongue remained unresponsive.
Seeing Jeong-woos worseningplexion, Yoon Yi-seol became flustered as well.
Are you in that much pain?
Yoon Yi-seol ced her hand on Jeong-woos forehead and looked worried.
You have a fever.
This is a situation where the words Thats not a fever never came out. What was strange was that the words came to mind in English, German, Italian, and Frenchnguages all at the same time.
Could this be a side effect?
Jeong-woo felt like he was going crazy and gestured to Yoon Yi-seol for a moment.
He quickly typed out a message on his phone.
[My throat hurts so much that Ill keep my mouth shut for a moment. Its nothing to worry about, just a cold.]
After putting on the most serene smile possible, Jeong-woo immediately sent a text message to Cheon Seung-guk.
[This is a big problem. I took thepound I mixed, and I cant speak.]
Drink this at least, Mr. Jeong-woo.
Yoon Yi-seol handed him a bottle of water, and Jeong-woo expressed his gratitude with his eyes before taking a sip.
Ding.
A reply came, and he checked it right away.
[It seems like a strong stimulus went to the Brocas area. Youll adapt soon. Keep exercising your mouth.]
Adapt?
Since Cheon Seung-guks response wasnt too serious in tone, Jeong-woo felt somewhat relieved. However, his temporary mute state was extremely perplexing. Was this some kind of payback for effortlessly learning fournguages?
Of all times, it had to happen when Ms. Yi-seol is here.
Pretending to cough, he discreetly observed her. Since his tongue wouldnt move as he wanted, there was no choice but to continue smiling calmly.
[Ms. Yi-seol, Im not joking right now; my throat really hurts.]
As he was about to write one more message to show Yoon Yi-seol, a knocking sound came from the direction of the first floor.
Is Dr. Cheon here?
Jeong-woo went downstairs and pulled the door open.
Creak.
On the other side of the open door, a foreigner in his mid-forties with almost no hair on his head faced Jeong-woo.
Dr. Cheon was a white guy? Thats surprising.
This thought was quickly reced by the words of the other person.
I apologize. Im Professor Jeremy Becker. Are you Dr. Cheon Seung-guk? I contacted you regarding the Drex Enzyme issue.
The round-tipped bangs on his forehead were striking, and the white man sized up Jeong-woo from head to toe before tilting his head. It was difficult to determine the age of an Asian, but he seemed too young to be a doctor.
Jeong-woo was fascinated by the fact that he could understand the other persons English as easily as Korean, but he couldnt think of how to respond. Therefore, he quickly typed out English on his phone and showed it to the man.
[Im also waiting for Dr. Cheon Seung-guk. By the way, what is the Drex Enzyme?]
Upon reading this message, Professor Jeremy Becker examined Jeong-woo and, after looking thoughtful, began to speak.
No one else than Dr. Cheon Seung-guk
Who is this, Mr. Jeong-woo?
Yoon Yi-seol came down the stairs. Sensing her presence, Jeremy flinched and stepped back.
This is a top-secret meeting. This cant be happening. It seems I made a mistake.
Jeremy turned abruptly and walked away to the other side of the alley. Jeong-woo watched him with a puzzled expression, wondering, Whats going on?
Why is that gentleman heading to the street?
Jeong-woo quickly typed a message in response to Yoon Yi-seol question.
[He left because the owner was not here.]
Since Cheon Seung-guk hadnt mentioned anything, Jeong-woo stared nkly at Jeremys retreating figure.
Ding.
He received a message from Cheon Seung-guk, as if he had been waiting.
[I just talked to Jeremy. He arrived early too. Go catch him. Its been a long time since Harvard professors have been so anxious like this. Make sure to check if he brought Drex Enzyme properly and put his mind at ease. I introduced you as my disciple.]
Please, tell me this sooner.
Jeong-woo sent a message to Yoon Yi-seol.
[Close the door and wait. Ill find him and be back soon.]
He immediately rushed out onto the main road.
In a narrow alleyway leading to the canal where gonds passed, he spotted a man in a coat, Jeremy.
Excuse me!
He waved his hand to indicate his location, but Jeremy only stared at his phone with an anxious expression.
English, English.
As Jeong-woo walked, pressing on the message from Cheon Seung-guk, a high-speed boat stopped by the canal. It was a blue boat with POLIZIA LOCAL written on it, indicating the local police.
Two police officers in uniform walked out from inside and, holding a photo andparing Jeremys face, approached him.
Are you Jeremy Becker?
Why do you call my name?
We received a report from customs officers about the contents of your bag that passed through Marco Polo Airport security. It seems to be a substance suspected of biochemical terrorism. You wrote down address 2696 on your immigration deration form as your destination. What was the reason for your visit? Where is your bag?
Upon the police officers exnation, Jeremy said, What? and tilted his head. The police spoke in Italian, and Jeremy in English, so only Jeong-woo, who was overhearing, understood.
This isnt getting through.
For now, lets take him. Call for an interpreter and contact the Public Safety Agency.
Jeremys anxious eyes darted around at the police officers conversation.
Why? I am a citizen of the United States!
Please calm down! Lets go calmly. Ian, apprehend him.
The police officer grabbed Jeremys arms and escorted him onto the boat, which immediately started moving.
Jeong-woo watched as the police boat moved away, his mouth agape.
What on earth
Holding his phone, Jeong-woo sent a message to Cheon Seung-guk.
[The professor has been taken by the police]
Ding.
[What?]
[I think D-rex was found when he passed through the airport. The customs suspect its some kind of terrorist material. What on earth is this?]
[Its a catalyst rted to chemical equilibrium. Completely harmless even if you gulp it down. Go and exin it to those ignorant customs officers. Ill hurry as well.]
I cant even speak, how am I supposed to
Jeong-woo was typing this message when he cleared his throat and opened his mouth.
Ah Uh La
His tongue seemed to loosen a bit, and he tried to recall his English.
Oooor
Well, I can manage some Korean, it seems.
Foreignnguages werepletely unintelligible, as if his tongue had been numbed. Even English, which had been somewhat possible, was tangled and wouldnte out properly.
How am I supposed to clear up the misunderstanding like this?
He had been ordered to do it, so he had to try. Moreover, he felt sorry for Professor Jeremy, who looked so pitiful, being taken away without any fault of his own.
Upon closer consideration, it was just like him, who hade to meet Cheon Seung-guk, only to end up like this.
Jeong-woo reached into his pocket and touched the greenpound container. This was also a new substance. Perhaps, the situation Professor Jeremy was in right now could be the same as what he was experiencing.
Why did they call a Harvard Professor?
Muttering to himself, Jeong-woo returned to the alley with address number 2696. He extended his head out of the second-floor window, and his eyes met Yoon Yi-seols.
The ba it Ugh, ah Ouch. Yi-seol,e down with the bag!
Jeong-woo made various mouth movements and then let out a short sigh.
It had only been two hours since they arrived in Venice. He already had an ufortable feeling. It seemed that he wouldnt be able to spend this dayfortably.
Chapter 71
Chapter 71- Special Research: Venice Entropy(3)
Sunsses man Calle Magno Street
A building overlooking address 2696.
The hand, holding a Rolex wristwatch, raised a pair of binocrs to the eyes. Through the eyes of the person, the backs of a man and a woman leaving the alley came into view.
The man and woman stood on the gond in the canal. After confirming this, the man lowered the binocrs and picked up the radio.
Head west along the canal. Follow those Asians closely. Its rted to Dr. Cheon.
The words that came out of his mouth were in German.
Click.
-Ive sent two.
What about Jeremy? Have you assessed the situation already?
-Were contacting the police headquarters.
Hey, Tom. Use money or whatever it takes to find out. We dont have much time. Were not the only ones here.
The person became anxious, and as he fiddled with his wristwatch, he picked up the tablet ced on the table.
The stock graph of LANCESS, a German specialty chemicalpany, appeared on the screen. The person, who had been closely monitoring it, bit his lip as he noticed the fluctuations that had been going downhill since two days ago.
How did Cheon Seung-guk get a whiff of the top-secret project? Its a matter of life and death for Drex and Lancess. We must catch Jeremy Baker at all costs.
Han Jeong-woo Above the Gond
The boat smoothly cut through the water, guided by the leisurely gestures of the helmsman gripping the oar.
Seated on the velvet cushion and Persian rugs spread on the ferry, Jeong-woo continued to massage his mrs with his hand.
Am I never going to get the pronunciation right at this rate? Even if its English, I should at least give it a try before heading to the police station.
His listening skills had improved considerably, but the current situation, far beyond the asional nervousness when speaking a foreignnguage, left him utterly perplexed.
The problem was my desire to get it easily.
Looking back, he should have realized when forming thebination. He had even confirmed that neurotransmitters would act sensitively while exploring the molecr world.
In his attempt to properly exercise his mouth, he had been pronouncing ABCD when Yoon Yi-seol, who was sitting opposite him, pulled out a camcorder from her bag.
When their eyes met, Yoon Yi-seol smiled.
It might take some time, so I want to shoot a little. Whenever I go abroad, I record a travelogue with the camcorder. Dont bother searching; there are many embarrassing moments.
Can I help you with something?
His Korean pronunciation had now nearly returned.
Yoon Yi-seol turned the camcorder upside down and extended it towards Jeong-woo.
Could you film the background nicely? Oh, and could you ask a few questions here? Director Ji used to do it
She handed him a small notebook.
The editing will be taken care of by the staff, so just shoot freely.
Got it.
Jeong-woo epted the camcorder and adjusted the angle of Yoon Yi-seol and the background on the screen before giving an OK sign.
The light illuminated the RECmp, and Yoon Yi-seol focused her gaze through the camcorder lens. With two fingers against her cheek, she formed a V and spoke with a bright smile.
Ta-da~ Its Yi-seol TV. Yesterday, it was Paris, right? And today
A mobile bargeden with vegetables and fruits passed in front of the gond as it moved. Yoon Yi-seol briefly turned her head in that direction and then turned back with an expression that seemed to say, Did you see that?
This is Venice, where these boatse and go. Wow~ Apuse.
Yoon Yi-seol cheered alone, then put her fingers to her lips and tried to whistle, but only the sound of the wind came out.
Jeong-woo found her cute, and he unknowingly wore a proud smile while focusing on the camcorder screen.
Were on a gond heading to Piazza Navona right now.
After finishing herment, Yoon Yi-seol gestured to the notebook, and Jeong-woo read aloud from the top.
Why did youe here?
Were here for a mini-album photoshoot. Today, were doing a preliminary exploration with the manager.
Jeong-woo leaned towards the camcorder and sent a look that seemed to say, Am I your manager now? Yoon Yi-seol nodded in response.
As you can see, the city is so beautiful. The weather is great too. The sky is clear.
Suddenly, a gust of wind blew, causing Yoon Yi-seols hair to fly to the side. She was slightly flustered by her now tousled hairstyle.
While she tidied her hair, Jeong-woo nced at the background on the screen, then pointed to the sky.
Ms. Yi-seol, there are quite a few clouds, so its not that clear.
If you look closely, you can see it that way, right? Besides, this is how they usually exaggerate in travel shows. Our manager is shooting a travelogue for the first time, so he doesnt know.
In the midst of the situation captured by the camera, there was an inexplicable feeling of pressure within Yoon Yi-seol.
Yoon Yi-seolbed her disheveled hair with one hand, then looked up at the sky and said after a brief silence.
As you can see, the city is so beautiful.
Didnt you just say that?
Shh.
Yoon Yi-seols determination in setting the editing point amused Jeong-woo.
The vivacity that was unimaginable considering her usual demureness was unfolding on the rectangr screen. As soon as she focused the lens, her cheerful voice tone transformed, and it definitely had that celebrity vibe.
Come to think of it, before the delicious feast shoot, she had a professional vibe.
Should we say she knows how to look good on camera?
This is why you wont be able to get over it if you be a fan.
For Jeong-woo, a novice fan who had been supporting Yoon Yi-seol for just three months, the fact that he could watch her from the sidelines was simply a delightful experience.
Jeong-woo asked the next question from the notebook.
Youve prepared a surprise new song for the spring. Was there a special inspiration behind it?
Yes, there was.
Yoon Yi-seol looked directly into the camcorders lens.
Ive recently found a very special musicpanion.
Jeong-woo felt a momentary excitement as if the gaze on the camcorder screen was looking at him.
Now that were in Italy, shall we do a canzone
Whats that?
Yoon Yi-seol, with her hand over her mouth, said quietly.
In Paris, I sang a chanson. Ive been practicing one song from each country.
Yoon Yi-seol turned her gaze to the surrounding scenery and began singing in a whisper.
che be cosa na iur na tae sole
Oh Sol Mio. It was a familiar melody that Jeong-woo had heard during his school music lessons.
Even the helmsman, who was rowing the boat, had a smile at the corner of his mouth as he listened to her sing.
I can understand the lyrics right away.
While the song continued, Jeong-woo, out of curiosity, tried mumbling a Korean trantion experimentally.
How splendid the sunny day is, as the storm passes by, the sky is clear, and in the refreshing breeze, the sunlight shines like a festival.
The harmoniousbination of the sparkling water sounds and Yoon Yi-seols gentle voice, like fine wood grain, made this waterside stage a special performance that was hard toe by even with money.
Because the atmosphere was so exquisite, Jeong-woo, who was shooting frantically, turned his head when he felt a harsh sensation from the side.
A sudden shift in the dust particles. It was as if a gust of wind had brushed past Yoon Yi-seol, just like before.
Oh no. I cant let that ruin it.
Jeong-woo handed the camcorder to the helmsman behind him. The confused helmsman received it, and when he sent an inquisitive look, Jeong-woo pointed to Yoon Yi-seol. As a professional boatman catering to tourists, he quickly understood and focused the camcorder screen on her.
Jeong-woo, now without his outerwear, quickly covered Yoon Yi-seols side.
A whooshing wind, and with it, the drifting dust particles passed like wrapping around their outerwear.
O Sole Mio
Yoon Yi-seol, wearing her windbreaker, looked up at Jeong-woo. With a look that seemed to ask, What are you doing when you have a cold? Jeong-woo made a facial expression as if he wanted her to finish the song properly and then turned a stern gaze to observe the movement of the dust particles.
Where is it!
He even chased the dust particles that had slipped through the small gap in their outerwear far away.
Stan fron tea te~
Her song came to an end. Jeong-woo extended his gratitude to the helmsman who had filmed it well until the end.
When the helmsman handed back the camcorder and apuded, saying Brava! Yoon Yi-seol nodded with a familiar smile.
Lets stop here.
Yoon Yi-seol switched off the camcorder and packed it into her bag.
Jeong-woo, earlier you were reciting something like a poem, right?
It was the lyrics of the song Yi-seol was singing.
The Korean lyrics I knew felt different.
Well, you could say its a loose trantion.
Do you know Italian? Wow.
To Yoon Yi-seol, who was amazed by everything, Jeong-woo shook his head.
Just a little.
Ive only learned greetings and this song for overseas fans. Jeong-woo, you pretended not to know when you actually knew.
As much as her admiration, it would be great if he could speak Italian fluently. But his darn tongue just wouldnt cooperate.
Tranting and speaking in Korean is really simple.
Just in case, Jeong-woo tried pronouncing the lyrics she sang.
che be cosa Huh? It works? Why is this happening?
Whats wrong?
Suddenly not feeling like his tongue was getting stuck, Jeong-woo looked at Yoon Yi-seol.
Did I suddenly be good at singing in just one song? No way.
However, he couldnt pronounce any other foreignnguages at all.
Without any knowledge of neurology and the brains linguistic processing, Jeong-woo gave up on deep contemtion. Where on earth did his ability to speak even a bit of Italiane from? Given that he had to go to the police station, he could only be thankful for this.
The boat that had been floating down the canal for a while was soon approaching the canal near the destination pier.
Confirming the sign that read Questura di Venezia, which indicated the police headquarters, Jeong-woo spoke.
I need to go in now. Do you want to go to a restaurant for lunch first? Its nearby.
No.
Yoon Yi-seol abruptly shook her head, then quickly added, fearing that Jeong-woo might misunderstand.
I get bored when Im alone. Lets check out the Venice police station. Jeong-woo, you keep trying to leave me behind. Am I a burden?
Seeing her narrow-eyed and piercing gaze, Jeong-woo urgently waved his hand.
No way.
Then lets go together. Dont wander around alone.
While Jeong-woo thought the journey might be boring, Yoon Yi-seol seemed to be enjoying herself all the way, not losing her liveliness for a moment.
Youre really kind.
Jeremy Becker Venice Police Headquarters, Interrogation Room
Jeremy couldnt believe the reality of sitting in this cramped room being interrogated by Italian police.
A government official from the Ministry of Public Safety, Marco, asked in English.
So, is this bag just a storage container?
How many times do I have to say it?
Jeremy had rushed to Venice upon receiving a shocking email from a chemist about the unfinished Drex enzyme.
And then the problem unfolded.
The two police officers who had brought him in continued to eye the bag on the table with unease. Jeremy felt unjustly treated and frustrated.
The bag, specially designed to store the enzyme, was not something you could buy in stores. Naturally, exining it to people with little knowledge of chemistry was not easy.
A gas cirction device for temperature control, a sealed container that opened with fingerprint recognition, and a tube for stabilizing the contents with up to ten reagents. At first nce, it could easily be mistaken for a biochemical weapon.
Why cant you tell us whats inside?
Its a substance Im applying for a patent for. Would you understand if I disclosed all theponents? Do you know what a Micaelis-Menten model is?
But we have to understand it to prove it.
Why hasnt the expert who was supposed toe arrived? If its really a biochemical terror plot, thats a big problem!
His outburst in frustration made Marcosplexion turn pale.
Terror?
I mean, thats what it seems like.
Determined to buy a ticket back to the United States as soon as he was released, Jeremy clenched his fist and held his tongue.
As they spent time this way, they heard a knocking at the door. The police officer opened the door, spoke something in Italian, and then let one person in.
It seems the expert has arrived.
Jeremy turned his head at the sound. A man in his mid-thirties with brown hair walked towards Jeremy and greeted him.
Professor, Im Tom Schneider, a researcher at Lancess.
At the sound of this, Jeremys ears perked up. Lancess was a world-renowned chemicalpany, especially famous for its expertise in engineering stics and advanced materials.
Tom, the researcher, ced a stic box on the table he had brought with him and said to Marco.
Safety certification experiments for the professors patented substance. Were willing to stake the name of ourpany, Lancess, to prove it.
As a machine-like device emerged from the open box, Marco and the police officers were once again bewildered.
Thinking back to their attitude that seemed like you were talking to a wall, Jeremy asked Tom.
Do you know what this substance is?
Yes, of course. Ive read Professors papers several times. Isnt this the miraculous catalyst?
Jeremys face swelled with pride at Toms praise, but there were still some things that needed to be rified.
Its not perfect. How are we going to conduct the equilibrium experiments?
Our portableb from Lancess will be sufficient for verification.
Tom, who had set up a spectrometer with electrodes and a microscope, grinned.
Han Jeong-woo Venice Police Headquarters
Jeong-woo carefully surveyed the interior of the police station, which, by Korean standards, could be considered a small-scale neighborhood police station. If it werent for the exotic exterior, one might not even think it was a police station.
As he walked towards the reception desk, a middle-aged woman with yellow hair turned her gaze towards Jeong-woo.
What brings you here?
If possible, Id like to visit someone inside. Professor Jeremy Becker. Please tell them hes Dr. Cheon Seung-guks student. Heres a note as well.
Jeong-woo handed over a paper containing Cheon Seung-guks statement, which he had written using Yoon Yi-seols notebook. Since they might not be familiar with the name Cheon Seung-guk, Jeong-woo pronounced it again, emphasizing each syble. As he did so, he met Yoon Yi-seols curious gaze.
Youre speaking Italian now?
A little.
While Jeong-woo shed a charming smile, the middle-aged woman called over a passing police officer. She then pointed to a bench behind Jeong-woo.
Wait here.
Alright, well wait.
After waiting for about ten minutes without any contact, Jeong-woo and Yoon Yi-seol walked back to the reception desk.
Is there no response?
Im not getting any response for some reason..
How much longer do we have to wait?
The woman at the reception raised her hand, indicating that she didnt know.
Why dont you go have a coffee at the cafe nearby? Well contact you.
The response was asid-back as the atmosphere inside.
Jeong-woo turned his head and asked Yoon Yi-seol.
Looks like well have to wait a bit longer. Should we get something to drink?
Okay.
Yoon Yi-seol nodded with a yful smile.
With worries about when they might be called and not much else to do, they sat at a cafe. They returned with two cappinos, a quintessential Italian coffee.
Enjoy, Jeong-woo. The aroma is amazing.
As Yoon Yi-seol sipped her coffee, she continued.
Its smooth. Oh, but its a bit bitter.
Do you sleep well these days?
Yoon Yi-seol avoided answering directly to the indirect question about whether she could handle caffeine.
Han Jeong-woo. Where are you?
A police officer who had walked out from the interior corridors called out, causing Jeong-woo to turn his head.
Its him.
He was one of the burly police officers who had taken Professor Jeremy away. Jeong-woo raised his hand.
Im here.
This way.
As it was a situation that required immediate action, Jeong-woo nced back at Yoon Yi-seol.
I need to go with him. If it takes too long, Ill send you a message.
Okay.
Oh? Theres foam on your lips
After wiping the foam from Yoon Yi-seols lips with his sleeve, Jeong-woo chuckled and said.
Our manager is temporarily absent, so be careful not to be too fatally cute. The young policeman over there has been staring at Yi-seol since earlier.
Blushing deeply, Yoon Yi-seol hastily lowered her head when a handsome young police officer from the reception desk winked at her.
Standing in front of the room named Investigation Room, Jung-woo asked the police.
Has Professor Jeremy Beckers charges been dropped?
Well, the expert did arrive, but I dont understand what hes saying.
Jeong-woo raised an eyebrow at the police officers response.
The door opened, revealing the interior of the investigation room. Jeong-woo nced briefly inside the room. He saw Professor Jeremy sitting with an ufortable expression. On one side, a well-dressed individual was passionately exining something in English.
The results from quantitative IR spectroscopy. The range between the maximum absorption wavelength and the minimum absorption wavelength. This means it has a structure that cannot explode.
Thats
The person listening to this exnation had a puzzled look on their face, but they continued to send nk stares. Nevertheless, the well-dressed man was doing his best to interpret the conversation in Italian.
Do you see the frequency range of the gaze shift here, three times the normal? Its harmonic vibration. The bonds involved here are carbon, hydrogen, nitrogen, hydrogen. This proves that its an enzyme that works at the level of agricultural and food products.
However, while tranting that, one-third of it got cut off, one-third had its meaning distorted. Its only natural that some of it is iprehensible.
How does it work?
Muttering in Korean, Jung-woo cleared his throat and signaled difort. The conversation between the man in a suit and the interpreter paused briefly.
Jeremy confirmed Jeong-woos presence and showed him a note.
Its because of Dr. Cheon Seung-guk.
Jeremys gaze conveyed the question of how they could resolve this situation. Even though Jeong-woo wanted to respond, hisck of proficiency in English forced him to focus on understanding the situation with a smile on his face.
Its the process of proving that Drex isnt hazardous, right? But its not going well, is it?
Jeong-woos gaze roamed over the table, searching for Drex.
Between the infrared spectrometer, microscope, and a small monitor, there was a drop of liquid on a ss sheet, nestled in the gap.
He quickly zoomed in with his molecr vision.
Hmm?
For the past few months, he had peered into the world of countlesspounds, but this particr structure was unlike any he had seen before.
Hundreds, perhaps thousands of elements were orbiting around a single point in perfect harmony. Despite theplexity of the molecules involved, their regrity was strangely clear.
Upon closer examination of the central point, it appeared to be an unstable nucleus, with particles scattering in all directions.
Why are you trembling around?
This molecule resembled the temperament of Professor Jeremy in many ways. It was somewhat disappointing. It was like drawing a beautiful painting but failing to finish one small detail, a molecr structure.
Afterpleting his analysis, Jeong-woo withdrew from the molecr world.
Please, listen to me for a moment.
The fluent Italian from an Asian man made everyone in the room turn and exim in surprise.
Thats a proteinpound thats safe to ingest, even though its still iplete. When its finished, it can act as a catalyst that can bnce any reaction
Jeong-woo paused.
The green protein inside the vial, the one he suspected was about to be mixed with the Drex enzyme. It couldnt be that they called the Harvard professor for this, could it?
And its quite expensive. By my understanding, its worth around 1,000 euros per drop?
When Jeong-woo mentioned money, the interpreter and the two police officers widened their eyes.
No way. What is that?
What makes it worth so much? Who are you?
The two officers couldnt grasp the situation without seeing the material.
Thats why the professor seemed frustrated.
He looked at his cappino for a moment, then had a sudden idea and ryed it to the interpreter.
Could you ask if the professor would be willing to use just one drop? The money Dr. Cheon said he would cover it.
The interpreter seemed to think that Jeong-woo could only speak Italian and ryed the message to Jeremy diligently.
What would one drop achieve here?
Jeong-woo then asked the interpreter to convey his response.
He wants to put it in his coffee.
It might be the worlds most expensive coffee.
Chapter 72
Chapter 72- Special Research: Venice Entropy(4)
Tom Schneider Venice Police Headquarters, Investigation Room
Coffee.
Tom, a special researcher from Lancess, chuckled at the ignorant Italian police officers who seemed utterly baffled.
Diffusion REX.
A miraculous enzyme born after five years of research by Harvards renowned biochemist. No one wants to take a man-madepound that hasnt been clinically tested, even if the analyzers say its not a hazardous substance.
Professor, what is that guy talking about?
Well
It was a reckless choice driven by the desire to earn Professor Jeremys trust. There was no way Jeremy would trust someone who would do something like that.
Tom.
Marco, the government official who had been subtly bribed by him earlier, ryed the young mans message.
Hes asking if you can borrow three beakers and distilled water.
Tom took out a bottle and three small ss beakers. It was like ast supper for someone about tomit biochemical suicide.
Grazie.
Whats the gratitude for?
Tom watched the young mans actions, then picked up his phone as a message arrived.
It was from Weber Jansen, Lancess Director of Development.
[What about Jeremy?]
Quickly, he responded while keeping an eye on the police.
[Weve secured his safety, but these police here are so bad that bribery might work.]
[Weve received information that a Thespsa employee has also arrived in Venice. Hurry.]
Han Jeong-woo Venice Police Headquarters, Investigation Room
Jeong-woo poured distilled water into a ss and then turned his gaze to Jeremy. He sent a look that asked for just one drop of Drex inside.
Are you serious?
Jeremy hesitated for a moment with a nodding gesture, then reached into his bag.
As he ced his hand on the fingerprint recognition area, it lit up with a beep.
Jeremy, holding a tube with a syringe-like nozzle, sprayed 1 ml of Drex into the ss.
Good.
Jeong-woo focused his gaze on the diluted Drex solution in the ss. Within the magnified cluster of molecules, an iplete nucleus.
Direct attachment of free electrons to it would produce the desired effect.
He concentrated all the dust particles he could gather in this room into the ss he held in his left hand.
While doing so, he opened his mouth to the two police officers who were curiously watching his actions.
Do you guys drink a lot of coffee?
The stuff youre holding, its made by the guy next door, Greg.
I see. Thats fortunate.
Fortunate?
Jeong-woo poured about half a ss of coffee into another ss. The foam from the cappino flowed down into the still-warm liquid in the ss.
Professor Jeremy, the substance youve brought enhances the catalytic reaction. Milk is essentially a cluster of fats, right? It breaks that down in an instant and
While speaking, he nced at the somewhat perplexed expressions on the faces of the police officers. It seemed like they couldnt see the answer.
When you add this, the taste and aroma changepletely. You understand, right?
In the brief pause, one of the dust particles finally prated the unstable nucleus of diluted Drex. When the dust particle was urgently injected, thepleted nucleus no longer resembled Professor Jeremy, but instead had a firm central point.
In an instant, Drex transformed from an iplete form into aplete enzyme. Jeong-woo transferred the coffee into the ss.
There was a bubbling, boiling reaction, and the cappino foam dissolved into the coffee all at once. When the police officers were astonished by this chemical reaction, Jeong-woo spoke.
The enzyme is reconstructing the coffee. Just wait for three seconds.
Jeong-woo extended three fingers and then folded them one by one. When all the fingers were folded, the cappino foam that had been sucked in suddenly burst out.
What is this?
Smell it. Does it smell like your usual coffee?
The police officer sniffed and his eyes widened.
Its different.
Another police officer whopared the smell to the original also nodded.
Yeah? Its definitely different.
Jeong-woo gestured for them to wait, then poured the original cappino into the one remaining empty ss.
This one has a different milkposition, so itll have a different vor.
He added the diluted Drex solution.
The coffee bubbled and began to take on a different vor. Jeong-woo held the two coffees that had been transformed into Drex in his hands.
They were the same coffee, but both taste different.
Jeong-woo, after tasting each one, shook his right hand.
The one with more foam suits my taste.
As Jeong-woo actually drank the coffee he had mixed with the solution, the police officers looked at him with a somewhat suspicious gaze.
One of the police officers asked.
If it has this effect, why is it worth 1,000 euros? Isnt it just like syrup?
Well, you see.
Jeong-woo nced at Professor Jeremy.
This is a catalyst with a shape memory effect that restores chemical bnce, thats why.
Jeong-woo poured the coffee from the two sses back into the original takeout cup.
Like this.
The foam and coffee became so mixed that it was hard to call it cappino anymore, gradually returning to its original state.
Bubbling
As soon as the foam was perfectly restored, not only the watching police officers but also the man in the suit and Professor Jeremy looked bewildered.
Jeong-woo held the cup that had returned to its original cappino and took a sip before saying.
The original coffee made by the man named Greg. I think this one is the most delicious.
The police officer who smelled the cappino cup turned his head in surprise because the aroma was just as it should be.
Hey, is this some kind of magic?
Jeong-woo seeming to have sessfully convinced the police, said happily.
Its magical chemistry.
Yoon Yi-seol Venice Police Headquarters, Reception
Avoiding the gaze of the Italian police officer who kept staring at her and sending nces her way, Yoon Yi-seol sipped her coffee. When Jeong-woo walked over, she quickly stood up.
Did everything go well?
Yes, but
Yoon Yi-seols eyes shifted to the foreign man standing behind Jeong-woo, holding a hefty bag.
We have one morepanion. Professor Jeremy Becker.
The guest from the researchb?
Yes.
Leaning her head toward Jeremy next to Jeong-woo, Yoon Yi-seol greeted him.
Bon jorno~
Hes American.
Ah. Hi~
With a warm smile, she extended her greeting, but Professor Jeremy responded with a slightly tense expression, nodding curtly.
Whispering to Yoon Yi-seol, who was standing close by, Jeong-woo said in a low voice.
Hes someone whos very cautious.
Like me?
Much more than you, Yi-seol.
Yoon Yi-seol looked at Jeremy again. He had a gentle face, with barely any stubble and curly hair. Their eye contact revealed that he was an introverted person.
professor!
Someone in a suit called out to Jeremy and hurriedly approached.
Please reconsider Lancesss proposal. If you grant us exclusive rights, we will offer the best treatment in the industry.
Jeremy firmly shook his head.
The substance were researching is still a long way frompletion, and we havent decided how it will be used in any field.
Our R&D director is convinced. If itbines with our Tepecs fibers, it will revolutionize the materials industry
Im not interested.
Not understanding their conversation, Yoon Yi-seol looked at Jeong-woo. He exined in a low voice.
Seems like someone from a chemicalpany wants to buy the professors research results at a high price.
Is the professor a chemist like you?
Better than me. You know Harvard? Hes a professor in the biochemistry department there.
Wow.
And Yi-seol.
Jeong-woo added cautiously.
I need to speak only Italian for now.
Yes?
Yoon Yi-seol looked at him, not quite understanding.
Why
If necessary, could you trante for Professor Jeremy in simple English or something?
I dont mind, but why?
For some reason, my English pronunciation is getting all tangled today. Its non-existent.
Amused by the unexpected reason, Yoon Yi-seol chuckled.
In addition to the advance payment proposed by the otherpany, theyre offering up to a 15% royalty
We dont need that.
The man in the suit appeared dismayed as Jeremy maintained his firm stance. He shook his head and put his phone to his ear, then disappeared.
Jeremy returned to stand in front of Jeong-woo and Yoon Yi-seol.
Shall we leave Professor and have lunch? Its lunchtime.
Yoon Yi-seol gestured outside.
Follow us. Lunch time.
With a sly smile, she narrowed her eyes at Jeong-woo and asked.
Youre not trying to make fun of me, are you?
Of course not. If I intended to make fun of you, I wouldnt do it like this.
I feel very relieved.
Still, looking at Yoon Yi-seol who epted the request, Jeong-woo sent her a grateful look.
Han Jeong-woo East side of Piazza Roma
The street in front of the police station was a bustling area with restaurants, cafes, and tourist bus stops.
Jeong-woo walked along the street and pointed to a restaurant on the corner.
Yi-seol, didnt you say you wanted to try traditional food? I see a lot of that on the menu over there.
Lets go there.
Yoon Yi-seol turned her head to Jeremy, who had been following a step behind her.
Professor, Venice traditional food. Are you okay?
Its fine.
Mr. Jeong-woo
While Yoon Yi-seol was speaking, she suddenly turned to Jeong-woo.
How can I say hes going to shoot in English?
Um Bang?
Since his English pronunciation was still quite stiff, Jeong-woo made a joke.
Oh, I knew it would be like this.
Yoon Yi-seol, who was giving him a yful look, chuckled and then said to Jeremy with a bright smile.
Its on him, Jeong-woo.
No, no.
Thats okay, very~ okay.
Jeong-woo continued to practice his English pronunciation as he listened to their conversation. His pronunciation was still at a level where it sounded like he was under anesthesia.
It was frustrating to think how easily Italian came to him while his English was a struggle.
This must be a curse disguised as chemistry.
If he hadnt met Yoon Yi-seol, this trip would have been incredibly boring and painful.
Inside the restaurant, it was packed with customers. They were finally led to a table.
You can choose whatever you want to eat.
Shall we order several dishes and share them?
Yoon Yi-seol, holding the menu handed by the waiter, had an excited expression.
Mr. Han.
Jeremy, sitting opposite them, spoke to Jeong-woo.
I understand if you have a cold attitude towards me. I was quite rude in front of theboratory, so I understand why you might be hesitant. But I have to ask this. How did you manage to manipte the chemical equilibrium in milk fat and coffee molecules to deal with Drex?
Um
They needed an answer in this situation. Jeong-woo nced briefly at Yoon Yi-seol, who would trante for him.
With her sparkling eyes focused on choosing from the menu, she didnt show any signs of slowing down. He couldnt interrupt her.
I should write it down.
Jeong-woo pulled out a thin marker from his bag, and, using thenguage of chemists, he began drawing chemical equations. He added an exnation.
[The problem with Drex is that theres a shortage of free electrons in the most critical nucleus, which leads to an inurate diffusion rate.]
Jeong-woo pointed to a specific point in the chemical equation. Jeremys eyes lit up.
Thats right. That molecule is the troublemaker right now. However, the coffee experiment you conducted earlier was different.
Using his abilities would naturally lead to these results. However, to apply it to real chemical equations and create apletepound, a much moreplex process was required.
[Just Lucky.]
Jeremy seemed disappointed by this response.
Observing the world of molecules, the ability to influence as much as desired at the right time showed its highest efficiency in situations where research results could change with just a slight difference. It was the same when he had made the snow-removal in Cheonan.
Is there no other way to understand it quickly?
While he watched the other side of the table closely, Jeong-woo suddenly had an idea and scribbled words on the napkin.
[What if we try creating an enzyme that only affects enzymes? With the technology to create Drex, we should be able to construct enzyme frameworks using carbon nanostructures.]
You sound simr to Dr. Cheon Seung-guk.
Jeong-woo inwardly chuckled at this response. Well, he was using Cheon Seung-guks knowledge and abilities directly, so it was a naturalparison.
What specifically are you nning to do?
[Confine electrons within nanotubes and push them into the nucleus. Does this chemical form roughly align with that direction?]
Jeremy, who had been closely watching Jeong-woos pen as he continued to write something, expressed his admiration.
Wow, indeed
They had written several napkins, and before they knew it, an appetizer had arrived.
A dish called Sarde in Saor, a sardine specialty. Jeong-woo gestured to Jeremy to start with the meal.
[Thats my opinion. The rest, please ask Dr. Cheon Seung-guk.]
Jeremy nodded and pointed at the napkin with writing.
May I take this with me?
Jeong-woo epted without much thought. Jeremy folded the napkin carefully and put it in his pocket with gratitude.
Waiter! Ill buy the wine.
Jeremy raised his hand and ordered wine. When several mini bottles of wine arrived at the table, he offered one to Yoon Yi-seol.
Thats okay. Thats fine.
Yoon Yi-seol smiled and nodded.
It seems that foreigners are ustomed to having wine before a meal. Our overseas staff always has at least one ss.
He ordered three bottles, Yoon Yi-seol should have one.
I need to shoot for Yi-seol TV, so I cant drink. Jeong-woo, you should drink.
Jeong-woo pointed to Yoon Yi-seol.
I need to be the manager for that.
Thats right.
Yoon Yi-seolughed.
If theres any left, should we take it with us for dinner? Oh, but what if you throw me away?.
Why throw you away? You can stay as long as you want.
Although she asked yfully, Yi-seol smiled when Jeong-woo assured her that he wouldnt go around without her.
However, in the evening, wont there be staff with Yoon Yi-seol?
They wont being. Its toote.
Of course, Yoon Yi-seol was lying. Her manager had alreadye and even reserved a hotel. The overseas staff, who were also her bodyguards, kept sending her messages asking where she was.
Yoon Yi-seol.
Yes?
You didnt leave the staff behind, did you?
No!
Even though she was holding on firmly, a small part of her heart ached as she avoided Jeong-woos gaze and focused on the te of delicious Sarde in Saor.
Jeong-woo, who had filled his stomach with Bal Mantecato, a creamy-textured cod dish, raised his phone to check Cheon Seung-guks location as the meal was nearing its end.
As he did so, he spotted an Asian man with ck hair walking into the restaurant. He was a man in histe thirties, neatly dressed in a corporate attire, holding a briefcase. When the man walked straight towards their table, Jeong-woo wondered if he might be Dr. Cheon Seung-guk.
Dr. Cheon Seung-guk?
However, he hesitated because the man didnt seem old enough to be the professor. The mans steps halted abruptly in front of Jeremy.
Professor Jeremy Becker.
Jeremy, wiping his mouth with a napkin, looked at the man with a questioning expression.
Manager director of DUSF. Im Sun Hwi.
DUSF, the petrochemicalpany?
Yes, thats right. I heard you wereing to Venice. Im here regarding the Drex you developed
Jeong-woo watched in amazement as the Chinese man, who sounded simr to the Langmo employe he had seen earlier, discussed the power of the new substance that Jeremy had researched.
A super-catalyst that could be effective in any field.
He was so eager for it that he had inquired with Harvard University to check their schedule, flown straight to Venice from China, and was now waiting eagerly.
Yoon Yi-seol asked Jeong-woo.
What are they talking about?
They want to buy Professor Jeremys research.
Again?
Yoon Yi-seol, who knew nothing about chemicalpanies, was surprised.
Were done eating, right? Lets leave first.
Jeong-woo finished calcting the bill while they continued talking. Then he went outside. He called Dr. Cheon right away.
Dial tone.
-It seems you can talk now that youve called me?
In Italian, at least. Quando arrivi?
When he asked when he would arrive, he could hear Cheon Seungkooksughter.
-It seems like theres about an hour left until arrival. Considering the travel time within Venice, lets be generous and say an hour and a half.
Are youing through the train station?
-No, by boat. Where are you? In theb?
Im having lunch near the police station. By the way, people keeping to Professor Jeremy, saying they want to buy his research. Even the manager from Dusf came.
-If its Dusf, theyll probably try to buy it with a truckload of money.
Do I need to intervene?
-Not at all. He wont sell until its perfect, you know how stubborn that professor is. Anyway, if you want to see me soon,e to Zattere. Well be docking at the pier there.
The call ended, and Yoon Yi-seol, who had been standing quietly next to him.
Where are we going now?
He said well arrive at the Zattere pier in an hour, so should we go somewhere else and sightsee? Any suggestions?
Then we should go to San Marco. Theres so much to see there.
Like a diligent student who had studied the brochure, a list of popr tourist attractions popped out.
Okay, lets do that.
Jeong-woo turned his gaze to Jeremy inside the restaurant. He was still struggling to send Sun Hwi away, just as Cheon Seung-guk had predicted.
Ah, A B C Still not there.
Whats that?
Just testing my English pronunciation.
What on earth are those fournguages? Jeong-woo was half-giving up, as he couldnt see any way to solve this curse in a short time.
As Sun Hwi walked out roughly, he nced at Jeong-woo and shook his head before disappearing.
When Jeremy came out as well, Jeong-woo quickly typed an English sentence on his phone.
[Dr. Cheon will arrive in an hour. Are you going to stay in theb?]
And you?
[Well be sightseeing at San Marco first.]
Yoon Yi-seol shouted, Lets go together! to the contemtive Jeremy. Perhaps inspired by her bright energy, Jeremy expressed his willingness to go together.
Weber Jansen Calle Magno Street, third floor of a building.
The hand wearing a Rolex wristwatch mmed the table.
Sun Hwis here? What about Jeremy?
-Hes with Cheon Seung-guks associates. Among them, theres a man named Han Jeong-woo.
I dont like the idea of losing the exclusive rights to Dusf. Chinese capital has more assets than Lancess. Its not good.
As if that werent bad enough, Toms report was even worse.
-Jeong-woos expertise in handling Drex is superior to the professors. I saw the professor in shock, asking questions in theb.
The information was released a few days ago, how is that possible?
-I couldnt ask that. Jeong-woo and professor Jeremypletely ignored me. He seemed to have an attitude that whatever choice the professor made didnt matter.
Hes Cheon Seung-guks sessor. Theres no need to get involved in his strange actions one by one.
Weber had been monitoring address 2696 and finally stood up.
Ill give up here and make direct contact. You prioritize securing Jeremy. And as for Han Jeong-woo, try to dig up information on him.
-Should I send hired mercenaries to pry it out?
If possible. Keep the radiomunication going.
Chapter 73
Chapter 73- Special Research: Venice Entropy(5)
Han Jeong-woo San Marco Square
In Europes oldest cafes and the most expensive hotels that surrounded the wide square, pigeons and tourists mingled, creating a bit of a noisy scene.
Jeong-woo, with the tall bell tower on one side of the square as a backdrop,pleted thememorative shooting first. Perhaps due to the anticipation of meeting Cheon Seung-guk in an hour, he was now feeling a bit excited.
In the midst of this, Soo-chan received an international call.
-Is it really Venice? We had a drink together just the other day!
Thats how it turned out. And by tomorrow, Ill be heading back to Korea.
In the morning, he had sent a picture from a water bus, and Soo-chan seemedpletely surprised.
-Last time, it was a suite. Going abroad this time? Thatpany is no joke. You must keep going.
The phone bill is no joke, so lets stop it.
Mr. Jeong-woo!
Jeong-woos head turned towards Yoon Yi-seol, who was taking out the camcorder.
-Hey! Whose voice is that now? Are you with a woman?
Thats enough. Im ending the call.
Jeong-woo quickly pressed the end button to save Soo-chans phone bill and approached Yoon Yi-seol, who handed him the camcorder.
How should I shoot this time?
The idea is to go around in circles. The cathedral, the pce, the bell tower. In that order.
Jeong-woo adjusted the lens to capture Yoon Yi-seol and the cathedral in one frame and noticed Professor Jeremy, who was deeply engrossed in taking a selfie.
He seems to be really enjoying the sightseeing now. I guess were bing more familiar with him.
After pressing the camcorders recording button and sending a signal, Yoon Yi-seol spoke in a low voice.
The questionnaire.
Oh, where are we?
Well~
Yoon Yi-seol said, jumping in ce.
Ta-da! We have arrived at San Marco Square!
She extended her arms and had the happiest expression in the world. When she looked at Jeong-woo, she made an incredulous expression.
The manager should jump too.
Me too?
Yes, one more time.
The yfulness in her eyes as she turned to the lens made him wonder how to respond, so he just went along with it.
Ta-da~ San Marco Square!
After jumping together, she shouted with a satisfied and lively voice. Thats how the official Yi-seol TV began.
Wow, its a nice day for a walk. Its already spring here. Its a bit cloudier than in the morning, but the breeze is still nice.
Her constant chatter towards the lens, as if having a conversation with her fans.
This is why they want to see Yoon Yi-seol
Jeong-woo was so excited that he got lost in the moment and cooperated with the shoot.
This is the cathedral over there. Manager, how do you like it? Its impressive, isnt it?
Jeong-woo pointed at the five towering domes as if they were from an Arabian fairy tale. Then he handed the camcorder back to Yoon Yi-seol and shook it up and down.
Oh my. You seem to like it.
At Yoon Yi-seols nod, Jeong-woo read one of the questions from the questionnaire.
What are you most looking forward to these days?
I guess
Yoon Yi-seol, catching a glimpse of Jeong-woos face beside the lens, smiled and said.
Theres a big fan meeting event for my mini album release. Well give gifts, have a signing session, and greet each other face-to-face. Im already getting nervous.
Jeong-woo realized that she had already prepared answers that matched each question. It had seemed so natural that he hadnt noticed.
She said millions of people will watch this, right? I should stay focused.
While walking, Yoon Yi-seol encountered a flock of pigeons and took out a small bag from her bag. Inside was a piece of bread.
Im a bit scared of birds, you see. I failed in front of the Tokyo Tower. But today is a special day.
After taking a deep breath, she tore the bread into small pieces and threw them to the flock of pigeons.
Enjoy, little ones.
The pigeons gathered quickly and devoured the bread in an instant. Then, they started to approach the bread she was holding.
Yoon Yi-seols surprised reaction froze. Jeong-woo asked from behind the camcorder.
Do you need help?
No, I have to give them all this bread.
Theyre cute, but these little guys have quite an aggressive appetite.
They must be hungry.
Tearing the bread determinedly and scattering it a few more times, the pigeons crowded around Yoon Yi-seol even more.
Hey, stoping. Please~
Whether she was throwing the bread or trying to intimidate them with her gestures, it was unclear. She waved her arms in frustration.
Sorry, little ones. Im a bit scared.
Yoon Yi-seol, waving her arms at the pigeons, may have seemed a bitical, but that made her even cuter.
Jeremy, who had taken plenty of selfies, approached Jeong-woo. In response to his inquisitive look, Jeong-woo justughed and pointed to Yoon Yi-seol.
Cheer up, Yi-seol. Theres only half a piece of bread left.
Theres half left
Are you crying?
Im not crying!
Her response was short, perhaps due to her embarrassment.
As Jeong-woo thought that, since they were already making a video for the fans, he searched through the questionnaire for something more to do.
If you can think of a song right now, can you sing it for us?
Here?
Since she looked the prettiest when she sang, he was confident that the fans would want to see it.
Yes, right here. Now.
With a sigh, Yoon Yi-seol, who had a pouty face, looked at Jeong-woo and then at Jeremy beside him, and then she opened her mouth.
Well, then, Ill sing a short pop song.
Nurturing her voice amidst the birds, Yoon Yi-seol soon closed her eyes and began to sing.
He hadnt studied stage performance like Soo-chan, but Jeong-woo felt that this was a great performance on itself.
I see skies of blue and clouds of white
As her small impromptu performance began, some tourists stopped in their tracks and started watching her, treating the pigeons as the audience.
I see skies of blue and clouds of white
Although she was speaking in English, it felt as if it were her nativenguage, and the lyrics were perfectly understood. Moreover, this was a melody that Jeong-woo had also heard before.
The title is What a Wonderful World, right?
As Jeong-woo murmured this, he was taken aback. His English pronunciation, which had never been quite right, was flowing effortlessly.
Is it because of Yi-seols singing?
Along with the melody, her voice prated his ears, as if it had suddenly unlocked a specifguage neuralwork that had been closed off.
Was it so simple?
He should have realized when he suddenly started speaking Italian.
Thinking about it, its indeed a wonderful world~
Yoon Yi-seols voice and the lyrics she sang were as beautiful as the lyrics that praised the beauty of the world.
When she finished singing a verse, the travelers who had been listening spontaneously apuded from their hearts. Jeremy also joined in with an impressed expression.
That was great, Yi-seol. Your artwork is amazing.
What can I say, Jeong-woo
However, she was still standing huddled up due to the fear instilled by hundreds of pigeons. Even this sight was overflowing with charm.
It would be nice to capture that scene too.
Jeong-woo handed the camcorder to Jeremy.
Professor, Im going to rescue Yi-seol. Could you also film from this angle for a bit?
Are you finally willing to talk to me?
Well
Jeong-woo quickly addressed the situation, realizing that English was now possible.
I acted strangely earlier. I apologize. Its because of the jetg, my mood was up and down.
Apologizing, Jeremy readily epted the camcorder. Jeong-woo pushed through the pigeons and approached Yoon Yi-seol.
Jeremy Becker San Marco Square
If they run out of bread, they just gather around, they dont really attack. Theyre professional pigeons, you know.
I see
Dont cry. Here, hold my hand.
Jeremy had a smile on his face as he watched the young man and woman walk out from among the pigeons, hand in hand.
From the moment he first saw her, the youngdy had been smiling at him, and her singing voice was quite beautiful.
They came on their honeymoon. And I interfered, causing Dr. Cheons disciple to react so coldly.
As he concluded his own thoughts and fiddled with the camcorder, he suddenly felt a sense of pressure on both sides of his shoulders.
Turning his head, Jeremys face turned puzzled as he was grabbed by the arms of two unfamiliar men.
Jeong-woo, Yoon Yi-seol San Marco Square
The footage turned out really great. Top-notch.
Jeong-woo said as they walked away from the pigeons. Yoon Yi-seol looked at him with a questioning expression, Really?
As long as you didnt cry.
Ugh, its a disaster then!
Yoon Yi-seol sighed, her shoulders slumped, and then she bravely stepped forward, tears welling up. She followed closely behind Jeong-woo, at least taking somefort in holding his hand for a moment.
As they walked away from the pigeons, the two of them turned their attention to the direction where Professor Jeremy had been.
Professor, were here
Jeong-woo tilted his head. Professor Jeremy was nowhere to be seen. He nced around, but with so many passing tourists, it was hard to identify anyone.
Yoon Yi-seol also turned her gaze in search of Jeremy and asked.
Where did he go? Did he go to take pictures at the Pce?
I dont know. Without saying anything? He cant even go back to theb 2969 without us.
After waiting for a moment, Jeong-woosplexion changed.
The camcorder.
While it didnt seem likely that Jeremy would run off with the camcorder, Jeong-woo thought they should go look for him anyway. He looked back at Yoon Yi-seol.
We should find him together.
Should I wait here then? I dont know when hell be back.
No, lets go together. Im sure we can find him.
Confidently stating his intention, Jeong-woos eyes sparkled.
Yoon Yi-seol watched him with curiosity as he disyed this unique gaze. However, her blush deepened when she realized that his gaze was directed somewhere unexpected.
Why are you staring at me like that?
You and Professor Jeremy practically had the same meal, even beef.
At first, I thought I was eating beef too. But why?
Actually
Jeong-woo scanned the surroundings, looking for molecules simr to the ones he noticed on Yoon Yi-seols lips.
He discovered a faint trace in the airing from the direction of the exit from the square.
Its like a sense of smell. Dont be too surprised, like when you saw the pigeons.
Che, Im fully prepared to stay calm, you know?
Jeong-woo started to move.
Yoon Yi-seol, curious about how he nned to find Professor Jeremy amidst the crowd, followed closely behind him.
Leaving San Marco Square and entering a narrow alleyway crowded with shops, Jeong-woo paused for a moment to survey the surroundings and then pointed to a spot.
Over there.
Jeong-woo had been exploring the molecr world extensively, and his head had been pounding, but he was driven by a sense of duty as Yoon Yi-seols manager to find Jeremy and the camcorder.
The song on the boat and the footage in the square needed to be delivered to her fans.
Here.
I feel like Im looking for Waldo.
They turned a corner.
This way.
How do you know these unfamiliar streets so well?
They navigated throughbyrinthine alleys and arrived between rtively deserted buildings. Jeong-woo took a step inside but suddenly pulled back in surprise.
Stop, Yi-seol.
He held onto Yoon Yi-seols arm and pulled her back against the buildings wall. Yoon Yi-seol, rushing forward without thinking, lost her bnce and ended up being nestled against him.
Her face flushed with embarrassment, and she found herself involuntarily closing her mouth as Jeong-woo focused on scanning the gap between the buildings.
It was as if Sora was sending her a whisper, saying that such strokes of luck should be quietly enjoyed.
Professor, hes over there.
Upon hearing this, Yoon Yi-seol also cautiously peered her head through the gap in the building, revealing Jeremy, who had turned to a dirtiedplexion, surrounded by two burly men.
She gasped and quickly covered her mouth with her hand.
Jeong-woo strained to listen to their conversation. The two burly men were speaking in German.
Our employer is on his way. Dont move until then.
Were not trying to cause harm, so rx.
Jeremy, who couldnt understand anything, just kept repeating, Let me go. Why are you doing this? with a face full of injustice.
The two burly men responded with brief answers, their faces impassive.
Quiet.
Listen carefully to Lancesss proposal.
Lancess?
When thepany that had offered Jeremy a contract at the police station appeared, Jeong-woo hesitated on what to do and picked up his phone. He immediately dialed Cheon Seung-guks number.
-Do you miss me that much? You keep calling.
Professor Jeremy has been detained again.
-What?
Hes being held by people from apany called Lancess, and it seems like theyre trying to force him into a contract.
-Ha, so even that greedy weasel Weber got involved. This stupid professor emphasized secret meetings so much, but he just announced his schedule openly.
Muttering, Cheon Seung-guk continued.
-Ill handle the negotiation, so can you at least rescue Jeremy from there? If not, at least get the bag hes carrying.
Well Isnt that the most challenging part? Those guys are massive.
-I have a supply ofpounds in myb that induce anesthesia. Can you at least spray it on them? You should have the ability to assemble it in a structure that spreads in a specific direction.
Thats
Jeong-woo looked at the two burly men and then focused his gaze on a single molecule attached to their bodies.
Ill try to figure it out.
After the call ended, Jeong-woo turned his head to find Yoon Yi-seol. She was standing hidden against the wall. Considering the size of those guys, it was understandable.
Yi-seol.
Yes, what is it?
Yoon Yi-seol lifted her chin in surprise.
Do you happen to know any German songs?
With a sigh, Yoon Yi-seol replied.
I do have one prepared, but why?
Well
Jeong-woo scratched his head and began to exin.
Im sorry, but can you sing here?
Here? Right now?
At a loss for words at such an abrupt request, Yoon Yi-seol looked at Jeong-woo with wide eyes.
It may sound strange, but I need to hear some German to try andmunicate with those people. I havent used it in so long that my confidence has waned.
Seeing Jeong-woos serious expression, Yoon Yi-seol made up her mind and nodded.
I only know Die Lorelei.
Thats okay. Anything will do.
Come closer, then.
With her hands together and her lips lightly touching, Yoon Yi-seol began to sing the melody as if whispering into Jeong-woos ear.
Ich wei nicht, was soll es bedeuten~
Jeong-woo listened attentively, grateful for her help.
Her sense of preparing songs for different regions for her European fans came in handy, briefly freeing Jeong-woos tongue from the chemicalnguage curse.
Jeremy, Han Jeong-woo Back Alley in San Marco Area
Jeremys pupils trembled without restraint.
I should have gone back earlier.
Regret was useless at this point. Here, there was no room to assert rights as an American citizen.
There was no 911, no Massachusetts special forces in this neighborhood. In this situation, all he could feel was despair.
Despair at the rude big men who couldnt understand him, and at Cheon Seung-guk, who had called him out on his research with a single email. Jeremy med everyone he could.
Entschuldigen Sie.
At that moment, a voice from the other end of the alley caught Jeremys attention.
It was Han Jeong-woo, Cheon Seung-guks disciple. Jeremy watched him approach, his face filled with questions about how he hade here.
Excuse me.
When he spoke, the two burly men gave sharp res.
Jeong-woo first shed a brief smile to reassure Jeremy. Then he took a mini wine bottle from his bag and opened it.
It was the wine that the professor had offered for lunch. Taking a sip, Jeong-woo approached, and the two burly men gave him a look as if saying, What is this crazy guy doing?
I can feel the alcohol working its way through.
Jeong-woos gaze focused on the fragrance molecules emanating from one of the burly men.
Who are you?
You took my guest unexpectedly.
When fluent German came from the Asian, one of the burly men looked surprised and asked, Huh?
Did the boss send you?
Jeong-woo took another sip of wine and extended his finger toward the scent molecules floating in the air.
If youre talking about employees from Lancess, then no. By any chance, did you spray a cherry-scented perfume?
The two burly men perked up their ears at Jeong-woos question.
What are you babbling about? Get lost. Were not the kind of people who have time for this.
Im not exining because I have nothing to do. Cherry-scented perfumes contain mtonin, a sleep-inducing substance. It seems like your perfume is loaded with it. It must be an expensive perfume with lots of natural ingredients.
The structure of 5-Methoxy-N-acetyl-tryptamine at the tip of Jeong-woos finger instantly distorted into another chiral isomer. The vibrating molecules took on a form simr to the anesthetic found in one of the bottles he had seen in storage at 2969th Street.
In other words, it had be a forced sleep-inducing perfume that could float in the air.
Jeong-woo spread his palm, extracting the stardust from the noses of the two burly men. The sleep-inducing perfume, marked with a [+], touched their noses and seamlessly entered their respiratory systems.
Thud.
The two burly men copsed to the ground.
Wow
Seeing the two burly men fall into a deep sleep, Jeong-woo was rather astonished.
I didnt expect the effect to be so fast.
Jeong-woo, still somewhat dazed, approached Jeremy, who was looking at him, and took out the camcorder hanging from his shoulder.
Lets go, Professor. We dont know when these guys will wake up.
Jeremy, who suddenly came to his senses, hurriedly followed Jeong-woo.
Jeong-woo!
Yoon Yi-seol, who had been peering from a distance, rushed over.
Why are those people like that?
They probably didnt sleep wellst night.
But does that mean they should sleep on the sidewalk like that?
I wouldnt know.
Jeong-woo shrugged and closed the mini wine bottle, putting it back in his bag. Then he handed the camcorder to Yoon Yi-seol.
Take care of it.
Why did you suddenly drink wine?
Because I really liked your singing.
Yoon Yi-seol gave Jeong-woo a quizzical look.
You keep changing the subject.
I was trying some magical chemistry to rescue Professor Jeremy.
Wow.
Uh, does that make sense to you?
As if to say it wasnt just that, Yoon Yi-seol turned the camcorders monitor towards Jeong-woo.
This was recording the whole time. It captured the situation when Professor Jeremy was kidnapped.
Really? We should report this to the police then.
While having a back-and-forth conversation, Jeong-woo and Yoon Yi-seol walked away. Behind them, Jeremy, clutching his bag tightly, followed closely, worried that they might leave him behind.
Tom Schneider Back Alley in San Marco Area
Weve secured Professor Jeremy. Were almost there
As Tom turned into the alley, he nearly dropped his radio. It was because the two mercenaries he had hired for a hefty sum were peacefully sleeping on the ground.
Whats, whats going on?
Cheeik.
-Are you talking to me?
Han Jeong-woo Zattere, south of Dorsoduro
The morning wasnt particrly clear.
Suddenly, dark clouds gathered in the western sky, and finally, raindrops began to fall one by one.
Jeong-woo led hispanions under the eaves of an unidentified building.
Its raining out of nowhere.
I read in a book that Venice doesnt have many clear days.
Since the space under the eaves wasnt very wide, Jeong-woo ced Yoon Yi-seol and Professor Jeremy inside and stood slightly leaned against it.
Get closer, Jeong-woo.
Its okay.
Youve got a cold. Come here quickly.
Yoon Yi-seol grabbed Jeong-woos arm and pulled him.
Uh, the cold
Now, there was no corner to make excuses.
In the end, Jeong-woo stood in the cramped space as if he had no choice, with their arms interlocked, and took a deep breath.
Its like a shower, it will stop soon.
Jeong-woo nced at the pier, wondering when Cheon Seung-guk would arrive. But his attention was mostly on Yoon Yi-seols hand holding his left arm.
Ugh, Im shaking.
There was no need to pinch his cheek to see if this was a dream. The warmth he felt from the touching arms was real.
Now, with Cheon Seung-guks arrival, everything would be over.
The streets and canals that had been bustling with people and boats now seemed deserted. No one could be seen, and the raindrops fell relentlessly onto the empty streets.
The different side of Venice, which made Jeong-woo feel like he was momentarily alone, evoked a sense of poignant emptiness in itself.
Shhh
Quiet contemtion in the rain.
Jeong-woo nced at Yoon Yi-seols profile for a moment, then turned his head and met her eyes.
It should have been awkward, but her response of meeting his gaze with a smile in her eyes made him strangelyfortable.
What should I call this feeling?
Jeong-woo.
Yes?
You mentioned earlier that it was like magical chemistry, right?
Thats right.
Yoon Yi-seol smiled brightly.
I somehow have a feeling.
Really?
Sometimes your eyes sparkle, Jeong-woo. And then you do fascinating things.
It seemed like she was talking about molecr vision.
Jeong-woo thought it was pointless to rify the truth or justify it with chemical terms, so he just smiled calmly.
Thats right. Is there a checklist for things to do in Venice, Yi-seol?
I have one.
What is it?
To try something I failed at once.
Oh, the pigeons?
No, not that. I havent done it yet.
When Jeong-woo raised an eyebrow, Yoon Yi-seol just smiled.
2 PM.
The pouring rain gradually subsided.
Oh? Hes here. Professor Jeremy. Hes here.
A white formal motorboat arrived at the pier, raising high expectations. Jeong-woo walked towards the pier with eager eyes.
Cheon Seung-guk.
The man who had created the AF-12, changing Jeong-woos life, had finally arrived within reach.
Chapter 74
Chapter 74- Special Research: Venice Entropy(6)
Yoon Yi-seol, Han Jeong-woo- Zattere pier
As a middle-aged man disembarked from the boat, Yoon Yi-seols first impression of Cheon Seung-guk was that of a handsome man with a mature aura.
Are you Han Jeong-woo?
Dr. Cheon Seung-guk?
You look quite well.
Dr. Cheon, youre younger than I expected.
Cheon Seung-guk confidently addressed Jeong-woo with a demeanor that suggested he could handle anything.
Jeong-woo, in turn, looked at Cheon Seung-guk with a gleam in his eye that said he was smart enough to know better.
Huh? Their eyes are simr.
Although their faces were not alike, there was a certain resemnce in their atmosphere. Cheon Seung-guk nced briefly at Jeong-woo and then turned his gaze toward her.
I recognize Jeremy, but this little one
Oh, hello. Im Yoon Yi-seol.
Yeah, nice to meet you.
Cheon Seung-guk greeted her lightly and made a pointed remark to Jeong-woo.
You wereining al morning, but were you free enought to stroll around with a lover? Your confidence is quite something.
Seeing Cheon Seung-guks expression as if appraising him again, Jeong-woo raised an eyebrow as if to dispel any misunderstandings.
Shes not my lover. Doctor, dont you know Yoon Yi-seol?
Why should I know about this youngdy?
You dont watch much TV, do you? Yi-seol is my friend. Shes apanying me on this trip to Venice.
I cant fathom it. Is such a beautiful youngdy just a friend? Do you have an even more beautiful lover hidden somewhere?
You dont even know who she is. Shes a top star in Korea Forget it. Lets get back to work.
Yoon Yi-seol felt a sense of diminishing self-worth whenever she met Jeong-woos acquaintances.
Cheon Seung-guk retrieved a rope from the front of the motorboat and tied it to a dock pir, then looked back at Jeremy.
Hey, Jeremy. Wheres the Drex?
its here, but are you really Dr. Cheon Seung-guk?
Doesnt our conversation from earlier dispel your doubts? Well, then, go back and finish the contract with Lancess without theplete Drex.
As the two figures came to mind, Jeremy cleared his throat and lowered his head. Cheon Seung-guk turned his gaze to the other side of the dock.
Alright, Jeremy. Unless youre going to act like a scared cat, theres a cafe right here that serves excellent coffee, so lets talk there
As Cheon Seung-guk was speaking, he turned his eyes to Jeong-woo and sighed.
Jeremys got a tail again?
Really?
At the three-way intersection.
Both of them simultaneously turned their gazes toward the intersection.
I havent confirmed whether they are employees of Lancess or the security guards who fainted.
Theyre Dusf, arent they? They look like theyre of Chinese descent.
Yoon Yi-seol raised her head in the direction they were looking and was surprised to see six men in suits approaching. She overheard something about Professor Jeremys bag drawing attention from chemicalpanies worldwide.
Cheon Seung-guk released the rope again and said.
We can taste the coffee here another time. We need to unpack at the hotel first. Jeremy, get on the boat.
Doctor, Yi-seol has a schedule, so if we go too far
Were going to Lido Ind. Well, where should we drop you off along the way?
Yoon Yi-seol was amazed by this suggestion.
The ind where the Venice Film Festival takes ce? Ive always wanted to go there.
This youngdy knows her stuff. Most of the hotels and resorts there are top-notch.
Cheon Seung-guk shouted as he tossed the rope into the boat.
Hop on! Lets go.
Jeong-woo, who had boarded first, reached out his hand to Yoon Yi-seol. As they sat side by side in the rear seat of the boat, Jeremy and Cheon Seung-guk also boarded.
Vroom
The engine roared to life on the motorboat, equipped with fourfortable seats, a steering wheel, and a transparent windbreaker. The men in suits who had been rushing desperately stopped in their tracks and began reporting on their phones as the boat slowly moved away.
Cheon Seung-guk, turned the head of the motorboat towards the direction of the canal exit.
Do you know the best thing about Venice? Even if CIA grandfathers chase us, they cant catch up if we escape by water.
Whoosh
The boat kicked up a wake as it gradually gained speed.
Is this your boat, Doctor?
Yeah. I acquired it a long time ago. Its old, but it can still go fast
Feeling a sudden shiver down his spine, Cheon Seung-guk nced back and licked his lips. Two boats had just emerged from a narrow canal between the canals and were rapidly changing direction, heading towards them.
If theyre chasing us in speedboats, the situation changes a bit. Those Chinese guys are just throwing money around.
Jeong-woo, who had turned his head backward, now had eyes filled with surprise at Dusfs pursuit.
Come over and take the wheel.
Me?
Ive set the speed to maximum, so just keep it straight.
Jeong-woo took the wheel, and Cheon Seung-guk walked to the back of the boat.
Hey, Jeremy. Hand me your phone.
Why?
Why do you think?
Pointing at the two boats in the rear, Cheon Seung-guk snatched the phone from Jeremy as if taking it away and opened the back to remove the battery.
ckberry? What era is this? When was this model without even touch functionality made? Youre about to be a multi-millionaire, upgrade to thetest one.
What are you doing right now?
Because of people chasing us because of you, Im trying to solve it with your phone. A person should have a conscience.
Jeremys gaze, which seemed to expressplete iprehension, made Cheon Seung-guk grimace as if giving up. He then took out a handkerchief from his pocket, dipped it in the water, and removed the battery from the phone. He wrapped the battery in the wet handkerchief and tightly held it in his right hand.
Yi-seol.
Yes?
Yoon Yi-seol, who had been staring at Cheon Seung-guk absentmindedly from the rear seat, widened her eyes at his call.
Are you the type to scream if you see something unexpected?
Uh probably?
Towards the rear of the boat, the two faster boats were approaching.
Then, could you please keep your mouth shut? Were about to do something a bit unusual.
Yoon Yi-seol covered her mouth instinctively upon witnessing what appeared to be sparks emanating from Cheon Seung-guks right hand as he held the battery.
As the two boats approached, Cheon Seung-guk swiftly tossed the battery forward. He then casually shook out the handkerchief as if nothing had happened. The battery, following an arc, fell onto the water.
Watching it with an expression that asked what he had just done, Yoon Yi-seol felt her eyes tremble at the events that unfolded next.
With an eerie sound like kuwung, a wave suddenly shot up, causing one of the boats to lose bnce and veer sideways.
A, a bomb?
Not that grandiose. I just temporarily activated a surface wave. It converted the batterys internal energy.
Wow.
Yeah? It doesnt seem like the right time for admiration here.
But this is chemistry.
Well, its not the type of chemistry youd typically think of. Anyway
Cheon Seung-guk looked at Jeremy as the boat that had lost bnce regained its direction and elerated again, while the other boat continued to follow closely.
Do you have any spare batteries? It didnt work as powerfully as I thought with this old model.
W-what are you doing, you
Jeremy, still unable to believe what had just happened, clutched the seat tightly and watched Cheon Seung-guk warily.
Oh,e on. What are you going to do if you panic like this, man? Youre living in a country known for gun control.
While Cheon Seung-guk grumbled, Yoon Yi-seol found a spare smartphone battery in her bag.
Could this one work?
Oh? That should be enough.
Here you go.
Taking the spare battery and wrapping it in the handkerchief, Cheon Seung-guk winked yfully at Yoon Yi-seol.
Yi-seol. Remind meter to ask Jeong-woo to buy you something better than this.
Crack.
Yoon Yi-seol, who witnessed the much clearer spark that shot up from Cheon Seung-guks handpared to before, couldnt close her gaping mouth.
If Jeong-woo was like a wizard searching for Duchi with a mysterious gaze, and Professor Jeremy was also searching, then this Dr. Cheon Seung-guk seemed to have the aura of an archmage, observing these bad guysno, these employees of some wealthy Chinesepany.
And then, the spare battery held by Cheon Seung-guk fell onto the water with a ssh.
Kuuung!
Suddenly, a loud noise startled Jeong-woo as he turned his head. A two-meter-high wave surged abruptly from the back of the boat.
What the heck!
The wave engulfed the two high-speed boats that were following them.
One boat shot up into the air like it was jumping, then crashed into the water, shutting off the engine. The other boat quickly changed direction, barely reducing its speed, and managed to avoid capsizing.
Meanwhile, Cheon Seung-guk, who had been at the back, calmly took out an umbre from the floor.
Thud.
As Cheon Seung-guk and Yoon Yi-seol were the only ones under the umbre, Jeong-woo and Jeremy had to endure the downpour that fell directly onto their heads.
When did you bring an umbre? Thank you, Doctor.
Thanks for lending me your battery.
After exchanging polite greetings with Yoon Yi-seol, Cheon Seung-guk returned to the steering wheel. Jeong-woo, who had just been washed with canal water, wiped the moisture off his face with his outerwear and asked.
What did you just do?
Something I usually do.
You do this kind of thing regrly?
I dont go down alleys where I might get hit by bacteria.
Jeong-woo had only heard it briefly because he was busy driving the boat, but Cheon Seung-guk had just created a water column by specially reacting the battery. It was an incredibly intense reaction, far beyond what heating a hand warmer could achieve.
Is it because its the same ability but on a different level?
However, no matter how much Jeong-woo thought about it, he couldnt figure out how to create such a situation with the level of dust particles and batteries that generate static electricity.
Standing on the receding boat, the Chinese individuals were shouting and pointing fingers in this direction.
Doctor, isnt it risky to do this kind of thing?
It is.
Having taken the steering wheel, Cheon Seung-guk directed the boat southeast after leaving the canal and spoke.
Everyone has their own priorities in action. This is a choice ording to my standards. If I showed them this much, they would have known I came. Ill handle the consequences on my own.
Jeong-woos gaze lingered on Professor Jeremy. Due to fear, his face had gone beyond being just frightened and seemed to have lost all spirit.
The timid professor, who had decided toe here after receiving an email that struck the heart of Cheon Seung-guk, was having a truly eventful day today.
After about 20 minutes of traveling on the Adriatic Sea, the rain stopped, and the group arrived at an ind that stretched out in the form of an emerald amid the sea.
Weber, Tom San Marco District, Back Alley
Did you just sleep because you were tired?
Webers question made the two bulky men burst intoughter, finding it absurd even by their own standards.
Tom, who was standing beside him, raised an eyebrow and asked Weber.
So what should we do now?
Besides Dusf, three otherpanies also smell fishy. Especially the Middle Eastern guys. The Chinese capital is nothingpared to them. They havent arrived in Venice yet, but they will by tonight.
True to his role as a spy imnted in most of the worlds top chemicalpanies, Weber was quick with information. Tom was taken aback by the news he shared.
In that case, should we hire more mercenaries and use force if necessary?
Click.
-Boss.
Weber raised his hand briefly in response to the voiceing from the radio.
What is it?
-Dusf was chasing Jeremy on two boats, and then there was an underwater explosion It was like they hit a mine
Weber, who was receiving the report, raised his head.
Ignorant. Cheon Seung-guk is there. We shouldnt deal with him like that.
Tom, who had listened to the radio message with Weber, wore a stunned expression and asked.
An underwater explosion? Sir, was our opponent a terrorist?
No.
Tom, who had just breathed a sigh of relief, froze in ce at Webers next words.
Theyre even more ruthless. Terrorists usually have a purpose. But this guys intentions are unclear. Hes a psychopath in the chemical industry. Hes like a devil incarnate. Tell the mercenaries. Never approach Cheon Seung-guk alone.
Chapter 75
Chapter 75- Special Research: Venice Entropy(7)
Han Jeong-woo Lido Ind, Excelsior Hotel
In contrast to the old and worn areas of Venice, Lido Ind exuded a clean and well-kept resort-like atmosphere.
Arriving at the hotel, which had no car parking but a boat dock, Jeong-woo asked Cheon Seung-guk as they walked into the lobby connected directly to the pier.
Doctor, I brought the Drex with us. What do you n to do with it?
What do you think Ill do?
Jeong-woo could only shake his head in disbelief. Cheon Seung-guk, who had been assigned a room by the receptionist, spoke up.
Everyone go to the bar and wait. Ill finish unpacking and head downstairs.
The bar on the hotels first floor was a charming ce with a terrace facing the sea. Sitting at a table with a good view of the outside, Jeong-woo and Yoon Yi-seol ordered orange juice, while Jeremy, seemingly anxious, ordered wine.
Wow, what a view. We should check out the beachter. Ill film it for Yi-seol TV.
Sure, lets do that. I think Ive finished most of my work for today.
Yoon Yi-seol, who had been admiring the beach, turned to Jeong-woo and said.
Dr. Cheon is quite interesting.
Im d you found it interesting, but
Jeong-woo replied cautiously.
Ill keep observing and making judgments about Dr. Cheon a little longer Huh? Yi-seol?
Yoon Yi-seol, who had been blinking as if drowsy, suddenly leaned her head on his shoulder and fell into what seemed like a deep sleep.
Yi-seol, are you asleep?
He gently shook her shoulder, but there was no response. Jeong-woo was momentarily confused.
It was impossible for someone to fall asleep like this, not even due to fatigue.
Startled, Jeong-woo turned his head and stifled a gasp as he surveyed the scene inside the bar.
Jeremy was also sprawled on the table. The staff who had been preparing drinks and the guests sitting at the corner tables, all of them had their eyes closed and were sound asleep.
What on earth
Jeong-woo cautiously ced Yoon Yi-seol against the chair and approached Jeremy, shaking his shoulder. There was no sign of waking up.
At that moment, a shiver ran down his spine.
With a tinkling sound of bells, the bars door opened, and Cheon Seung-guk entered. He walked directly towards Jeong-woo, ignoring the under maintenance sign at the entrance.
No need to be so surprised. Its because of me.
Well, that part is particrly surprising.
Cheon Seung-guk chuckled at Jeong-woos reaction.
Theyll wake up in about ten minutes. Except for you and me, everyone else is under the influence of apound that put them to sleep, starting from AF-12. That should give us enough time to talk.
What are you talking about?
Lets start with AF-5.
As Cheon Seung-guk mentioned the protein polymer he brought from Korea, Jeong-woo took out a special container from his pocket.
This was number 5? The one mentioned in the empty research documents?
Yeah, but numbering isnt all that important in the Almighty Factor. I just followed the chromosome number that has the biggest impact.
Almighty Factor. AF.
With an increased understanding ofnguage, it was easy to grasp why the abbreviation was chosen like that.
Cheon Seung-guk ced Jeremys Drex special storage device on the table, took Jeremys fingerprint, and then unlocked the sealed container holding Drex.
Professor, are you nning to steal it while hes asleep?
Huh? Why would I steal something like this? Oh, Jeremy, you ordered good wine. Ill have some of thatter too.
A substance of immense value to certain chemicalpanies was rolling on the table, receiving less attention than a bottle of wine. And then itnded on Professor Jeremys scalp.
Cheon Seung-guks gaze shifted to the bag and the special device brought by Jeremy.
This is really valuable. Its an ultrapact synthesis device and only a few exist in the world. The Harvard guys are quite skilled.
Jeong-woo chuckled and asked.
You called Professor Jeremy just for this machine? Not toplement Drexs imperfections?
Complement? You can do that yourself.
Well, yes, but
As Jeong-woo looked on with a disappointed expression, Cheon Seung-gukbined the container holding AF-5 into the vacant slot of the special device.
So, how has theb been for the past two months? Isnt it stifling?
In what way?
When youve already transcended chemicalmon sense, it can be frustrating to deal with people who are still stuck in it. Will there be proper conversations?
Chemical discussions involving the ability to see molecules often became one-sided. Thats probably what he was referring to regarding the frustration.
Jeong-woo responded with a calm smile.
There was a frustrating aspect to it, but it wasnt that bad.
Hmm, not that bad? Maybe youre naturally suited to be a researcher.
With a beep, Cheon Seung-gukpleted the inspection of AF-5 perfectly attached to the special device and took out a small vial from his pocket.
Whats that?
Can you see the molecules inside it?
Jeong-woo focused his gaze and peered into the vial.
Well its simr to G-proteins. There are about a hundred variants.
Compared to the neat structure of Drex, it was horriblyplex and chaotic.
Exactly. Its an activation switch that will deliver theponents of AF-5 to your nervous system without side effects. It was a challengingbination, and it took about three months.
I see.
As Jeong-woo nodded, he noticed something strange in Cheon Seung-guks words.
What? My nervous system?
Are you going to drink it? Whats the use of extravagance at this age?
I was hired to assist with KG Chemistrys research project.
I know.
At that moment, Jeong-woo realized what the real work Cheon Seung-guk had mentioned beforeing to Venice was.
The clinical trial. It hasnt finished yet, right?
Its ongoing all year round. We need to see how versatile you can be with the Almighty Factor.
Still, this is so sudden
You signed the contract, not me. Now, the penalty youd have to ask about for breaking it would be quite substantial, right?
As the contents of the small vial were transferred into a tube and the switch was pressed, AF-5 began to synthesize.
The jelly-like green masses floating in the liquid gradually gathered together.
Was there such a use in the contract?
I dont know. I was only instructed to write many confusing terms in a reasonable way.
This statement was slightly shocking. Jeong-woo had trusted Dr. Moon like a rock.
Alright, its done. I couldnt make it in a more convenient capsule form.
Cheon Seung-guk took a syringe from his front pocket. After opening the syringe cap and inserting the needle into the top part of the vial, the green jelly remained intact.
Buttocks? Or the arm?
Thats um
An irreversible decision at this point. After swallowing his saliva, Jeong-woo asked.
Is there a machine that can do it all at once into the neck?
Youve watched too many movies. Injecting like that with a syringe gun risks infection, you know? The arm will do. The buttocks might be sore, and you wont be able to walk properly for a while.
Cheon Seung-guk immediately grabbed Jeong-woos forearm and pushed the needle in. He slowly began injecting AF-5.
Ouch, that stings. What kind of medicine is this?
Its better for you to check it yourself than for me to exin a hundred words. It needs to remain in your system until evening for absorption toplete. If you faint here, itll be a hassle to carry you, so go to your room and lie down. Well talk more afterward.
As the green liquid flowed into his body through his arm, Jeong-woos mind gradually became more hazy with each fiery sensation.
What about Yi-seol?
In the midst of this, youre going to take care of your female friend? How tender yet pitiful.
Well, I sort of ended up being her day manager. Is that okay?
Up to you. Ill let her know. Heres the key. Oh, and on your way out, please turn the sign at the entrance. Its almost over in 10 minutes.
Jeong-woo left the bar with his left arm held and went up to the second floor. He entered the room Cheon Seung-guk had reserved and copsed onto the bed.
Yoon Yi-seol, Han Jeong-woo Excelsior Hotel, Room 2013
[I heard its dangerous to travel on the ind after sunset. Ill take a water taxi around 8:00 and wait at the hotel dock. Dont bother Jeong-woo too much and just wait for a bit.]
A few hours ago, Yoon Yi-seol rechecked the message from her director and let out a sigh.
It was currently 6:00. Her n to walk along the beach and film the final episode of Yi-seol TV, where she had intended to confess her feelings, was now in jeopardy due to Jeong-woo suddenly falling asleep.
He got soaked in the rain with a cold.
With a worried look, Yoon Yi-seol gently ced her palm on Jeong-woos cheek. He still felt warm, and she hesitated whether she needed to take him to the hospital.
After changing the towel on his forehead one more time, about five minutes had passed.
Uh.
Jeong-woo, who had been tossing and turning, opened his eyes and murmured.
Yi-seol?
Yes, its me. Are you okay? You still have a high fever. Should I call a doctor?
Wheres Dr. Cheon right now?
I heard Professor Jeremy and he went to the restaurant.
Im sorry, but can you call him? Right now?
Feeling that it was something quite important, Yoon Yi-seol nodded and got up. She walked out of the bedroom, and as she headed toward the living room, she heard Jeong-woos voice again.
Be careful of the bag in front of your feet. Dont trip.
Oh my, thank you.
Yoon Yi-seol raised her hand to the doorknob and nced back at the bedroom. She thought she saw Jeong-woo with his eyes closed just now.
He must be half asleep.
Heading down the corridor, she hurriedly made her way to the first floor of the hotel where the restaurant was located.
Jeong-woo was struggling to regain hisposure amidst the cacophony that echoed from all directions like an endless series of echoes.
Dozens of high-performance speakers were ced near both ears, ying all the radio channels at once, creating a cacophony of countless noises that assaulted his eardrums.
He could hear every single sound.
Even the urgent sound of Yoon Yi-seols footsteps echoed out, and the noise of her colliding with the bag ced in front of the living room and the resulting reverberations against the wall could be distinguished.
However,pared to the uing problem, this noise pollution was not even at a serious level.
The shock of what he witnessed as soon as he slightly opened his eyes was beyond anything Jeong-woo could ept calmly.
Humans can only see the visible light spectrum, which is transmitted through the differentiation of light into the three primary colors and variations in brightness.
Jeong-woo had just encountered a new world that extended beyond that. It seemed to be in the realm of gamma rays, infrared, and microwaves, but it was a strange dimension where wavelengths beyond that intertwined.
The world seen through molecr vision was quaint. I almost screamed next to Yi-seol.
Two months ago, when his perspective on the world changed with AF-12, it wasnt as shocking as this. He had not prepared himself to ept a world in this manner, which was not terrible but perhaps somewhat unsettling.
Lets stay calm. I can only use molecr vision when I want to. This might be a simr mechanism.
He tried to calm his nerves, taking countless deep breaths and attempting to soothe the expanded senses of vision and hearing.
As the sounds that were assaulting his eardrums lessened to a faint hum, Jeong-woo discreetly opened one eye.
The hotel room, with a ceiling pattern that he couldnt tell if it was Renaissance or Baroque style and curtains swaying in the sea breeze.
Phew.
Jeong-woo patted his chest, relieved to be lying in a physical space.
He propped up his upper body and blinked his eyes.
What kind of harmony is this?
As he pondered, the door on the outside made a clickas it opened, and the ultrasonic wave of that click spread into the living room, creating diffraction as it traveled through the reception area, and reached the bedroom.
Jeong-woo could witness this process with his own eyes and couldnt help but cough, feeling as if his senses were ying tricks on him.
The cough made an ultrasonic wave that echoed again as it collided with the bedroom, then rebounded and exited through the door.
With his head shaking vigorously, Jeong-woo muttered, No, Im not seeing strange things, and right in front of him, Cheon Seung-guk appeared.
Alright. How do you feel about experiencing the world of waves?
Waves?
Cheon Seung-guk flicked his finger, and Jeong-woo watched as the emitted sound waves from Cheon Seung-guks fingertips reached the curtains at the end of the bedroom and disappeared.
You can perceive waves?
To be precise, you could call it a special sense that detects the oscition of electrons. Sound, light, radio waves. Once you adapt, you should be able to distinguish them in detail. Youll discover better ways to utilize it as you be more familiar with it.
So, thats why he had to experience it firsthand before Cheon Seung-guk could exin it. If he had only heard about it, he wouldnt have understood.
The time when you came here by boat, was that also one of the applications of waves?
Its simr but not exactly.
Jeong-woo, who was briefly at a loss for words, asked.
Are you saying this clinical trial will make me some kind of superhuman?
What?
Cheon Seung-gukughed for a long time.
If you want to be one, go ahead. I wont stop you. But do you know the Second Law of Thermodynamics?
Somewhat.
Thew that heat flows from hot to cold ces.
Objects left undisturbed in a confined space will never spontaneously be hotter on one side and colder on the other for no reason.
Lets try sensing this.
Cheon Seung-guk raised both hands and gathered all the free electrons in the room. Along with them, air molecules came together in his left and right hands in a simr scale. Since they were active gas molecules, they collided and moved around wildly within a certain range.
When exining the Second Law, theres a thought experiment that points out a paradox.
Cheon Seung-guk quickly exined that if there were an all-powerful being who stood in the middle of an object, opened and closed a door, allowing only hot molecules to pass through in one direction and cold molecules to pass through in the other direction, one side would be hotter, and the other side wouldnt get colder.
This being is called Maxwells Demon, defying the order of the universe.
A strange wave extending from Cheon Seung-guks right hand swept away the cold molecules that were on top of it, sending them to the left. In contrast, from his left hand, he sent the hot molecules towards the right.
The left hand is for the dull ones, and the right hand is for the lively ones.
As Cheon Seung-guk dispersed the air molecules from his left hand, Jeong-woo felt a refreshing sensation, and as he dispersed the air molecules from his right hand, a warm sensation brushed against his cheek.
Ordinary people would probably call me a demon if they saw me. But youre seeing it, right? This process that has been manifested through the simple sense of perceiving waves.
Its still fascinating, though.
Use your innate researchers disposition and this fascinating sense to tackle the remaining tasks thoroughly. And make sure to report to Dr. Moon regrly.
With that, Cheon Seung-guk concluded the conversation and walked toward the bedroom door.
I almost forgot. Your friend whos not your lover is anxiously waiting in the corridor.
Oh
Jeong-woo got up from the bed. As Cheon Seung-guk walked through the living room, he continued speaking.
And a word of advice, when you return to Korea, help Dr. Moon with her work and so on. Her working style is textbook stubbornness. Shes quite ignorant.
Ill do my best.
Jeong-woo recalled the note pinned to an empty file folder he had seen in Cheon Seung-guks private researchb.
[The production of organicpounds using AF-5 must proceed carefully. Even a partial triggering of the revolutionary chemical reaction could cause a shake in the foundations of society]
Jeong-woo raised his palm to gather some specks of dust.
Move!
No response. They just shook their bodies as if dancing among themselves.
Ah, forget about shaking the foundations.
Watching this, Cheon Seung-guk chuckled and opened the door. Following him, Jeong-woo stepped into the corridor, where Yoon Yi-seol, who had been anxiously waiting for him, approached with a skeptical expression.
Mr. Jeong-woo, are you okay?
I am. Since the sun hasnt risen yet, shall we go and shoot some Yi-seol TV?
What about the cold?
Well I slept soundly and its gone.
With a slight smile, Yoon Yi-seol looked at Jeong-woo with suspicion in her eyes. She then ced her hand on his forehead.
Is the fever gone?
Yes
Her eyes widened as she confirmed that the fever had gone down.
Chapter 76
Chapter 76- Special Research: Venice Entropy(8)
Yoon Yi-seol Lido Ind beach
Beyond the fog clouds covering the sea, the sun was setting, casting a warm hue over everything.
Yoon Yi-seol walked along the beach filled with the sound of waves and turned to look at Jeong-woo, who was recording with his camcorder.
The moment had arrived.
From preparing the confession to execution, she had been thinking about this all day, following him around.
It wasnt easy.
For someone who carried the misfortune of wanting to kick the futon when feeling flustered, nning had been a battle.
It all started with the fake questionnaire she had prepared on the overnight train ride, pondering throughout the night. She had used all her broadcasting know-how to craft only the most convincing questions. All for this moment.
Shall I ask a question?
Yes.
Jeong-woo, flipping through his notebook, asked.
If you had an ideal type who wanted to walk in such a beautiful ce together?
Yoon Yi-seol struggled to suppress the desire to shout Its you.
Someone who would turn your attention away from music altogether. Id like that person.
Is that all? Looks dont matter?
Id be satisfied if they looked as good as you, Mr. Manager. Do you think youre good-looking? Objectively speaking.
Jeong-woo chuckled and shook his head as if conceding to her, moving beyond the precarious territory of her spontaneous joke. As she threw the joke, Yoon Yi-seols expression became more serious, and she walked slowly along the beach.
Let me ask the next question. If you met such an ideal type, what would you do?
In the past, she had only lived with end-stage symptoms of timidness, but on the day she followed Jung-woo to the movie theater, she took a step of courage and let it go.
Today, the brave Yoon Yi-seol stood before him.
If I had a lover? Id sing songs, write music, and even write letters
Yoon Yi-seol took a step closer to Jeong-woo.
She had sung songs to her hearts content today. The song had practically beenposed during her visit to Jeong-woos neighborhood, on the rooftop. And the letters, well, they were on the next page of that notebook.
[Ive fallen for you.]
Starting with those words.
Yoon Yi-seol took another step closer to Jeong-woo.
With his eyes glued to the camcorders screen, Jung-woo is focused on capturing her beautifully on film.
Yoon Yi-seol continued her monologue.
I will like you much, much more.
He was within arms reach. His always neatlybed hair was slightly tousled by the wind, making her want to fix it. If they became lovers, she could touch it to her hearts content.
What do you think, Mr. Manager?
I like it. Anyone would be a fan. This feels like an interview just for fans, right?
Yes.
Yeah. You know, I got so excited because I thought you were talking to me, haha.
I was talking to you.
Yes?
Its for that one fan who didnt know me two months ago.
Jeong-woo, who had been looking at the camcorder screen, suddenly raised his head.
Yoon Yi-seol met his gaze without turning away. She never wavered. She just had one more thing to say.
Will you read the next page?
Jeong-woo picked up the notebook and turned a page.
Yoon Yi-seol swallowed hard.
Just in case a strong gust of wind disturbed the atmosphere, or the notebook slipped from her hands, or maybe Jeong-woo suddenly went blind and couldnt read the letters. A thousand worries raced through her mind with each breath.
Uh Ive fallen for you
Jeong-woo stopped abruptly, surprised. After reading the confession-filled letter, he stopped the recording, holding the camcorder out with a serious look in his eyes.
What should I do? My heart feels like its going to burst.
Yoon Yi-seol felt like time had frozen.
Jeong-woo said he has a liking for me too. And Im not just an ordinary beauty. Have some confidence. No, wait! Maybe I should do a cheeky wink.
She kept having these random thoughts and ended up shaking her head. In the end, the answer could only be one of two.
Yes, or no.
But
Ugh.
Jeong-woo suddenly closed his eyes tightly.
She was eagerly waiting for his response, but the first word he uttered was Ugh, and his actions seemed to ignore her, leaving Yoon Yi-seol bewildered.
Ugh, not No or Yes. She had thought of all the possible answers overnight, but this one wasnt in the mix. How on earth should she interpret this?
Maybe if you feel pressured because Im a celebrity making a confession, you dont have to. Dont prepare your heart or anything like that. Just honestly express your feelings
No, Yi-seol.
No? You mean, no?
Yes. Thats right. Right now, my nerves are in pain.
Im nervous!
Not in the sense youre thinking.
Jeong-woo, who had his eyes closed, reached out and ced his hand on Yoon Yi-seols shoulder, patting her gently to calm her down as he spoke.
Lets take a moment to rx. Breathe.
But Im really calm, you know?
After blurting out those words, Yoon Yi-seol felt a little stung.
Im not saying youre not calm. Its me.
Sitting under a beach parasol, Yoon Yi-seol continued to gaze at Jeong-woo, who still had his eyes closed.
Is something hurting? Did something get in your eye?
Its not hurting.
But why arent you opening your eyes?
With a gentle smile, Jeong-woo replied.
Because when emotions intensify, I cant see clearly. Oh, Im not saying its Yi-seol fault. You know that, right?
They remained silent for a while, just gazing at the sea. The sky, nearing the end of twilight, had turned from orange to a deep red.
What have I done?
Yoon Yi-seol quietly reflected on the situation, and her cheeks flushed like the color of the twilight.
Why had her carefully nned confession turned into this? She should have waited a little longer, been more cautious.
Han Jeong-woo wasnt going anywhere. There was no need to rush, yet she had impulsively followed her sister Soras advice and acted without thinking about the consequences.
Yoon Yi-seol, why cant you see one step ahead?
As she reproached herself, Jeong-woos voice reached her ears.
Im surprised. I cant believe that you confessed your feelings to me.
In the background of the quiet sound of the waves, his voice echoed in Yoon Yi-seols heart, creating ripples of emotion.
When I think about it, since the day I became your fan, things havent been normal.
What do you mean?
Snowkes, hand warmers, fireworks.
Even though its fascinating, you did it because youre Jeong-woo. Its magical chemistry.
No, its not.
Jeong-woo, who had been pressing his eyelids, opened his eyes.
Han Jeong-woo Lido Ind beach
As the waves crashed onto the sand, creating a resounding thud, shockwaves rippled through the air, shattering into hundreds, thousands of sound waves before his eyes.
He struggled to calm himself, eliminating other wavelengths from his field of vision, but for some reason, the path of the sound remained, just as persistent as his auditory senses.
Jeong-woo turned his gaze to Yoon Yi-seol.
Could there be another woman in this world as beautiful, bright, and charming as her? The woman who should only exist on TV had just confessed her feelings to him. It was unbelievable.
When I saw you, Iughed a lot and felt excited. Yi-seol, you made me feel that way.
Iughed a lot too, you know?
But you dont know my true self.
For two months, he had never seriously considered it. Life with chemistry had been so enjoyable.
I was a job seeker who had nothing and was helpless. Now, he was just in the middle of a clinical trial, and most of the rtionships he had gained could disappear like bubbles in ten months. Everything he was experiencing right now was just a magical time granted by chemistry.
The weight of this fact burdened Jeong-woos heart.
Before the clinical trial, I wasnt the kind of man that Yi-seol could fall for. And after the clinical trial, I might be so miserable that I wont be able to ept it.
It was a story he couldnt tell her, a story he couldnt reveal.
Can the answer or the confession wait for ten months?
What are you saying?
If you lose interest in me during that time, just tell me.
But that wont happen.
Even if it wont.
When Yoon Yi-seol began to shed tears, the emotional turmoil returned, and the world in front of his eyes seemed to flip like a storm.
Ugh. I need to train a lot.
It became difficult for him to look directly at her as she cried.
Various waves of the world inundated his vision like a tempest. Jeong-woo instinctively closed his eyes.
Thats right. You dont want to see me, do you?
Her question was filled with a mixture of moisture. Jeong-woo shook his head.
If you say you absolutely dont, then Ill believe
Since absorbing AF-5, when he closed his eyes, he felt the distance much more vividly, almost like a bat. Thats why Jeong-woo couldnt help but flinch rather than respond.
Yoon Yi-seols head was so close that it seemed improper.
Something softer than anything in the world brushed against his lips and disappeared.
Ten months? Just wait, because Im going to make you fall in love with me before then and force you to confess, Im not the kind of girl who just pines for someone without taking any action!
Yi-seol?
The distance between Yoon Yi-seol and him was growing wider and wider. She seemed quite angry, her footsteps sounding as if she was frustrated.
Han Jeong-woo Above the Vaporetto
The next day in Venice began with a loud scream. The heightened senses that had calmed overnight now wreaked havoc, turning the world into a chaotic kaleidoscope of colors.
If theres hell, it must look like this.
Jeong-woo, seated on a water bus, shook his head to erase the horrifying scene he had witnessed in the morning. Then he turned his gaze to Professor Jeremy, who hade out of the hotel with him.
Professor, are you heading to Marco Polo Airport?
Yes, Mr. Han. What about you?
I have a direct flight from Mn. When we arrive at the station, itll be goodbye.
How about exchanging emails asionally?
Jeong-woo smiled and nodded at the suggestion of the renowned Harvard biochemistry professor.
Thats fine with me.
Dr. Cheon might not be the type to engage in discussions, but Mr. Han is different. Itsfortable.
Despite the torment, Jeremy persevered beside Cheon Seung-guk, and in the end, he was able to discover a highly sophisticated form for Drex.
Oncepleted, Jeremy imed that he could easily receive royalties of up to ten million dors with just this form.
What will happen to Drex now? You received contract requests from fivepanies, didnt you?
He felt that this was the best reward for a lifetime of dedication to research. However, the answer that Jeremy gave afterward surprised Jeong-woo.
We will provide it for free to those who need it, regardless of where Drex can be used beneficially.
Youre not selling it?
I have enough money from my professors sry. Once Iplete the research ording to Mr. Han and Dr. Cheon opinions, I will publish all the production techniques in Nature.
The value of technology changes dramatically between being kept exclusive and being made public. Jeong-woo understood this difference well, having applied for a few patents himself.
Open source. It meant not making a single penny from it.
Jeremys attitude, which seemed to focus solely on the chemicalpletion, was as impressive as his ambition, even if it was a little naive.
The cute fringe on Professor Jeremys forehead fluttered in the breeze, making him look cool for a moment. Jeong-woo quietly admired it.
Ji Seong-jae Locanda Hotel, San Marco Street
Knock, knock.
Manager Ji knocked on the door of Room 306 and waited for a response. However, there was no answer.
Yi-seol, its almost 10 oclock. Makeup staff is on standby to prepare for filming. Why arent you answering the phone? Iming in.
The door was left open. Manager Ji spotted Yoon Yi-seol rummaging around near the bed.
Yesterdays footage you shot was amazing, you know? The video team really likes it. Piazza pigeons. I predict itll get at least 3 million views.
I dont care about that stuff.
ncing at Yoon Yi-seol, who had her lips pursed, Manager Ji couldnt help but be surprised when she showed a side of her that she usually didnt.
Why are you so depressed after a good date?
It wasnt a date. Ill stay in this state for just 10 more minutes and then leave.
She had always appeared to be as cheerful as a doll, so when she disyed this unusual mood, Manager Ji found it surprising.
Yi-seol, are you really in a rtionship?
Oh, you-!
Startled by Yoon Yi-seols sudden urge to swear, Manager Ji was taken aback by what she said next.
Ill do it within 10 months!
Whats that supposed to mean? And what about Han Jeong-woo?
Yoon Yi-seol jumped up from under the nket.
What about him?
He helped you with yesterdays Yi-seol TV, right? He did a great job, but he didnt even get a simple part-time job payment. Yi-seol, are you possibly an unscrupulous employer?
No, not at all!
Then treat him properly.
Yoon Yi-seol looked at Manager Ji and retorted.
Both the contract and treating him properly. Wont that make it look like Im clinging, will it?
I have no idea what youre talking about. Ill send the makeup staff up. The weather is clear today.
Han Jeong-woo Piazza Santa Lucia
As they were descending from the pier to go to the train station, there were people who blocked the way to Jeong-woo and Jeremy.
Stop.
A man with a prominently disyed gold watch on his wrist spoke up.
Professor Jeremy, are you returning home?
He approached, leading a group of burly men, and spoke English with a heavy German ent. Jeremy, taken aback by the sudden encirclement, had a concerned look on his face and began to tremble.
Jeong-woo, noticing that Tom, who had identified himself as a researcher from Lancess, was standing there, made a rough guess about their identity.
These guys still havent given up, huh? What should I do? Should I contact Professor Cheon?
Cheon Seung-guk Lab 2969
Cheon Seung-guk, who had been rummaging through storage cabs in theb he hadnt visited in a while, became visibly annoyed when he heard a knock at the door.
Who is it now?
He climbed adder to the second floor, descended the stairs again to the first floor, and opened the door.
Dr. Cheon Seung-guk? Im Raheem Albed from the Abu Dhabi Petroleum Corporation. Ivee because of Drex, but Im afraid the people next to the door right now
As the Middle Eastern man was speaking, he fell to the ground with a thud, sound asleep, right in front of the door.
You found this narrow alley so well, even though its not on the map. Did Google Maps get updated or something?
Cheon Seung-guk shook his head and grabbed the Middle Eastern man by the cor, pulling him outside while ncing along the wall.
Two people with different skin tones were leaning against the wall, fast asleep.
Due to Jeremys phone being out of service, rumors had spread about this ce as hisst destination, and employees from chemicalpanies in other countries were lining up to visit. The rumors would quiet down once news spread that he had returned to Harvard to resume his research.
These idiots believe that just mixing some new materials will magically improve their products.
Clicking his tongue, Cheon Seung-guk mmed the door shut and climbed back up to the second floor, heading down thedder to the storage area.
But I wonder if Weber isnting? Its been a while since hes stirred things up. It would be fun if he dropped by.
Han Jeong-woo Piazza Santa Lucia
Im Weber Jansen, the Director of Development at Lancess.
As Weber handed over his business card, Jeremy epted it under the pressure from the imposing figures.
Watching the situation quietly, Jeong-woo suddenly recalled Cheon Seung-guks words.
-People have different priorities in their actions. This is my choice ording to my standards.
If it were Cheon Seung-guks approach, he would have either knocked them all out, blown them up with a battery bomb, or taken extreme measures, which would have been ruthless but overwhelming.
But what about me?
Seeing the guy who had sprayed the sleep-inducing scent among the imposing figures, Jeong-woo thought that putting them to sleep wasnt a big problem. However, he had found this method only because of Cheon Seung-guks orders.
Its not really my style.
Jeong-woo preferred a more moderate approach. If he could gain some advantage along the way, that would be the best. It seemed like the right bnce.
Jeong-woo found his own way and made up his mind. He approached Jeremy.
Professor, are you considering a contract with Lancess?
Mr. Han, Id like to, but
As Jeong-woo spoke up, Weber turned to look at him. Tom whispered something in German, causing Webers expression to change.
Are you Han Jeong-woo?
Oh, you know my name.
Are you Cheon Seung-guks disciple?
You seem to know that too.
Seeing Jeong-woo take out his phone from his pocket, Weber was taken aback. Tom shouted, Mine! in German, surprising Jeong-woo.
Mine? This is just a smartphone. I have a two-year contract with one year left.
Seeing Jeong-woo fluently speak in German, Weber became wary and questioned him.
What are you trying to do? Whether its you or Cheon Seung-guk, it has nothing to do with Jeremy. Stop interfering and step back.
It does matter. Research isnt done alone.
Jeong-woo opened a web browser and searched for Lancess on the European search page.
Among the articles that appeared, he clicked on thetest one, which mentioned a decline in stock prices due to the failure of new material development.
Tepex? Lightweight stic fibers, right? I see. They became lighter, but the durability dropped, so thepanies that had ced orders canceled them all.
Hey, watch your words. Dont you see the security guards behind me?
In response to Webers expression as if asking what is he doing. Jeong-woo responded with a rxed smile.
Well, mixing up the Drex doesnt really improve things. The fiber weaving process, which only aligns the fibers in a traditional horizontal and vertical fashion, is not a matter of the molecr structure itself being covered by the shape memory singrity of the Drex. If you choose a molecr structure that can be woven in the desired direction, with continuous fiberyers, it will be more durable.
Thats possible?
Yes.
How?
Will you listen to this important advice direclty from? Why not this, CEO.
Jeong-woos confident gaze remained as he spoke.
Im Han Jeong-woo from KG Chemical Research Institute in South Korea. If youre interested, you can request coborative research from us. We can definitely improve this Tepex. And
Jeong-woo took Jeremys business card, and on the back, he wrote a chemical form.
Tom, please check this and advise Mr. Jansen. By the way, Drex will be made public worldwide soon, so dont waste Professors time for no reason.
Having finished speaking in German, Jeong-woo turned to Jeremy.
Shall we go, Professor? How about having a sandwich at the station before parting ways? Ill treat you.
Code: AF-5
Case: The Chemists Second Insight
Research: When activated, the users perception expands to include waves that are imperceptible to human senses.
Chapter 77
Chapter 77- Spring Countryside Chronicles(1)
At 11 PM. Incheon International Airport.
Jeong-woo walked out of the departure gate, feeling the chill in the airpared to Italy. He spotted Dr. Moons car in the distance and quickly approached.
Its so cold.
He climbed into the passenger seat and turned to Dr. Moon. She was dressed in her doctors gown, indicating she hade directly from the hospital. Considering it was Friday, she was working tirelessly.
Thanks for picking me up.
It wasnt much of a trip, just three days, but it felt good to have someone waiting for him.
Dr. Moon said as she started the car.
I received a call that I have to start a new clinical trial.
Huh? Wasnt it part of the n?
If I knew, I would have told you two months ago.
The question was half-joking, but there was a chill in Dr. Moons response.
I need to examine you for clinical progression, are you tired right now?
If Im tired, will you give me a ride home?
AN General Hospital Pharmacy Support Center.
Jeong-woo shook his head as he watched Dr. Moon walk away casually after drawing blood from his forearm. He hade to the hospital on her advice to get some rest and undergo tests.
No mercy.
His body felt like jelly after the jetg and long flight, but being back on Korean soil now wasforting. Although he had only experienced it once, foreign visits were supposed to be enjoyable for tourism, not exhausting for work.
He yawned and spun the chair around, after waiting for about 30 minutes. Dr. Moon entered the center with a chart in hand.
Doctor, am I about to die?
In response to his somewhat futile attempt at humor, Dr. Moon took an indifferent nce and sat down across from Jeong-woo. She nced at the chart and provided the test results.
Your vital signs are within the normal range, and there are no signs of any specific conditions.
Phew.
However
The word however after a statement like that usually meant something serious, so Jeong-woo tensed up.
Theres a possibility of mutated DNA in your body, simr to AF-12, but AF-5 is even more closely rted to the nervous system.
Is that a problem?
It shouldnt affect your life. Dr. Cheon added specificponents to suppress side effects, which seem toplement it perfectly.
So, whats the issue then?
Dr. Moon remained silent for a moment and then answered with a nk expression.
Sexual intercourse.
Jeong-woo doubted his ears.
W-what did you just say?
As he stuttered in disbelief, Dr. Moon seemed unperturbed.
Intimate rtions between men and women. Thats what Im talking about.
Why is that?
From a biological perspective. Theres a higher probability of the mutated genes in your body being released to the outside in those situations, especially during periods of heightened physical activity.
Jeong-woo instinctively shifted ufortably in his chair as Dr. Moons gaze briefly wandered toward his lower body.
Also, your saliva, theres a chance it could be a factor too.
So, its not me, but
Thats right. It might be an issue for anyone you engage with intimately. They wont have the side-effect suppressors Dr. Cheon developed.
Really?
Of course, the probability is low, but not zero. So, during the clinical trial period, it would be safer to avoid close contact with anyone that might involve a lot of saliva exchange. And this is just a precaution, not something Im insisting on.
When the initially intense conversation was delivered calmly, it made the situation feel even more real.
So, in my terms, Im in a um, an unable-to-date state?
AF-5 is a substance that hasnt undergone clinical trials, even in trace amounts. We dont know why Dr. Cheon gave such extreme instructions, but the impact it might have on someone other than Jeong-woo is unknown. You should keep that in mind.
Should this be considered a relief or a misfortune? Who would have thought that Yoon Yi-seols decision to postpone her confession would lead to this sense of relief?
Fortunately, I dont have anyone Im dating.
Dr. Moon handed over the chart with an impassive expression. Jeong-woo sighed softly and asked.
If I happen to like someone, can I still hold hands?
It shouldnt be an issue, but if you continue to just hold hands for two or three months after you start dating, it might raise suspicions of being gay, right? Besides, during the active phase of your life, who knows if you can maintain that level of restraint.
Yeah, youre right. If thats the case, I should probably avoid dating altogether.
As a doctor, I dont have any more advice to give.
Oh, Dr. Moon. I have one more question.
Jeong-woos face turned somewhat serious as he spoke.
When the contract ends, will all the substances administered to my body disappear?
Thats in the terms
Its not there. I remember not finding any mention of it when I skimmed through it.
Theres a use that says any unmentioned proceedings will be discussed with Cheon Seung-guk. The research on the substances administered to your body isnt my specialty, so I cant provide an answer.
In the end, it depended on Cheon Seung-guk. After a year, there was a glimmer of hope that his abilities might continue to be maintained.
Ive been told to work hard on my research. Would he give me any other tasks?
Ill be back!
On a Monday in early March, Jeong-woo stepped outside, greeted by the refreshing outdoor air.
The once-frozen ground had thawed in the alleyways, and he could see the asional weeds sprouting. Soon, forsythia would bloom between the walls.
Leaving the neighborhood with a hint of spring in the air, Jeong-woo endured the crowded subway, paying a fare of ten thousand won to reach thepany.
KG Chemicals building, which he hadnt seen in nearly two weeks due to the Lunar New Year and vacation period, glistened in the bright sunshine.
What research should I try today?
There would likely be new assignments rted to the new center. Jeong-woo entered thepany with light steps.
Spring recruitment has started, hasnt it?
Amidst the senior researchers gathered by the window of Research Lab 1, Jeong-woo raised his head and nced at the table disying the photos of the five individuals who had been selected this time.
Four men and one woman. Looking at their application photos, they seemed fresh and full of vitality.
I think its her. She looks unfairly pretty.
Im going with this guy. He has an innocent look.
It had to be a woman, no surprise there.
Jeong-woo wasnt sure what they were talking about, but the seniors were in the midst of a lively discussion.
Jeong-woo approached Hong Ki-pyo and asked him in a low voice.
Senior Hong, why are they picking on people one by one?
Youre a special hire, so youve probably never experienced this. Its a tradition when new recruits join.
A tradition?
Hong Ki-pyo chuckled mysteriously and pointed to the photos on the table.
To surprise them.
Ki-pyo, theyre calling you from Lab 2.
Oh, right!
At the call from outside the room, Hong Ki-pyo rushed out.
Jeong-woo ced his bag on his seat and couldnt help but feel curious about what was going on. He decided to send a message to the two people he had be close withst year during the fall recruitment and his time as a team leader.
[Wow, I almost wet myself back then.]
Their response was that it was terrible.
[I really persevered with all my might. If not, I might have just run away, regardless of being a senior or anything.]
Cho Seong-hwan was also shaken.
He sent another message, but they both kept avoiding the topic.
Mr. Jeong-woo.
Song Boyeong, who had just arrived at work, sat down next to him.
You took a project leave and had a good rest?
Oh, Senior. Good morning.
Jeong-woo greeted her and turned his head. He looked at Song Boyeong, and his eyes widened. Her hair seemed a bit shorter, and it appeared to be dyed brown with a hint of a wave perm. The weather was spring-like, and she gave off a feeling of spring as well.
Why are you staring at me like that?
Its your hair
I see. Did I be too pretty?
Yeah, you look like a spring maiden.
At thisment, Song Boyeong hesitated. She had expected to be teased, so she was caught off guard and gave Jeong-woo a bewildered look.
Whats wrong, Mr. Jeong-woo?
What do you mean?
Song Boyeong pointed to her head.
Why arent you making fun of me? You know, saying something like shampooing too quickly turned it into this weird ck-brown color, or I messed up using the hair straightener and burned the tips of my hair.
You went to a hair salon.
Yeah, I did. This is the result of their effort. I havent fixed the different eyebrow color yet, though.
So, theres a story behind it. Seems like women pay attention to even those things when they dye their hair?
Huh?
As they talked, Song Boyoung found herself making ament and responding to it alone. She tapped her own mouth and nced at Jeong-woo.
Why suddenly givingpliments like that?
Well, I dont tease you like that. Just keeping it simple.
Keeping it simple?
It seems when I looked at your face and hand, I noticed something.
As he continued to gaze at her face and hands, her double eyelids disappeared briefly with a hint of unease. After finishing the scan, Jeong-woo spoke up.
It looks like you caught a cold. You keep rubbing your nose with the back of your hand. Youll end up with a runny nose.
Its allergies!
Anyway, use a tissue instead of your hand.
Jeong-woo grabbed the tissue box from his desk and ced it neatly on Song Boyeongs desk. She chuckled in disbelief.
Did you even notice that?
There was a lot of foundation powder on the back of your hand. Thanks to that, the reflection of light was stronger than your nose.
Oh.
Song Boyeong rummaged through her bag, took out a mirror, and checked her nose. After wiping it clean, she looked at Jeong-woo.
What? Its not visible at all.
While applying meticulous makeup, Jeong-woo asked.
Why did you put in so much effort today? You usually dont dress up much. Are you meeting Mi-hee in the evening?
Spring recruitment is happening. As a senior, I need to show my beauty and dignity.
I dont know about beauty, but you should rethink your dignity
Oh, forget it. That thing I said earlier is just nonsense. No more mention of the incident that damages my dignity today. First impressions are important.
Why was my first impression like that then?
The tissue box he had just handed over flew back towards him and responded. After finishing her makeup, Song Boyeong turned to Jeong-woo.
Do you know you got chosen for the Microbiology Lab today?
Oh, right. But what about the assignment?
Theyll decide next week~ Our department head will be attending overseas seminars all week.
Oh, I see.
Jeong-woo finally let out a bitter smile and turned to look out the window, wondering whaty ahead.
What are the seniors doing with the photos from the recruitment?
Song Boyeong also turned her gaze towards the photos on the wall and wore an expression of pity.
Jeong-woo, you should have done that too. What a shame.
So, what is it?
Its a secret~
While they were conversing, Oh Seung-ju rushed into Research Lab 1. Since it was not even 9 a.m. and the department head had arrived, Jeong-woo was surprised, but the others seemed to have expected it.
Is everyone here? Get ready to y! The setup for the center is ready too.
At Seung-jus shout, several researchers hung a board with the photos of the five recruits on the wall.
Let the betting begin!
Everyone in Research Lab 1 gathered around and started writing their names below the recruits photos. Jeong-woo stood up in confusion when even Song Boyeong hurried over. He walked up to Seung-ju and asked.
Senior, whats this all about?
Oh, Jeong-woo. Youre in charge of guiding the recruitment process. Youre good with words. Were more familiar with theb act.
Act? Like what actors do?
Yes.
After Seung-jus exnation, Jeong-woo couldnt help but burst intoughter.
In front of the HR departments meeting room, Jeong-woo stood and observed dozens of recruits seated beyond the partition. Among them, the five who had been hired as researchers were also mixed in.
Wearing their employee badges and showing enthusiasm and expectations for their corporate life in their eyes, it reminded Jeong-woo of himself in December.
Lets start with Mr. Yoo.
Jeong-woo said in front of the meeting room door.
Mr. Seokhoon.
Yes? Yes!
With ab coat on, Jeong-woo looked like a researcher, and when he called, Yoo Seok-hoon immediately stood up and came out.
Hello, senior!
Even though he had only joined three months earlier, being called senior felt strange.
Im very nervous. I heard the facilities here at the Central Research Institute are the best in the country.
After a gesture from Jeong-woo, Yoo Seok-hoon, who was called out, spoke with enthusiasm in his voice.
Let me briefly exin while we walk.
During their walk toward the Central Research Institute, Jeong-woo shared stories about life as a recruit at thepany.
He mentioned that for the first three months, they would mainly work at the Basic Materials Center to get used to the atmosphere. He emphasized the importance of the nning evaluation, and before they knew it, they had arrived at the second floor, which was divided into the Basic Materials Center and office area.
On the left is the Basic Materials Center, where most of KG Chemicals research activities take ce. Everyones busy with projects right now, so its a bit chaotic.
Jeong-woo nced inside the center before swiping his card to open the door.
The door made a beep, and as it opened, the special research area inside the center was revealed. Yoo Seok-hoon, who had been following Jeong-woo with a nervous expression, let out several exmations of admiration at the sight.
Lab 1 is currently working on a synthesis project for livingpounds
As Jeong-woo gestured toward Lab 1, Yoo Seok-hoon turned his head in that direction. At that moment, within Lab 1, an assistant poured a liquidpound into a beaker.
With a hissing sound, a very sinister green smoke filled Lab 1.
In a hurry, the venttion system was activated, and Oh Seung-ju, who was coughing, was seen. Next to him, Senior Sim Jeonghee put on a gas mask and supported Oh Seung-ju.
Huh?
Yoo Seok-hoon, groaning in dismay, pointed at the scene.
Isnt that dangerous?
The warning light above the Lab 1 door shed red. Suppressing his urge tough, Jeong-woo replied.
This level of incident can be easily covered by the internal safety measures. Look, Senior Seung-ju seems fine, right? As long as you dont inhale thatpound for more than five seconds, youll be fine.
Is isnt that a toxic substance!?
Yeah, during military service, you practiced putting on a gas mask, right? Gas, gas, gas.
Jeong-woo demonstrated the motion with his thumbs raised.
I only did it once during my military service
Its okay. Youll do it again when you join the reserve forces.
From that point on, Yoo Seok-hoon seemed to have lost hisposure.
Park Ho-young froze in front of Lab 2 during the recruit orientation.
Cellulosepounds only require maintaining the average pressure increase rate. Its not dangerous at all What?
ng!
Dont worry too much. The leak itself isnt dangerous, just the low temperature is a concern.
Senior Hong Ki-pyo extended his index finger and rushed to his fellow senior.
My finger! Get me some heated gloves before it freezes off!
A voice filled with urgency echoed painfully through the thick ss wall. The recruits shivered, but after donning the gloves and seeing Hong Ki-pyos relieved expression, they also sighed with relief.
It was around the time when Kim Ji-man passed Lab 3 during the recruit orientation.
Theboratory door creaked open, and a sharp, nose-tickling odor filled the air. The head of Research Lab 2 emerged, and said while supporting a colleague.
Get some water! Hes fainted again.
Upon this shout, two senior colleagues who were walking down the corridor hurriedly rushed to assist the fallen colleague, shouting that there was no infirmary in the researchb.
This whats going on?
Ah, he fainted in perfect condition after the initial treatment. You see, the metal corrosion experiment is quite tricky. Do you happen to know how to administer heart detox injections? If youre good at it, youll earn a lot of favor from the seniors.
After finishing the exnation and walking ahead, Ji-man was surprised to find the recruit sitting on the floor with his legs giving way.
The fourth recruit, Pyo Yong-sik, stood in front of thestb. Jeong-woo made a gesture for him to lower his head for a moment.
Why? Why are you doing this?
Startled by the deafening explosion, the recruit, with a face full of terror, lowered his head as requested.
Because thatb deals with explosive materials from time to time.
Explosive?
Behind the ss wall, mes filled the room. The recruit couldnt speak, his jaw dropping in shock.
The incendiary mixture was meticulously prepared and ignited for just one minute, creating mes on the table that could easily be mistaken for a sea of fire.
Song Boyeong, who had just opened theb door, shouted at Jeong-woo.
Fire extinguisher!
Yes, senior.
As Jeong-woo handed her the fire extinguisher from the hallway, Song Boyeong entered theb with it. The head of Research Lab 3, who was responsible for the forced ignition of the methrower, continued to spray the fire extinguisher, but the mes only grewrger. Thats how it was designed to be.
Hey, this wont work as it is. Call 119!
Following the instructions of the department head, Jeong-woo stood by the door and shouted to the recruit.
Call 119!
Normally, at this point, the recruit would hesitate whether to make the call, feeling that something was amiss. Jeong-woo nced briefly at a senior who was timing the event with a stopwatch in a corner of the centers corridor.
Under the close coordination of veteran researchers from Labs 1, 2, and 3, this theatrical performance yed out whenever new recruits arrived.
The bet was to guess who would be the slowest to realize it. The person who guessed correctly, except for the one who was caught and realized it first, had to donate money for a dinner with the recruits.
Yoo Seok-hoon was the quickest to realize that it had all been a prank in front of Lab 3, and Pyo Yong-sik actually attempted to dial the emergency number on his phone. However, he stopped, raised his head, and looked around suspiciously.
Could this be a joke?
At the end of the corridor, a senior pressed the stopwatch.
4 minutes and 23 seconds! Currently inst ce!
Seniors who had been hiding in various spots throughout the center watching this scene crowded around.
Pyo Yong-sik! Whats 4 minutes and 23 seconds? You fool.
Hey, Han Jeong-woo! You went too far with your acting this time.
Seniors who hadnt bet on Pyo Yong-sik felt sorry for him. Jeong-woo shrugged his shoulders and showed his dissatisfaction.
Dont suspect me. I didnt bet on this guy either.
As I was walking to the personnel department to find Jin Miso, the fifth open recruit and this times candidate Hong Il-jeom, I received a text message from Oh Seung-ju.
[I bet on Jin Mi-so. Im begging you, Jeong-woo. Pyo Yong-sik took too long. I heard from Seong-hwan that he set a record of 4 minutes and 15 secondsst fall.]
Jeong-woo got on the elevator and writed his reply.
[Are you asking for a favor?]
[The department head is offering five times the usual amount. This is my emergency fund, you know.]
[Well, I did bet on Jin Mi-so.]
He didnt know much about her, so he just chose a woman who wouldnt be too noticeable.
[But if I seed can you exempt me from the Microbiology Lab?]
[Deal. Youre the only one I can trust. Fighting!]
When he arrived at the HR department, there werent many recruits left, as several departments had taken them on tours.
Jin Mi-so?
At Jeong-woos call, a neatly dressed woman in herte twenties stood up. She was a fresh-faced woman with light makeup who was beautiful enough to catch attention just by walking in.
If she does well, she might be known as the third beauty of Research Lab 3, after Dr. Moon and Senior Bo-young.
Jin Mi-so bobbed her head and approached. Jeong-woo, who was familiar with this tone as she was the fifth recruit he was meeting, spoke in a very familiar manner.
Im from Research Lab 1, responsible for close guidance
Youre Senior Han Jeong-woo, right?
Jin Mi-so suddenly asked, stealing the timing. Jeong-woo nodded in response. He thought that maybe she had seen him escorting the other recruits one by one and guessed.
Follow me.
As Jeong-woo walked, he nced at Jin Mi-so.
Her cheeks were deeply dimpled, giving her a perpetually smiling expression. It was as if she always wore a smile, as her name suggested. Jin Mi-so approached with a smile on her face.
Before I came here, I saw you, Senior.
You saw me?
The White Magician.
Jeong-woo was taken aback.
You know about that?
I do. Its amazing. Can I have your autograph?
It was more surprising that she recognized him after watching that video.
I even left ament. Youre really cool.
What kind of talk was this?
Was it just a simplepliment to win favor with the senior researchers, or did she genuinely find it impressive? It didnt matter.
Im hopeless when ites to rtionships.
Thats why Jeong-woo remained indifferent to Jin Mi-sos beauty.
After building rtionships with beautiful women whose eyes sparkled, he might have lost interest in ordinary people who happened to be beautiful.
Maybe my standards have be unnecessarily high.
Since hearing about the chemical hazard warning from Dr. Cheon Seung-guk, Jeong-woo had been in a state of resignation.
Dr. Cheon Seung-guks phone number was now unreachable. The research on AF-5 had just begun for Dr. Moon as well.
Senior.
As Jeong-woo pressed the elevator button, Jin Mi-so spoke up.
I dont know why theyre calling one of the trainees one by one, but I think its something like a hidden camera. Im expecting it.
This was a speech that could only leave him speechless. If he had been caught before the start, this would have been treated as faster than Yoo Seok-hoons record for sure.
Both Senior Oh Seung-ju and Jeong-woo were losers in this situation.
Whats this? Is she really that perceptive?
Chapter 78
Chapter 78- Spring Countryside Chronicles(2)
Standing in the central research institutes second-floor corridor, Jeong-woo turned to look at Jin Mi-so.
Throughout her walk, she wore an engaging smile, closely observing the institute.
Although he hadnt said much, because of her chattering, he had learned that she was the top recruit for this intake.
She must be smart to figure it out. If she noticed, can I still get away with it?
Nevertheless, for now, he suppressed his annoyance and stood in front of the Basic Materials Centers door.
Ugh, just my luck.
Perhaps due to the short time he had spent in the area, he detected a wave of sounds. Various noises from all over the building converged into soundwaves, causing Jeong-woo to tightly close his eyes and shake his head.
While he could selectively view molecules, the waves were still chaotic.
Senior, whats wrong?
I just had a momentary headache
A piercing sound echoed in his ears, causing an actual headache.
Oh, has it already started? A hidden camera?
Jeong-woo couldnt help butugh at Jin Mi-sos question. This was real.
Sorry, but can you wait for just 10 seconds?
To calm his nerves, he massaged his forehead and took deep breaths. In the meantime, the faint conversation between Oh Seung-ju and the senior researchers in front of the first experimentalb reached his ears.
-Yong-sik is noting out of the restroom? Is he embarrassed? How cute.
-Should we go andfort him?
-The responsible researchers are rushing in, what can the newbies do? In-beom! Go and tell them about the guy you couldnt recognize all day.
-You mean that?
-Yeah.
The fourth recruit was still causing amotion.
10 seconds are up!
With Jin Mi-sos voice, Jeong-woo calmed his nerves and opened his eyes. He was greeted by his junior, smiling brightly at him.
I cant wait to see what the field trip is going to be like since youre so serious about it.
Continuing like this, it started to get slightly annoying.
Serious? Why dont you try being serious about something thats already failed?
On the other side of the door, one of the seniors held up a stopwatch and gave an okay sign with his finger.
Jeong-woo turned around and looked at Jin Mi-so.
Mi-so, do you find it amusing that your senior suddenly got a headache?
He tried to mimic Dr. Moons tone as closely as possible.
When he questioned her with a serious expression, Jin Mi-so seemed momentarily flustered. Jeong-woo held up his card to the Centers door and continued speaking.
Theb seniors prepared a hidden camera just for fun? Such an interesting imagination. In a workce where a mistake can cost millions or even billions in research funding.
Well
Beep.
He sessfully disconcerted her and gained the upper hand.
As Jeong-woo and Jin Mi-so entered, Oh Seung-ju and Sim Jeonghee began their experiment in Lab 1.
Green smoke filled the room, and Jin Mi-sos face showed confusion about how to react to the rather dangerous behavior of the two, even if the situation was false, as it was a real research process that Dr. Oh had intentionally deceived her about.
After contemting an appropriate experiment that matched that situation, Jeong-woo asked Jin Mi-so.
You said you majored in Analytical Chemistry, right?
Yes.
Do you know what hexafluorobutadiene, a special gas used in semiconductor processes, is?
Yes, I do. Is that it?
This is an acrylonitrile and trimethmine dynamic experiment. Bybining them like this, the etching efficiency is increasedpared to hexafluorobutadiene.
Jin Mi-so misunderstood, and her eyes widened in amazement. This was an idea that had juste to Jeong-woos mind upon seeing the green gas. If she could understand it immediately, she should be at the level of senior researchers.
Can you analyze dynamic experiments in chemical equations? Well, its not for testing. If you dont know, just say you dont.
He also slightly scratched the ego of the senior researcher. In response, Jin Mi-so hesitated in her response, and her face began to show signs of confusion.
I was worried for no reason. They are researchers who have been doing that for several years.
Room 2.
Before Hong Ki-pyos finger got hurt, Jeong-woo spoke to Jin Mi-so.
Its an analysis experiment of climate cooling gas DMS,missioned by the Meteorological Agency. Dimethyl sulfide. It measures the trace amount of DMS in the atmosphere. Have you ever done something like this?
Of course, it wasnt that kind of experiment, but he improvised with theposition of the refrigerant gases.
Well, only theoretically
Watch closely. When absorbing samples and analyzing sulfur content, you can make mistakes like that. Senior! Wear the gloves and do it! Do you want to lose your fingers?
In response to Jeong-woos sudden shout, Hong Ki-pyo hesitated for a moment, then nodded.
From this point on, Jin Mi-sos surprised expression was not much different from that of the other recruits.
When someone came out of Room 3, Jeong-woo began to analyze the ingredients by sniffing the diffused odor in theb.
Alkaloidpounds like strychnine or aconitine are mixed with digitalis to cause such an effect huh? Did I speak too quickly? You look confused.
Well Senior, how can you analyze this without any measuring tools?
Its training. If you want to practice, go to the Aroma Center. There are people there who are even better than me.
They arrived in front of Room 4.
A fire experiment. There didnt seem to be a usible way for Jeong-woo to present this as a reasonable experiment, especially since he was justining about it.
At the very least, if I can induce a fire reaction, I couldbel it as research on firefighting agents.
As Jeong-woo pondered, he saw a beaker on the table where the fire was starting in Room 4. He had dealt with numerous chemicals in Cheonan, some of which were in powder form, simr to what was in that beaker.
Im not sure if this will work, but
Just before Song Boyeong opened the door and shouted, Fire extinguisher!, Jeong-woo walked into the room ahead of her.
Song Boyeong muttered, looking at Jeong-woo, What are you doing right now? He gently pushed her aside and turned to Jin Mi-so.
Come on in. Its thest field trip. See that fire reaction over there? What do you think it is?
Yes, what is it?
What do you think this experiment is doing?
Um abustion reaction experiment?
A highly mmable liquid, which would burn for about a minute before disappearing, was contained in arge rectangr container.
Are you saying youre burning this sophisticatedpound just to observe thebustion reaction?
Jeong-woo approached the head of Lab 3 and sent a signal to step aside for a moment, then picked up the beaker on the table.
This is a powder containing a mixture of the proprietary additive and coating agent that Lab 3s manager is researching, based on potassium hydrogen carbonate. Do you know what its effect is?
Its an inhibitoryponent forbustion reactions, right?
Exactly.
There was no fire extinguisher here. What was in the beaker was an incendiary powder.
However, Jeong-woo lightly sprinkled it as if it were a powder fire extinguisher. At the same time, he gathered the dust particles as much as possible and dispersed them in one ce, just as Cheon Seung-guk had done. As the powder reacted, mes flickered.
It looked like the fire was about to go out, which made the Lab 3 managers eyes widen in astonishment. Fortunately, Jin Mi-so didnt see that expression.
Jeong-woo calcted the precise timing of thebustion reaction in his molecr vision and asked to buy some time.
Do you know what the upper limit of the explosion range for acetone and carbon disulfide is among the incendiary materials here?
Since she wasnt a specialist in the field of materials, Jin Mi-so hesitated in her response.
Jeong-woo realized that there were about 5 seconds left untilpletebustion and, counting silently, he said.
To ensure that the experimenter can safely ignite a fire reaction even at such close range, it is necessary to analyze it thoroughly. Is that what you want as a specialist in analytical chemistry?
He poured the beaker into the sink. The Lab 3 manager was shocked by his actions and opened his mouth.
As the dust spread, the mes, as if extinguished because of it, disappeared like a lie. When the dust covered it, the fire reaction ended, as if it had been extinguished by this.
Great.
This was enough to show his authority as an experienced person and a senior.
So, Mi-so, what do you think of your tour of theb?
I um
Jin Mi-so couldnt give a proper answer even once, and her lips quivered, her face turning into one that seemed about to cry.
Song Boyeong raised her hand swiftly.
Acetone is 12.8% by volume, and carbon disulfide is 44%! Am I right?
Being a person who remembered numbers urately even when drunk, Song Boyeong was, of course, correct. Jeong-woo turned his head.
Why are you answering for the newbie?
No, I just the junior seemed like she was about to cry.
In that case, you should stay quiet
A slight argument broke out then.
Huh.
Jin Mi-so shrugged her shoulders and suddenly burst into tears.
What?
Jeong-woo was surprised and approached Jin Mi-so.
A-Are you crying?
See, I told you. Her expression hasnt been good since she came in. Mi-so, its all a joke. Just a joke.
Song Boyeong also came closer and patted Jin Mi-sos back. Jin Mi-so briefly felt relieved by Song Boyeongs words but soon began to sob uncontrobly.
Senior Han Jeong-woo exined it so roughly
Jin Mi-so was so surprised that her voice didnte out properly.
After exining it like that, to say its a joke I was wondering how I would adapt here, so I was shocked
The news of a new recruit crying spread, and the senior researchers from Labs 1, 2, and 3 all gathered in front of theb.
Hey, Han Jeong-woo! Why are you making the kid cry? How could you guide her like this!
You should have done it more moderately, with a serious face. Is it okay to act so harshly?
Thats right, thats right. Mi-so, dont cry.
The senior researchers, who had been immersed in experiments, all came out ming Jeong-woo and took a step back. They were all captivated by Jin Mi-sos beauty earlier. Even when they passed by earlier, their faces were filled with admiration.
Jeong-woo, youre not doing this again, are you?
Even the senior who had performed a fainting acting method with his eyes turned white came out, and Jeong-woo could only scratch his head.
These people are too much.
Nevertheless, the fortunate thing was that in line with the purpose of this event, the new recruits became closer to the seniors. They adapted morefortably to the culture of informal interactions.
Except for me.
After the wee event and themotion from earlier had settled, it was time for the morning briefing in Research Lab 1.
The winners of the bet had chosen to go to the weing ceremony. In Jin Mi-sos case, she had quickly moved on after the moment of tears, so it hadnt even been 4 minutes since she cried.
I shouldnt tease Mi-so like I do with Boyeong senior.
Jeong-woo thought as he went to the break room, bought drinks, andforted her. After sweating a lot, he finally managed to calm down Jin Mi-so.
Jeong-woo.
Hong Ki-pyo, who was sitting across from him, spoke to Jeong-woo.
Do you know Senior Kim Yu-sang?
He was the senior in charge of the fourth fire experimentb.
You mean the head of Research Lab 3?
Yeah, that Yu-sang senior. He asked me how you did to stop the fire when you threw the mmable powder.
I pretended to sprinkle it and secretly blew on it with my mouth.
Is that so? You really got into it, huh? Youre cruel. Did you bet on Mi-so too?
Yes.
Hong Ki-pyo chuckled.
Theres a rumor that she cried a lot on her first day. This willst at least a month. Take good care of Mi-so from now on.
Jeong-woo wondered if it would be annoying for a while.
Everyone, listen up!
Oh Seung-ju held the schedule sheet in his hand and walked to the center of Research Lab 1.
Were runningte, so Ill speak quickly. The weekly meeting today is at the Medical Bio Center. In-beom and Ki-pyo will go. Jeong-hui, please put the research proposal collection for January and February in the directors office
After giving out a few more instructions, Oh Seung-ju turned her gaze towards Jeong-woo.
Todays microbiologyb is finally yours, Jeong-woo.
Senior, Ive never been in there before, so I dont know what to do.
Jeong-woo looked for a way to escape with the mentality of catching even a straw.
You were too cruel to make Mi-so cry just like that.
Sorry, Senior. Even if thats somewhat cruel
Only to that extent. Im five times more cruel to you.
Oh Seung-ju had his own part on the story, so Jeong-woo decided not to mention the back deal anymore.
Our youngest member!
Song Boyeong called Jeong-woo softly. She had an ted look in her eyes as she pinned a piece of paper to the partition wall, which confirmed Jeong-woos schedule for entering the microbiologyb.
[Congrattions, youngest member winner!]
The memo featured a drawing of someone simr to Jeong-woo holding his nose.
She had been silent for a while, but it turned out she had been quietly nning to tease him like this.
Jeong-woo waited with a resigned expression for the fate that was about toe.
Song Boyeong burst intoughter, delighted by his reaction.
At that moment, Oh Seung-ju passed by.
Oh, right, Boyeong.
Song Boyeong, who always felt uneasy at times like this, had trembling eyes.
We got a call from the Ministry of Agriculture and Environment. They said the department head will visit at 11. Youll be in charge of that.
Director Choi ising?
The work from the Ministry of Agriculture and Environment included the fertilizer project currently underway in the microbiologyb. So, she had to enter theb. Song Boyeongs face, which had been full of joy, turned cloudy.
Im wearing makeup today and I dont want to get it off. I rarely look this good, me.
Thats good. Use your overflowing beauty to wee the department head. After that, wash your face clean and exin the progress of the fertilizer project.
But Jeong-woo is here. Our youngest member.
If youre going on assignment next week, it might confuse the department head. After all, Im going five times more, you know.
Song Boyeong made a strange groaning noise and buried her face in her desk.
Jeong-woo prepared an extrab coat to enter the microbiologyb and asked cautiously.
Senior, are you crying? How can help your youngest member?
Im not crying! I dont need anything!
The congrattions memo that had been pinned to the partition wall next to her started shaking as she tapped her desk to express her desire to be alone.
Jeong-woo entered the microbiologyb, holding his nose tightly as the air was filled with a pungent aroma.
This ce, divided intopost and mold areas, centered around ss containers filled with culture dishes, emitted an overpowering scent. It felt suffocating, and he couldnt wait to finish and leave.
He quickly reced the culture medium, disposed of the half-used dishes filled with excessive microbial growth, and finished disposing them into the waste container.
As he walked forward, carrying a sensor to measure the fertility of thepost, the scent grew stronger.
Its your nose, stop smelling.
He was about to recite the spell when a message arrived on his phone.
[Senior~ Its me, Mi-so. Lets have lunch together!]
Jeong-woo felt bewildered by Jin Mi-sos text. How did she get his number? Perhaps crying loudly in front of the senior researchers had made her feel morefortable, or she had simply let her guard down. He had a feeling that she had been approaching him more amiably since earlier.
[I cant. Im busy.]
It would be better to avoid running into anyone for a while if he didnt want to be teased.
After inserting the electrode sensor into thepost and measuring the amount of organic matter, he realized it would be quicker to view the molecules directly instead of analyzing them this way.
Jeong-woo opened the monitor and began to examine thepost closely, embarking on a journey within this overpowering world.
Thunk.
Someone came in while he was working.
I significantly increased the ion exchange capacitypared tost time.
Is that so? If the soil infiltration has increased, it would be much better for using it on barrennd.
It was Song Boyeong and the Ministry of Agriculture and Environments representative.
A man in his mid-thirties with a sporty hairstyle, who had been inside earlier, saw Jeong-woo and nodded briefly.
Thank you for your hard work. Im Choi Jae-woong.
Im Han Jeong-woo.
Are you testing thepost?
Yes, I just need to record one more result.
Choi Jae-woong walked over to Jeong-woo and showed interest in the result sheet he was working on.
As Song Boyeong approached the monitor with a face as smooth as a babys, Jeong-woo signaled her by covering his nose to indicate that he couldnt smell anything now.
After quickly recording the cellulose and lignin content, Jeong-woo stepped back.
Im leaving now.
Researcher Han Jeong-woo. Wait a moment.
Choi Jae-woong pointed to a paragraph on the monitor with his hand.
Why are the nitrogen, phosphorus, and calcium levels low, but the salinity is so high?
Well, I just recorded what the sensor detected, as is.
Jeong-woo nced at Song Boyeong. She approached the monitor and started inspecting thepost analysis sheet.
Oh? Thats right. Why is that? If the salinity is this high, it impairs the soils ability to retain moisture, right?
Thats correct. Even if the nutrient content is excellent, fertilizers that increase salinity in the soil cannot be used.
Jeong-woo felt terrible as it seemed like a problem had arisen due to their conversation. However, he reluctantly shifted his focus back to the molecr world within thepost.
Clusters of aroma molecules were densely packed in this microcosm. There was a high content of starch and protein. That was pig manure.
Ew.
Analyzing theponents of manure one by one made him feel queasy.
It seems like the pig might have overeaten, aside from grain feed. Mixing organic matter seemed to create variations. This part is high, but here its low.
Jeong-woo inserted the sensor into various ces in thepost, and the detectors readings fluctuated.
Indeed. We should keep this in mind when issuing the money ration. Please take note of it.
Choi Jae-woong nodded in agreement.
Then, Ill be on my way.
If he continued to stare, it felt like he would see it in his dreams, so Jeong-woo quickly removed his hand from the sensor and bid farewell to the two before leaving.
Oxygen. I need oxygen.
As his nose was finally free, Jeong-woo felt a newfound appreciation for the fresh air.
While Song Boyeong and Choi Jae-woong were checking the microbiological incubator, she overheard unexpected news.
Its for the rural pilot areas?
Yes, all the designatedpanies from the Ministry of Agriculture and Environment are preparing for basic work. KG Chemicals also needs to send a team.
It shouldnt be too difficult.
In reality, the only issue was that she, the youngest member of Research Lab 1, had to go on a business trip.
When is the timing?
Tomorrow.
Oh my, this is so sudden?
Song Boyeong gave Choi Jae-woong a questioning look as if they should have been notified at least a week in advance. He lowered his head apologetically.
I apologize. It was only just before the arrival of spring that we finally found a vige with arge amount ofnd that hasnt used any pesticides.
Cleannd was essential to observe the practical use of organic farming methods. Listening to Choi Jae-woongs exnation, Song Boyeong began to think about what she needed to do once she got there.
From collecting soil samples of potential farnds to measuring them, it wasnt a difficult task, but it would consume a significant amount of time.
The elderly in this vige are quite closed-off. We cant predict when theyll allow the Agricultural Technology Center andpanies to act together.
Regardless of the circumstances in the pilot area, KG Chemicals couldnt refuse since it was a long-term project they had already contracted.
Suddenly, Song Boyeong had a thought.
Does the participation have to be tomorrow, without fail?
Choi Jae-woong nodded.
It seems like the rookie is still part of Research Lab 1.
Yes?
Oh, no.
Song Boyeong smiled with a change of heart.
Could you please write a formal request? Even if its urgent, there are procedures to follow.
Of course.
As for team members, it will be me and
Song Boyeong turned her gaze toward the door where Jeong-woo had left.
Han Jeong-woo. The capable researcher you saw earlier.
Oh, he seemed quitepetent.
Surprised, arent you? Hes an incredible ace.
A business trip to the countryside. In reality, the youngest member, besides the actual youngest, was working in Research Lab 1. Song Boyeong felt that she couldnt handle it alone.
Chapter 79
Chapter 79- Spring Countryside Chronicles(3)
Jeong-woo stopped by the shower room at thepany gym because the smell couldnt go away with the antibacterial treatment. Aftering out, he shook off his wet hair and sat down on a chair in Research Lab 1.
In the afternoon, should I work on research projects or explore?
He turned on hisptop, but as he received a text on his phone, he took it. Suddenly, a tingling sensation, like static electricity, coursed through his fingertips, causing him to drop the phone on the desk.
Ouch, its hot. Those darn dust particles.
He zoomed in to check, but there was no apparent cause for the static electricity.
Whats this?
As Jeong-woo tried to grab the mobile phone again, he suppressed a groan at the sight of sparks flickering in the molecr world, a spectacr scene.
A tiny current delivered from the mobile phones battery. It lingered at his fingertips and then suddenly emitted a sh in the molecr world.
The specks of dust around his hand seemed to protest, but they were drawn to the sh and adhered to his fingertips.
And thus began a disruptive neural interference with a sudden surge of waves.
As the entirely natural world of colors unfolded before Jeong-woos eyes, he immediately closed his eyes and took a deep breath. This had be somewhat familiar, so he could quickly calm himself.
Once again, the ultrasound stimted Jeong-woos eyes and ears.
A thunksound of a door opening and closing resonated like waves throughout the entire office.
What in the world am I going to use this for?
The thunk sound wave reached Jeong-woos left hand. To be precise, it was drawn to the hand, which was filled with the phone batterys alternating current.
As if filling a sink with water and then suddenly opening the drain, the waves of ultrasound poured into his fingertips. They created subsequent echoes, spreading throughout the entire office.
Thanks to that, Jeong-woo began to appreciate the sound of doors opening and closing as if it were a natural sound. The sound of What is this was drawn back into his fingertips.
Startled, Jeong-woo ced his phone on the table.
This time, the sound waves detected in his sight began to transmit sound throughout the office in a normal wave.
Could it be?
He poured water into his drinking bottle, sprinkled some on his hand, and then gripped the phone again. Along with a sh, he saw the energy transfer process in the microcosm.
Eventually, he drew the sound waves, which were being scattered as they reached the wall in the distance, into his fingertips. The sound that shouldnt be seen but heard began to resonate in Jeong-woos eardrums.
In-beom. Are you going to submit the Polyamide Resin project n?
Well, Senior. Will it get approved? There are so many outstanding project proposals, especially Jeong-woos its nothing short of amazing. Do you know he applied for two patents in the past two months?
Just go ahead and submit it. Research proposals can sometimes evolve into projects if the timing is right.
This conversation took ce as Jeong In-beom and Shim Jeong-hee walked down the corridor.
RustleShh
Ugh.
The consecutive sound waves sounded like rice grains falling on the floor, possiblying from the mens restroom.
Jeong-woo extended his arm as if the sound waves were tainting his hand.
The drawn-in sound waves rebounded and flew towards the door.
Song Boyeong, who had just entered the restroom, heard the sound and looked around with a puzzled expression.
Observing this scene, Jeong-woo couldnt close his open mouth.
Transmission is possible?
As Jeong-woo gazed with a surprised expression, Song Boyeong approached.
We both stink, so if you tease me, Jeong-woo, youll be hurt too.
To erase the view of the sound waves, Jeong-woo tightly closed his eyes. After about 10 seconds, his vision cleared.
If I can selectively view other waves, can I control them in a simr way?
It was still an unknown.
Seeing that the battery level disyed on his phone had significantly dropped, Jeong-woo connected it to a charger and then looked back at Song Boyeong.
Right, senior. I just took a shower
Shut your mouth.
Yes.
Song Boyeong, who had just returned from the microbiologyb, was sharper than ever. Jeong-woo refrained from teasing and opened a text message he hadnt checked earlier.
[I bought a car!]
It was a sudden message from Park Soo-chan.
[What kind of car?]
The picture that appeared looked like a very shabby, red used car.
[Is this thing even roadworthy?]
[I cant believe this kid. Apologize to my Laura!]
Even a name had been given. Jeong-woo found it amusing, but Song Boyeong turned around suddenly, and her eyes seemed to question if he had justughed.
Because of Laura
Who is Laura?
My friends car.
Funny.
In hindsight, it was perfect for misunderstanding it as a joke.
Soo-chan, this guy.
Annoyed, Jeong-woo was about to show the picture, but Song Boyeong spoke.
Thatughter. Lets see if you can keep it up tomorrow.
Tomorrow?
Song Boyeong didnt say anything more and turned her head.
Thud.
Jeong-woo.
At someones call, Jeong-woos gaze shifted.
Kang Sang-gyu, the senior who had performed a powerful fainting act yesterday, beckoned him in front of the door. As he walked down the hallway, he immediately got to the point.
The training coordinator from the Personnel Department asked me to schedule it. For the first month, regr researchers will be taking new recruits around and giving them tasks one day at a time. Youre going on assignment next week, so youll do it this week.
What kind of tasks for new recruits?
Just a close adaptation process. Seniors just letting them observe what they usually do. Since I saw you exining things to the neers yesterday, I know its not a problem.
Disying seniority in front of the newbies is no joking matter.
Were you saving that up? Hehe.
When should I do it, then?
Ill send a message when this weeks personnel assignment is done.
Although there might not be much to assign, Jeong-woo nodded without hesitation, as he had experience at the Fragrance Center.
The next day, during the Research Lab 1 briefing.
a business trip to Hongcheon County Agricultural Technology Center for the day. Boyeong, do your best.
Got it!
Song Boyeong seemed to have been waiting as she stood up. Oh Seung-ju, who was going through official documents, raised an eyebrow.
Oh? Theyve requested Jeong-woo too. How did Chief Choi find out about our Jeong-woo? Have he heard the rumors about him being good at his work?
Jeong-woo turned to look at Oh Seung-ju at thisment.
I have a business trip too, you know?
Well, it cant be helped. Our client is a government official. Come back with a refreshed mind. All right, thats it! Have a great day today too.
Jeong-woo, who had been pushed outside, met eyes with Song Boyeong, who was grumbling.
Our young recruit, are you mentally prepared to work hard? Theres a lot of physical work here, so we dont need you to be too smart, Jeong-woo.
Her deration of intending to tease him thoroughly. She had often teased him in the past, but it seemed that she had prepared these revenge tools. However, Jeong-woo couldnt help but chuckle, thinking it was just typical of her to choose today for this.
Well, its perfect timing.
Yes, its perfect huh? Im the one whos in luck, and Jeong-woo, youre the unlucky one, right? Are you getting all flustered and talking nonsense because youre too irritated right now? Hmph.
Today, Im not the youngest.
Jeong-woo remembered the message he received from Kang Sang-gyu on his way to work.
Thud.
The door of Research Lab 1 opened, and five new recruits entered.
Han Jeong-woo senior! Were counting on you!
Me too.
Today, the five new recruits, full of passion and ready to help with anything, were here to assist Jeong-woo.
Jeong-woo said to Song Boyeong, who was eyeing him with curiosity,
Shall we go, Senior? Ill take all the new recruits with me.
Why are they?
Oh, right. Since youre the highest-ranking, lets treat them to lunch as a celebration.
A 12-passenger van exited the highway and entered the Hongcheon tollgate.
Yong-sik, you drive smoothly.
I used to be a military driver. Haha.
Jeong-woo, seated in the front passenger seat of the rented car under thepanys name, briefly nced at Song Boyeong, who was in the middle seat.
She had been staring at documents the whole time and meticulously examining the locations of rice fields and fields in the selected demonstration area of the vige.
The name of this project sponsored by the Rural Development Administrations Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs is the Support Program for High-Value Clean Agricultural Produce Cultivation. Not only KG Chemical but also numerous rtedpanies have participated and provided technological support.
What kind of sample analysis are we going to do, Senior?
Well measure pollutants and pesticide residues. If there are nts, we can collect them and observe the absorption process by the roots.
Root absorption?
By examining the ion concentration in the root cell membrane, we can determine whether its passive or active. Ion density. Cation exchange. Have you heard of these terms?
Song Boyeong, who had spent the past year as a dedicated microbiologyb specialist, was practically an expert in this field.
The new recruits showed great enthusiasm throughout the trip, asking numerous questions. As the senior responsible for teaching them, Song Boyeong patiently answered each question.
Im unexpectedly enjoying this.
Having Song Boyeong above and the new recruits below made the trip surprisinglyfortable. Todays business trip seemed like a perfect opportunity for rxation.
How can work at thepany be difficult every time? These business trips are also necessary.
As he had entrusted Yong-sik with the driving, not knowing when the interference waves might disrupt his vision, Jeong-woo had nothing to do but hum along. It put him in a great mood.
Jeong-woo gazed out the window at the mountains and fields passing by. It was a familiar and unremarkablendscape, but he couldnt help but mutter, Wow, the scenery is beautiful.
The most mild weather of the year so far. Spring.
Did one of thendowners express their refusal?
The news that arrived just after arriving at the 1st assembly point, the Hongcheon Agricultural Technology Center parking lot, sent a slight chill down Jeong-woos chest as the spring breeze gently blew.
Among the approximately 50pany representatives who had gathered for the conversation between Manager Choi Jae-woong and the director of the Technology Center, there was a sense of unease.
In this situation where a 2-hour trip from Seoul could be in vain, even the KG Chemical team felt the tension.
The director spoke.
If it were an ordinary farmer, excluding one person wouldnt be a problem, but its the elderly owner who owns half of the demonstration area.
This is quite a dilemma.
For now, the crop and livestock technology support teams will move. The local residents are supposed to gather at the vige hall at 1 oclock in the afternoon.
Choi Jae-woong nodded and directed thepany team leaders to proceed to the vige. Then, he approached Song Boyeong.
Did you hear that?
So, should we just go back since we cant conduct measurements?
No, you dont have to. Since the other half has agreed. If youre working on the approvednd, I will meet with that elder to persuade them. KG Chemicals fertilizer is the core of this project. We need to do it right.
Choi Jae-woong asked him to contact the chief, then he left in a car.
Song Boyeong looked at Jeong-woo.
Did you hear?
I was right next to you.
No, its about thendowner. Its a significantndowner, probably from an influential and wealthy family. Could it have been such a household?
Jeong-woo shrugged, indicating he didnt know. Song Boyeong cast a brief nce at the new recruits gathered by the van, then lowered her voice.
They might be quite demanding.
How do you know that?
Ive dealt with elders from influential and authoritative families. Ive experienced it quite a bit.
I see.
Jeong-woo had no choice but to nod in response to Song Boyeongs ount of her experiences as the 20th sessor in a chaebol family.
The van stopped at the entrance of a vige, about 30 minutes further into Hongcheon.
Well use this field as our base since the ground here is elevated. Lets set up quickly and then go for lunch.
Upon Song Boyeongs voice, the new recruits started unloading equipment from the cargopartment.
Jeong-woo, who was contemting whether to join in or not, eventually approached since he couldnt find his fun-loving senior.
While doing so, he noticed Jin Mi-so, who was murmuring while taking out a soil tester.
Feeling that she might need some assistance, he offered.
Here, give it to me.
Ah, no, its okay.
Nevertheless, he swiftly grabbed it and ced it in front of the field. Jin Mi-so, smiled showing her attractive dimples.
Thank you, senior.
Just focus on the lighter stuff.
Even though this is a diplomatic courtesy after the discrimination we faced yesterday, I dont mind this kind of special treatment.
Jeong-woo had nothing to say in response to Jin Mi-sos mention of the previous mistreatment, so he just smiled awkwardly.
Five minutester.
While organizing the ces where soil samples needed to be collected, Jeong-woo approached Song Boyeong, who was busy looking at topographic maps.
Are you nning things out?
For now, yes. But if thendowner refuses, the measurement course will bepletely messed up. It seems that all the primend is owned by that elder.
Jeong-woo also examined theyout of the vige in front of him. It was a typical rural vige with rice paddies and fields scattered around the hills. The traces of winter and spring were shared, painting the mountains and hills with various shades of brown and green.
Observing a farmer burning grass on the embankment was a somewhat novel sight, so he watched for a moment.
Then, he shifted his gaze to a scene where a ck goat, which he rarely encountered in the city, leaped over the embankment and dashed through the fence towards the mountains. It was certainly not a typical ruralndscape.
Wow
With a jolt, the fence broke, and the ck goat dashed down the road toward the mountains. No matter how you looked at it, this wasnt a normal rural scene.
Senior, do you see that? The ck goat is running in a strange direction.
What?
Jeong-woo pointed with his finger, but the goat had already vanished from sight. Song Boyeong sighed, looking at the empty road.
Theres nothing there. Dont y pranks on me today.
Right, sure.
Jeong-woo remained silent, waiting for Song Boyeong to finish setting her course. But then, the loudspeaker of the vige hall in the center of the vige, which was quite far away, produced a faint broadcast noise.
-Uhm, uhm, this is an announcment
Due to the distance and the poor performance of the loudspeaker, the sound was not very clear.
Right.
Jeong-woo went back to the van and, using a water bottle to moisten his hand, he touched his smartphone. With a wet hand, he touched the screen, and suddenly, the molecr world sparked to life, drawing in the surrounding sound waves.
When Jeong-woo returned and pointed his hand toward the loudspeaker, Song Boyeong gave him a puzzled look.
What are you doing?
I thought Id try to absorb some of natures energy while were outdoors.
Without a better exnation, he resorted to humor. Song Boyeongs gaze quickly returned to the map.
Jeong-woo observed the sound waves emitted from the loudspeaker concentrating intensely toward his hand, and he gained confidence.
Chemical energy and waves. AF-5 was not just apound that caused visual changes.
The sound wave that hit his hand caused vibrations in his eardrums.
1 p.m. Gather at the vige hall with Nonghyup representatives. Nonghyup, right? Yes, the Technology Center. Its the same thing, isnt it? Either way, those nning agricultural activities should gather. There will be training.
Though he didnt know who it was, the speech was quite engaging.
Ill tell you once again What? Grandma Jin-sim called? She said toe in a little while. What? Is it urgent?
The broadcast suddenly cut off. Jeong-woo was about to lower his phone.
Beep
Ah, an urgent situation has arisen, so I will tell you. Hong-chil has escaped from Grandma Jin-sims house and is wandering around the vige. Please perform gate checks diligently. If you encounter outsiders with Hong-chil, dont be rmed; just run away quickly.
Hong-chil? Run away?
In the midst of his confusion, something unexpectedly sprang out from the distant thicket where the ck goat had leaped earlier.
It was a wild boar covered in bristly fur. It wasnt veryrge, but for some reason, it dashed down the unpaved country road toward the opposite mountainside.
The ck goat followed it and leaped over to the ce where the wild boar had disappeared.
Wow.
What?
Do you see that?
Since both animals had vanished in an instant, Song Boyeong didnt see it this time either.
Huh? Whats this about Hong-chil? Ah, a ck goat. Hong-chil has gone a little crazy, so anyone can catch him. Be careful, gentlemen.
The broadcast ended this way.
Jeong-woo, his eyes widened, focused his gaze on the trace of the wild boar that had chased the disappeared ck goat.
Whats wrong with this vige?
Ziiing.
Song Boyeongs phone rang. She immediately brought it to her ear upon checking the callers name.
Yes, Manager.
Elder Choi Sun-jae says they need to meet the KG Chemical team.
The head of the family?
Theyre concerned about people recklessly digging up thend near Sunsan. You should exin the soil sampling process in detail.
Got it.
As sound waves were still being drawn into his hand due to the ultrasound, Jeong-woo could hear the phone call as well.
After ending the call, Song Boyeong looked at Jeong-woo.
It seems we need to go to the Jonggats residence.
Since he was worried about the ck goat he had just seen, he couldnt let Song Boyeong go alone.
Lets go together. We dont know whats going to happen. The new recruits can handle things here.
For once, Jeong-woo took the initiative to assist, and Song Boyeong looked at him with a somewhat suspicious gaze.
Im just offering to help.
Without saying anything more, Song Boyeong began to walk towards the house where Manager Choi had informed her to go.
Junior colleagues, once the setup isplete, please wait a while. Manager Choi will meet with us and then welle back.
Yes, senior!
As Jeong-woo spoke toward the van, the responses from the new recruits were loud and enthusiastic.
On the way to the outskirts of the vige.
Boyeong, if you happen to encounter a slightly deranged ck goat, run away quickly.
Carefully repeating the information he had heard from the broadcast, Song Boyeong squinted her eyes and stared at Jeong-woo.
Whats that all about? Is that what youre concerned about? Today seems to be a day for strange pranks.
Yeah, youre right. I hope its just a joke.
A neighborhood where you had to be cautious while searching for a deranged ck goat. It had turned a pleasant spring outing into a chilling suspenseful moment.
Chapter 80
Chapter 80- Spring Countryside Chronicles(4)
As Song Boyeong walked on the rough dirt road, she nced at Jeong-woo. He kept raising and lowering his phone while staring toward the mountainside.
Is the signal weak?
Well it seems that way.
He gave a vague answer and then raised his phone above his head again.
Is he just bored?
Song Boyeong let out a short sigh. While it wasnt a task that required an extraordinary chemical sense, it was still unfamiliar work.
Despite that, she had been full of anticipation when she first took on this jobst year. She had studied agriculture diligently, even though it was new to her.
The new recruits, who had bombarded her with questions non-stop, were excited and fascinated by working in the countryside. But Jeong-woo
Fu.
He let out a dry, detedugh.
After taking on the role of project team leader just one month after joining, it seemed likepleting it in another month was nothing special for him.
Now, there was no senior treating Jeong-woo like a two-month-old rookie. Although he was still the youngest in terms of seniority and asionally teased by his colleagues.
Well, its fine. Theres nothing to be jealous of now.
Shed rather feel a bit of envy than this stifling feeling. Yesterday, she had dressed up for work for the first time in a long while, only to be embarrassed by the awkwardpliments that called her a spring maiden.
Seeing Jeong-woo walking alongside her, looking lost in his own world, it didnt make her angry but rather nervous.
Hey, why are you getting closer?
Jeong-woo mumbled as he looked toward the mountainside, and Song Boyeong wondered if he was going to make some clever remark.
Whats getting closer?
Animal noises.
I see.
It was another iprehensible statement. Song Boyeong snorted and then quickly continued walking in the direction of Choi Soon-jaes house.
Senior, hold on for a moment.
Its fine. Ill finish this quickly for you, Jeong-woo.
She had brushed off Jeong-woos call and had taken two steps forward. At that moment, something ck suddenly sprang out from the road below, apanied by the rustling of leaves.
In a defenseless state, Song Boyeong instinctively screamed, Aah! and then stumbled back while trying to backpedal with all her might. Her body spun around, but the shift in bnce only made her fall.
Jeong-woo barely managed to catch her as she fell, and she clung to him as she fell, her body trembling with fear as she looked up at him with wide, fearful eyes.
Watch out.
Jeong-woo held her tightly as she fell against him.
Just like that, trembling with fear coursing up her spine, Song Boyeong looked at Jeong-woo with her eyes shaking with dread.
Is it that thing? The ck goat?
No, its a wild boar being chased by that thing.
Song Boyeong turned her head slightly at this.
A wild boar about the size of arge Jindo dog had appeared in the middle of the road. It had an untamed look in its eyes, and it seemed ready to pounce on them at any moment.
My goodness.
Song Boyeong buried her face in Jeong-woos chest, still trembling, and asked with a shaky voice, What do we do now?
Judging by its size, it seems like it will only chase one of us. Its been a pleasure working with you, senior. Whoever gets caught, the remaining person will take care of the recruits.
Why are you making jokes at a time like this?
Even though Song Boyeong had a worried expression, Jeong-woosposure made her feel somewhat relieved. After muttering reassurances several times, she gathered her courage and turned her head to face the wild boar.
Through the thick fur, the wild eyes of the animal stared back at her.
Oh, its still there.
The tension that had been building up suddenly burst out.
What is this? We came here just to collect soil samples. Why do we have to risk our lives? How did it turn out like this? If I knew this would happen, I would have postponed the work. Why? Why? I just joined, and they keep treating me like the youngest. Seriously.
Senior, why is the logic
It doesnt matter which one of us it catches!
Where is it going?
What?
Song Boyeong, who had turned her head suddenly, spotted the hindquarters of the wild boar that had begun to sprint across the opposite field. It was bewildering and reassuring at the same time. After enduring it for a while, she said.
Oh, my heart almost stopped.
Im not saying its because of that, but my heart is getting assaulted right now. Its not on purpose, though.
Jeong-woo looked down at Song Boyeong hesitatingly. Realizing that Jeong-woos face was just one palms length away from her, Song Boyeong was taken aback and moved away.
I, I was just surprised now
Awkwardly lowering her head, she began to nce around at Jeong-woo, who was walking around the mountainside with his phone in his hand.
Still not signal? Should I lend you my phone?
I think the wild boar was scared of him.
Of him?
Its getting closer.
As Jeong-woo finished speaking, there was a terrifying snap, and the sound of branches breaking could be heard. Song Boyeong jumped in surprise.
Its here.
With a forceful jump, the ck object sprang up onto the road. The ck goat turned its eyes towards Song Boyeong and Jeong-woo.
My god
A desperate, moaning sound escaped Song Boyeongs lips as she faced the ck goat.
It had a simr build to the wild boar that had just disappeared but had robust horns and sturdy, muscr legs reminiscent of a small ox. Especially the eyes. Even if they were as small as beans, they gleamed with a wildness that rivaled the ferocity of the wild boar.
Even Jeong-woo, who had been calm all along, had a tense expression. Song Boyeong, clutching his arm, began to shiver.
What should we do?
If we stumble this time, we wont be able to catch it, senior.
Jeong-woos tone was not joking at all. He spoke with seriousness while keeping a close eye on the ck goats movements.
The vige broadcast said to run to the side, not backwards.
Crab walk? Is that what it means?
Its a bit funny, but it probably means that it charges at people, so they advised us to run to the side.
Song Boyeong swallowed hard. Jeong-woo emphasized it once again.
You know it will charge, right?
Um, Jeong-woo.
With a resigned tone, Song Boyeong spoke with a voice mixed with moisture.
Im sorry for earlier. I should have learned about it. I was the one who rmended it to the Ministry of Agriculture and Environment. I wanted toe together, to tease you a bit.
After saying this, it felt like a confession made just before dying, and tears welled up in Song Boyeongs eyes.
Jeong-woo gently patted Song Boyeongs hand, which he was holding tightly.
You wont die if it hits you. Youll get hurt, of course, but you wont die. Itsing. Be ready. Senior, go to the left, and Ill go to the right.
Um
Song Boyeong was on the verge of tears but bit her lip and focused on the ck goat. The cute yet frightening creature that made a baa sound suddenly charged towards them.
Itsing!
Whether it was the left or the right, as Jeong-woo had instructed, they needed to evade the charge. However, when faced with the ck goats charge, Song Boyeong, who should have gone left, stood frozen in ce as if her feet were glued to the ground.
Senior! Quickly
Checking the direction, Jeong-woo turned to look at Song Boyeong, who was standing like a statue. Without thinking, he wrapped his arms around her waist and they both fell to the side of the road.
Ahh!
The ck goat seemed to be charging, then the world flipped, and suddenly the clear spring sky appeared, and Song Boyeong tightly closed her eyes.
She tumbled down the embankment beside the road. She thought she was going to die like this. However, surprisingly, it didnt hurt much.
The sound of the ck goat hopping gradually faded away.
Ow, it hurts.
Jeong-woo let out a groan. He wasnt seriously injured, but the impact of rolling down a 1-meter-high slope with a womans full weight in his arms left a lingering sensation all over his body.
Are you okay, senior?
Did it go away?
It went away. Chasing after the wild boar.
Song Boyeong sobbed softly, seeming quite shocked. Jeong-woo wrapped his arms around her andforted her for a moment.
Ugh
Maybe because of the shaking from the fall, or perhaps due to the onset of motion sickness, Jeong-woo started to close his eyes as his vision began to transform into a field of waves.
Huh? Somethings a bit different.
The waves in his sight seemed to be changing. Instead of all the waves ovepping indiscriminately, a specific area was highlighted. Song Boyeongs skin seemed to emit waves within the infrared range, specifically between 8 to 14 micrometers.
This is quite interesting.
It felt like he was facing the world through a thermal camera, offering an incredibly detailed perception of the wavelengths.
However, there was a problem.
Naked skin with body heat appeared within the infrared range, but outer clothing did not.
Ouch.
Jeong-woo found himself in a state of profound shock for about five seconds, experiencing a very healthy and detached reaction.
Since absorbing AF-5, this was the most vivid moment that showcased its value.
He turned his gaze from Song Boyeong to the surroundings. Nearby objects were clearly visible, but distant areas remained shrouded in darkness. It was undoubtedly a result of specific nerves sensing temperature.
But seriously, is it okay to see skin details so clearly?
Jeong-woo found himself in a close-up situation with Song Boyeong, and he felt the need to look away.
Get a hold of yourself. This ability isnt meant for this.
Jeong-woo decided to close his eyes until the wave vision settled. He realized it was better to escape this situation before his mind wandered.
Senior.
Yes? What is it?
Is it a bad thing if you use me as a makeshift bed? Isnt it a bit early for a nap? We have work to do.
It was only then that Song Boyeong grasped the reality of the situation. She was holding onto Jeong-woo as if he were a lifeline.
Since Ive got my eyes closed, feel free to make any annoyed expression you want right now.
No, I wont!
Despite a teardrop trickling down, Song Boyeongs cheeks turned crimson, and she quickly moved away from Jeong-woo.
As she stood up, she was startled when she saw Jeong-woo covered in dirt and fallen leaves on his arms and legs.
Are you hurt?
Jeong-woo touched the ground, slowly lifted his upper body, and shook his head.
Dont worry. The fallen leaves were soft. But I might have something in my eye from rolling, so I wont be able to open it for a while. Can you support me a bit?
Im sorry. Its all my fault.
Song Boyeong grabbed Jeong-woos arm.
While its a situation I should feel sorry for, I received my own reward, so lets call it even.
A reward?
I wontment on that any further.
Leading Jeong-woo, Song Boyeong returned to the road and asked.
Should we walk back?
No, walking is fine. Hong-chil, or whatever the name of the ck goat is, probably wonte back.
His vision had settled after about ten minutes. Jeong-woo, relying on Song Boyeongs shoulder, moved forward, realizing that navigating through sound alone was less inconvenient than he had initially thought.
The two of them arrived at arge traditional-style mansion that resembled a folk vige not long after. The inner courtyard was as vast as the grand entrance gate.
Manager Choi?
Song Boyeong called out to Choi Jae-woong as they entered through the open gate. She then turned to look at Jeong-woo, who still had his eyes closed.
Are you still ufortable?
Well, yes.
Jeong-woo slightly raised his eyelids but closed them again, as he could still sense the other persons body temperature within his field of vision.
Its somewhat like that.
Have a seat here.
Crossing the yard and sitting on a veranda, Jeong-woo sensed that Song Boyeong was examining the area around his eyes and said.
I think I can open my eyes in a few minutes.
Your eyes are full of dust. You cant get rid of it so easily. See? Ill blow it away.
Its okay
As Song Boyeong blew air toward Jeong-woos eyes, he turned and saw the traces of dirt on his shoulder, making her look even more apologetic.
How about that? Feels cooler, right?
Somewhat, yes. Thats enough now.
Stay still. Ill help remove the dust.
Jeong-woo shivered, and the gust of wind not only tickled his face but also tickled his heart. This situation of being closely connected to Song Boyeong was simr to a torture, almost as if he had opened his eyes to a nightmare.
Should I sing the national anthem? Think of things that make you angry or annoyed.
After Dr. Moons diagnosis of his inability to date, women were just women to him, mere individuals with no special significance. Thats why he felt like the heavens were testing him with such trials.
Look the other way as well.
Her breath, which she blew into his face, did not seem to help with his nerve stabilization at all.
Jeong-woo immediately tried to move her away. There was a swish, as if something was flying, but it went unnoticed.
Whats going on?
Since the direction and distance were right over his head, Jeong-woo was startled.
Unidentified flying object at 9 oclock
What?
Before she finished speaking, a rubber shoe hit Song Boyeongs temple and fell to the ground. Then, an angry shout followed.
Hey! What are you doing so indiscreetly in front of someone elses love nest!
It was the shout of an elderly man.
Is that the elder?
Jeong-woo only heard it, but he could sense a stern personality within the words and tensed up.
Having briefly forgotten due to the ck goat, they were at a house where an elderly man, who Manager Choi Jae-woong hadnt persuaded, lived.
Song Boyeong looked bewildered as she stared at the rubber shoe that had struck her head, but she quickly regained herposure and looked at Jeong-woo.
Keep resting. Ill exin it to him.
Confidently dering her intention, Song Boyeong turned to the person who had thrown the shoe. It was Choi Soon-jae, the owner of this ce and thergestndowner in the vige.
Elder. I think theres a misunderstanding.
Tsk. A misunderstanding? I saw it clearly with my own two eyes while he was wiping his face, and its a misunderstanding?
The angle might make it look that way. He had dirt in his eyes, and I was blowing it away for him. Look. He still cant open his eyes.
While Song Boyeong exined, she turned to Jeong-woo. During this time, Jeong-woo detected the sound of wind once again.
Itsing again.
What?
Hweeek, thud.
Another rubber shoe rolled on the ground. This time, Song Boyeong got hit on the head and let out a short moan.
Jeong-woo, who was impressed by Choi Soon-jaes precision, murmured/
Are you okay?
Im okay, but
Song Boyeongs breathing became rough, as if her mood had soured.
Mr. Choi Soon-jae!
Choi Jae-woongs voice could be heard from a distance.
Jeong-woo, Song Boyeong, and Manager Choi Jae-woong knelt politely on the main porch of the traditional house, listening to the words of the elderly man in the vige.
You only know how to drink, you good-for-nothing Hwang child. Its only been a short while since you became the vige chief. What made you speak for this outsider and turn the entire vige against me?
Jeong-woo, whose vision had returned to normal, was observing Choi Soon-jae.
Despite being well into his eighties, Choi Soon-jae had fiery eyes that seemed to emit mes. Each time his gaze fell on someone, it felt as if it could crush their spirit.
Do you understand? Ive never agreed with the vige chiefs opinions.
Choi Soon-jae had been on fire for a while with his arguments.
He argued that the selection of the demonstration area had been decided unterally by Vige Chief Hwang Man-hee without his knowledge. Furthermore, he couldnt tolerate any kind of excavation, regardless of the method, and wanted them to leave without wasting any more time.
I have nothing more to say. Just leave.
After stating his business briefly, Choi Soon-jae turned to leave.
Elder.
Song Boyeong couldnt leave it at that and was about to say more, but she received a sharp re from Choi Soon-jae.
Oh my, not knowing how scary the sky can be and just meddling with it.
When Choi Soon-jae mentioned the incident on the love nests porch from earlier, Song Boyeong got upset butposed herself.
Thats a misunderstanding.
Doing that in broad daylight, where did you learn such manners? Men and women are separate, what makes you think you can act like a married couple? Nowadays, young people are difficult to understand.
It was clear that the elderly man lived by strict Confucian standards.
While it was a situation that could be misunderstood, trying to exin and defend themselves would only lead to a continued negative response.
Its possible. Were about to get married, and weve already set the date, havent we?
Jeong-woos eyes widened as he listened. Song Boyeong grabbed Jeong-woos arm and pressed it firmly, making a signal.
Say something.
Um
You see, its like that, isnt it?
Stuck with the role of the fiance, she confidently faced Choi Soon-jae and said.
While we were on our way, we encountered a strange ck goat, and he protected me. Were about to get married, and isnt it normal for a couple in love to express their affection like this?
Song Boyeong, who was now holding hands with Jeong-woo and sharing a sweet smile, was at this moment the embodiment of a new bride, radiant and exuding happiness.
Jeong-woos gaze seemed to ask Are you that desperate?, and Song Boyeong responded with a look that signaled him to stay quiet.
Choi Soon-jae briefly examined the two, and after clearing his throat, he didnt mention the topic of men and women being separate again.
Unlike the bewildered Jeong-woo, Song Boyeong continued to smile and said.
Elder, Id like to talk more about the selection of the rural demonstration area. This is a government-supported project, and if it seeds, it will impact the reputation of this vige when it spreads nationwide. Mary gain is a given.
Choi Soon-jae, whose momentum had waned, was confronted by Song Boyeongs fresh perspective, and Jeong-woo let out an impressed Oh.
It was a logical argument. However, her persuasion came to a halt, as it was interrupted by a lively cell phone ringtone.
Choi Soon-jae raised his hand silently as if to ask if there was something more to be said.
Sir.
Song Boyeong couldnt end it like this and was about to say more, but she was met with Choi Soon-jaes sharp gaze.
Oh, its fearless to just interrupt like this.
Choi Soon-jae mentioned what had happened on the love nest porch earlier, and Song Boyeong got annoyed, but she quickly regained herposure, took a deep breath, and continued, It could be a misunderstanding.
Doing such things in broad daylight, where did you learn such manners? Men and women are separate; what makes you think you can act like a married couple? Its hard to understand young people these days.
It was clear that the elderly man lived by strict Confucian standards.
Although it was a situation that could be misunderstood, if Song Boyeong continued to exin and defend herself, the response might be even more negative.
That could be true. Were about to get married, and weve set a date, right?
Jeong-woos eyes widened as he listened. Song Boyeong grabbed Jeong-woos arm and pressed it firmly, signaling him to remain silent.
Say something.
Um
You see, its like that, isnt it?
Stuck with the role of the fiance, she confidently faced Choi Soon-jae and said.
While we were on our way, we encountered a strange ck goat, and he protected me. Were about to get married, and isnt it normal for a couple in love to express their affection like this?
Song Boyeong, who was now holding hands with Jeong-woo and sharing a sweet smile, was at this moment the embodiment of a new bride, radiant and exuding happiness.
Jeong-woos gaze seemed to ask are you that desperate?, and Song Boyeong responded with a look that signaled him to stay quiet.
Choi Soon-jae briefly examined the two, and after clearing his throat, he didnt mention the topic of men and women being separate again.
Unlike the bewildered Jeong-woo, Song Boyeong continued to smile and said.
Elder, Id like to talk more about the selection of the rural demonstration area. This is a government-supported project, and if it seeds, it will impact the reputation of this vige when it spreads nationwide. Mary gain is a given.
Jeong-woo, who was impressed by Song Boyeongs new argument, said, Oh.
It was a logical argument. However, her persuasion was interrupted by a lively cell phone ringtone.
After Choi Soon-jae silently raised his hand to indicate they should be quiet, he retrieved his phone from his pocket. He pressed the call button familiarly and started talking.
Oh, Beom-ryong. A gochujang order? The customers name Min-gis mom? Ah, that regr customer? Add an extra 200 grams and send it. Last time, they gave us a 5-star rating on W Market. We should show our appreciation.
This scene greatly surprised Jeong-woo. The fact that an elder, who seemed like he would spend his time stacking stones in solitude, was selling goods on an online marketce, and then using a smartphone proficiently to find customer information, was astonishing.
Song Boyeong and Manager Choi, who had been watching the situation with bewilderment, shared the same reaction.
After ending the call, Choi Soon-jae sent a look that seemed to ask if there was anything else to say.
The excellent crops from my field, I sell them myself. What do I need here? Reputation? Whats the use of a rural reputation in this global era? The rating for Chois gochujang is more important to me.
As Song Boyeong was left bbergasted by this response, Jeong-woo realized that it was game over. At that moment, he couldnt think of any way to persuade this elderly man who was not only particr but also familiar with modern technology.
In front of the mansions door, Jeong-woo, with slumped shoulders, bid farewell to Song Boyeong as she walked out.
Youve been through a lot, senior. Lets go for lunch.
What kind of lunch in this situation?
Manager Choi said seeing Song Boyeongs disappointment.
Ill meet with the vige chief and explore other options. I received a call that the Hongcheon County Mayor ising, and we cant stay like this.
Watching Manager Choi hurry off towards themunity center, Jeong-woo gave a small word of encouragement.
Though it didnt seem likely that Choi Soon-jaes attitude would change, the fact that he even considered it was progress.
Song Boyeong, who had tried everything, from the pre-wedding event for the new couple to her excitement, sat down dejectedly.
Its over
Still, the selection of the demonstration area has already beenpleted. With over tenpanies participating in the project.
It would be easier for otherpanies. We cant even touch half of thend, and yet were supposed to do soil analysis and create custom fertilizers here.
Creak.
Suddenly, the mansions door swung open, interrupting their conversation. A neatly dressed man in traditional clothing walked out from inside.
Are you two from the Agricultural Technology Center? I was with my father just now.
Jeong-woo nodded in response to the mans question.
More specifically, were from KG Chemicals soil analysis team. But why do you ask?
The man lowered his voice and approached them.
Im the second son, Choi Beom-ryong. In truth, I was the one who reached an agreement with Vige Chief Hwang Man-hee, but problems arose in the middle. I didnt know my father would be so opposed to it.
Song Boyeong, who had a glimmer of hope after hearing this exnation, inquired.
Is there a possibility he might change his mind?
Not right away, but theres a way. If you could visit the elderlydy, Go Jin-sim, who lives on the hillside path and get her to agree, my father will permit it.
Jeong-woo was deep in thought and felt like he had heard the name somewhere before. He snapped his fingers.
Is she the owner of the ck goat?
Thats right.
Choi Beom-ryong began to exin the dynamics of the viges top authorities surrounding this matter.
Even if Hong Chil raises hell, the reason the vigers all listen is that my father has a deep affection for Go Jin-sim.
Jeong-woo was surprised to learn that even the fiery old man had a softer side. Come to think of it, after Song Boyeongs bizarre announcement about their uing marriage, he had suddenly fallen silent.
Even if I wanted to go, Im swamped with fieldwork. My father is watching too.
Choi Beom-ryong exined the location of Go Jin-sims house in detail, raising Song Boyeongs hopes.
Song Boyeong looked up at Jeong-woo.
Why dont we go.
Now?
We need to decide quickly for me to work at ease.
When a glimmer of hope appeared, Song Boyeongs expression brightened. Jeong-woo grabbed her arm as she was about to hurry up the hillside path.
Wait a moment. Senior, Im with a group of interns at the moment, collecting soil samples for the approvednd. Ill go meet her and ask.
Alone?
Yes, I think itll be faster that way. Its easier to move around avoiding the ck goat by myself. Well have dinner in Seoul.
Song Boyeong, who had been contemting, said to Jeong-woo.
Please.
As the youngest in Research Lab 1, its only natural. The senior doesnt need to feel burdened.
Jeong-woo, who had remembered the mumbled words from earlier, watched as Song Boyeong yfullyughed and said.
Youre dependable as always.
Stop it, that. It gives me goosebumps.
Jeong-woo climbed the hillside path. As he walked away, Song Boyeong waved her hand at him.
Yeobong~ Do well ande back.
Stop it!
Chapter 81
Chapter 81- Spring Countryside Chronicles(5)
After 15 minutes, Jeong-woo, who had almost climbed up the hill path, looked back toward the vige entrance, catching his breath.
In the distance, he could see Song Boyeong and theborers each taking care of their respective fields, engaging in soil collection work.
It seems like everything is going smoothly. I should also check on that ck goat.
If Song Boyeong happened to be nearby, he needed to give her a warning.
Jeong-woo checked his phones battery. It was about half full as he had been using it continuously. By now, he had be quite ustomed to pulling in sound waves through the phones energy.
He sprayed water on a handkerchief and wrapped the phone in it. This was much more durable and stable than just holding it with wet hands.
Consciously focusing on the sound, Jeong-woo looked around, and soon, the undtions of sound waves started to appear in his sight.
Transparent waves that floated through the air like water ripples.
He reached out to pull the ones that seemed to be animal sounds.
Where are you?
Sound waves appeared in the field beyond the mountain ridge. This was the same sound he had heard earlier.
It should be safe for now.
As Jeong-woo walked casually to Grandma Go Jin-sims house located a short distance away, he stopped in his tracks by a sudden thought.
If he concentrated on the sound waves, he could see them. He had been training this ability for a while now and had gained some control. It had been a coincidence earlier, but he had been able to pick out specific areas of waves to observe.
If this works like sound waves, can I consciously see this too?
Contemting what he should focus on, Jeong-woo began to think about things rted to heat.
There was no response in his field of vision. Then, his thoughts went even further and recalled Song Boyeongs figure, which had made him excited.
Wow.
The area of visible light distorted and shifted into the infrared range.
It worked, but
Jeong-woo realized that the key to control was something different, getting excited while thinking about Song Boyeongs figure.
Though he wasnt being watched by anyone, he started looking around cautiously.
Can I utilize this by ovepping it with the batterys energy?
Earlier, he had observed waves in the near-infrared range, but now, he could distinguish a wider spectrum.
Jeong-woo concentrated on dust particles within the phones battery.
Unlike the sound waves he had been drawn to, the external dust particles all quivered and added heat to his hand.
Is it resonating along the infrared wavelength?
As he waved his hand forward, the waves shot out ordingly. The heat intensified.
Jeong-woo stopped, realizing that if he continued, his phone, with just about a year left on its payment, might explode.
In any case, this is fascinating.
The newly acquired ability of AF-5 seemed limitless, the more he learned.
This isnt the way.
Jeong-woo opened his phones notepad. Just like he had recorded the effects of AF-12, he also documented this one. He summarized the ability separately to make it as uplicated as possible.
AF-12
Molecr vision apanied by chemical intuition.
Influence on free electrons.
Molecr transformation in the isomeric structure.
AF-5
Listening and transmission of sound waves within a radius of approximately 1 km.
Infrared detection and resonance.
After organizing it this way, it felt more like creating a walking humanboratory than just creating superpowers with a drug.
Its not even Yujin Chemicals Mobile Research Lab.
Jeong-woo put his phone away, closed his eyes, and tilted his head. Perhaps because his nerves were in a stable state, his infrared vision subsided as quickly as his soundwave vision.
A littleter, Jeong-woo stood in front of the small gate at Grandma Go Jin-sims house, about to knock, when he listened to the conversationing from inside.
-Grandma, they say its a real mess because of Hong-chil. I wonder why the vige head sent us.
Since the gate was low, the interior was fully visible.
Grandma, who was surrounded by two men, had fine skin and a slightly grayish head of hair.
Jeong-woo observed Grandma Go Jin-sim, who seemed to have been quite charming in her youth, and realized why Choi Soon-jae was attracted to her.
-Shouldnt we tie him firmly to a post and raise it?
Go Jin-sim said to the men.
-If hes tied up, he gets excited and run away. But he alwayses back after that.
-The county governor ising today. The vige chief said we might have to call in a specialist to catch him.
-A specialist?
To Go Jin-sims surprised reaction, another man chuckled and muttered.
-Always being a headache, if you just catch him and feed him some alcohol
The man coughed violently and shut his mouth when Go Jin-sim gave him a fierce look.
-In any case, we need to catch him. Do you know where he is?
-I dont, must be somewhere in the mountains.
-You want us to search the whole mountain?
Jeong-woo pushed the already open gate and entered the small yard.
Excuse me.
The gazes of the three people turned to Jeong-woo. He lowered his head, trying to look as sincere and wholesome as possible.
I came from KG Chemical.
Seeing Jeong-woo speak, one of the men approached Go Jin-sim as if coaxing.
We wont eat him. Well just put him on a leash and keep it for half a day.
Hes supposed to be in the mountains.
Grandma!
I dont know more than that!
When Go Jin-sim turned around abruptly, the two men went outside, sticking their tongues out.
Because the two burly men hade through the narrow gate, Jeong-woo stepped aside for the moment.
Just try catching him. My goat has sturdy legs.
Ah, if you mess with that granny, were all in trouble. Dont you know the temperament of Mr. Choi?
The two men conversed as they walked down the hill. Meanwhile, Go Jin-sim held a basin and headed toward the back door.
Jeong-woo quickly followed Go Jin-sim through the back door. Outside, there was a small vegetable garden surrounded by a fence and a livestock pen.
Hello.
He greeted, but Go Jin-sim looked at Jeong-woo with a Who are you? expression without responding.
Im from KG Chemical.
KG Chemical? Youvee from Seoul, it seems.
Go Jin-sim walked towards the chicken coop, gathering a bunch of grass and cing it in a container. Jeong-woo cautiously opened his mouth while following Go Jin-sim.
We are from the vige, and were nning to supply fertilizer because this vige has been selected as an agricultural pilot area.
With dung piles scattered all over the neighborhood, what kind of fertilizer is this?
Its much more effective than manure. It can be used even on barrennd that cant grow crops. The vegetables from this vegetable garden will also grow very well.
Go Jin-sim, seemingly disinterested, stacked the grass high for the rabbits, watered the vegetable garden, and continued her work.
I wont get anywhere by exining the chemical principles. How should I ask for her help?
As Jeong-woo pondered, he saw the escaped ck goat and asked out of curiosity.
Grandma, its about Hong-chil. Why is he acting like that? I almost got attacked by him earlier.
He gets angry easily. Hes fierce-tempered, so he runs around all day.
Go Jin-sim also seemed unsure of the cause. Jeong-woo scanned the goat closely with molecr vision and saw not only the goats fur but also pieces of stiff hair from a boar.
While following the traces of the boar with his gaze, Jeong-woo discovered that the ground had caved in near the fence surrounding the pen.
Grandma, it looks like a boar came here.
A boar?
Hong-chil has been chasing a boar.
Upon Jeong-woos words, Go Jin-sims face showed a slight hint of surprise.
Thats not good. No matter how small it is, boars are dangerous.
Oh, its just a baby boar.
The mother boar is a problem. This is the breeding season, so they have a fierce temperament.
Go Jin-sim suddenly took out a bag from a broken barrel next to the pen with an orange band.
With the bag full of grass like a backpack, she turned her head toward the mountains.
Are you going to the mountains?
I have to bring him back before he gets in trouble with the boar. Hong-chil loves this, so if I throw it, helle back.
Hong-chil is not in the mountains. Hes in the field over there.
While Jeong-woo was talking about the information he had confirmed through soundwaves.
Shall I bring him?
You, young man?
If he goes to another ce in the field, well have to look for him again.
Jeong-woo showed Go Jin-sim a confident smile, even though she looked unimpressed.
I have a very keen sense of smell. My hearing is also quite good.
Jeong-woo nced at the window of Grandma Go Jin-sims house as he spoke.
Did you have kimchi stew for lunch? I can smell the oil molecules No, I mean, I can smell the oil, so I guess you had something simr.
Huh? How did you know? Can you really smell it?
While Go Jin-sim turned her nose towards her house to sniff the smell, Jeong-woo focused on the sounds.
With a still damp handkerchief, Jeong-woo held his phone and collected soundwaves, as he said.
Theundry is all done. I heard the notification.
Is that so?
Go Jin-sim, who had gone inside to confirm, came back with an amazed expression.
Its really done. Theundry is all finished.
Jeong-woo, standing in the yard, pointed to the bag.
Does he be gentle if you give him this food?
Yes, this is herbal medicine bought from a herbalist.
Jeong-woo grabbed the strap of the bag and put it on his back like a backpack.
If I bring Hong-chil back, will you use ourpanys fertilizer on this vegetable garden?
Is it really that effective?
Its fantastic.
In that case, it doesnt matter.
Thank you, Grandma. And
Jeong-woo spoke of his purpose foring here in a cautious tone.
Can you make one phone call to Mr. Choi Soon-jaeter? That youve decided to use our fertilizer.
Choi Soon-jae? Of course.
Go Jin-sim nodded willingly.
Good.
Leaving Grandmas house, Jeong-woo walked down the lower path, using molecr vision to trace the ck goats footsteps.
Due to the windy terrain, there were almost no traces of fur left.
He had to rely on soundwaves alone.
Come here, Hong-chil. Theres food you like.
Holding the phone aloft and turning it like an antenna in various directions for about 20 minutes, he couldnt locate the sound of the goat. His battery was down to just 5%.
Ah, this is not good.
Jeong-woo had no choice but to walk back down to the base camp with the van.
Various measuring instruments, resembling electronic thermometers, were lined up on a table, and a soil sample was ced on it. Five interns gathered around Song Boyeong, who was conducting the basic soil contamination experiments.
Jeong-woo spoke up to them, so engrossed in their work that they didnt notice his approach.
Is everything going well?
At the sound of his voice, Song Boyeong turned her head.
Youre here? Once this is done, well be moving. And what about you, Mr. Jeong-woo?
Its still in progress.
Jeong-woo pointed to the bag he was carrying.
Whats that?
Its food for Hong-chil.
Food?
Jeong-woo briefly exined his conversation with Go Jin-sim and asked.
Seniors, do you have a spare battery or something?
We dont
Before Song Boyeong could shake her head, Jin Mi-so hand suddenly raised.
I have one, senior!
Oh. Can you lend it to me today?
Of course.
Jin Mi-so retrieved her bag from the car, and along with the spare battery, she took out a canned coffee and offered it to Jeong-woo.
I brought it on the way.
Thanks for the coffee, but Im on caffeine restriction.
After taking the battery, Jeong-woo smiled and approached Song Boyeong.
If you happen to see the ck goat while moving to the next location, please let me know.
Upon hearing this, Song Boyeong quickly approached Jeong-woo and whispered in his ear.
I havent told the interns about the embarrassing incident. Dont even mention it as a joke.
Jeong-woo nodded in agreement.
What about us getting engaged today?
Youre crazy. I I
I?
With her cheeks turning bright red, Song Boyeong hurriedly pushed Jeong-woo to find Hong-chil.
Jin Mi-so, who was holding a canned coffee, watched their behavior, and her face became gloomy.
Around here.
After 30 minutes of searching, Jeong-woo finally arrived at a field with a small stream where a bit of water flowed. Far from the cement-paved road where cars were passing by, this ce was an area filled with paddy fields, and there wasnt a single sign of people around.
Hong-chil!
The call for the ck goat turned into gentle sound waves, spreading across the field.
You have to be careful. The vigers might catch you, break your legs, orwell, they might even take better care of you.
From a blind spot near the stream, a dark figure jumped up.
Surprise!
It was Hong-chil. The ck goat, with eyes as big as buttons, scrutinized Jeong-woo and seemed ready to charge at any moment.
Stop!
Jeong-woo reached out behind his back and grabbed a tuft of grass.
Do you know what this is? You have to know. Ive been dealing with this for an hour because of you.
With a hopeful expression, he put the grass down on the ground. With no ce to escape and a gravel field, Jeong-woo retreated, step by step.
The ck goat let out a baa and began to approach the grass rather than Jeong-woo.
It works.
The goat put the grass in his mouth and started chewing it.
The eyes of the ck goat that ate the grass in an instant turned towards Jeong-woo.
Good boy. If you follow me, Ill give you more.
Setting down the grass once more, the angry gleam in the goats eyes gradually faded.
Safely on his way to Go Jin-sims grandmothers house, Jeong-woo walked with a sense of relief.
They crossed the field and moved on to the hillside road for about 15 minutes.
The ck goat now only stared at Jeong-woos backside, following him.
Jeong-woo took a break and picked some grass, offering it to the goat.
The goat extended its tongue to grab the grass in Jeong-woos hand. Jeong-woo gently petted its head. No response, it continued chewing on the grass.
Looking at it this way, it seems gentle, right? It was probably chasing out the wild boar. Its intentions are good, but it cant control its anger.
Thanks to the hot-tempered ck goat, it was a day full of new experiences.
Granny was really worried. If you run off again, take a phone with you. Theres nothing as frustrating as not being able to contact each other. Have you gotten married? I almost did today. If my wife finds out I cant even hold hands with someone for ten months, what would she say?
As they continued walking together, Jeong-woo had the leisure to make jokes.
Climbing the hill, panting, Jeong-woo surveyed his surroundings and tried to find out where the KG Chemical team was working. Their minivan was parked near the edge of the hill, right in front of the paddy fields.
Oh, now that I think about it, I havent had lunch.
While feeding the goat some grass from behind, Jeong-woo, who was giving it the grass again, clicked his tongue.
Is it that delicious?
Engaging in conversation driven by hunger, Jeong-woo was surprised when the ck goat suddenly raised its head.
Whats wrong? I didnt steal it from you.
The goat made a cute yet sharp baa sound. With its gaze turning aggressive again, Jeong-woo took a step back, feeling flustered.
The goats gaze was directed towards the hillside, so Jeong-woo also looked in that direction.
And there, he spotted a wild boaring down the hillside, not dog-sized but as big as a cow.
Huh?
Nearby, there was a KG Chemical van.
Startled, Jeong-woo continued to walk while intermittently pressing the number of Boyeongs phone. The call was going through, but there was no answer.
Did you leave it in the car?
The warning of Go Jin-sims grandmother about the mature wild boar being extremely dangerous came to Jeong-woos mind. He desperately considered his options.
Thats right.
Holding the backup battery in his hand, he focused on the sound.
Senior!
His voice extending through his mouth, he swung his hand as if brushing off the dust particles that had gathered. The sound waves extended in Boyeongs direction.
-Senior.
Boyeong, who was pouring soil into a cylinder with a pickaxe to a depth of 30 cm, raised her head in response to Jeong-woos voiceing from somewhere.
Yes?
-Senior, can you hear me?
Boyeong was startled and stood up.
Mr. Jeong-woo, what kind of joke is this?
-It seems like you can hear me from your reaction. I cant hear what youre saying right now. Could you turn your head and look towards the hillside leading to Mrs. Go Jin-sims house?
Boyeong, who had been looking around, turned her gaze to the distant hillside.
Jeong-woo, standing beside the ck goat with his hand raised, looked tiny from this distance.
Oh, how?
-Im just curious if you can hear me. Do you see a special loudspeaker in my hand?
Mr. Jeong-woo, your face is not very visible from here.
-Oh, thats not important. Look in the 11 oclock direction.
Boyeong turned her head.
-Do you see the big wild boar over there?
Um yes.
-Quietly call the new recruits and have them get on the van. Then call 119.
Seeing a single-story boar nearby, Boyeong dropped the pickaxe she was holding on the ground.
-Senior, dont panic. Hong-chil has experience fighting boars.
I, I
-Baa!
-Ouch. Hong-chil, hes not after you. Stay still.
My legs wont move.
Boyeong cursed the situation that had led to this bizarre day.
-If you keep standing like that, Ill announce to the new recruits in the opposite field that we got engaged today. Come to think of it, I know Jin Mi-sos number.
Dont do that!
-Looks like you have some strength left. Lets go quickly!
Seeing Boyeong start moving, Jeong-woo breathed a sigh of relief. However, the crisis was not over, so he remained cautious about the wild boar.
The ck goat, which had been sniffing the earth and paying no attention to anything else, suddenly turned its gaze towards Jin Mi-so, who was running and screaming.
Oh, no.
With the animal looking like it might charge at any moment, Jeong-woo closed his eyes and concentrated, desperately recalling an image of Boyeongs body.
His vision transformed into a world filled with heat, extending from the far-infrared to the near-infrared range. He pushed his nerves to expand, trespassing into different wavelengths.
Im in no position to choose between cold and hot food.
He hastily sprinkled bottled water on the auxiliary battery and gripped it in his hand. Concentrating his dust stars intensely, he promoted a quicker response and extended his sight to focus on the distant boar.
His heightened dust star wavelength, in resonance, intensely beamed out, like aiming aser pointer, making it easy to target in a straight line.
When the vibrating dust star wavelength reached the boars hindquarters, the heat intensified, like focusing the suns rays through a magnifying ss.
Sizzling, the boars fur caught fire, and the creature, startled, jerked its body away.
Alright, focus on me instead. I have a hot-blooded ck goat bodyguard with me.
A few momentster, the new recruits had sessfully boarded the van.
Phew.
Jeong-woo, who had been concentrating the dust star on the boar, felt the auxiliary battery he was holding ignite and let out a groan as he dropped it.
Ouch.
His palm was slightly burnt, and he blew on it. Just as he was doing so, his phone rang. Because of his infrared vision, he couldnt see the callers name clearly, so he quickly pressed the answer button.
Hello.
-Jeong-woo.
It was Soo-chans voice.
-Havent you seen the group chat? Were discussing when and where to meet up
Im busy.
He immediately pressed the end call button, and then his phone rang again.
Hey, I said Im busy!
-Weve all boarded. Fortunately, the boar went in a different direction.
Oh, senior. Thats right. I can still see it from here.
Thanks to his infrared vision, he could detect the massive heat source even though it had disappeared behind the trees.
-Without your warning, we would have been in big trouble.
What can I say? Seniors body was doing all the hard work.
-Excuse me?
Did you report it to 119?
-Yes, I did. They said theyd respond quickly since its a frequently visited area.
But seriously, when do we get to have lunch? I have no energy to move right now.
-Youre thinking about food at a time like this?
After ending the call, Jeong-woo slumped down.
Hong-chil took this opportunity to put his head into the backpack and start tasting the grass inside.
Do you like it?
Maa~
Chapter 82
Chapter 82- Spring Countryside Chronicles(6)
2:00 PM.
A team of four members from the 119 Search and Rescue unit, two police officers, and two hunters from the Wildlife Rescue Team set out to track the wild boar.
The KG Chemical team couldnt start their soil sampling work right away, so they decided to find a local restaurant near the highway for ate lunch.
Whats with the size of that boar? Did you see its teeth?
As soon as they sat down, the five new recruits started discussing their encounter with the boar.
When it tried to run toward Mi-so, I was really surprised.
Yong-siks words made Pyo Yong-sik nod vigorously. Jin Mi-so, who had been quite shocked by the incident, still had her hand over her chest, trying to calm her racing heart.
Pyo Yong-sik turned his gaze to Song Boyeong, who was standing at the entrance of the restaurant.
If it werent for senior Boyeongs quick instructions, who knows what might have happened.
I was trembling too, but senior Boyeong remained calm.
The eyes of the male new recruits were now fixed on Song Boyeong. Her face was radiant in the bright sunlight, and her eyes sparkled.
One of the new recruits murmured in admiration.
Two beauties from the researchb. Ive only heard about them in passing, but they are really at the top. Isnt Senior Moon Chae-eun on the same level as Senior Boyeong? Working at thepany must be a joy.
The words two beauties caught Jin Mi-sos attention, and she turned her head towards Boyeong. Although Jin Mi-so prided herself on both her skills and looks, she was strangelycking in confidence today. She attributed this to her senior colleagues.
The restaurant door swung open, and Jeong-woo walked in. Song Boyeong weed him with a bright smile.
Yoo Seok-hoon watched the two of them and, speaking in a hushed tone, said.
Ive noticed it since you arrived. The atmosphere is really sweet. Are they dating?
I dont think so.
Jin Mi-so gave this answer but wasnt entirely sure. Especially with Boyeongs gaze. It felt like she was sending some kind of signal rted to the unspoken dynamics between men and women.
Have you all heard the rumors about Senior Jeong-woo?
Pyo Yong-sik began sharing stories about Jeong-woo.
He outshone the department heads during the nning assessment. The director saw it and ordered his transfer on the spot.
I heard he sessfullypleted a projectst month.
At his age? Breaking through so manypetitors to get here. There are some seniors who dont seem like people.
The conversations of the new recruits were a mixture of admiration and envy, and Jin Mi-sos eyes sparkled even more as she listened.
Did the elders approve?
In response to Song Boyeongs question, Jeong-woo nodded his head.
Seriously, when grandmother gave a word of approval over the phone, they didnt say anything else. It seems like men are men no matter their age.
Wow, thats a relief. I was really worried.
There were customers at the adjacent table, so Boyeong, sitting at the front table, asked.
What about the ck goat? Did it attack you, Jeong-woo?
Not at all. He seems to have clear criteria for choosing when to intervene. He regards anything as a threat to himself.
Then why did he charge at me earlier? Oh my. Perhaps because Im too pretty?
Seeing that she was making a joke, Jeong-woo understood Boyeongs mood. In any case, she had faced danger, including the wild boar encounter, so Jeong-woo nodded in agreement.
Lets leave it at that.
Oh, my. My dear is known for his honesty.
I told you to stop that.
In response to Jeong-woos irate reaction, Boyeong yfully held both his hands, smiling.
Honey~
You didnt even turn on your blinker while driving, and you keep barging in. I shouldnt say this, but youre a bit scary today, Senior.
Hehe.
During their friendly conversation, the bibimbap was served. Seeing the bountiful dish filled with fresh spring greens, Jeong-woo thought it was amusing to see Hong-chils face, which was busy munching on the greens as if he had only just realized his hunger.
As they were finishing their meal, Jeong-woo checked the time and realized it was already past 2:00.
Senior, how much measurement have you done?
Ivepleted about 30%.
Can you show me the map?
Now that they had obtained permission from Choi Soon-jae to use most of the vigend, they were pressed for time toplete the remaining 70% of the measurements. Their current situation waspounded by the fact that they couldnt move immediately due to the wild boar.
Jeong-woo ced the map on one side of the dining table.
Ill handle the measurements from here to here.
Youre nning to cover half of it by yourself?
Since he nned to use molecr vision instead of equipment, it was more convenient for him to work alone.
Trust me. Ill bring you urate results without any errors.
I believe you. Its just that I feel sorry for giving you such a task.
Its my job anyway. So, treat me to a meal. Just the two of us.
Deal.
Jeong-woo got up from his seat. Song Boyeong watched him with a smile on her lips, reminiscent of a newlywed wife watching her husband go to work.
Around 3 PM, after news spread that the Hongcheon County Mayor had arrived at the vige hall, the experts sessfullypleted the capture of the wild boar.
It was now time to start the measurement work in earnest.
Jeong-woo roughly packed his equipment and held a record sheet as he began to roam the viges paddy fields.
Soil measurement involved tasks rted to the cultivation of microorganisms mixed with customized fertilizers, starting with an assessment of heavy metal pollution and concluding with an examination of the nutrient avability.
With a hoe in hand, Jeong-woo dug into the soil, making notes of the measurements on the record sheet.
Boron deficiency is quite apparent here. The pH level is on the high side. Oh, and why are there so many earthworms here? Its kind of creepy.
Due to the different working speeds, the distance between Jeong-woo and Boyeong, who was working on the other side, continued to grow.
After recording for about an hour, Jeong-woo arrived at a certain greenhouse. He noticed that some farmers were having a discussion with representatives from other participatingpanies.
Excuse me, Id like to perform soil testing.
Jeong-woo used his shovel to dig the soil inside the greenhouse and began to inspect it by eye. While doing so, he could hear voices from the other side of the greenhouse.
This is a good way to promote gourd and vegetable rooting. It involves treating them with IAA and NAA growth hormones, and using 1% potassium permanganate solution for 24 hours
The farmers, who couldnt understand anything, had perplexed expressions. Thepany representative had given his exnation without considering that the farmers were not able to follow, then handed them a booklet and left.
The two middle-aged men who received the booklet shook their heads.
Goodness, what kind of farming is this?
Youre right. Do you think we can follow thisplicated method?
Afterpleting the recording, Jeong-woo couldnt help but approach them.
That exnation just said that you have to get a shot before nting, like a shot to prevent disease.
You treat the disease once it urs.
Because using the same medicine in the same way wont bepetitive, so thats the method they choose.
Well, the vige head says that we can all get rich after a year of hard work.
Oh, and also
Pointing to the soil inside the greenhouse, Jeong-woo continued.
It seems like cucumbers and watermelons were grown here. Theyck many nutrients. If they continue like this, theyll be weak, and the nts will be vulnerable to diseases.
Why dont you just apply fertilizers?
Jeong-woo showed the man the number for the greenhouse and the soil analysis record.
Thats why KG Chemicals is nning excellent custom fertilizers. Chairman Lee or Manager Choi Jae-woong will exin further, but you wont need any other fertilizers. Youll utilize microorganisms
As Jeong-woo was briefly advertising KG Chemicals fertilizers, there was amotion outside the greenhouse. Jeong-woos gaze turned in that direction.
Huh.
The small wild boar that Hong-chil had been chasing was running across the field. Jeong-woo hadnt heard any news of the mother wild boar being captured earlier. The wild boar was wandering around aimlessly, apparently without its mother.
They say the fox is king in the mountains where there are no tigers, and this boar must be half out of her mind.
Lets finish the measurements quickly and get out of here. This vige is a bit strange.
Just before 5 PM, Jeong-woo finished thestnd measurement marked on the map and arrived at the meeting point.
Beside KG Chemicals van, there was Song Boyeong, a few new employees, and someone else. It was Choi Beom-ryong, the second son of the Choi family.
Jeong-woo.
Song Boyeong waved her hand and asked with her lips if he was done. Jeong-woo nodded in agreement, and then approached them.
Choi Beom-ryong bent at the waist.
Ill be relying on you for the next year.
As he was leaving, Choi Beom-ryong exchanged nods with Jeong-woo.
Jeong-woo asked Boyeong.
Why did youe here?
He wanted to thank you for helping convince his father. He gave this to you as well. Its homemade doraji liquor.
A bottle was visible in the vans trunk. Jeong-woo put his equipment bag in the van.
Shall we go? We need to hurry to arrive in Seoul before 8 PM.
Sure.
As they loaded the remaining equipment, someone in a suit with many assistants walked down the opposite side of the rural road.
Song Boyeong tapped Jeong-woos shoulder and pointed down the road.
It looks like its the Hongcheon County Mayor. Is he inspecting the area?
Jeong-woo, in between the technology center chief who he had met earlier in the morning, was walking together. He noticed a man who gave off a politicians vibe with his imposing appearance.
We should go say hello. Lets leave the rest to the new employees and wait here for a moment.
As Boyeong spoke, they turned their gaze toward where the county mayor was approaching.
Oh? Jeong-woo!
Startled, she pointed at the field beside them.
Look, its a wild boar
In response to Boyeongs urgent voice, Jeong-woo turned his gaze and couldnt help but burst intoughter.
In the middle of the field, two burly young men from the vige had tied a rope around the neck of a wild boar and were dragging it around, whimpering.
The direction they were moving towards was where the county mayor was, and the officials on the road were also thrown into confusion.
Oh, Im going to have a dream about wild boars tonight.
Song Boyeong shook her head. Even the new employees carrying equipment were wide-eyed, their attention fixed on the two young men wrestling with the wild boar.
Quite a variety here.
With the urge to leave immediately, Jeong-woo watched as the two young men gradually lost strength.
I heard Hong-chil have broken its leg. He should be in a tight spot.
The two young men continued to struggle with the wild boar.
Jeong-woo thought he should help in some way and looked at the item that the young men were chewing on with their mouths.
Not long ago, he had briefly examined the nt root structure for fragrance extraction, so it could be analyzed for ingredients quite easily.
Wild jujube? Hm
With a strong desire to get to Seoul before 8 PM, Jeong-woo made up his mind.
As he opened the car trunk with a cheerful sound, Boyeong turned her head to look at him. She held a bottle of doraji liquor in her hand and squinted at Jeong-woo.
What are you doing? Drinking in this situation?
Jeong-woo took a sip of the doraji liquor and felt the warm sensation rising up his throat. With a grimace, he said.
The woman I almost got engaged to today makes me so upset.
What are you talking about?
Song Boyeong didnt fully understand, but for some reason, she gave Jeong-woo a suspicious look.
Pull harder! Pull more!
What did this rascal eat to be this strong!
The young man who was struggling to pull the rope around the wild boars neck shouted as if he couldnt bear it any longer.
Lets call for more people.
There are plenty over there. Hey! Come over here!
City folks wont be of much help. They look pretty scared.
Kwewaak!
The wild boar went on a rampage and charged forward. The two young men couldnt hold it back any longer and were dragged along.
I cant do this anymore. Let go, now.
Ugh. Damn it!
Just as the two young men were about to give up, someone who had rushed across the field put their hand on the wild boars head.
Calm down. If you act up, Hong-chil wille for you.
Thats all they said, but the wild boar stopped moving and stood still. The two young men turned their heads in surprise.
Good boy.
The wild boar lowered its head as if its front legs had given out and soon fell to the side.
Jeong-woo sighed with relief after confirming that the effect had worked properly. The work involved changing the molecr structure of the grass the wild boar had eaten into a more potent anesthetic. It was simr to what he had attempted in Venice.
What what happened?
Why did it stop?
The two young men had bewildered expressions as they looked at Jeong-woo.
Jeong-woo pped his hands and said to the two young men.
I think he realized that Im friends with Hong-chil.
Thats
what
The two young men couldnt find words, and Jeong-woo pointed to the wild boars mouth.
Do you see the grass fragments here? They look like wild jujube. You should report this.
Are you saying these scraps are wild jujube?
I have a good sense of smell. Have you heard of Chaffrin? Ive worked with people who research fragrances for that.
After loosely finishing his exnation, Jeong-woo turned his head in the direction where the county mayor was.
The Hongcheon County Mayor stood there, seemingly only now feeling the fear in this vige.
Lets greet him and leave this vige quickly.
It was like a suspenseful spring outing in the countryside, an eventful daying to an end. The sunset painted the western sky as if celebrating the conclusion.
The next day.
As soon as Jeong-woo arrived at thepany, he was surrounded by his senior colleagues from Research Lab 1.
Are you dating Boyoung?
Me?
Jeong-woo shook his head in response to Hong Ki-pyos unexpected question.
Whos saying that? Senior Boyoung?
No, its the interns.
Must be a misunderstanding.
Its strange. I had a feeling you were dating Boyoung. She seemed to like you.
As Hong Ki-pyo finished speaking, other seniors also nodded in agreement, as if they shared the same sentiment.
No way.
You, who cant pick up on these things, are quite frustrating.
Frustrating? No, Im serious when ites to sensitive matters like this.
You sound like a pure-hearted kid.
Once the gathered seniors dispersed, Jeong-woo grinned mischievously and waited for Song Boyoung.
She regarded him as a rival and often teased him yfully. While he considered her a friend, he hadnt thought of her as a romantic interest.
Well, why does it matter? This is my situation.
Shortly before 9 AM, Song Boyoung, with slightly swollen eyes, entered Research Lab 1, greeting her colleagues.
Good morning~
Jeong-woo, after exchanging pleasantries with his seniors, suddenly spoke up.
Senior, do you like me by any chance?
Song Boyoungs eyes, which were not clearly visible due to puffiness, suddenly sparkled.
How could you Th-thats a misunderstanding. Its because of Grandfather Choi Soon-jae yesterday.
Is that so?
Y-yes~
Song Boyoung forced a smile as if nothing was amiss.
Jeong-woo essed thepany email on hisptop and said.
I was almost in trouble because I cant date for a while.
You cant date?
Yeah, theres something like that. I want to focus on work for the next year. Its a noble and dignified resolution or something.
As Jeong-woo spoke, he recalledst weeks events in Venice.
Lips.
Yun Yiseol.
It wasnt a deep connection. Still, shouldnt he check this?
code: AF-5
case: Electromaic Inductive Network
research: Combining chemical energy within batteries with free electrons to utilize as an energy source for different wavelengths. Requires the use of water as a medium for smooth operation.
Chapter 83
Chapter 83- Dust Defenders(1)
Womens issue?
Dr. Moon raised an eyebrow. Jeong-woo, who had been lying on a makeshift bed for an electrocardiogram, gave him a sheepish look and added.
It happened before I heard an exnation about the mutant gene. It was a very personal matter that I didnt think to talk about it.
Why do you feel the need to say it now?
Partly to keep my peace of mind. If theres a problem, Ill feel even more sorry for her.
Dr. Moon, scrutinizing Jeong-woo and asked.
Do you need medical advice or rtionship advice?
If you can provide both, Id appreciate it.
For one, you should see a psychiatrist. Describe the situation.
Jeong-woo rambled about the incident involving Yoon Yi-seol and their lips touching.
What do you think?
Dr. Moon shifted her gaze to the ECG screens contraction curve and then turned her head.
You were blindsided with your eyes closed, and it was a moment without any previous signs. I dont really know. It seems both consultations should be with a psychiatrist.
Still, it happened.
I cant tell just by your words. Bring her in. Lets examine her.
What should I say? My genes are a bit peculiar, and youre inhaling Oh, thatll get me pped.
Handle that part yourself as the party involved.
With her calm demeanor, Jeong-woo fell into deep contemtion.
Dr. Moon turned off the ECG monitor and said.
Next, to the MRI room.
Jeong-woo sat up, and as Dr. Moon removed the sensors from his body, she asked casually,
It was inevitable what happened. Will you continue to stir up such womens issues in the future?
I dont know. Ill just remain still, and if the situation doesnt help, theres not much I can do.
If you keep yourposure, theres no reason to be shaken. Mr. Jeong-woo, are you a yboy?
Jeong-woo widened his eyes and shook his head.
What kind of unfounded misunderstanding is this? If I had to put abel on it, Id say Im a lifelong soloist. Between making a living and dating Well, thats the usual excuse soloists use, but thats the truth.
Dr. Moon stood up from her seat and calmly said without any change in expression.
If youre a lifelong soloist, its even more dangerous. When a woman just smiles at you, you might think shes interested.
At this remark, Jeong-woo chuckled and continued to stare at Dr. Moon silently.
What are you doing?
Im testing if you seem to like me right now.
Thats not what I meant. You can easily be swayed by small gestures of kindness. Well, never mind.
Even yboys get swayed, right?
Thats their own choice to be swayed. This is being passively swayed
As Dr. Moon spoke, she seemed to have an expression of not knowing why she was analyzing like this. Jeong-woo quietly said.
I think Dr. Moon is simr to me in some ways. Lets stop with this constructive conversation about the mechanisms of singles. Well just end up hurting each other.
What? Single?
Arent you?
In response to Jeong-woos question, Dr. Moon coolly shut up and walked away.
Monday morning.
Jeong-woo stepped outside his house on his way to work and was surprised to see the heavily foggy sky.
Is it going to rain?
Perhaps due to a week of clear skies, he found himself looking forward to it. Come to think of it, the only time he had encountered rain this year was in distant Europe.
As he left his front gate, he saw his neighbor up ahead sweeping the road with a broom, holding an umbre.
Good morning.
Just before the rain, Jeong-woo, who had been inhaling the fresh, damp air, turned to the neighbor, noticing he was wearing a mask.
Have you caught a cold?
Didnt you see the news? Theres a lot of fine dust today.
Jeong-woo, who had been stretching his arms and taking a deep breath, immediately halted his breath. He realized that the sky, covered in mist, was not just fog but also likely contained dust. He coughed and forcefully exhaled the breath he had taken in.
Is all that haze in the sky dust?
Theres probably yellow dust as well. You should wear a mask too. They say its going tost all week.
Wow, really? This early in the morning.
Jeong-woo waved to his neighbor and then headed to the subway station. On the way, he stopped at a convenience store near the station to buy a mask.
It was a day with a new center assignment, and Jeong-woos heart burned with anticipation as he entered Research Lab 1.
As soon as he took his seat, he opened hisptop to check his work email. There was one message waiting for him today.
Its from Director Cha.
Cha Jin-seong from the Fragrance Center had been regrly sending updates on the trends of deodorant products that Jeong-woo had helped with.
Upon reading the message, Jeong-woo learned that Chaffrin was performing quite well.
They had promoted the product extensively due to their confidence in its performance, and there were positive predictions about the market share of deodorants, which, if approved at todays meeting, would lead to them potentially sharing the monopoly position with apeting product called DeZone Air.
Oh, am I getting a bonus?
The news that his wallet would swell by the end of the year lifted his spirits, which had been dampened by the mornings dust. As Jeong-woo continued to read, his gaze stopped at thest paragraph, making him raise an eyebrow in surprise.
[I heard from Manager Yoon and watched the rumored video. Chaffrins viral marketing seems to be quite effective. Were nning to maintain this concept in the officialmercial. If its approved in todays meeting, were considering having you appear in it, Jeong-woo]
He reread the message, wondering what it meant.
The deodorant in the video Fragrance Neutral Zone on the Chemistry Channel had abel that read Modified Chaffrin 1st Sample. It seemed that Manager Yoon Hyeong-seok had seen this video.
It wasnt intentional, but the message implied that this video was helping with the product advertisement.
So, are they asking me to shoot a simrmercial? Me?
Jeong-woo waspletely perplexed because he had no idea what this meant. He wanted to ask a big star who had filmed numerousmercials, but there was still no response to the message he had sentst week. It seemed like that person was really angry.
Thud.
Seemingly out of nowhere, Shim Junghee entered. She passed by Jeong-woo and said.
Your assignment
Yes, its today.
Where youre go this time, will you be back at the end of March? Should we submit your project proposals for April then?
Please put it on hold for now. I might not make it by the end of the month.
Knowing that she was aware of the situation that had led him to work for an extra month, Shim Junghee smiled faintly and took her seat.
Youre quite popr.
More senior colleagues starteding in and filling the seats. Eventually, Song Boyeong entered carrying arge box. It was so bulky that Jeong-woo got up to help her.
Jeong-woo, after cing the box on the desk, asked.
Whats this?
These are samples for a project study.
Jeong-woo attempted to open the top of the box but hesitated when Song Boyeong extended her hand to stop him.
Why?
These are womens exclusive samples, with high-absorption polymers.
Jeong-woo suddenly had a thought.
High-absorption? SAP, you mean? Are these by any chance sanitary pads?
Song Boyeongs hand blocked Jeong-woos mouth this time.
Be careful with your words. Its a sensitive issue. Senior Seung-ju doesnt even know that these samples were made.
With his mouth covered, Jeong-woo nodded. He didnt understand how they were nning to test polymer-embedded sanitary pads, but it seemed like they intended to make some progress in the project by trimming down its scope.
Jeong-woo held Song Boyeongs hand gently to remove it and said.
But, Senior, you shouldnt touch my mouth carelessly.
Why? Does touching your lips wear them out or something?
This is a sensitive issue. You could get hurt doing that, Senior.
Touching your lips could hurt me
As Song Boyeong was talking, she inspected Jeong-woos lips, imagining how hard she would have to rub them to get hurt. Song Boyeong blushed, her face turning red from her neck to her ears.
Its not an adult-only matter, really.
Why are you saying that?
Seniors face is really red.
Funny.
Ignoring Jeong-woos suspicious gaze, Song Boyeong, who had turned away, stashed the box under the desk and got lost in thought for a while.
A whileter.
Oh Seung-ju entered, and the briefing began.
As the usual instructions were being given, Oh Seung-ju held a document indicating Jeong-woos new assignment.
The directors orders have been given.
Jeong-woo asked, a little nervously.
Where am I going?
Materials Science. Center Director Noh Jong-seon has scheduled a meeting at 10 AM for you. Good luck, Jeong-woo.
Finally, his second assignment had been decided. Jeong-woo picked up his bag and stood up.
Jeong-woo entered the Material Science Center, located on the fourth floor of the building, contemting the information he had heard about the center director before his arrival.
Dr. Noh Jong-seon.
He was a former professor at Seoul National Universitys Department of Chemistry, with a long history in academia. Five years ago, he was scouted as a senior researcher and steadily climbed the ranks to be the center director.
He preferred practical research over challenging ones, and his reputation within the research institute was neutral.
Jeong-woo is here.
Its open.
When Jeong-woo opened the door to the center directors office, he was somewhat surprised to find a spacious room with a long table instead of the typical guest sofa.
The interior design,bining a meeting room and a personal office, seemed to reflect Noh Jong-seons preferences.
Finally, youre here.
A man with the appearance of an academic extended a full smile as he walked towards Jeong-woo.
Its been a while.
Yeah, it has. Ive been looking forward to your arrival.
Noh Jong-seon patted Jeong-woos shoulder vigorously as he exchanged greetings and pointed to a chair in front of the meeting table.
Please have a seat. I have someone to introduce to you.
Noh Jong-seon called out, Secretary Yu! The door opened, and the secretary appeared, nodding.
Bring Team Leader Yoo. Jeong-woo, would you like some coffee?
No, water will be fine.
As Jeong-woo took his seat at the conference table, Noh Jong-seon sat down as well and asked.
Do you remember what I said during the nning evaluation?
The part about aiming for a 100-point project?
Yeah, about that. Ive thought it over carefully since youreing. Your secondment period is only a short 3 weeks. nning to carry out a new project within that time is like aiming for a 50-pointer, or a 30-pointer. I wont put you to work as recklessly as Dr. Jang Taeseon did.
As Jeong-woo listened, he felt relieved.
Take a look at this document.
A thick folder slid towards Jeong-woo. The thickness alone distinguished it from typical research proposals, making Jeong-woo slightly surprised. When he opened the first page, he found the project title, Dust Management, written in both Korean and English. As he flipped through the pages, he saw a summary with bothnguages present.
Is this a joint project?
Thats right. The client is from China, so there are many researchers from the Beijing office. We are working on aprehensive air pollution management system.
Jeong-woo continued to read the document andmented.
This is an air purification system, using high-efficiency filters simr to the one Yujin Chemicals
Yes, youre familiar with Total Care, right? Good systems should be benchmarked.
Noh Jong-seon pointed out a paragraph within the document.
I can say that the keyponent is the air purification system. The KG Electronics research team is also involved in the project, and theyre rather intrigued. Apparently, one of the ideas, proposed by Researcher Han Jeong-woo, is unique.
Oh?
Thats right. Youre already involved here. And as the most important proposer of this research project.
Knock, knock.
The door opened, and a tall woman entered the room.
Mei Mei,e over here.
You shouldnt call me that, Professor.
Watching the two people converse in English, Jeong-woo silently felt relieved that he had ovee his fear of foreignnguages.
Noh Jong-seon turned to Jeong-woo.
This is Liu Mei, the team leader of the Dust Project. You can just call her Team Leader Yu or Mei in Korean. Mei, this is Han Jeong-woo.
Mei extended her hand to Jeong-woo.
Pleased to meet you, Mr. Han Jeong-woo.
Jeong-woo faced a slender beauty whose height differed from his by only a hands breadth. Her figure was Western, but her appearance was pure and soft, reminiscent of an Asian. This model-like woman was now regarding him with a businesslike smile.
Im pleased to meet you as well.
After shaking hands, Jeong-woo and Mei took their seats with Noh Jong-seon in between them.
Now that the two of you have met, lets get to the main topic. This project is not only for Korea but also aimed at the Chinese market. However, from what Ive seen, its currently only at an 80-point level. To break into a market where Dusf Corporation has a strong presence, we need a solid 100 points. In that sense
Noh Jong-seon looked at Jeong-woo.
I hope that you can fill in the missing 20 points during your three-week assignment here. Work with Mei for that purpose.
The task at the Material Science Center had be clear. Jeong-woo nodded in agreement.
Mei, take him, exin the projects progress, and make full use of his talents.
If hes as skilled as you say, Professor, thats what I intend to do. But if he bes a stumbling block to the project
Mei left the rest unspoken, but Jeong-woo understood the meaning clearly.
Noh Jong-seon reassured Mei with a smile, and then he ced his hand on Jeong-woos shoulder.
Even if you say that, I trust KG Electronics Air Purification Team. Arent you someone the team trusts?
Listening, it seemed like some Chinese-style calction.
Please take good care of Mei. Shes a future candidate for the position of the Center Director for the China Center. I have high expectations as well.
Just in case you might have forgotten, Im still a regr research fellow in my training period.
Haha. Jang Center Director bragged about it endlessly. Now its my turn to show off a bit, dont you think?
After the meeting with the center director, Jeong-woo followed Mei as they began to move towards the research building where the project was underway.
While walking through the hallway, Jeong-woo lost himself in thought.
Competing with Dusf Corporation? Didnt Dr. Cheon say that they are a very financially powerfulpany? This project seems international in scale, but I cant quite grasp it.
Compared to the modest funding for the project conducted by Bae Ki-tae, Cho Sung-hwan, and others at the Fragrance Center, it was on apletely different level.
Failure here could jeopardize the Material Science Center. The burden was substantial, simr to what Jang Tae-seon had imposed on him before.
Ring, ring.
He received a call on his mobile phone and saw that it was Cha Jin-seong.
Yes, Manager Cha.
-Jeong-woo, Im on my way out from a meeting. Its confirmed.
What is?
-The Chaffrin CF.
Huh? Is that for real?
Jeong-woo was surprised by Cha Jin-seongs unexpected news.
Im currently on an assignment at the Material Science Center.
-This time its there? Ill send the request to Director Noh Jong-seon, hell probably ept it.
Jeong-woo inquired about the crucial detail.
What about the appearance fee
-It probably wont be too high since its as an employee. But if it sells well due to a good advertising effect, your bonus will increase.
Jeong-woo nodded in relief. He was bewildered by the unexpected opportunity but realized that he needed to focus on the immediate task at hand.
By the way
-Yes?
Will the offer include my input?
-Of course. They need to know the concept for the CF, so youll be part of the decision-making.
Jungwoo felt relieved. They parted ways awkwardly back then, but he couldnt refuse this.
Lets get ourselves together. I have another crucial task right now.
After a nod, Jeong-woo stood in front of a doorbeled Research Building 1.
Chapter 84
Chapter 84- Dust Defenders(2)
Clunk.
The automatic sliding door of the research building opened, and Jeong-woos eyes wandered over the interior facilities.
It had a simr structure to the Basic Materials Research Building. A wide central corridor served as the reference point, with four concentrated experimentalbs on the right and meeting spaces and a chemical storage room on the left.
Mr. Han.
Mei, who had entered the research building, turned to Jeong-woo.
Please dont misunderstand my words. I hardly know you, age, major, career, or what youre good at. Can you tell me now? We might not have time to talk once were in the meeting.
The woman he had met for the first time today seemed to prioritize practical work over formalities.
Im somewhat familiar with that type.
Dr. Moon and Michle. Both were formidable women. Jeong-woo decided to stick to the facts in his response.
Im 27, majoring in business administration, and Ive been with thepany for three months, so thats about my career. Oh, and Im not the chairmans son or anything.
Mei looked bewildered.
So what makes you think I should treat you as an associate team leader?
You dont know what Im good at yet, so give me anything. If I do say so myself, Im good at anything.
With a snort that it wasnt clear if it was a sigh or augh, Mei said.
Mr. Han. Even though cultures may differ, theres one universal truth that applies to people worldwide.
A universal truth?
That no one who says anything actually gets anything done.
Mei raised her head and walked into the central hall.
Right.
He must have shown too much confidence. Mei didnt seem to consider Noh Jong-seons endorsement as a significant factor. Jeong-woo inwardly smirked.
Mei called out to everyone.
Everybody stop! Its meeting time!
Five minutester.
Jeong-woo sat alone in a corner of the meeting room, observing Meis conducted meeting.
Given that it was arge-scale project, there were three teams operating inside. The Sensor Team, Filter Team, and Equipment Team, totaling more than 50 researchers dedicated to this project.
Jun Chai, go ahead with the report.
A researcher from the Sensor Team disyed a screen on the projector and spoke into the microphone.
As of 7 a.m., heres the air quality index for Seoul. It stands at 179, making it the second-highest level of air pollution, following only New Delhi. Nitrogen dioxide is at 0.5 g/m, sulfur dioxide at 0.22 g/m
Jeong-woo calcted the harmful substances he had unwittingly inhaled on his way to work, making his teeth rattle. He had consumed a lot in just one gulp.
The sensors analytical uracy keeps increasing. The error level is well below 0.4%, much better than international standards. The detection range has been extended to 0.02 microns, which is as fine as 20 nanometers.
Is that high?
Jeong-woo could only make an approximate guess, as he didnt know the sensor levels of otherpanies.
Mr. Kim, please report the recent progress.
Kim Tae-san, the responsible researcher from the Filter Team, turned on his microphone.
Weve made improvements to the 5th stage HEPA-type filter. With additional grids of less than 1 micron, we can now filter out 99.07% of particles measuring 0.3 microns and above.
99.07%? Otherpanies, such as Dusf and Merck, achieve capture efficiencies of 99.1-2% at the 5th stage. This is not an improvement, but a drawback. And we need to achieve 100% efficiency.
Mei pointed out the shorings, and Kim Tae-san argued in response.
The 7th stage activated carbon efficiency is higher than that of otherpanies. A 0.1% difference here can bepensated
Harmful soil gases cannot be removed by activated carbon. Mr. Kim, if radon is introduced, would you just inhale it?
Whats the probability of inhaling radioactive materials while living in Seoul? Isnt the standard too strict?
That may be true. If this research was not aimed at entering the international market, such standards may be too demanding.
Mei added a sarcastic remark.
Even in Beijing, the incidence of lung cancer due to radon is 15% higher than in other cities. With this difference alone, well fail inpetition. If you dont improve it, theres no reason for me to give you this opportunity. What will you do?
Oh,e on, with the 5th stage for how many weeks now.
Kim Tae-san muttered in Korean, and Mei raised an eyebrow.
The atmosphere in the meeting room cooled off as the two opposing sides shed. However, the equipment team members sitting on the periphery, like Jeong-woo, seemed uninterested, as if they were used to this.
Whom should I support?
Jeong-woo started to wonder. While Noh Jong-seons instruction was to assist Mei, Kim Tae-san was his senior from the Materials Science Center.
This is not a coborative project but rather a showdown between South Korea and China, right?
Mei, let me make a suggestion.
At that moment, a middle-aged man with a rural, 2:8 parted hairstyle, who had been yawning and appeared uninterested, turned on his microphone. Jeong-woo checked his employee ID and confirmed that he was a dispatched researcher from KG Electronics.
Ha Won-il? Where have I heard that name before?
As Jeong-woo pondered, Ha Won-il projected his materials on the screen.
We can effectively filter harmful soil gases with a 9th stage multyer filter. Our unique molecr structure of the nano filtration membrane and absorption membrane has already demonstrated its performance in the air purifier performance test
As Jeong-woo examined the presentation, it seemed strangely familiar.
Huh? Isnt that the air purifier that the team leader suggested to use on my research?
The research project that he got tired of with Jang Tae-seon and just shared on thepanywork. Seeing it, he remembered when Ha Won-il had requested the data and he had sent it.
If its proven with a reverse membrane filter, its eptable. Lets proceed to match stage 5 at the level of otherpanies.
Mei epted Ha Won-ils proposal, and the atmosphere in the room became more rxed. However, Jeong-woo was now in a dilemma.
Do I have to say this now? It might cause problemster.
The others still seemed unaware of the shorings of multyer filters, so Jeong-woo reluctantly raised his hand.
Um May I say something?
Mei sent a sharp look. The aftermath of the anything statement still loomedrge, and there was no trust to be found. Nevertheless, she signaled him to speak.
Sigh.
Jeong-woo cleared his throat and began to speak.
Nano filtration and absorption membranes are indeed highly efficient, but they were initially designed for water purification. In situations where air moves rapidly through a fan, there is a possibility that they might not filter properly. It seems like we should redesign the structure for air use from the beginning
Mei chuckled.
So, in this project, you n to create a new filter that outperforms otherpanies?
Yes.
Mei sent a dismissive look, as if asking Who do you think you are? Ha Won-il wore a bewildered expression, wondering why Jeong-woo was making such a statement.
Kim Tae-san gave a questioning look that seemed to ask, I dont know who you are, but are you on my side?
Jeong-woo could only smile at the different reactions of these three individuals.
Creating something new isnt too difficult, but if youre concerned about the radon issue, there might be a simpler solution. Combining potassium permanganate with a 5th-stage filter
What?
Kim Tae-san got upset when the 5th stage was mentioned.
How do you mix that with synthetic fibers?
Well
Jeong-woo contemted the molecr form for a moment and then chuckled as he spoke.
Youre right. The result may be simple, but the process is a bitplex. If youre curious, ask meter.
Im curious right now!
My right to speak ends here.
The equipment team members, who had been yawning while watching the leaders of the project, suddenly became interested and looked at Jeong-woo with gleaming eyes.
Observing a conflict escte was always an interesting spectacle.
Mei asked Ha Won-il outside the microphone.
Mr. Ha, what do you think?
Well, I developed this using patents, too. For the precise details, we should meet the technology developer
Ha Won-ils gaze moved to Jeong-woos nametag.
Um!
As he abruptly stood up and looked at Jeong-woo, the others attention also turned to Jeong-woo. The room fell silent again, so Jeong-woo made a gesture, as if to say, Yes?
Are you Mr. Han Jeong-woo from the Central Research Institute?
Yes.
Mei gave a puzzled look as she wondered why Ha Won-il was acting this way. Ha Won-il pointed at Jeong-woo and said.
The technology developer is right over there.
Kim Tae-san, too, checked Jeong-woos nametag btedly and was surprised.
Is this the Han Jeong-woo that Jeong-chan and Jin-soo were talking about?
Im not sure if Im the one, but I know those two seniors.
As the Materials Science Center researchers began to buzz with excitement, Mei wore a bewildered expression as she looked at Jeong-woo.
Prepare for the biddingpetition, we will conduct a concentrated inspection at 4 PM. Please make every effort to achieve significant results.
With Meis final words, the Monday morning meeting came to an end.
Jeong-woos gaze remained on the information regarding the first-round biddingpetition still disyed on the screen.
The target was apany that owned major buildings in Beijings city center.
Mei exined that winning this bid would open doors to markets ranging from hospitals, nursing homes, to public facilities.
So, does this mean we have to go to China for thepetition?
Jeong-woo pondered whether he should follow along. Making hasty judgments was never a good idea.
Mr. Han Jeong-woo!
Ha Won-il rushed towards Jeong-woo.
Wow, its really nice to meet you.
Nice to meet you too. We exchanged a few emails, but this is the first time weve met in person.
Ive been thinking ofing to see you sometime, but I never expected to meet you here.
Holding Jeong-woos hand and shaking it with enthusiasm, Ha Won-il asked.
The 5th-stage filter for air purification that you mentioned earlier, I still dont quite understand it.
Ha Won-il immediately sought advice about the opinions expressed during the meeting. His focused attention showed his passion, and Jeong-woo was eager to exin.
The purification reaction in the micro world is different from what you see with the naked eye. We need to add a newposition to reinforce the durability of the nano filtration membrane structure
Ha Won-il nodded and asionally asked questions as he listened to Jeong-woos words.
During their conversation, Jeong-woo gained a rough understanding of how this major project was progressing.
First, there was the sensor team, led directly by Mei. They were responsible for inspecting and analyzing air pollution levels and designing the purification systems AI. Most of them were Chinese researchers.
Next was the filter team, primarilyposed of researchers from the Material Science Center led by Kim Tae-san. They were working on designing the core devices that purified the air to fit the system. Some of the co-researchers came from KG Electronics.
Lastly, the facilities team, responsible for configuring venttion pathways and managing fans and motors. They were not chemists but internal design experts from KG HowSys who were working on the project.
So, the sensor team and the filter team are actually having disagreements, right?
Thats what Jeong-woo felt was the right conclusion, matching the atmosphere he briefly sensed in the meeting room.
This is a perfect 100-point project.
Jeong-woos gaze lingered on Ha Won-il. He was focusing solely on umting expertise in air purification technology between the sensor team and the filter team.
If he had to choose a path, this one appealed to him.
Dedicated to research.
Fighting among themselves was something the team leaders would handle. He was there to y a supporting role.
Yes, lets just go with the flow.
Lunchtime arrived, and Jeong-woo stepped out of the research building. As he walked, he saw someoneing out of the opposite building,beled Research Building 2, and his steps naturally came to a halt.
Senior Boyeong?
Uh, yes?
Upon seeing Jeong-woo, Song Boyeong quickly tried to hide something she had in her hand behind her back. In her haste, one item fell andnded on Jeong-woos foot.
It was the same item he had seen in the morning.
This
Jeong-woo picked up the sanitary napkin sample and handed it to Song Boyeong.
I already know about it. Why are you hiding it so hastily?
Then this is something Im just going to show you, right?
Perhaps due to her feminine shyness, there was a bashful look on Song Boyeongs cheek.
You said its a secret to Senior Seung-ju, you said. Why are you carrying it around then?
I have to ask the people who know about it for their opinions.
After mentioning that she had met female seniors working in Research Building 2, Song Boyeong asked.
Why are youing out of there, Mr. Jeong-woo?
Im starting to work here today.
Really? For the Dust Project?
When Jeong-woo nodded, Song Boyeongs eyes widened.
Director Noh Jongsun seems really eager. Putting you right into the biggest research at the Material Science Center.
She also seemed to be aware of this project. Jeong-woo thought of Director Noh Jongsun and shook his head.
It might be irresponsible. People have their limits, you know.
You keep bragging about your skills every day and suddenly you start acting humble.
Its because the seniors reactions are entertaining.
Tsk.
Song Boyeong squinted her eyes slightly and looked up at Jeong-woo as if assessing him.
Mei must have seen you too.
Do you know Team Leader Yu?
We have a school connection. We asionally have a drink together.
Jeong-woo was surprised, and Song Boyeong spoke with a slight smile.
Shes a really innocent and kind sister, so dont make fun of her like you do with me.
I didnt think she looked that way at all. And, I didnt make fun of you because you seemed kind.
Song Boyeong pouted.
See, even now. So, dont tease her like you do with me.
Dont worry. I wont have many opportunities to do that.
Song Boyeong, observing Jeong-woo who seemed to have some concerns, asked a question.
So, you want to know a few ways to get closer to her?
Really? Id be grateful.
In response to Jeong-woos reaction, Song Boyeong clenched her fist and struck a triumphant pose.
With an empty stomach?
On his way out of the cafeteria after a delicious lunch, Jeong-woo asked Song Boyeong for some tips on how to open Meis heart.
Ah, how would I know that?
Senior?
Ive had good meal.
A knowing smile appeared on Song Boyeongs face. The puzzled Jeong-woo asked.
Youre on good terms with Team Leader Yu, right? Could it be?
Even though I know that I react strangely when I drink. After experiencing my drunkness, you and Mi-hee are the only ones who didnt run away from me, Jeong-woo.
Song Boyeong smiled widely.
Im going!
And she disappeared as if fleeing.
Wow.
Jeong-woo, who had been hit in the back of the head by a very innocent and kind senior, looked bewildered.
Ding.
As he walked back to the research building with a feeling of disappointment, a text message arrived.
Jeong-woo opened his phone to check the message and stood still in his tracks.
[Shall we meet tonight?]
It was Yoon Yi-seol.
He had no idea how to reply.
How many women had he been thinking about during this short lunch break?
-Stay focused, and theres no reason to waver.
Suddenly, Dr. Moons words came to mind.
Lets handle them one by one. Starting with improving the rtionship with the team leader I need to assist.
Chapter 85
Chapter 85- Dust Defenders(3)
Research Building No. 1, Integrated Air Purification System Test Lab.
A 1m model house, replicating a whole floor of the building, sat on the table.
Jeong-woo turned his head towards the filter team, who were preparing for the test on one side. He met eyes with Kim Tae-san, who smiled and raised his thumb at Jeong-woo.
It would take a few days to revise thements on the semi-permeable filter handed to Ha Won-il, but the 5-stage filter was ready to go.
Jeong-woo was also eager to see the results.
There was still some problems so he had spent the afternoon with the filter team and hadnt had a chance to talk to Mei.
What could be the reason?
While pondering, the measurement by the equipment team began.
They visually inspected the model house and continued with leakage tests of the mini-frame and air flow distribution tests.
We will begin the wind speed test.
The roof of the model house was covered with a round dome-shaped ss.
A 3D model appeared on the monitor, allowing them to see inside the model house. The wind information quantified as it followed the fans movement.
Mei watched closely and pointed to one part.
Thest room doesnt have enough wind speed.
Its because its the farthest ce structurally, and theres no way to increase the wind speed more than this without adding another line
In a building that can only use the existing venttion line, its an impractical method.
The equipment teams expert couldnt respond immediately, then spoke as if he felt unfair.
This is impossible for anypany due to the structure.
Impossible? Does that mean we have to tell the people in thest room to breathe bad air due to the structure? It sounds like youre telling me to give up on next weeks bidding.
During their conversation, Jeong-woo shifted his gaze to the model house rather than the monitor. The venttion fan on the exterior wall was constantly running, but it seemed like it couldnt quickly remove all the air inside.
Mei turned to the filter team and said.
Please add a bypass filter for internal cirction in the area with insufficient wind speed.
Kim Tae-san immediately objected.
Why are you burdening the filter team with a structural problem from the equipment team?
Arent we the ones making a system like this?
You seem to be misunderstanding something. We want clean air, not a clean room. Even if the wind speed is insufficient, we can cover it with our 10-stage filter.
It seems theres a significant gap in opinions about breathable air between Mr Kim and me. Im sorry.
I regret meeting this woman. Regret.
Kim Tae-san muttered.
Just like the morning meeting, the atmosphere grew tense, Jeong-woo had no choice but to look around. The equipment team remained silent on their own, and the sensor and filter teams stared sharply at each other.
I wonder if Ill ever make a good impression on the team leader like this.
Jeong-woo, who was anxiously looking at those teams, noticed Ha Won-il.
Assistant Manager Ha.
Ha Won-il answered in a small voice, Yes?
The bypass filter. Shall we make it ourselves?
Now?
Its a small one, so we can do it quickly.
Ha Won-il hesitated and pointed to the room across from them.
All our clean filter tools are in the secondb.
Jeong-woo and Ha Won-il, who had briefly stepped out of the integrated inspection room, immediately entered Experiment Room No. 2.
Jeong-woo donned his gloves and turned his attention to the KG Electronics air purifier filter sample neatly arranged on the table.
The filter looked likeyers of stacked paper. It was cut to the size that would fit into the model houses venttion line.
Is this size sufficient?
Its more than enough. Ill take care of making the bypass connection.
Ha Won-il also began assisting Jeong-woo with his work.
Lets stay calm.
The performance of the nanoscale filter and absorption membrane, confirmed through a molecr perspective, was optimized for the molecr structure that allowed water to flow as desired. KG Electronics technology, which transformed it into a form usable for air, was excellent. However, achieving optimal efficiency in the battle against ultrafine particles was challenging.
We dont have much time, so lets focus on improvements.
Jeong-woo opened the refrigerated facility where catalystpounds were stored and thought about abination that could adsorbmon hazardous substances that came to mind.
Acids, bases, vtile organicpounds, carcinogens, odor-causingponents
Every five seconds, Jeong-woo mechanically mixed reagents and prepared the catalyst for the filter. As he returned to the table, where he observed this process, Ha Won-ils eyes widened.
Mr. Jeong-woo, what youre doing now
Oh, thisbination is temporary. Ill find a more sophisticated er.
After applying the catalyst to the filter, Jeong-woo sent a cloud of dust to help it prate better.
Its done. Here you go.
Jeong-woo handed the filter to Ha Won-il, who inserted it into the model houses connection point for sealing.
Ten minutester, Jeong-woo and Ha Won-il returned to the integrated inspection room, where sensor measurements to detect pollutants were in full swing.
Formaldehyde 3.31, Toluene 2.87, Hydrogen Sulfide
Significant atmospheric pollutants were detected and disyed on the monitor, with the most critical fine dust reading at 89/.
Jeong-woo nodded in agreement while inspecting the inside of the ss through his actual molecr vision. The uracy appeared nearly error-free when calcted proportionally.
Kim Tae-san quietly observed the results withoutmenting.
Is the sensor teams measurement capability trustworthy?
As Jeong-woo was about to shift his focus away from the molecr world, he noticed something conspicuous.
In the area where an external fan was running to create the simted atmosphere, heavy lead particles were clustering.
ording to the sensor readings, due to this phenomenon, the lead content was reported as 0.4/, which was considered normal.
Feeling the need to address the issue, Jeong-woo raised his hand without hesitation.
I have a question.
Amid the silence, Meis gaze sharpened as Jeong-woo spoke.
If pollutants are clustered in one part of the atmosphere, how should we detect them?
In response to Jeong-woos question, Mei said.
The air circtes. We only need to detect iing air.
But what if a specific pollutant suddenly Ah, it was around 0.4 micrograms and suddenly jumps to 10 or 20? Can our filter handle that?
What are you talking about? Are you saying someone is spreading toxic gas in the building?
As Jeong-woo watched the monitor, he gently guided some dust particles toward the area where the model house was located.
Free electrons pierced through the ss roof and touched the dust that had gathered near the fan.
Lead dust was drawn into the model house.
Beeep.
An rm sounded, and the sensor recorded a lead content of 15/.
Exactly like this. This is a very serious atmospheric pollution situation.
Not only Mei but also the sensor team researchers stared at the monitor with astonishment.
The lead particle dust swirled inside the building and then quickly dissipated into the atmosphere.
The lead content was fixed at 0.9/, slightly higher than the initial contamination level.
This is a sensor error?
No, its not. It appears that the lead content solidified outside the sensors detection range.
Meis gaze turned to Jeong-woo as the researchers analyzed the situation.
How
In response to Meis inquiry about how he had managed to pinpoint the situation more urately than the sophisticated sensor, Jeong-woo shook his head.
Oh, it was just a question. It seems like the situation coincidentally ovepped.
Jeong-woo smiled coolly and stepped back. While Mei observed him, she continued.
We need to narrow down the detection angle of the external sensors. That was a good point.
Before Jeong-woo could react to the unexpected praise, Mei continued speaking.
The solution is to extend the time for the sensors detection range to respond to sudden high influxes of pollutants. If such a situation arises, the AI will analyze it and activate the auxiliary filter.
So there is a contingency n.
No.
What?
We havent even started research on auxiliary filters in the filter team.
Kim Tae-san frowned at the mention of just having ideas without actual progress.
Team leader Yu, sets the bar too high, which is why it takes so much time for the main filter.
Ignoring Meis cold stare, Kim Tae-san said.
Team Leader Yu, lets measure the filters. Its almost break time.
After the sensor measurements werepleted, the filter device began to be installed in the model house. Jeong-woo hoped that by connecting the bypass device, the trust between the filter team, Mei, and them would increase slightly.
Once preparations were finished, Mei instructed.
Introduce the pollutants.
Air filled with contaminants was injected into the sealed model house with a ss roof. The sensors on the monitor immediately lit up with red warning lights.
Prepare to start the fan. One, two three!
With a whooshing sound, the air purification system was activated.
The readings on the monitor initially fluctuated but gradually changed from red to yellow and then to green.
Look, our filter. Its doing it in just 10 seconds.
In response to Kim Tae-sans mutteredment, the entire filter team nodded in satisfaction.
Mei carefully examined the disyed pollutant levels and said.
The detection rate for bacteria is higher than the previous test.
Still within the safe range, right?
For bacteria, viruses, and vtile organicpounds rted to respiratory diseases, the lower the detection rate, the better.
No, Team Leader Yu. Go outside adn see if you can you breathe better air than this.
Jeong-woo felt the pressure of Mei and Kim Tae-sans ongoing dispute. He quietly asked Ha Won-il.
Do they ever have days when they dont fight?
Ive been on this project for a month now, and Ive only seen it happen once.
When was that?
Kim Tae-san, the lead researcher, took a day off.
Jeong-woo tookfort in the fact that it was quite rare for Korean researchers in this room to get along. Building better rtionships was not an easy task for anyone.
Senior researcher Jun Chai from the sensor team, who had been closely monitoring the monitor, suddenly called Mei.
Team Leader, the measurements for Room 10 are abnormal.
Mei shifted her gaze to the monitor upon hearing this. The various contamination levels in Room 10 were noticeably lower than in other areas.
Kim Tae-san, also noticing this, was surprised and mumbled.
Whats going on? This is the area with the lowest airflow. It should be higher, why is it like this? Is it a sensor error?
Ha Won-il responded in a low voice.
Mr. Jeong-woo attached the bypass filter.
What?
Mei, along with Jun Chai, meticulously checked the readings for Room 10 and then spoke to Kim Tae-san
This room has a cleanliness level equivalent to a Grade 6 cleanroom for newborns. Excellent improvement. Please continue to work like this.
Kim Tae-san, who had received praise for the first time since the project began, had an awkward expression on his face. Although he didnt particrly like Meis personality, which shifted from arguing loudly to giving high praise, Kim Tae-san refrained from speaking ill of her in Korean.
Jeong-woo felt a sense of relief, sensing that the atmosphere was getting less tense.
Is this going ording to n?
He thought about Noh Jong-seons suggestion to help the project with 0.5 points every day as it was a project thatcked 20 points to reach a perfect score out of 100.
After the measurements in the Integrated Testing Laboratory werepleted, it was time to leave for the day. As Ha Won-il headed outside, he spoke to Jeong-woo.
Having you here really puts my mind at ease. I think I can learn a lot.
Ill do my best for the next three weeks.
Its my turn to say that.
With a polite nod, Ha Won-il disappeared, and Jeong-woo turned to leave for the day. However, he unexpectedly found himself facing Mei, who was observing him.
Oh, what a surprise.
Mei opened her mouth to speak to Jeong-woo.
Mr. Han.
Yes.
I said that theres no one who can do everything well. Do you disagree with my statement?
Confidence or humility? Two options that Jeong-woo had been regretting in the morning floated through his mind.
Im not sure about that. However, as long as my abilities allow, I will do my best to assist Team Leader Yu. Research is not something you do alone.
Mei, who was scrutinizing Jeong-woo, spoke.
I look forward to your continued contributions, just like the bypass filter.
It seems like she knows that I was the one who wrote it.
As the team leader, I have one thing to tell the assistant team leader. This project must seed no matter what. In that sense, Professor Noh Jong-seon and Researcher Ha Won-il trust you, and we have high expectations for you.
Mei, now officially designated as the assistant team leader, extended her hand. Jeong-woo nodded and epted her handshake.
Dosandaero, Gangnam-gu, Starpiece Building.
Jeong-woo stepped out of the taxi and looked at the five-story building surrounded by subtle lighting.
As befitting an entertainmentpany building, it had a distinct design that stood out from the neighboring buildings.
A photo on the rooftop LED disy caught his eye.
It was a photo of a hotel room with a view of Venices scenery from the window. Yoon Yi-seol, with a dazed expression, holding a guitar.
Her slightly disheveled hair on one side, and her unusually fair skin gleamed.
She looks cute like that. Pretty
Given that professionals took the photo, it was clear that they aimed for a concept that would make fans hearts flutter. There was text next to the picture.
Yoon Yi-seols Single Album In a dream / Release on March 26th!
What kind of song is it? It must be good, of course.
As he stared at her in therge photo, memories of that day on the beach came vividly to his mind.
How could he forget it? The beautiful woman on the billboard had written such a heartfelt letter and even kissed him on the lips. Thinking about it made him sigh.
I managed toe this far, but what am I supposed to do Dr. Moon?
Standing in front of the automatic door at the entrance, Jeong-woo sent a text message to Yoon Yi-seol.
[Ive arrived.]
A prompt response followed.
[2nd floor practice room.]
A short, emotionless message. It had been like this all day, starting from lunch. Jeong-woo sighed at her response, not even knowing how angry she might be.
The sliding door opened from the inside, and Jeong-woo took a tentative step inside and said awkwardly.
Excuse me.
The exterior of the building might look like a music studio, but inside, there was a cozy space with a musical ambiance,plete with signs bearing musical notes on rooms like editing studios and recording rooms. At the far end, he could see a staircase.
It has a unique design for Yoon Yi-seol.
Yes, thats the concept.
As Jeong-woo mumbled to himself, someones voice reached his ears.
Wee, Mr. Han Jeong-woo.
He turned to find Manager Ji Seong-jae. Seated at a table in the music cafe-like space, he greeted Jeong-woo.
If youre not too busy, can we chat for a moment before going upstairs?
Yi-seol is waiting upstairs
Its about Yi-seol. She asked me to dy you for a bit.
I see.
Once Jeong-woo took a seat, Manager Ji poured a ss of water for him.
You dont drink coffee, right? Thats what I heard.
Yes, this is fine.
Jeong-woo took a sip of water, and Manager Ji watched him silently before speaking.
To be honest, until recently, I was just grateful to you, Han Jeong-woo. After going to the clinic, Yi-seol has be much brighter.
Right now, it doesnt seem that way, though. Haha.
While Jeong-woo awkwardlyughed, Manager Jis expression remained solemn.
Whats confusing is that, despite the fact that its a time for joy, our singer has been holed up there for a week, making excuses and behaving irritably under the pretext of preparing for a showcase.
Um I see
Though Jeong-woo tried to deflect the conversation, Manager Ji seemed to have sensed something.
I think Yi-seol did something to you, ording to what I saw.
Manager Jis fingertip made the heart-patterned teaspoon in the cup bounce.
Han Jeong-woo rejected whatever that something was.
In response to Manager Jis questioning look, Jeong-woo could only smile wordlessly. Why would he refuse the advances of a charismatic megastar that the whole nation admired?
Let me ask you directly. Do you not find Yi-seol attractive?
Shes beautiful. Extremely so. However, there are circumstances I cant reveal.
Detecting a hint of bitterness in Jeong-woos smile, Manager Ji continued.
I dont understand why youre making it soplicated. If its about self-esteem rted to that matter, think again. Can there really be a man in South Korea who wouldn be deemed worthy? No matter who pursues her, they all fall short.
Youve hit the nail on the head.
Its been over five years since I got married, and my dating cells are practically dead. But when I listen to Yi-seols songs, there are moments when my heart flutters. Especially with this new song. Is there any special meaning to liking someone? Just follow your heart.
As Manager Ji passionately spoke, there was an urgent sound of footsteps from the second-floor staircase.
Thud, thud, thud!
Manager!
Yoon Yi-seol, who suddenly appeared, took a deep breath and red at Manager Ji.
What are you doing with Jeong-woo?
Um, I was passing by, and he looked thirsty, so I offered him some water.
Jeong-woo was surprised by this response, and he looked at Manager Ji.
Manager Ji, avoiding eye contact, gestured to Jeong-woo to leave, then turned away from Yoon Yi-seol.
Only then did Jeong-woo realize that she hadnt asked him to dy his arrival.
Ugh, really.
Yoon Yi-seol looked at Jeong-woo once and then lowered her head.
Come up! Right now!
And she ran up the stairs and disappeared. Jeong-woo asked Manager Ji, pointing to the corridor she had just dashed down.
Has Yi-seol been like this recently?
Even more so. Today, she had an angelic attitude because its Han Jeong-woos visit day.
I see
With a fearful heart, Jeong-woo headed to the second-floor practice room.
Click.
Jeong-woo opened the door and saw Yoon Yi-seol sitting in a chair, holding a guitar. She looked at him as he entered.
Jeong-woo greeted her cautiously.
Its been a while
Thats enough. The contract is on the desk. You need to sign it to give the road manager team their pay. Thats why I called you, so dont misunderstand.
Okay
And well, now, I dont n to take any interest in you. But if you still have a bit of affection as a fan, you can listen to the new song before you go.
Without giving Jeong-woo a chance to reply, Yoon Yi-seol continued to speak in a rushed manner, her fingers nervously tapping the guitar body, as if she were anxious about his reaction.
It was the same old her, with her emotions in on her face.
Ugh. I thought I had already finished sorting things out.
Jeong-woo sat down and said.
I will sign the contract since it takes me a long time to do so. Ill sit for a while.
Yoon Yi-seols expression shifted to relief, Sure, go ahead as she turned her head politely. After clearing her throat, she put her hand on the guitar.
Strum.
The gentle melody of the guitar blended with Yoon Yi-seols voice.
-Ive fallen for you.
Her hair fluttered lightly against the guitars body, and Jeong-woo twitched as he heard the first line.
The lyrics from the notebook he had seen on that beach that day, written in her handwriting, were now a song being sung through her.
-This morning. Since when was it a dream? The magical moments keeping back, and I cant wake up.
For three minutes, Yoon Yi-seols genuine emotions were conveyed through the serene melody and heartfelt lyrics. The love cells in Jeong-woos heart, which had been deeply buried, began to tremble.
-I want to keep seeing you. I close my eyes again. I feel like Ill see you on days like this. Goodnight, my love. Ill see you again
The chorus of the second verse ended.
Jeong-woo looked at Yoon Yi-seol, unable to say anything.
Her beautiful voice and the sincerity it carried.
Who could resist such a confession from the bottom of ones heart? Jeong-woo couldnt help but strongly empathize with Manager Jis words, Can there really be a man in South Korea who wouldn be deemed worthy? No matter who pursues her, they all fall short.
Is the signing done?
When Yoon Yi-seol finished the song, Jeong-woo, who had snapped out of his trance, automatically signed the contract and then turned to her.
This song is really good.
What about me?
What?
How much do you like me?
When did it be like this, with his heart racing and questions flying around uncontrobly? Jeong-woo couldnt help but wonder if it was even possible for a person to survive with their heart pounding like this.
While Jeong-woo hesitated to answer, Yoon Yi-seol, who had noticed said.
The next thing youll say is about waiting ten months, right? Okay, go now.
Yi-seol
Jeong-woo stood up and asked.
Is there anything bothering you?
Why would you be curious about that? Werent you just here to sign the contract and leave?
Seeing Yoon Yi-seols resolute expression, Jeong-woo had no choice but to head towards the door. Going to the hospital together is just a crazy idea right now. As long as she looks fine on the outside, thats a relief in itself.
I need to find another way.
As Jeong-woo touched the door handle, Yoon Yi-seol spoke as if she had been waiting for him.
By any chance
Jeong-woos steps halted.
I only have seven items left on my checklist, and I just did one with you today. The rest are also nned with you. If you dont like it, you can say so now.
I dont dislike it but what did we do today?
I gave someone who used to bother me a piece of my mind.
It seems like you really gave them a piece of your mind
Yoon Yi-seol, with a teasing smile, replied to Jeong-woo.
Its not over yet. I havent even hit them yet.
Are you really going to hit them?
Yoon Yi-seol looked surprised, and Jeong-woo chuckled.
Amercial request came in. From thepany where you work.
Thats
I epted it with one condition. How about appearing as a couple? The person in charge, Manager Cha Jin-seong, liked the idea
Jeong-woos expression went nk.
A couple? Ive never acted before. Yi-seol, you know that.
So, yeah. Im going to doll myself up that day, so be prepared to be thoroughly impressed.
With a thud, Jeong-woo stepped into the corridor with a dazed look.
How many unexpected things had happened to him today? At this point, he couldnt even count the number.
Hoo.
Yoon Yi-seol pressed her ear to the door, listening for the fading footsteps she let out a sigh of relief.
A live performance with all her might.
If she sang like this every day, she might have twice as many fans. Even though it was just one song, her legs were trembling.
She sat down on the floor and leaned against the door.
Do you think I did well?
Her face showed signs of absent-mindedness and a wavering heart. She was sure of that.
Be prepared to keep liking me in the future.
Yoon Yi-seol held her arms around herself, drawing a happy smile. In matters of love, she had to be more proactive, it hurt less that way.
If two-way traffic is difficult, you can just break through an eightne highway from one side to keep going.
Chapter 86
Chapter 86- Dust Defenders(4)
Friday morning.
Sitting in the kitchen, with a spoonful of rice halfway to his mouth, Jeong-woo paused as he watched his younger brothers spoon continuously moving back and forth over the pot of kimchi stew.
I should eat separately.
He grabbed a bowl and scooped some stew into it, then put it aside, causing his younger brother, Jeong-chan, to snort.
Why are you so uptight about hygiene?
Because your older brother cares about his hygiene. By the way, dont pick up anything in my room and eat it.
Am I loser?
As the kitchen got noisier, Hong Ji-sook, who had been watching TV in the living room, suddenly turned her head.
If youre not going to eat your food and just fight, then just leave.
Under Hong Ji-sooks stern gaze, the sibling rivalry died in an instant.
30 minutester.
After finishing his preparations for work, Jeong-woo came downstairs to hear the news ying on the TV.
-Dramatic temperature fluctuations and even fine dust. You should pay attention to your health. Unlike yesterday when we had clear skies, today the ultrafine dust levels significantly exceed the World Health Organizations standards. The spring drought is also getting worse, with the Korea Meteorological Administration raising the dry weather warning to an alert
Hong Ji-sook, too, kept her eyes fixed on the news and pursed her lips.
Its always a mess every spring. Jeong-chan, make sure to take a mask with you. The neighborhood womens association gave us one.
Jeong-woo approached Hong Ji-sook suddenly.
You got one for Jeong-chan, but what about me?
If you want one. You should buy one for yourself.
I bought one. Still, Mom, you should take care of your eldest son whos working on the front lines, shouldnt you?
Hong Ji-sook just stared, and in response, Jung-woo firmly grabbed the dust mask ced on the living room table.
Im going to work, Mom!
Hey, dont take that!
Rushing to the front door, Jeong-woo quickly put on his shoes and spoke.
Ive already deposited my sry. Use it to buy some spring clothes. Buy a hundred masks for Jeong-chan. Im off!
Jeong-woo ran out into the yard.
When he got on the subway, Jeong-woo noticed that quite a few people were wearing masks. He gazed out of the window at the hazy air and shook his head.
High levels of ultrafine dust were present in many areas.
Come to think of it, the news had reported good air quality for once yesterday. When did this be headline news?
After struggling for several days between polluted air and the filters, he found himself yearning for clearer skies.
I should install our system at home someday. Its not good for Chan to be coughing all the time.
Whether it was earning money or causing idents, his mothers attitude had always been consistent. His younger brother came first, and he was secondary. Yet, he couldnt help but feel wronged because he knew he had used a substantial amount of the money he had earned as coteral for the store until he graduated from college.
On the day I pay it all back, Ill confidently demand the treatment of an eldest son!
Jeong-woo leaned against a railing near the subway entrance, took out his phone, and rechecked thete-night message from Yoon Yi-seol.
[Were going to do the checklist on Saturday. How do you feel about it, Jeong-woo? If you dont like it, just say so. Well, if youreing, I can also arrange a meeting with someone who can provide advice on the performance.]
The dating request was so clear that Jeong-woo couldnt help butugh.
It was a rarefortable holiday. The symptoms of insomnia were gradually improving, and he was now more focused on habit improvement therapy rather than the clinics intensive treatment. He had heard that she was in a simr situation from Director Sung.
Well if Im clever, I might be able toe up with an excuse to get tested at the hospital.
[Sure, no problem. Where should we meet? Is it okay to choose a ce for the checklist, Yi-seol?]
Since it was past 8 oclock, he assumed shed be awake and sent the message. As expected, a reply came quickly.
[Thats fine with me. The location for tomorrow doesnt matter. Jeong-woo, its up to you to decide.]
It was a message that left him pondering. He needed toe up with a good ce. Jeong-woo decided he needed to think more carefully before responding.
He arrived at thepany at 8:30 AM. Still having some time, Jeong-woo sat in Research Lab 1, organizing the improvements for the day.
While doing so, he noticed the door swing open, and a member of the Filter Team rushed in. Their fidgeting made it seem like they were looking for him, so Jeong-woo stood up.
Whats going on?
Mr. Jeong-woo! Its about the final inspection before the first round of bidding. Team Leader Yu wants a cleanliness rating of Grade 5.
Not Grade 6, but Grade 5?
The levels ssified by the Korean Filter Testing Institute indicate that lower grades represent higher cleanliness.
From Tuesday to yesterday, for three days, Jeong-woo had sessfully applied the bactericidal catalyst to the entire 10-stage filter system, achieving a purification system that met the standards of neonatal or recovery rooms in hospitals. This was at Grade 6. Advancing one step further within a short period would be impossible unless there was a miraculous research breakthrough.
Hurriedly, he went to the Materials Science Centers research building, and as expected, the Filter Team was furious with Meis request.
Does this make any sense? Are we the ones making BCRs for immunpromised patients?
When we were aiming for a grade 7, I agreed. Even otherpanies have simr goals. But now when Mr. Han Jeong-woo was added, it went up by one more grade?
Jeong-woo met them with a firm determination. With Kim Tae-san, who hadnt arrived at work yet, they could easily explode in frustration.
Ill talk to her and get back to you. Team Leader Yu always sets high expectations, but shes not the kind to ask for the impossible.
Even if Deputy Team Leader says that
In fact, I thought Grade 5 could be possible in about a week or so.
Assuming that Ha Won-il mobilized the entire KG Electronics research team for the redevelopment of the submicron filter and that it yields sessful results, Jeong-woo first dealt with the more pressing matters.
Upon entering the Sensor Teams office a momentter, Jun Chai, the core developer of the purification AI, greeted him with a nod.
Wee, Deputy Team Leader.
Good morning. Is the team leader here?
Jun Chai nodded.
Knock, knock.
Its Han Jeong-woo.
Knocking on the door of the team leaders office, Jeong-woo gauged the atmosphere in the Sensor Team. They seemed quite busy as well, as if they had received some orders. Jeong-woo asked Jun Chai.
What are you working on?
The order was to reduce the error range for wireless sensor detection. If you have time, could you check it with us?
Sure, why not.
With more urate eyes than the sensors, Jeong-woo had helped them with error tests for a few days.
Come in.
From inside, Meis voice reached Jeong-woo, and he opened the door. He saw her focused on the monitor.
You suddenly gave instructions to both teams this morning.
I did.
I thought we would check it out today. It might be better to continue with improvements after the first round of bidding is over.
When Jeong-woo cautiously expressed his opinion, Mei coughed softly after covering her mouth and replied.
Would you like to see the information from thepanies participating in thepetition on Monday?
Mei rotated the monitor towards Jeong-woo.
There were a total of fourpanies participating in the biddingpetition, including KG Chemicals. The announcement stated that Chinas Dusf that he had heard of before, and Germanys Burke and Japans Sumitomo Chemical were also participating.
Jeong-woo was surprised when he saw the lists of advantages that eachpany had put forth.
Burke had a powerful filter that could create ISO CLASS 5, Grade 5 cleanrooms. Sumitomo Chemical was emphasizing a customized air delivery system with zero error precision sensors.
Moreover, the biggest rival, Dusf, had offered significantly lower supply prices than KG Chemicals, almost matching their performance.
Unless thesepanies have exaggerated their ims, we dont stand a chance as it is now.
Yes, not at all
Mei coughed again. Covering her mouth and furrowing her brow, she seemed to be in pain. Jeong-woo understood and stepped back.
Ill make it possible to reach Grade 5 by the weekend.
The bidding was in three days on Monday. He had initially nned to increase the rating by 0.5 points each day, but now he needed to reach Grade 5 suddenly. Jeong-woo contemted this as he left the room.
3:30 PM.
All team members gathered in the integrated testing room to prepare for the final inspection. As Mei had informed that she would be running a littlete, Jeong-woo approached Jun Chai, who was adjusting the sensor.
Could you run the sensor once?
Nodding, Jun Chai gestured to a colleague. Inside the sealed ss chamber, gas was released, and the results appeared on the monitor.
Jeong-woo examined the gas detection process at the end of the sensor, focusing on the molecr view.
This is a carbon nanotube sensor. After detection, it removes the remaining gas molecules with ultraviolet light. However, the unremoved residues are causing errors.
Jun Chai operated a secondary sensor for monitoring and checked the values.
Its detectable at a microscopic level. But isnt this a problem with no solution?
Its too early to say.
Although Jeong-woo had various methods to easily clear away the dust-like residues in the molecr world, exining such concepts to Jun Chai wouldbel him as a mad scientist.
Jeong-woo mentioned the solution he had thought of during lunch.
What if we dont just remove the residues with heat, but add a cloth to wipe the sensor?
A cloth?
Its a metaphor. We use the sensor once, and right after, we introduce a highly absorbent polymer. This will converge the error rate to zero.
Jun Chai epted the method but couldnt understand it.
The concept is clear, but to create a customized polymer for this sensor, it will take twice as long to develop.
Oh, about that. Theres someone who specializes in custom research.
Who
Shes here. Miss Song! Over here.
Hello~
The research team momentarily paused their work as a slim and refreshing beauty, Song Boyeong, entered the testing room. Although working with Mei had somewhat immune them to female beauty, the cuteness radiating from Song Boyeong was enough to surprise them.
Approaching Jeong-woos side, Song Boyeong pouted her lips.
Miss Song, really? Its not the 90s.
In this environment, itsmon to add Miss or Mister. Do you speak English, senior?
Are you kidding? Of course, I can.
Nice to meet you. This is Jun Chai.
Hi!
The girl, who looked like she was from a girls high school, greeted Jun Chai warmly, leaving him feeling hesitant.
Shes my senior.
Upon hearing this, Jun Chais eyes widened even further. Jeong-woo pointed to the sensor inside the ss chamber.
Here it is what I want you to see.
Wow, it looks soplex. Jeong-woo, do you know your way around machines as well?
Its not like that. Its about that polymer that Senior talked about Ahem. It seems like the polymer might be suitable for this sensor. Talk to Jun Chai and see what you can do.
Song Boyeong nodded vigorously and smiled broadly.
If it goes well, Ill make sure to repay you properly.
I didnt call you because I wanted you to wish us well. I called you because we need you for this project. I wont ept anything as payment.
Whatever.
After introducing Song Boyeong to Jun Chai, Jeong-woo went straight to the filter team.
Kim Tae-san sighed as he saw Jeong-woo.
Does this make sense? What kind of boss asks for such results in a meeting?
You heard about the otherpanies, right?
They probably spent at least a year on it. Weve only been working on the project for two months. What, because Im a Korean, Im supposed to get used to it quickly and do the research? Its just the Chinese market Ah, its though.
Oh? Assistant Director Ha is here.
Pretending not to hear Kim Tae-sans grumbling, Jeong-woo raised his hand to get Ha Won-ils attention. Hurrying over, it seemed, Ha Won-il ced a stic box on the filter teams table, panting.
A prototype. We barely finished it for testing.
This is
Yes, a new 9th-grade filter.
Jeong-woo opened the box and took out a filter about the size of a mobile phone.
Senior Tae-san. Heres the master key to Grade 5.
Jeong-woo, are you saying the same thing? We need some leeway, they have to push back a little. Otherwise, theyll make us do unreasonable things.
What was that movie? Theres a movie where a teacher just whips students without giving them carrots. In a short time, the students skills just
At my age, I want to do stable research, not pressure.
While the facilities team was installing the new filter into the model house, Mei entered.
At 4 oclock, well start the integrated measurement.
While Jun Chai and Song Boyeong were chatting energetically, Song Boyeong hurried over to Jeong-woo.
Wow, look at her, shes so tall.
Big sister? Have you talked to the senior?
I havent tried yet. Theb has few women, so my personal research has reached a dead-end.
Song Boyeong looked up at Mei, who was a head taller than her, as if she were looking up to someone bigger.
Did you finish talking with Jun Chai?
Yes. He said theres a bid. We agreed to supply by Monday morning, so Ill be working on the weekend!
Working more seemed to excite her.
Introducing contaminants.
Just before the measurement, Mei looked back at Jeong-woo. Jeong-woo responded with a calm smile, indicating that everything was fine. The atmosphere suggested that today would pass without any problems.
Fan activation ready. One, two
At the moment she was about to shout three, the facility team, as usual, raised the switch. Harmful substances were introduced into the model house surrounded by a half-circle of ss.
Mei coughed, covering her mouth.
Jeong-woo wondered if she had caught a cold from not being able to say three and nced at Mei. However, he noticed something caught between the half-circle ss and the table. It was a tiny 2mm-thick wire fragment that had fallen during the filter recement.
Huh?
Through the molecr view, the gap where the wire fragment was magnified. Microscopic dust particles were spewing out from there.
Mei, who was standing in front, started inhaling and gasping for air, trying to clear the dust from her nose.
Jeong-woo quickly rushed to the table and removed the wire fragment with his fingernail.
There was a gap here. Itll cause errors, so please stop the operation for now!
Upon Jeong-woos shout, the facility team hurriedly turned off the switch. Jeong-woo looked at Mei and asked.
Team Leader, are you okay?
Inhaling a minuscule amount of released microscopic dust. It should be lower than the dust outside, which was enough to make it to the news, but Mei seemed to be seriously affected, breathing heavily and struggling to catch her breath.
Jun Chaigotobag
With a pained expression, Mei spoke slowly and then copsed.
Team Leader!
Jeong-woo held Mei and called out to Jun Chai while supporting her.
Team Leader said Jun Chai, bag!
Jun Chai had already rushed outside. Kim Tae-san, who hade up behind Jeong-woo, helped support Mei.
Why are you breathing so heavily? Calm down. Team Leader Yu, do you have asthma? Jeong-woo, let her sit down for now.
Kim Tae-san guided Mei to a chair.
Jun Chai returned with the bag and pulled out an inhaler, which she ced in Meis mouth. Mei took a deep breath of the inhaler, and soon her breathing stabilized.
Everyone stood there in shock, but Jeong-woo picked up his phone.
Ill call an ambnce.
No.
Mei shook her head and spoke in Korean. It surprised Jeong-woo and even Kim Tae-san, who was supporting her.
In about five minutes, Illbe okay.
While her pronunciation was awkward, Meis use of correct Korean grammar was evident. Kim Tae-san felt cold sweat running down his spine.
She had understood all the gossip behind her back up to now. Despite knowing everything, she had said nothing. This sent shivers down his spine.
Mei leaned against the backrest of the chair, supporting her weight with her arms, and then she beckoned to Jeong-woo.
Assistant Manager.
Jeong-woo approached her, listening closely to her words.
Pleasecontinue thework, andtell methe results.
Shouldnt you go to the hospital?
If I restitll be okay. Im used to it. Jun Chai, go to the office
Mei had difficulty breathing and couldnt finish her sentence. Jun Chai supported her and left theb.
Kim Tae-san shook his head.
She had asthma all this time and didnt say a word. What a tough woman.
One of the filter team researchers approached Kim Tae-san and asked in a hushed voice.
Senior, she heard all the bad things you said about her, didnt she?
Did she only hear me?
Well, you did it the most.
Kim Tae-san grimaced and closed his mouth.
One hourter.
Jeong-woo was pacing around the Sensor Teams office. Kim Tae-san sat next to him, wearing a dark expression, his gaze fixed on Meis personal office.
What will you say if you see Team Leader?
Just apologize. She might let it go as if she didnt know.
Ugh, its embarrassing.
Kim Tae-san let out a sigh and then quickly stood up as the office door opened, and someone entered.
D-Director.
A startled-looking Noh Jong-seon hurriedly approached the two.
Mei had a seizure? Why didnt she go to the hospital?
She didnt want to.
In response, Noh Jong-seon clicked his tongue. Jeong-woo pointed inside.
Weve called Dr. Moon to check on her.
Dr. Moon?
It happens that she was at the Biomedical Center today.
With a concerned look on his face, Noh Jong-seon sat in a chair. He then turned to Kim Tae-san, who had followed him.
How did Tae-san assist her? I heard he was uncooperative.
Thats a misunderstanding. He did everything she asked; he just grumbled.
Mei may appear bold, but shes been through a lot. She obtained sensor patents in China, and despite numerous scouting offers, she came here because she believes our centers researchers are the best.
Well
If you tarnish the reputation of the center, Ill be watching.
Kim Tae-san bowed his head deeply. Noh Jong-seon sighed and looked around Meis office, which she used separately from the Chinese researchers office.
These stubborn people. They act as if there are no borders in research.
While waiting for Dr. Moons examination, Noh Jong-seon continued to talk about Meis life.
He mentioned that during his time as a professor at Seoul National University, Mei had been an exchange student at Peking University. He also mentioned her challenging childhood and how she had be an elite researcher through her hard work.
They lived right next to a power nt in their residential area. So, how could she not develop asthma? More than half the kids in the area had respiratory illnesses.
Although Mei had only been at KG Chemical for two months, she had dedicated herself to air purification research for several years, despite the difficult circumstances she had faced. Kim Tae-sans expression grew even gloomier as he heard this.
I was a terrible guy.
If you know that, do better. Dont badmouth the Filter Team anymore.
That improved after Jeong-woo arrived.
Are you using the fact that the leading materials scientist praises you as a point of pride?
Silence.
The door opened, and Dr. Moon, holding a stethoscope, came out.
Jeong-woo approached him and asked.
How is she?
She has stabilized. It seems like she wont need hospitalization. However, she should rest for a few days. She experienced an attack due to overexertion and inhaling unhealthy air.
Noh Jong-seon let out a relieved sigh. Dr. Moon, taking into consideration that Noh Jong-seon and Kim Tae-san were also present, bowed slightly to them.
Yes, thats right. Thank you, Dr. Moon. Ive been hearing praises from Director Heo about you every week. I have high expectations too.
Youre too kind.
With a very professional tone, Dr. Moon epted Noh Jong-seons praise and then turned to Jeong-woo.
Shed like to see you for a moment.
Me?
Yes.
Noh Jong-seon, who seemed ready to rush into Meis office at any moment, stepped back at Dr. Moons words.
When Jeong-woo entered the room, Mei was seen leaning on the sofa.
Are you o oh.
She raised her hand to stop Jeong-woo from asking.
Thank you for today. How did it turn out?
Seeing Meis attitude, focused on work, Jeong-woo smiled wryly and conveyed the news of her sessful participation in the Polymer Project Team and improving the sensor, achieving air purification up to Grade 5 within a week.
Thats amazing. It surpasses two years of research Ive done in just one week.
Thats built on the foundation. And didnt I mention that research isnt something to do alone? You should rest well and go for the biddingpetition.
I have a favor to ask about that.
Mei took an envelope from her bag.
Theres no one else but the Deputy Team Leader who can go. Its just a matter of sitting there and leaving when its over. You can even go for dinner. Theres no problem.
It was an invitation to the Asia Environmental Forum event held at a famous city hotel. It was an internationally recognized event, even bearing the stamp of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
An invitation to the Asia Environmental Forum, a prominent environmental project participant from KG Chemical. This was also an extension of her work. Jeong-woo briefly nced at Meis pale face and nodded.
Ill do it.
As he answered, he suddenly remembered the weekend agreement they had made.
By any chance Can anyone apany the +1 mentioned here?
Jeong-woo stepped outside and took out his phone. He let out a deep sigh andposed a text message.
[Ms. Yi-seol Um Are you avable tomorrow for a conference on pan-Asian environmental measures in line with the UN Climate Change Paris Agreement?]
After hitting the send button, he closed his eyes tightly.
Chapter 87
Chapter 87- Dust Defenders(5)
za Hotel Cafe, The Lounge.
Feeling the tartness of the juice swallowed through the straw, Yoon Yi-seol slightly squinted her eyes. Manager Ji, who was sitting across from her, turned his gaze from the weekend scenery of Seoul za visible outside the window and asked.
Environmental Forum? On a rare day off?
Well, why not?
Manager Ji silently watched Yoon Yi-seol, who avoided his gaze.
As a manager, he had to say something about her peculiar behavior, who meticulously dressed up in the morning, only to cover it up again with a deeply pulled-down hat.
Lets stop bothering Jeong-woo. Hes a busy person.
Oh?
Yi-seol, who was sipping her juice, raised her eyebrows.
Do you never think that hes the one bothering me?
So thats why you decided to participate in this international event? I saw NHK and CCTV while I wasing up. Theres even foreign media here.
Ill just sit quietly and have a meal.
If you want hotel food, just say so.
ncing at the clock, which was approaching 2 oclock in the afternoon, the manager pointed to Yi-seols phone.
Ive prepared some remarks that you can use when you meet the press. Since Yi-seol is the Korean PR ambassador for Green Cross, if your identity is revealed, youll definitely be hounded by reporters.
Ill read it carefully.
Yi-seol sent a reassuring signal with her bright smile, indicating that there was no need to worry. Manager Ji sighed and stood up.
What time should I pick you up?
Its going to bete.
Just tell me what time.
Well, around 7?
Thats not veryte. Besides, itll be during the event
Manager Ji, who had been muttering to himself, fell silent for a moment.
Hey, are you saying its 7 in the morning?
Because of the checklist. Were running out of time, so please go now.
Ugh, seriously.
The team leader got up from his seat.
If you have any problems, call.
If theres a problem, I wont.
To Jeong-woo, not you.
Without a response, Yi-seol just looked away. The team leader clicked his tongue and left the cafe.
Entering the hotel lounge, Jeong-woo passed the busy staff preparing for the event and made his way to the first-floor caf.
As he nced around, his gaze stopped at the back of a woman wearing a ck baseball cap.
I find it hard to believe she agreed toe.
Even though she was now bundled up, he was still familiar enough with her to recognize her at a nce.
Jeong-woo walked up to the table and cautiously spoke to Yoon Yi-seol.
Youre here early?
Under the hat, Yoon Yi-seols eyes, which had been looking outside as if bored, sparkled when they met Jeong-woos.
I thought you said youlle early.
No, I just
Yun Yi-seol hastily wiped the half-empty juice ss on the table.
I was in an important meeting just now. With a certain PD. Subtracting the time wasnt easy.
Saying this, he self-med, then Jeong-woo sat down in front of her.
This event will be conducted entirely in English, so it might be boring.
Jeong-woo, youre not leaving, are you?
Huh? No.
Then it wont be boring.
Yi-seols attacks, which kept making his heart race at odd times, left Jeong-woo no choice but to remain silent. Just then, a staff member approached to take their orders, and he ordered the same thing as her.
While waiting for their drinks, Jeong-woo asked a question to break the awkward silence.
Whats on the checklist?
Ill tell you after the forum is over. Well do it next.
Yi-seol, you seem to have a lot of secrets these days.
Why not? Isnt a woman with many secrets charming?
Her eyes, closely observing Jeong-woo as she leaned in, left him stammering and looking away from her intense gaze.
I didnt mean it that way. I was just saying
What? Im saying youre the only man I like.
His stammering turned into stuttering. Yi-seolughed softly while watching Jeong-woo with a keen eye.
Jeong-woo couldnt quite adapt to this atmosphere and turned his gaze to the window.
It wasnt a particrly clear weekend. Perhaps due to the high level of fine dust in the air, there werent many people walking around the square.
It was a rare outing not at home or the office, and he wondered why the atmosphere felt so awkward.
If it werent for the cheerful and dazzling woman in front of him, it could have been a profoundly mncholic and lonely day.
Fresh fruit juice is served.
The staff ced sses filled with colorful liquid on the table. Jeong-woo took a sip reflexively.
The tartness made his eyes squint. Yi-seol also took a sip of the juice and squinted her eyes, then their eyes met.
For a few seconds, the nces of the two, filled with excitement, lingered.
What brings you to an event like this, Jeong-woo?
Oh, the air purification system were developing at thepany assumes severe air pollution. The policies discussed here could affect the future air purification market. Anyway, we need to be informed.
I see.
Its just a request from our team leader. Theres no need to look at me like that. Im here just because she asked me to.
Well, I have a slightly grander reason. Im also the PR ambassador for Green Cross.
Yi-seol turned on her phone and recited like she was reading a textbook.
Theyre an organization that conducts campaigns for protecting water resources, supporting clean energy development, disaster relief, and creating a safe environment.
Ive never heard of them.
To be honest, I only remember doing volunteer work in flood-affected areasst year. I dont remember much else. Im such a lousy PR ambassador.
The initial awkwardness had vanished, and Jeong-woo and Yi-seol found themselves engrossed in conversation, unaware of the passing time.
The Environmental Forum, scheduled to start at 3 PM, took ce in the Grand Room of the za Hotel.
Among the 500 attendees, Jeong-woo also found his way to KG Chemicals designated seat, towards the back.
There are quite a few cameras. Are you okay with this?
Seated next to Jeong-woo, Yoon Yi-seol nodded her head.
Everything is ready, as Manager Ji requested.
She shook her phone in her hand and began adjusting her disheveled hair after taking off her hat. The scent of apples wafted from her hair.
Jeong-woo looked around, worried that his heart might race if he kept staring.
Around a dozen seats were arranged on the stage.
Eminent schrs from the fields of meteorology, ecology, and earth environmental science from various Asian countries were seated with their name tags in front of them.
Huh?
Jeong-woos gaze lingered on the students entering from the opposite side of the event venue door, wearing sashes that read Miss University Korea. They walked closer and sat in the row two seats ahead of him.
With TV camera crews in tow, Yi-seols gaze was also drawn to them.
-Were being evaluated based on todays presentation, right?
-Its all in English. What do we do? I majored in Japanese.
Listening attentively to their conversation, Jeong-woo learned that these young women were representatives of the World University Student Peace Service Mission.
As Jeong-woo who was now observing these youngdies who had suddenly appeared, Yi-seol turned her head and asked.
Theyre beautiful, arent they?
Indeed. Its like theyve picked the most beautiful women from all over the country.
To Jeong-woos response, Yi-seol widened her eyes and eximed.
Oh my. Keep looking. Wipe your drool too.
I havent drooled, but if you want me to keep looking, I will.
Wow. What
Jeong-woo chuckled at the jealousy of a celebrity with looks that could easily overshadow ordinary beauties.
But seriously, Yi-seol, why are you not wearing your hat?
Why? Is it bothering you to look at them?
No.
Some cameras from various broadcasting stations focused on the area to capture the attention of the Miss University participants, and a foreign cameraman, in particr, turned his amazed face toward them after spotting Yi-seol.
Jeong-woo, lifting the hat ced it over her head and said.
We cant turn such a wholesome event into a celebrity fan signing event.
Yi-seol, agreeing with these words, lowered her head.
-Please sit down.
The host announced through the microphone.
30 minutester.
Yoon Yi-seol watched the Environmental Forum with pursed lips.
She couldnt even fully unt her carefully done makeup to Jeong-woo. Moreover, a dozen intelligent-looking college students had gathered in front of her. Would there be another moment when she felt this overwhelmed by her poprity?
In a-zero emissions regime, the reduction performance corresponding to greenhouse gas reduction is achieved through projects in which developed countries support developing countries
Yawning softly and covering her mouth, she turned to look at Jeong-woo. He seemed to understand andprehend everything being discussed during the debates taking ce on the stage.
Most of the people in this room seemed to be taking notes and listening to the conversations, even if they were not entirely familiar with the subject matter.
Did Ie here for nothing? Yi-seol thought to herself as she shook her head. After all, she was a promotional ambassador for the rted organization. It wasnt just about being pretty; her intellectual side alsoplemented Jeong Woo well.
Yi-seol clenched her lips and made a firm promise to herself not to yawn again. She focused her gaze on the stage.
After enduring for 30 more minutes, signals finally came from elsewhere.
Yi-seol, who had been blinking her eyes and shaking her head in an attempt to stay awake, suddenly snapped to attention when Jeong-woo nudged her.
Yi-seol, this wont do!
It was the perfect timing for her to be ovee by sleepiness, having visited the shop early in the morning.
Just lean on me.
What?
Jeong-woo nudged Yi-seols head moving her toward his arm.
No one is looking, and all the cameras are pointed straight ahead.
But still, how can it be like this?
The professors are all arguing with each other because their way of thinking is different. There are quite a few regr people here, but theyre just throwing around technical jargon. Theyre overdoing it even with Green Crosss promotional ambassador. The manager approves.
Upon hearing Jeong-woos exnation, Yi-seol felt her uneasiness quickly disappearing. Nevertheless, she retorted in a whining tone.
Since when are you the manager?
I signed the contract. Besides, I even got a part-time wage, you know.
Touch. Not anyone can be a manager for such a big star.
After a moment of hesitation, Jeong Woo asked.
Is this big star the type who nags and gets annoyed with the manager? I havent quite figured it out yet.
No way.
Please be honest. Ill prepare myself mentally.
No, its not like that. Its not a pushing away type of situation.
Yi-seol quickly defended herself in a low voice.
The big star is very calm. Even if the manager misunderstands something, the big star just smiles and overlook it.
True. The tone of their voice is so calm; I dont sense any pretense.
Are you being sarcastic?
I just misunderstood, but your response wasnt particrly forgiving.
Quiet, Ill manage fine.
As they exchanged these remarks, sleep hadpletely escaped them. However, Yi-seol didnt move her head.
The dialogue, once tedious, now sounded like a sweet pop song, the feeling of being close, almost like lovers.
Hmm.
And so they enjoyed a happy moment together.
After a 15-minute break, well reconvene.
Jeong-woo informed Yi-seol.
The host says its break time.
Already?
Its been two hours. Arent you tired?
Yi-seol looked embarrassed and had no choice but to raise her head from Jeong-woos shoulder.
Ill go to the restroom to freshen up.
Not wanting to reveal the disappointment in her heart, she quickly got up. Still, out of consideration, she even wore a mask and left the grand room.
Are you from KG Chemical? They said your spot is here.
Jeong-woo was waiting for Yi-seol when he turned his head in response to someones call. A young Eastern man, his hair severely parted to one side, caught his eye.
Hmm?
Although Jeong-woo was struggling to remember where he had seen this mans face before, the man on the other side also made a puzzled expression and muttered to himself.
That man who was with Professor Jeremy Becker?
Oh, Venice. Youre the CEO of Dusf, right?
Sun Hui stood in front of Jeong-woo.
I expected Mei toe.
Shes not feeling well.
Are you participating in Meis clean system?
Jeong-woo got up from his seat and bowed his head.
Im Han Jeong-woo, the Assistant Team Leader.
Since he was the CEO of a rivalpany that would bepeting on Monday, Jeong-woo formally introduced himself.
Sun Hui examined Jeong-woo closely and asked.
You look young for an Assistant Team Leader. Did Mei approve of that? Whats your rtionship?
Its a good rtionship. We trust each other.
Sun Hui chuckled and said.
Go and tell Mei. The chance of KG Chemical winning this bid is zero, and the scouting conditions we proposed are valid.
I think its best to make such an important deration in person
She wont answer my calls!
With a heavy cough, Sun Hui nced at Jeong-woo once and then quickly turned away.
Jeong-woo watched Sun Hui disappear and chuckled.
Just like we know their performance, they probably know how our system works. Even if we dont know the improvements from yesterday, saying its a zero chance?
He thought he should ask Mei when he saw her.
He waited for Yi-seol for about 10 minutes, but she didnt show up. Worried, Jeong-woo decided to walk down the corridor.
If she was being held up by foreign media who had recognized her as a K-pop star with worldwide recognition, he needed to rescue her.
The womens restroom
Jeong-woo turned down the corridor, and then he abruptly stopped. At the entrance of the restroom, he saw her, surrounded by the same college girls he had seen earlier.
-Oh, Im a huge fan!
-Wow, Yoon Yi-seol is here!
-Look how pretty she is.
Nice to meet you too.
Yi-seol was taken aback by the situation when she took off her mask to wipe her face and got caught.
What are you doing here?
Can we take a picture?
If there was a type of person Yi-seol disliked the most during her broadcasting activities, it was the junior colleagues who chatted endlessly.
Being surrounded by these college girls, like a girl group TOT, she found herself in an awkward situation.
Oh my gosh, why are you at an environment forum conducted only in English? Amazing! Do you understand everything?
We didnt understand half of it because the words were too difficult.
How far did you get? Did you understand it all?
These college girls were not conducting a proper interview; they were just throwing questions at her. Whats worse, the cable television stations cameras were following her around, making it even harder to find a way to respond.
I should have known Id be in trouble when I nned a date at the conference.
While there was no ill intention, saying the wrong thing could lead to embarrassment. The pleasant mood that had just taken off was now plummeting, aligning with Manager Ji concerns.
-Yi-seol, look to your left.
In the midst of her distress, Yi-seol heard a voice near her ear. She turned her gaze and saw Jeong-woo standing on the other side of the corridor, holding a rolled-up piece of paper in his mouth.
-Dont be surprised by this voice, just nod if you can hear me.
Relieved by Jeong-woos magical whisper, Yi-seol nodded.
-Ill give aprehensive lecture to the beauty queens, would you mind delivering it for me? As a Green Cross Ambassador, first
I agree with Professor Jeremy Beckers opinion you mentioned earlier, but I think there are still many challenges to be addressed for the substantial implementation of the Paris Agreement, especially regarding EPA standard pollutants. Shouldnt we have much stronger measures?
EPA pollutants?
Yi-seol responded to a college girls question with a smile and conveyed Jeong-woos words verbatim.
Substances like carbon monoxide, lead, nitrogen oxides, ozone, and so on. Nitrogen oxides undergo continuous reactions in the atmosphere to be nitric acid. If the proportion of nitric acid in the atmosphere increases, it reduces nt growth and can trigger asthma, you know?
The college students who had studied environmental issues to participate in the Miss Universitypetition couldnt help but be amazed by the knowledge flowing from Yi-seols mouth.
How do you know so much?
Well my manager was an excellent interpreter who stayed by my side. It was a bit boring, but as a Green Cross Ambassador, I listened carefully.
Yi-seol, lets go.
Jeong-woo, who had approached them naturally, called Yi-seol and pointed to his watch.
My manager says the break time is over. Lets go inside.
After Yi-seol slightly lowered her head, they headed towards the grand room, with the college girls following them.
Chapter 88
Chapter 88- Dust Defenders(6)
The first order of business in Part 2 is a discussion on the future tasks following the agreement at the United Nations Climate Change Conference agreement.
While the forum resumed, Jeong-woo continued to nce towards the group of college girls who were whispering among themselves looking at Yoon Yi-seol.
The camera from the cable broadcasting station focused even more on Yoon Yi-seol, adding anotheryer of intensity.
Mr. Jeong-woo.
Yoon Yi-seol, taking the situation more seriously than Jeong-woo, covered her mouth with her hand and spoke softly.
I dont think we can have dinner here. Im sorry.
Im here for that dinner.
Yoon Yi-seol raised her eyebrows.
I thought you said you were here for no particr reason?
Jeong-woo instinctively pulled away as he smelled the faint scent of apples again from Yoon Yi-seol, who was leaning close to him.
My team leader sent me on my way and told me to make sure I had a good dinner.
Did she really give such an instruction?
If the party responsible for this situation were to pursue it, I have nothing to say.
Looking at Jeong-woos solemn expression, Yoon Yi-seol, although aware it was a joke, felt sorry for him.
Then Ill guide you to a nice ce. Mr. Jeong-woo, you worked hard during the break earlier.
The hard part starts now.
What?
Wondering if another incident was about to happen, Jeong-woo pointed to the podium, where Yoon Yi-seol had been earlier.
The superstar I represent had an interview praising the managers excellent interpretation skills. They might follow us when we leave, so I wont be able to assist like before. So pay attention.
Ah
For the next two hours, Yoon Yi-seol umted several years worth of general knowledge that a Green Cross promotional ambassador should possess, all while listening to Jeong-woos voice.
After arriving in front of the restaurant Hyeon, Jeong-woo turned to see Yoon Yi-seol smiling.
Isnt this the great restaurant with Chef Hyun-min?
Yoon Yi-seol took out a small handmade coated card from the tiny bag she was carrying.
Ta-da! One year free pass.
If you use that recklessly, the restaurant might go bankrupt.
I was given it to use, why is Jeong-woo so worried? Plus, its my first time using it today.
As Jeong-woo climbed the stairs and opened the door adorned with European-style interior decor, he said.
Im also investing in one menu here. No freebies for guests.
Right. Did you teach Chef Hyun-min the seasoning recipe?
To be precise, I sold it at a reasonable price.
Wow.
When Jeong-woo gestured for Yoon Yi-seol to enter first towards the open door, Yoon Yi-seol, nodding appreciatively, stood inside.
Wee.
The employee, recognizing Yoon Yi-seol because she was only wearing a hat, widened their eyes. Yoon Yi-seol smiled with a yful grin and raised her hand.
Well just have a quiet meal and leave.
A pleasantly lit private room on the second floor, with a cozy atmosphere in every nook.
Two tes with soup were brought to the table. Yoon Yi-seol admired the fragrant and savory aroma of the cream and looked at Jeong-woo.
It looks delicious. Since the chef is from a hotel background, its like hotel cuisine, right?
Yes.
Why do you say that in a dry manner? I keep feeling sorry because we had to leave the hotel like that.
Unable to say that her constantly worried eyes were so cute, Jeong-woo filled the moment with a briefugh.
Just before taking a sip of the soup, Yoon Yi-seol, reminiscent of her time at the hotel,ined.
Those beautifuldies Oh, Jeong-woo keeps saying that, and now I am too. Those college girls are the same. Why do they keep asking me about things they dont understand? I sweated a lot on the way out.
You did well. It was worth it to interpret.
Really? The way to score well in a crushs ss is just to listen.
As Yoon Yi-seol casually attacked his heart at this moment, she soon began to focus on eating the soup.
Jeong-woo, after ncing at her once, recalled the issue he had been thinking about since leaving home today.
Since we are like this, suggesting to get a thorough examination from Dr. Moon would be the right thing to do.
No matter how well she appeared on the surface, in the molecr world, the slightest chemical reaction could turn her world upside down.
Lets bring it up after eating.
Luckily, it wasnt toote to skip dinner.
After finishing the meal and trying to settle the bill, Hyun-min, who had been at the counter, raised his hand.
How are you going to pay? One person is the signature seasoning developer, and the other has a one-year free pass.
Still
Okay, okay. If we keep doing this, Ill get mad. By the way, Mr. Jeong-woo, Ms. Yoon Yi-seol a date?
Huh, does it look like that?
Jeong-woo turned his head to Yoon Yi-seol, who was already outside the restaurant. She had firmly worn her hat, and her mask was securely in ce.
With a smile on his lips, Hyun-min said.
Ive encountered many celebrities during broadcasting activities, but Ive never seen someone exuding such an intimate atmosphere with their manager.
Please just ignore that. Its not a date; its just that Yi-seol is releasing a new song soon, and shes a bit under the weather. Im helping her out.
Yes, if anyone asks, thats how Ill respond. Also, about 300m down from here, theres a nice walking path. Few people, perfect for a stroll holding hands.
As Jeong-woo left, Hyun-min shook his hand, providing tips on the dating course.
Ding.
The restaurants door opened, and Yoon Yi-seol approached Jeong-woo as if she had been waiting for him toe out.
The person who will give acting lessons to Mr. Jeong-woo is on the way.
Was that statement true?
Oh, here theye.
Pointing down the street with her finger, Jeong-woos gaze followed.
Yoon Yi-seol, who had been looking at Jeong-woo with sparkling eyes, swiftly removed her mask and, in a slightly lowered voice, said.
Nice to meet you, Han Jeong-woo. Im Yoon Yi-seol, a singer with two years of experience in music video acting.
Seeing her extend her hand as if shaking hands, Jeong-woo chuckled.
I had a feeling that would happen.
As Jeong-woo descended the stairs, Yoon Yi-seol followed.
How tailored is this education? We have to act as lovers, and theres someone right next to you whos already in that attitude for real.
As for acting lessons, I understand, but whats the purpose of the checklist?
Its nothing special. Chatting all night with someone you like. But doesnt it feel destined somehow? Our situation today, the weather, the atmosphere.
Only now did Jeong-woo urately understand the purpose of Yoon Yi-seols text yesterday.
Make sure to wear your mask properly. Its a day with a lot of fine dust.
Answer me first. Ill be with you until morning, I mean, talking until morning.
Yoon Yi-seol firmly held Jeong-woos arm.
Jeong-woo, looking at Yoon Yi-seol, let his gaze linger on the wrist she had grabbed. Despite her bold words, why were her hands trembling like this?
Determined not to cause her any more harm, Jeong-woo fixed his gaze ahead.
Lets walk for now. Itll help with digestion.
Jeong-woo turned onto the walking path that Hyun-min had told him.
Spring had just begun, but the cherry blossom trees were in full bloom, adorned with buds. Tree branches, budding with new leaves, swayed like a dance in the spring breeze.
As they walked, Yoon Yi-seol looked around, and a happy smile appeared on her face.
It would be really nice toe here when the cherry blossoms are in full bloom.
Isnt it too cold?
What? You can even take off your outerwear
Jeong-woo was already draping his suit jacket over Yoon Yi-seols shoulders. Yoon Yi-seol looked at Jeong-woo sharply and asked.
What does this mean? Youll confuse me.
I have something to tell you.
Yoon Yi-seol abruptly stopped walking.
I dont like it. Whatever it is. You said there are ten months left.
Yes?
Youre treating me well now, and then youre going to seriously reject me. I can feel the atmosphere.
Jeong-woo let out a wry smile at her words.
Its not like that, so dont misunderstand. I mentioned a showcase, right? If you catch a cold, itll be a big problem.
Im not
Yoon Yi-seol sighed heavily. Jeong-woo talked with a serious expression.
Im actually taking an unconventional medication. Im revealing it because I believe you wont tell anyone.
Jeong-woo, did you reject my confession because youre terminally ill?
Seeing Yoon Yi-seol, whose eyes seemed on the verge of tears, Jeong-woo chuckled.
Dont misunderstand unnecessarily, and listen to the end. While Im taking this medication, it contains unverifiedponents for ordinary people. Meanwhile, on that beach, you and I Well
We kissed?
Jeong-woos face became surprisingly brighter in the face of Yoon Yi-seols confident demeanor.
Yes, that incident. Im worried that it might have a negative impact on you. So, do anything you want today, and lets get a check-up.
Yoon Yi-seol looked up at Jeong-woo with this statement.
I dont understand.
Its possible. The substance from the medicine stays in my body, so
No, Mr. Jeong-woo.
Yes?
We didnt deeply kiss, just touched. Youre thinking there was some intense exchange. Its unfair for me.
In that moment, I was so disoriented due to the medication.
Someone in their right mind wouldnt ruin their first kiss like that!
First kiss?
Yoon Yi-seol, who had been listening, took a step toward Jeong-woo.
Turn around. If you do, Ill get a check-up.
Turn around Whats the point
Yoon Yi-seol swiftly took off her mask and pointed to her lips.
If you do something that warrants getting a check-up, Ill go.
Jeong-woo, surprised by the sudden gesture, hesitated.
I exined, there could be problems. This is sincere.
Sincere? Who said it wasnt? Im always sincere with you!
Despite pouring out her heart countless times today, Yoon Yi-seol, who built a wall and showed no response, looked at Jeong-woo tearfully.
Just Cant you fall for me?
-Ive fallen for you.
The poignant melody of In a dream that he had heard before yed in Jeong-woos ears like an echo.
Yoon Yi-seols long eyshes fluttered in the wind. They were close enough for Jeong-woo to smell the strong scent of apples that clung to her.
Perhaps thats why.
He felt as if his mind had be paralyzed.
In Venice, he should have felt insignificance every moment they were together, but now, she wouldnt even give me a moment to get there.
Instead of stabilizing his center of gravity, he was shaking so much that he was getting confused.
Even though he knew he shouldnt, Jeong-woo reached for Yoon Yi-seols chin and pulled her towards him.
Yoon Yi-seols shoulders flinched, but she didnt push him away. Her eyes, full of moisture, gently closed.
The moist lips delivered a vivid sensation. It wasnt so confusing as theyrest kiss.
As his body lost tension and he seemed to copse, Jeong-woo tightly embraced her around the neck.
Jeong-woos lips touched hers onest time and then parted.
Yoon Yi-seol, who had been breathing heavily, looked up at Jeong-woo and said.
What does this mean?
It means that I was greatly shaken.
Finally, his feelings were revealed. Yoon Yi-seol looked at Jeong-woo with relief.
Ah, we still have ten months
Due to the sudden kiss, or perhaps because her head was spinning, Yoon Yi-seol felt an irresistible drowsiness, and her eyes closed on their own.
why am I doing this
Yi-seol?
Jeong-woo, who had taken his hand off Yoon Yi-seols shoulder, was surprised and supported her when she seemed to be about to fall.
Yi-seol!
Jeong-woos expression changed as he shook Yoon Yi-seols limp body. Although her breathing was maintained, she showed no response, as if she had fainted.
Holding Yoon Yi-seol in his arms, Jeong-woo rushed out to the side of the road where taxis passed.
Taxi!
Emergency room at AN Hospital.
Jeong-woo watched Yoon Yi-seol on the bed with a face full of worry. Inside the curtained partition, Dr. Moon, wearing a white gown, was examining her with a stethoscope.
Dr. Moon nced at Jeong-woo and spoke calmly.
Her vitals are normal, so dont make a face like a guardian of a seriously injured patient. If the ER duty doctores, Ill be in trouble too.
Then, is Yi-seol okay?
Shes not okay. Shes showing symptoms of an unusual sleep disorder. If youre that worried, you shouldnt have kissed her again.
Well, at the prime of my life
Dr. Moon lifted Yoon Yi-seols eyelids and checked her pupil response with a penlight, then continued.
Her symptoms are identical to those of a normal person who participated in the AF-12 clinical trial. If the dosage adjustment fails, they can suddenly fall into such a deep sleep.
Upon hearing this, Jeong-woo recalled the day he had visited the hospital for the clinical trial.
Other participants sleeping like corpses. The moment he alone was awake.
Dr. Moon, who had taken his hands off Yoon Yi-seol, looked at Jeong-woo.
Thanks to you trying to solve it on your own, weve identified one of Jeong-woos problems.
What
Dr. Moon pointed at Yoon Yi-seol.
Creating a sleeping princess with just one kiss.
Dr. Moon, looking at the bewildered Jeong-woo and revealed the diagnosis.
Theres a high possibility that AF-12 is included in Jeong-woos saliva. Since its bing an official concern, please stop creating a sleeping princess until we find a solution. However, concerns about other side effects have significantly decreased, so takefort in that.
Is there a way to find a solution?
We need to perform a precise analysis of the modified genes inside Jeong-woo.
Ill help as much as I can.
Watching Yoon Yi-seol, deeply asleep and oblivious to the world, Jeong-woo asked.
When will she wake up?
Well, I dont know. About 5 hours? 10 hours? Ive never seen a biological delivery method like this before.
Upon hearing Dr. Moons words, Jeong-woo felt like he was looking at a distant mountain.
Move her to a private room instead of the emergency room. Theres a ce assigned for KG Chemicals clinical trial participants.
A littleter.
Jeong-woo carefullyid Yoon Yi-seol down in a quiet private hospital room, adjusted the pillow behind her neck, and stepped back.
Sigh.
He let out a deep sigh at this unbelievable situation.
-Cant you fall for me?
The problem was that his self-control had disappeared with just one sentence from her.
Now Im officially incapable of dating.
While contemting the excuses he would need when Yoon Yi-seol woke up, Jeong-woo found himself smiling at the girl who was dreaming with a youthful smile.
Whether she was a sleeping princess or whatever, lying there like that was cheating.
All the confusion he had experienced just moments ago melted away in an instant, and he couldnt help but smile along with her.
Umm~
Yoon Yi-seol, stretching herself, woke up from her sleep, blinked, and her gaze lingered on the white ceiling.
It felt like she had slept deeply without any thoughts and had just woken up. However, simultaneously, a strange feeling that she shouldnt have done that crept in.
Hmm?
It took Yoon Yi-seol about 5 seconds to roughly grasp the situation, and she sat up abruptly. Scenes of kissing Jeong-woo shed in her memory, but she couldnt recall what happened afterward.
What is this ce?
Judging from the atmosphere, it seemed to be a hospital.
Yoon Yi-seol, who was a bit disoriented, fixed her gaze on the person who entered as the door opened.
Jeong-woo!
Are you awake? Oh, thank goodness.
Jeong-woo, who approached with cautious steps, surveyed Yoon Yi-seols condition.
Are you ufortable anywhere?
Im okay, but why am I here?
Asking about the situation, Yoon Yi-seol looked around the hospital room.
Jeong-woo, feeling apologetic for the circumstances, quickly exined.
Its because of the medicine I take. It seems that this problem of falling into deep sleep urs because of it. But more importantly
Jeong-woo extended his phone, which was still ringing energetically.
It kept ringing, so I picked it up earlier. Its from the manager; hes near the hospital. You said he should pick you up at 7, but its 8 now. I think he might be a bit confused. Please tell him there was absolutely no misunderstanding.
8 oclock? Oh, in the morning?
Yes.
Yoon Yi-seol nced out the window. It was bright. Very bright.
You should have woken me up.
Its not such a simple solution. Im still looking into it. If you ever feel something strange with your body, please let me know anytime.
Anytime?
Jeong-woo nodded.
Although Yoon Yi-seol didnt like that the reality had washed away all the ns fromst night, Jeong-woos expression, indicating that he would fulfill any request, appealed to her.
Suddenly.
The back door of the parked van opened, and Yoon Yi-seol, wearing a hat and mask, casually took a seat.
Manager Ji turned to her and asked.
Im not sure how surprised should I be that youre in the hospital. What did you two do all night?
We slept.
What!
Yoon Yi-seol, who had been looking out the window, turned her head sharply to the surprised Manager Ji.
Just slept, I said. Just slept! I couldnt even do the checklist, slept a full 10 hours! I slept so deeply that I cant even yawn now.
Huh?
Manager Ji, whose eyes seemed to pop out, became puzzled at this statement.
Yi-seol, you had insomnia, and 4 hours was the limit. Was going to the hospital to treat that? Wow, what a manager. Amazing, really. How did that happen?
I dont want to talk about it.
As the van started moving, Yoon Yi-seol lightly touched her lips with her fingertips. The memories that should have been vivid felt hazy, as if lost in a dream due to the sudden loss of consciousness.
The n was well-executed, though.
A sigh escaped her lips at the result, which wasnt a sessful confession or an advancement in their rtionship. Still, knowing that the rejection of her confession was due to the medicine brought some relief.
However, it was disappointing not to have clear memories of the kiss.
No. In a positive light, its like having the first kiss every day.
The one supposed to offer it might not even be aware, but Yoon Yi-seolughed softly.
Manager Ji, watching Yoon Yi-seol through the rearview mirror, shook his head. He frowned, then smiled. Wondering if he should get used to his celebritys mood swings.
Chapter 89
Chapter 89- Dust Defenders(7)
On Monday morning, Jeong-woo left his house since dawn for a business trip to China. As the first meeting point was the airport, he boarded the subway line heading to the airport railway and checked the weather report for Beijing.
[It is expected that fine dust levels in Beijing will reach their maximum this month. Anticipating levels close to the recorded 500/ during therge-scale fireworks event for the Spring Festival, the Beijing authorities are urging caution for going outside ]
I need to be well-prepared, dont I?
Based on information received from the equipment team, who left early yesterday for equipment setup, it was anticipated that the values would be much lower than usual due to holes in various makeshift buildings where the tests would be conducted.
Considering Meis condition, making it difficult for her to go outside, the probability of a challenging business trip was high.
Ding!
A message arrived, and Jeong-woo quickly checked. It was from Song Boyeong.
[I just finished working on the polymer. Jun Chai hasnt anwsered me. Someone needs to take this.]
Since Jeong-woo had not yet boarded the airport railway, he promptly replied.
[Okay, Ill stop by and pick it up.]
To win in thepetition, especially against Dusf, every little effort counts.
Jeong-woo opened the door to the research building of the Basic Materials Center and was taken aback when he saw Song Boyeong lying motionless on theb table like a corpse.
He approached and gently shook her shoulder.
Hey, senior. Are you alive?
Uh
Jeong-woo, releasing his hand as only the tied-back hair swayed, spoke.
Dont get up, just tell me what I need to take.
Song Boyeong, who seemed unable to open her eyes properly after working through the night, struggled to point to apound box in the corner with her left hand, adorned with protective gloves. Then, she sprawled out on the table.
So, you forced yourself until I arrived.
Jeong-woo noticed a nket near the equipment storage and brought it over, hoping Song Boyeong could get some rest before the morning brief. He covered her with the nket.
If youre going to suffer like this, at least ask for help.
I cant, because while I appreciate your help, Im secretly jealous that youre the only one who gets to stand out.
Huh? You didnt fell asleep again?
I need some time to pass out once I wake up.
Song Boyeong, with her head slightly raised, looked at Jeong-woo with unfocused eyes. Jeong-woo couldnt help but burst intoughter when he met her frog-like eyes after a long time.
It seems like its still there if you look closely.
What are you talking about?
Its the double eyelids. Just try dieting a bit to reduce those swollen eyes.
Two nights with swollen eyes now Ugh, what are you saying? Making fun of someone who stayed up all night?
In the midst of Song Boyeongs protest, she tried to open her eyes but failed, resulting in a face full of drowsiness.
Rubbing her head, Jeong-woo restrained hisughter, feeling a warmth that made him want to pat her gently.
Let me know if you see results after applying it to the sensor. Senior Seung-ju keeps asking what youre up to these days.
I will.
Jeong-woo lifted thepound box. It appeared more substantial than expected, with no signs of the refinement process.
You did well, senior.
Do well ande back.
As Jeong-woo left, Song Boyeong copsed while waving her hand. It seemed the time for her to faint had finally arrived. Jeong-woo chuckled and exited.
Descending to the lobby, Jeong-woo checked the shortest time to the airport using his phone.
The airport bus is at 6. Lets take that.
Arriving at the bus stop, Jeong-woo attempted to breathe in the dawn air but refrained, realizing the air was still dusty. Perhaps due to the spring drought, the fine dust levels in Seoul were quite high.
Go away.
Waving his hand, Jeong-woo tried to move the dust particles, but only some were diluted. The rest quickly returned along with the atmospheric cirction.
Its already ufortable to wear a mask.
Jeong-woo looked around. Confirming that no one was nearby, he took out a portable battery. He gathered the dust particles onto the battery.
Beyond the ionization level apanied by the energy of the batterys reactive energy, high-density free electrons, surpassing the electrostatic level, started a thunderstorm in the molecr world.
Dust particles with lightning were created one after another when exposed to the atmosphere. When scattering this, the fine dust particles, which had shown a lukewarm reaction earlier, adhered to the lightning particles and stuck all over the pirs at the bus stop.
Jeong-woo took a deep breath, satisfied with the clear air.
Good job. Well done.
The lightning particles, having fulfilled their role, sparked and disappeared.
The dust particle, tangled with neutral particles and ions, was a kind of sma. Since detecting wavelengths through AF-5, the utilization of dust particles through the energy in the battery continued to increase.
Building a clean system using ionization with a chemical energy of only 5000mAh, like today, was one of them.
I somewhat agree with Dr. Cheons words.
In the midst of researching indoor air purification systems, Jeong-woo couldnt help but feel that he possessed an extraordinary power.
Already transcending chemicalmon sense, he was working with people bound by thatmon sense.
Once immersed in this power, he could spend time alone in theb without realizing how much time passed.
Putting the battery back into his pocket, Jeong-woo took another deep breath of fresh air.
But this is not my style.
He didnt want to dwell on how to use this magical chemistry in a grandiose way.
The special deodorant that Michle obtained, the cookingbination that Hyun-min acquired, and the snow removal agent created on a day of heavy snowfall. Since the mysterious reactions of the molecr world were solved ording to existingmon sense, it was a coincidental result that emerged while trying to solve it.
Screech.
A sedan passing by the bus stop came to a halt in front of Jeong-woo. Since there was no one else around, Jeong-woo wondered if it was someone he knew and turned his gaze towards the car.
The window opened, and a short-haired woman directed her gaze at Jeong-woo.
Mr. Han.
Team Leader Yu?
Get in. Put thatpound box in the back.
Jeong-woo loaded thepound box into the trunk and sat in the front passenger seat. Mei started driving towards Incheon International Airport.
Were you at thepany?
I had some things to check with the equipment team, I also had some luggage to take.
Why dont you call for a pick-up?
Mei looked at Jeong-woowith a gaze that seemed to say, Is this all? and then shifted her focus to driving.
Having already seen the boxes loaded in the trunk, Jeong-woo bit his tongue.
The project manager who silently did her best behind the scenes. She must have been doing that all along, but it became known after the incident on Friday.
Jeong-woo recalled the memorable words he heard along with Noh Jong-seons reproach.
They act as if there are no borders in research
The car had already entered the Incheon International Airport Expressway.
By the way, Team Leader Yu, I met the CEO of Dusf at the environmental forum.
You must have heard unpleasant things.
I also know someone who boldly made a scouting proposal. But more than that, they seemed extremely confident. There seemed to be a reason they would never lose.
Thats
Meis expression suggested she knew the reason. However, she didnt exin it in detail.
As long as you do your best, there shouldnt be a problem.
Those words were the reply instead. Jeong-woo felt like she was telling a story to boost her own morale.
-Ladies and gentlemen, our ne will bending shortly. Please return your seats to an upright position and put your tables.
Jeong-woo listened to the in-flight announcement and fastened his seatbelt. The air quality over Beijing, visible through the window, seemed more severe than he had anticipated.
I saw something like this in a end-of-the-world movie.
The thickyer of smog covering the sky, diffusing the sunlight dimly, created an eerie scene. Ha Won-il, sitting beside him, was also surprised by the sight.
I didnt expect it to be this bad. Jeong-woo, did you bring a mask?
Yes, my mother insisted and gave me one.
Jeong-woo remembered the mask tucked in his bag as he sighed.
The ne touched down on the runway.
About 20 members of the Dust Project team boarded the esctor. Jeong-woo, who had been to a foreign country before, smoothly followed the signs andpleted the immigration inspection.
Jiaolin Street, Fengtai District, Beijing.
A bus entered beyond the patternless gray wall and came to a stop in the parking area.
The destination of the group was the China Filter Testing Institute, marked with the emblem of the international cooperation organization ILAC.
Jeong-woo, stepping off the bus, surveyed thendscape of the ce where the biddingpetition would take ce.
Except for the three-story school-like building extending in a straight line in the center, temporary structures with gas tanks and venttion facilities were scattered throughout the open space.
While unloading the luggage brought from the bus, Sindu-jin, the deputy from the equipment team who hade early yesterday, hurriedly approached.
Team Leader Yu!
Wearing a particte mask, Mei turned her gaze to Deputy Shin.
I mentioned yesterday that in addition to the issue with gaps in the building, the current power instability is preventing the damper from working smoothly.
Though Jeong-woo was ayman when it came to machines, after studying the system for a few days, he knew what an adjustable damper was.
It was a keyponent of the automated purification system that finely adjusted the inflow and outflow of air.
The weather is uncertain, and now this.
The news of the power issues, heard immediately upon arrival, cast a heavy mood on those moving the luggage. After scrutinizing her team members, Mei spoke to Deputy Shin.
Limit the fan to the maximum speed, stabilize the power. Given the scale of the test site, the airflow from the fans we brought is sufficient even at low speeds.
In response to this answer, Kim Tae-san asked.
To effectively alleviate secondary pollutants infiltrating through gaps within the limited time, dont we need strong wind from the fan?
Try solving that with the worlds best filter developed by KG Chemicals researchers.
At the words worlds best, Kim Tae-sans shoulders involuntarily lifted in response.
It is the best. Team Leader Yu has a discerning eye. Haha.
Jeong-woo couldnt help but feel that Meis casualpliment surprisingly had an addictive quality.
Turning to the people around her, Mei raised her voice.
Theres a saying that crisis is an opportunity. Lets show how we ovee these disadvantages to ourpetitors and the bidding officials.
Thanks to theposed team leader, the agitation among the team members subsided. Jeong-woo couldnt deny it.
Having experienced difficulties firsthand, albeit only once as a team leader, Jeong-woo knew the power of a positive attitude, especially demonstrated by the first team member, Cho Seong-hwan.
Lets go!
With a spirited shout, Jeong-woo, holding the box containing Meis acknowledged worlds best filter, took confident strides toward the test site.
Is this the ce?
At the entrance of this assembly of four square buildings reminiscent of massive refrigerators, English signs reading Sealed Control Zone were prominently disyed.
Given that this building is where hazardous gases are injected, the universally recognized Skull and Crossbones symbol was also visible.
Oh, look at how old this is.
Leak prevention tape clung to the part whererge and small venttion ducts were densely connected, covered in ayer of dust.
Jeong-woo, it seems even the renowned German filter manufacturer cant avoid this issue.
Upon Ha Won-ils finger-pointing, Jeong-woos gaze turned in that direction.
Burkes equipment team was urgently reinforcing the venttor with holes covered in duct tape. A string of German curses brushed Jeong-woos ears.
Next to them, Sumimoto Chemicals equipment team was applying silicone to the holes. Even before the start, mental fatigue seemed to affect not only their team but otherpanies as well.
Huh?
Surprisingly, the third building where the Dusf team was working looked clean.
Whats that?
Jeong-woo, dont be surprised.
Following behind, Kim Tae-san, with an expression that suggested he expected this, spoke.
Weve been frequenting domestic filter testing institutes so we roughly know which venttion ducts have good airflow. Here is Dusfs home ground, and we can easily figure out the facility level of this testing institute. They probably reced it in advance under the guise of sponsorship.
Then the difference is too noticeable.
Think of it as an away game.
Thats probably why Sun Hui was so self-assured.
Looking at thest building, Jeong-woo couldnt help but feel emotional as he watched the KG equipment team sweating profusely, soldering the seams with sheet metal in the gaps.
Our building looked the most run-down.
11:00 AM.
After the equipment teampleted the basic maintenance, researchers from the fourpanies entered their respective areas to start the actual system configuration.
Ha Won-il, who was working on installing the half-curtain filters near the central venttion system, looked at Jeong-woo with a worried expression.
While everyone is working, Dusfs team already scored big by shing their bid price.
Team Leader Yu is well aware of that.
Still, Im uneasy. Will todays evaluation be conducted fairly?
I dont know either.
Jeong-woo recalled the information about thepany that submitted the bid.
Jinma Group.
A massive distributionpany with six buildings only in Beijing city. Among them, Jinma Department Store was rumored to be a famous shopping mall even on Wangfujing Street.
He hoped for an evaluation that considered everything rather than just opting for the lowest bid.
Mister Han.
During the final stages of installing the half-curtain filters, Jun Chai, a researcher from the sensor team, approached Jeong-woo.
Where is the custom polymer Song Boyeong told me about?
Oh, thats in the gap of thepound box.
Jeong-woos gaze turned to the stack of boxes, which were quite messy due to the ongoing work.
Now that the work is done, Ill fetch it for you.
As Jeong-woo was looking for the box Song Boyeong had handed him from the piled-up luggage near the entrance, people dressed in suits entered the building in a rush.
Huh?
The middle-aged man in the lead had an expression that was far from benevolent. He nced at Jeong-woo and asked coldly.
Wheres the team leader?
It was clear from his tone that he was an official of the Jinma Group. Jeong-woo quickly turned his head to look for Mei. She was adjusting the sensors on the side of the vent.
Team leader Yu!
Mei, who turned her head, quickly approached. She politely bowed as she took off her mask.
Representative Lungyun, wee.
Hmm, they said the person in charge of the Koreanpany is Chinese, and it seems true.
Representative Lungyun exuded an atmosphere of a Jinma Group representative as he extended his hand to receive the bid documents submitted by KG Chemical.
If you look here, it says that among the participatingpanies, your sensors are the best, and the filters are one step higher in performance. Is the performance not overstated?
Examining the documents, he questioned Mei as if scrutinizing.
Ive stated only the facts. One additional thing is that we are the onlypany among thepetitors that possesses a patent for the interaction between the sensor and filter, the intelligent air purification system.
Why would apany with such a patente from Korea?
I wanted to build the best air purification system, regardless of nationality orpany affiliation.
Lungyun, after briefly scanning Mei from top to bottom, began to explore the interior of the building. Mei followed him closely.
It was a pre-inspection.
Jeong-woo realized as he picked up thepound box given by Song Boyeong. Moving towards where Jun Chai was waiting, he asked.
Is the sensor team okay?
Looking up from hisptop, Jun Chai turned his gaze.
The performance is simr to the measurements in theboratory.
Is that so? If the custom polymer works well, we can significantly reduce errors.
Jun Chai smiled and nodded. As the only hopeful expectation today, Jeong-woo, too, put down the box with anticipation.
Ill help with the work too.
With a ck, he unlocked thetch.
Lets quickly apply it and do a temporary test
Opening the lid and ncing at the contents inside, Jeong-woo froze before finishing his sentence.
Inside the box was a special item made of super-absorbent polymer, an essential item for women that unravels monthly.
Why is this here
Research Center for Basic Materials Polymer Project Laboratory.
As soon as the morning work was finished, Song Boyeong rushed to Moon Hyojeong, her senior. And in a low voice, she asked.
How was it?
Oh, that? It was quite good. Anything left? Lets use it next month too.
Of course. Can you check the things on this list and use them? The samples are too small.
Moon Hyojeong chuckled.
Youre working hard too.
Hehe, Ill bring the samples quickly. Ive ordered a lot again.
Walking around theb, Song Boyeong headed towards a familiar-looking box in the corner.
Boyeong.
She stopped at the distant call of Oh Seung-ju.
Whats in that box? Did someone experiment withpounds over the weekend?
Nervously, Song Boyeong swallowed and replied.
Yes. Everyone uses it, but they dont clean up. Ill take care of it, the youngest. Ill clean it up!
Naturally lifting the box and walking out, Song Boyeong left. Behind her, Oh Seung-ju quietly raised his hand.
Stop.
Me? Is something wrong?
Youve been acting strangetely. Doingbination experiments on your own without reporting. Isnt that right?
N-No, its not like that.
After hanging with Jeong-woo have you lost your sense? Do one thing at a time. Your style is different from Jeong-woos.
Flustered, Song Boyeongs cheeks blushed even more. Naturally, Oh Seung-jus suspicion grew.
Let me see.
What?
The thing youre hugging tightly.
At this remark, Song Boyeongs expression turned to one of defeat as she turned away.
Its still in the early stages of development. Since its not a project under research for this purpose, the current useless act is enough to get scolded.
Its over.
With a disappointed expression, Song Boyeong ced the box on the table.
nk, she opened the lid. She lowered her head deeply in preparation for the scolding that her senior would surely give her.
What is this? Why did you crystallize the polymer like this? If youre going to do abination experiment like this, report it to me. Have you seen me ignoring new perspectives?
What are you huh?
As Song Boyeong looked into the box, her eyes widened.
This shouldnt be here.
Song Boyeong gasped, and her breath caught. The box had been turned upside down. Because of that, although the fact that she was secretly developing sanitary napkins with polymerponents hadnt been revealed, Jeong-woos side
Its overrrrr!
After Oh Seung-ju left, she quickly dialed Jeong-woos number on her phone, but the call didnt connect. It seemed like he hadnt activated roaming for the short overseas business trip.
Chapter 90
Chapter 90- Dust Defenders(8)
This is.
Jeong-woo let out a bitterugh at the realization that he had brought the wrong box. While it was Song Boyeongs mistake, it was also his own mistake for not checking properly before bringing it out.
I got enchanted by those bewitching frog-like eyes.
As Lungyun and the bidding officials approached the sensor area, Jeong-woo hastily closed the box and reassured Jun Chai with a smile.
Ahaha, it was a different box, not this one. Ill get it right away.
Why is that diaper-like thing there?
Jun Chai couldnt understand why there was a box from KG Chemicals containing womens essentials in the luggage he brought.
Ahaha, yeah. Why is this here?
Muttering, Jeong-woo quickly walked outside with the box. A hurdle like this was unexpected for the sensor teams smoothly progressing work.
Arriving at the back of the deserted building, Jeong-woo piled the contents on the floor and began contemting how to resolve the situation.
Stay calm. Theres always a solution.
Taking a sanitary napkin in his hand, he gently tore it open and nced at thepound inside. As expected, there was a tailored absorbent polymer inserted to attract specific molecrponents.
See. We have enough materials. The problem is that Senior Boyeong took two days for this task, and I have to do it in 10 minutes.
Taking out a battery from his pocket, Jeong-woo began the task of probing the molecr world using dust particles, lightning particles, and infrared wavelengths.
An extraordinary task carried out under the guise of chemistry.
As the debris of what used to be a sanitary napkin increased on one side, the amount of tailored polymer crystal formations in the box also increased.
10 minutester.
Jeong-woo shook his hands and stood up from his seat.
Lets put the rest in for now.
Putting two sanitary napkins in his pocket and incinerating the debris to make it unrecognizable.
A neat solution. It was a perfect chemistry that was literally the equivalent of a perfect crime.
Looking around, as he stepped outside, he saw Jun Chai standing behind Dusfs building. It caught Jeong-woo off guard since Sun Hui, the representative of the rivalpany, was with him.
The two were in a serious conversation. Curious, Jeong-woo brought sound waves to eavesdrop.
-Even if you insist a hundred times, I wont go to Dusf.
-Maybe shes stubborn because she cant fix that personality. Jun Chai, why are you wasting your skills under her? Did you change your mind since you lived as half American? Do you like Mei by any chance?
Jun Chai bit his lip, hesitated, and then replied.
-Thats not something you should concern yourself with.
-Its simple. I will have to concern myself with it now. If todays bid fails, your project is over, isnt it?
-Over?
-Its clear what Mei is aiming for. She wants to qualify for various government announcements in Beijing by winning this bid. Especially to present it as a gift to the school she graduated from. If Dusf takes that, will Meie? Its not a lucrative business, but if its to get Mei, its worth a try. Well, cant you do the math?
Upon hearing this, Jeong-woo recalled what Noh Jong-seon had said.
Providing the best clean system to students living with respiratory diseases in the area of the thermal power nt. That was the driving force behind her persistence in this research.
-I believe our system is superior to Dusf.
-Youll have to reevaluate that, but still, you guys will lose.
-President Lungyun seemed fair.
-Well, of course. Hes in the position of managing under contract. Mei didnt tell you who I called today. I clearly mentioned it in the email.
-What?
-Chairman Wang, the head of Jinma Group, will also be at the presentation venue. Hes very favorable to us. When Lungyun selects apany, whose opinion do you think he values the most? The grading sheet of the filter test? No, its Chairman Wangs.
Finally, Jeong-woo understood the meaning behind Meis expression that he had witnessed before leaving the country.
She knew the chances of victory were slim. If Dusf monopolized the public facility market, it also understood the crossroads she might face in choosing.
What should I do In a fight where results are determined by connections, theres nothing I can do.
With a deep sigh, Jeong-woo carried the box and entered the testing building of KG Chemicals.
At 1:00 PM, the test of Burke in Germany began.
Seated in the central control room, about a hundred participants watched the test process with tension for their own reasons.
Initializating step 1.
Michael Grunt, Burkes Asian representative,manded the activation of the air purification system in response to the voice of the filter test tube.
As the danger level spiked on the monitors connected to sensors, the red warning lights flickered.
From the building on the far right visible through the control room window, a buzzing sound of fans rotating reached their ears.
While the danger level gradually decreased, the timer on the screen continued ticking.
Finally, when it pointed to 23 seconds, the green light indicating safety lit up. In that moment of purified air, it was drawn through a special passage to the corner where the filter test tube was rotated to the precision analyzer.
As the results were recorded, Ha Won-il, sitting next to Jeong-woo, asked.
The purification speed seems slower than ours, right?
Jeong-woo nodded since they had recorded 10 seconds in a simr experiment.
[Step 1: Clean Grade 5] [Purity 99.73%]
[Purification Speed: 23s] [Sensor uracy 80.67%5.3]
On therge monitor on the wall, the results brought a relieved expression to Michael and Burke employees. The atmosphere suggested they had expected this level.
Initializating step 2.
Air with more pollutants was injected into Burkes testing facility.
The red light turned on, and a few secondster, Burkes sensors detected it and began self-purification.
The time until the green light lit up for Step 2 was about 50 seconds. After purifying the air, the filter test tube continued the precise analysis.
This process repeated five times in stages beforeing to an end.
After about 30 minutes, Michael and Burke researchers waited for the final results.
[Step 5: Clean Failed] [Purity 67.03%]
[Purification Speed: 4m 40s] [Sensor uracy 78.3%6.3]
Thest step, assuming a release of toxic gas, resulted in an expected failure in cleanliness. Here, purity and sensor uracy were only reference points.
The filter is certainly good.
Kim Tae-san, who was sitting in the back seat, muttered.
Seeing Burkes impressive results, the next in line, Kuroki Masato, the team leader of Sumimoto Chemical, had a dark expression as he stood up from his seat.
Initializating step 1.
The same process unfolded, and Sumimoto Chemicals results gradually appeared on the monitor.
[Step 1: Clean Grade 6] [Purity 97.73%]
[Purification Speed: 16s] [Sensor uracy 93.37%2.3]
As expected, the test results continued to highlight the sensors performance.
[Step 5: Clean Failed] [Purity 13.73%]
[Purification Speed: Unmeasurable] [Sensor uracy 90.1%2.5]
In the final step, the fan ran for more than 10 minutes without the green light turning on, so the filter test tube forcibly ended the process.
Seeing the despairing cleanliness record of 5th step, Team Leader Kuroki frowned deeply.
13%? Hm. I cant say that this level of filter is bad, but the basics of cleanliness should be maintained.
Kim Tae-sansment followed.
While monitoring the result values on the screen, Lungyun, who was openly shaking his head, made Jeong-woo intuitively feel that he had been eliminated from thepetition.
Even if we have to consider connections or whatever, we must maintain an edge in performance.
As the test progressed, Jeong-woos speed proportionally increased.
Sun Hui, looking at KG Chemicals with a conceited smile, chuckled when his eyes met Jeong-woos.
Prepare for the next one.
At the voice of the filter test tube, Dusfs researchers stood up from their seats.
Dusfs records significantly outperformed the previous twopanies.
Starting from Step 1, it showed efficiency close to Burkes filter and Sumimoto Chemicals sensor. Shockingly, in Step 5, it achieved air purification that even Burke couldntplete.
[Step 5: Clean Grade 9] [Purity 89.1%]
[Purification Speed: 5m 9s] [Sensor uracy 91.2%3.1]
A record that couldnt help but dominate in the overall evaluation. Lungyuns gaze also seemed satisfied.
Bringing the best equipment pays off.
Kim Tae-san clicked his tongue.
Please prepare for thest team.
At the instruction of the filter test tube, Mei stood up from her seat and looked around at her team members. Then she turned to Kim Tae-san and said.
Mr. Kim. Filter research. Thank you for your hard work.
At her Korean words, Kim Taesan recalled the events of Friday and wore a puzzled expression.
What have I done? Its all thanks to our team.
If we fail in this bid, Mr. Kim, please take charge as the team leader and continue the project. Jun Chai will continue to handle the sensor.
What?
Even if this opportunity is missed, the Dust Project will definitely seed.
With a statement suggesting taking responsibility for the defeat, Kim Tae-sans eyes narrowed.
Mei finished speaking and turned her gaze to Jeong-woo this time.
Assistant Team Leader.
Yes.
Please assist from the side. It will be our turn soon.
Since removing the mask earlier, Meisplexion hasnt been great due to continued movement in that state.
Caught between a rock and a hard ce, Jeong-woo could only look at Mei with sympathetic eyes.
The researchers from Burke and Sumimoto Chemical seemed to have deemed it hopeless, as they left the control room and began their evacuation procedures in their respective areas.
In the slightly dull control room.
Mei nodded to the filter test tube.
First stage initiated, she announced.
The sensors activated, and the familiar hum of the fan echoed. Jeong-woo stood beside Mei, anxiously awaiting the results, his hands clenched in sweat.
Ten seconds after the red light came on. The green light followed.
With eyes that hadnt expected much from the fastest Stage 1 purification speed so far, Luwins gaze focused on the results monitor.
[Stage 1: Clean Grade 5] [Purity 99.91%]
[Purification speed: 10s] [Sensor precision 97.67% 1.3]
Even the filter testers in the room were impressed by the overwhelming results, their murmurs filling the air.
-The sensor is more precise than ours, isnt it?
-What kind of filter is this?
Unable to understand the conversation in Chinese between the two testers, Jeong-woo sensed the atmosphere from Jun Chais bright expression.
[Stage 2: Clean Grade 5] [Purity 99.31%]
[Purification speed: 34s] [Sensor precision 98.01% 1.4]
The results of Stage 2 were superior to Dusfs.
Hmm.
However, the difference wasnt as significant as in Stage 1. Jeong-woo felt a moment of concern.
The fan was rotating slower than usual, and the damper control was unpredictable.
As expected, Stage 3 showed results that fell short of Burkes filter.
[Stage 3: Clean Grade 6] [Purity 96.31%]
Burke had recorded 97% purity at this stage. Mei addressed the murmuring team members.
No need to worry. Its just a margin of error from the facility construction. The sensor is maintaining its peak performance. Keep the fan speed steady, trust the filter.
The performance of the sensor, enhanced with polymerpounds, was outstanding amid all this. In the midst of heavy pollutants, Jeong-woo found a certain degree of reassurance in its ability to maintain a constant freshness as if always new.
Initializating step 4
The red light lit up, and the sensor activated the purification system.
The sensor warned of the presence of contaminants that could cause severe respiratory diseases if exposed for an extended period.
Dusfs Stage 4 purification speed was 3 minutes and 50 seconds.
Even as two minutes psed, KG Chemicals purification systems red warning light did not shift to orange.
Come on.
Perhaps due to silently chanting fighting inwardly, fortunately, it turned orange just before the two-minute mark. Jeong-woo sighed in relief.
If the purification speed was the same, the sensor and filter results would undoubtedly be superior to Dusf.
Team leader.
At that moment, Jun Chai, who was observing the sensor, looked puzzled and nced at Mei.
Theres an air leak. Towards the adjacent building.
Leak?
Internally. The test air supply line.
Is this a sensor malfunction?
Meis gaze shifted to the monitor. Due to expanding the detection angle to eliminate blind spots, the situation in the adjacent building was clearly disyed.
Sun Hui!
At Meis call, Sun Hui turned his head.
Theres someone in that building, right? Toxic substances are leaking from the internal supply line.
Probably not, right? Does your sensor even detect that? Man, getting that patent wasnt in vain.
Make sure! Its a heavy metalpound!
Alright, alright.
Sun Hui took out his phone and called the team leader.
Mei bit her lip and then spoke to Jun Chai.
All fans inhaling air, switch to reverse rotation. Fans expelling air, set to maximum speed. This way, the leaked air from the connected internal line will be sucked back in.
T-Team leader?
Jun Chai looked displeased at Meis directive, essentially giving up on the Stage 4 purification.
There might be no people inside. And what if those idiots over there ingest some heavy metals? They wont die, right?
Jun Chai!
Mei shouted again, coughing.
Even a mere second of exposure could lead to anyone bing like me. Do you want to do that with your own hands?
Jun Chai, seemingly resigned, manipted the connected purification system. The trembling sound, like a fan wailing, echoed through the KG Chemical building.
Jeong-woo realized that Mei was using the entire test building like an air purifier.
Right. I can confirm that.
Jeong-woo, looking out the window, monitored the front with infrared wavelengths detecting heat.
Five figures, resembling human body temperature, flickered inside the Dusf test building.
Theyre really there?
Meis decisive decision to abandon the test, as if predicting the danger to rivalpany employees, prevented them from being exposed to harmful air.
Jeong-woo wondered what choice he would have made if he were in charge.
Mei turned her gaze to the filter test tube.
What are you doing? If we cant resolve that leak line, this control room will soon be in danger too.
The testers hurriedly instructed the employees. Meanwhile, Sun Huis voice, engaged in a call, suddenly escted.
They were already in the process of evacuation? Hey! Come out right now!
Jeong-woo confirmed the five people escaping from the Dusf test building and looked at Mei.
Its safe now.
Pointing outside, Mei also noticed people running out of the door.
Beep.
Jun Chai restored the system to normal. Due to the excessive influx of contaminants for about 30 seconds, the sensors warning light turned red. It took another 5 minutes for Stage 4 toplete.
An horrific result, far worse than Dusfs Stage 4, appeared on the monitor. Sun Hui pointed at the screen.
This didnt happen because we wanted it. Since its an unregted event, retesting is not possible. Start Stage 5.
These damn idiots!
Sun Hui, ranting, was met with a stern re from Kim Tae-san.
Team leader. We should have just let them ingest it, why bother!
Smiling lightly at Kim Tae-sans outburst, Mei said.
The flexibility of our purification system has been well publicized.
Whether that would be acknowledged as normal, Jeong-woo observed Lungyuns expression. There was no sign of any emotion in his cold demeanor.
The filter tester, who received a call from the maintenance team, spoke.
Well take a break while the maintenance team handles the leak issue. Itll take about 15 minutes.
There was almost no movement during the break.
Jeong-woo approached Mei, who was catching her breath, holding her throat.
Do you think well win?
Of course. But we must adhere to principles
Unable to finish her sentence, Mei started coughing heavily, Jeong-woo observing closely took out a battery.
If I dont use it now, when will I?
He scattered the dust particles infused with sma. Freshly purified air enveloped Mei.
Breathing became much easier for Mei. She looked around with a bewildered expression.
The sparkling dust particles filled the surroundings, giving a feeling of vitality. However, this dust didnt trigger asthma but brought a sense of energy.
After silentlymending the lightning particles forpleting their role and disappearing, Jeong-woo turned to Mei.
Speaking of principles, but how about adding one more filter in the middle of the test?
A filter?
A customized bypass filter. The one I created when I was first assigned to the team.
It was an idea that came to mind with the thought of trying everything that could be done.
Mei cast a skeptical nce.
Whether a customized filter with a catalyst will be effective or not, the pollutants in Stage 5 areplex substances that our sensors cannot detect entirely. Even if we start analyzing and producing it now, it will take time
Thats a yes.
Mei stopped talking, looking at Jeong-woo who was smiling broadly.
Manager Ha!
Jeong-woo suddenly called, startling Ha Won-il, who quickly stood up.
Were going to make a bypass filter. Please manufacture the connecting parts. This one will be a bitrger.
Now?
We dont have time, so lets talk about it on the way.
Jeong-woo and Ha Won-il rushed to KG Chemicals test building.
15 minutester.
Jeong-woo raised his thumb outside the window. As a signal that the instation wasplete, Mei nodded to the filter tester.
Were initiating Stage 5.
As the test resumed, the values on the sensor in the monitor soared to the maximum in an instant.
Amidst the continuous shing warning window, KG Chemicals air purification system was activated.
After one minute, the red light changed to orange.
Jun Chai, who was attentively observing, was surprised and looked at Mei. Mei, also watching the monitor, couldnt believe that hazardous substances were being purified so quickly.
Mr. Han. What on earth did you do?
At 2 minutes and 15 seconds, the test stopped with the appearance of a green light. The filter testers, who were observing the process, even resorted to banging on their precise analyzers, suspecting a malfunction.
After a moment, as the analysis results appeared, everyone in the control room fell silent, staring only at the monitor.
In the midst of the silence, the door creaked open, and Jeong-woo entered.
Huh? Hasnt it started yet?
At this unexpected question, Kim Tae-san, sitting among KG Chemical researchers, pointed to the monitor.
Jeong-woos eyes went to the result sheet.
[Stage 5: Clean Grade 5] [Purity 99.99%]
[Purification speed: 2m 15s] [Sensor precision 98.7% 1.1]
Wow. Grade 5?
Even Jeong-woo didnt anticipate this result.
The product, with a catalyst like a detoxifier that neutralized contaminants, reached an astonishing level. Except for purification speed, it was at a higher level than Stage 1.
Ha Won-il, who came inte, also stared at the monitor, his jaw dropping.
Sun Hui, who had been staring at the monitor with a bewildered expression, walked towards Jeong-woo.
You!
Sun Hui questioned Jeong-woo.
I saw you. Installing the filter. Whats that about?
Why? It doesnt vite any regtions to make mid-test modifications.
What on earth is that?
If you need professional advice, formally request consultation from KG Chemical rather than prying into others trade secrets.
With Jeong-woos words, Sun Hui turned on his heels, emitting a disgruntled cough.
For a while, Lungyun, who couldnt take his eyes off the monitor, stood up.
The results will be announced at 5 p.m. in the Jinma Group building conference room.
Lungyun left with the officials.
The filter team researchers gathered around Jeong-woo. Kim Tae-san, with a shocked face, spoke up.
Jeong-chan only heard the Cheonan incident from Jin-soo. Never thought Id witness that. Making detoxifiers for 20 types of toxic substances in just 15 minutes. Wow, what a skilled individual.
We havent even won the bid yet.
Kim Tae-san, who was shaking Jeong-woos hand in amazement, made a puzzled expression.
They must be weird if they saw all this and they dont pick us.
Jeong-woo, sensing that they didnt fully understand the situation on the ground, just nodded.
Assistant Team Leader.
The team members stepped back, giving room as Mei spoke.
Team Leader Yu, are you okay?
Mei nodded at Jeong-woo concern.
I still dont know the extent of your abilities. But I think I understand now Professor Noh Jong-seons words about you being able to make this research perfect in just three weeks. I apologize for initially misjudging you.
No need for apologies. Im embarrassed.
Meis expression wasnt bright. Jun Chai, standing guard next to her, was the same.
I only assisted. Team Leader Yu, youve already won over there, not just in skills but also in character.
Um, Jeong-woo. You spoke well.
Kim Tae-san also nodded in agreement.
The atmosphere sank despite the positive test results, as everyone had heard Meis intention to step down from the team leader position voluntarily if the bid failed.
Lets be like Cho Sung-hwan one more time. We did the best we could.
Resigned, Jung-woo fumbled in his pocket and pulled out his wallet.
Lets have a dinner gathering tonight. I brought my corporate card. Lets try Peking duck.
Kim Tae-san paused. Kim Tae-san was genuinely impressed by the majesty of the only regr researcher in thepany with a personal corporate card.
Chapter 91
Chapter 91- Dust Defenders(9)
Beijing Chaoyang District, Jianwai.
Jeong-woo arrived at the Jinma Distribution headquarters building at 4PM. The area, filled with tall buildings, had an atmosphere that seemed like a magnified version of Jongno Street.
This way.
Following Meis voice, Jun Chai followed, and Jeong-woo and Kim Tae-san also entered the lobby. Since only key personnel were attending the presentation, the KG Chemical team consisted of only four people.
Jeong-woo.
While waiting in front of the elevator, Kim Tae-san spoke up.
I thought being apany with six buildings, even including a department store, was impressive, but in China, they treat that as a small business?
Im not sure about that
As Jeong-woo turned his head while admiring the interior, he noticed an advertisement for Jinma Department Store on the outer wall of the corridor.
Huh?
It was an advertisement for a perfume bottle with a very familiar design. Since all the writing was in Chinese characters, Jeong-woo turned to Jun Chai and asked.
What does it say there?
Exclusiveunch of Audrey Perfume.
Jeong-woo smiled at this answer. It reminded him of the bald man who pleaded with Michle for the exclusive sales rights of Audrey Perfume in China. The chairman who went as far as to pay for the suit.
What was his name again
Jinma Building Underground Parking Lot.
You heard that KG Chemical left a deep impression?
Sun Hui, sitting in the drivers seat of arge sedan, expressed disbelief as he made a phone call, learning about the news from the biddingpetition meeting.
-Mr. Lungyun was particrly impressed.
About the 5th stage? We just added a customized device. If you look closely, the performance difference between their system and ours isnt that significant.
-Theres talk that, in terms of performance based on the price, Dusf still has the upper hand.
Take it easy, take it easy. Got it. Keep me updated until the announcement starts.
After ending the call, Sun Hui immediately called Chairman Wangs secretary.
Mr. Sun Hui from Dusf. Yes, Ill be waiting in the reception room. Hes looking forward to it? Ill give him a clear answer.
Jinma Group Chairman Wang Liming.
When he, with a hobby of collecting antiques, started seeking advice from chemists for the maintenance of fine art, Sun Hui did not miss the opportunity and had already solved several issues.
A painting covered in mold, a stone statue starting to dpose as moisture disappeared, and books gued by pests.
A few days ago, the special disy rack containing oxygen-absorbing agents as a gift had greatly pleased Chairman Wang.
Exiting the car, Sun Hui took out an equipment bag from the trunk.
Deep impression?
Sun Hui chuckled.
How much investment had been made for this. Apany with a market capitalization far below Dusf daring topete in their backyard.
This is Lungyun.
Wang Liming looked at the managing director who had entered with a puzzled expression.
How did you know I was here?
I got a call from your secretary.
Taking a day off today, and shes telling everyone. Maybe I should just rest.
Wang Liming, not dressed formally since it wasnt an official workday, med his meticulous secretary unnecessarily as he sat on the sofa.
What brings you here?
The air purification system bidding we discussed before. Today is the day of the decision.
When Lungyun ced documents containing evaluations of participatingpanies on the table, Wang Liming seemed uninterested.
Why do you bother me with this? I hired you to handle these things well.
What? I thought you came here for this today.
Wang Liming looked with wide eyes at Lungyun.
Do you want to see me die from overworking? I came today because of my hobby. Go away.
Sorry.
As the executive was about to take the documents away, Wang Liming nced at the list ofpanies at the top and raised his hand, stopping him.
KG Chemical is here too?
Do you know thatpany?
I dont know about the others. Well, Burke and Sumimoto. Are theypetent chemicalpanies too?
All thepanies that passed the first round of documents have a good reputation.
After contemting for a moment, Wang Liming spoke.
Can I briefly meet the representatives of these threepanies in the reception room? This is a personal matter for me. Make that clear.
Lungyun nodded in acknowledgment.
In the conference room, Jeong-woo sat awkwardly among about twenty representatives from otherpanies.
Seems like those from Germany and Japan have a resigned look, dont they?
This sentiment was shared by Mei, the team leader guiding KG Chemical.
If this bid failed, Mei was contemting handing over the sensor patent to Jun Chai and resigning. The project she had developed, hoping for children growing up in a clean environment without the stifling air she had studied in, would lose its meaning if the results went to Dusf after a failed bid.
But it doesnt seem like shes going to join Dusf.
With unwavering beliefs, Mei, a chemist immersed in her own research, hoped that the project she had developed in an environment with stale air could contribute positively.
At this point, Jeong-woo was deeply impressed. Perhaps because of this, he couldnt help but recall Noh Jong-seons words about Mei bing the next center manager of the Chinese branch after this project.
I want to avoid her resigning. If thats the case
After realizing that the chairman here was Wang Liming, whom he had encountered before, Jeong-woo considered making a call to Michle. However, the thought felt like ying on the same level as Dusf, leaving him with a somewhat ufortable feeling.
At that moment, as tensions rose, the door opened, and apany representative entered.
With 50 minutes left until the announcement, everyones attention turned towards the entrance, curious about what was happening.
The chairman would like to meet with the respective heads of eachpany. Pleasee to the VIP reception room.
People murmured in excitement.
The heads of Burke and Sumimoto Chemistry stood up, and Mei followed suit.
Team Leader Yu.
Jeong-woo called her.
Ill go with you, I know Chairman Wang.
Lets have a fairpetition. Jeong-woo followed Mei, thinking that using the glow of Michle wouldnt hurt.
In the VIP reception room, Sun Hui, who was waiting, squinted his eyes as he saw Mei walking in.
Why are you here?
The chairman called for me.
What kind of ce is this? A personal meeting?
As Michael and Kuroki followed her in, Sun Hui became even more confused about what was happening.
In the midst of this, when he saw Jeong-woo standing by the door, he shot him a nce that seemed to say, What are you up to again? before abruptly standing up as the secretary of Chairman Wang appeared.
Whats going on?
The chairmans orders.
Orders?
Without answering, the secretary politely stepped aside. Wang Liming entered.
Chairman Wang.
Sun Hui approached to greet him, but Wang Liming, without paying him any attention, swiftly turned his back, leaving Sun Hui in a momentary daze.
Han Jeong-woo!
Wang Liming, looking surprised, turned towards the young man by the door and asked.
What brings you here?
I came forpany business. I have something to discuss.
Haha. Never expected to see you here. Its perfect.
What? Is it good? Whats going on?
Lets sit first. Bring some tea!
Sun Hui couldnt close his wide-open mouth due to Wang Limings attitude and even the courtesy shown.
Led by Chairman Wang to his seat, Jeong-woo found himself unable to bring up any discussion about the bidding. He had to sip his tea quietly.
The chairman doesnt wear a suit, a real super old man vibe.
Chairman Wang, with a friendly appearance, called his secretary.
The secretary ced a box on the table.
y figures resembling ancient Chinese warriors emerged one by one from the box, taking dynamicbat poses as they were ced on the table.
Watching the y soldiers in action, except for Sun Hui, everyone else had faces that expressed confusion as they didnt understand the significance.
After the arrangement waspleted, Chairman Wang smiled at everyone.
This sculpture was difficult to obtain at the Shanghai auction. Its individual value is one million yuan, and a set of five is ten million.
Jeong-woo, calcting the exchange rate, couldnt help but be astonished. Those five pieces were worth almost 1.6 billion won.
Chairman Wang then began exining the reason for this gathering.
It was buried in damp soil, so the preservation condition is not ideal, especially with this uneven color. Id like to hear proposals on how to preserve it without causing further damage.
Seeing Chairman Wang unexpectedly inquire about an issue rted to antiques, Michael expressed a face of iprehension.
Were not art experts.
Yes, you are outstanding chemists. We will provide enough cases for consideration. Could you please review this in detail?
Is this also part of the bidding evaluation?
This is entirely my personal request.
Michael, pondering the meaning of the clientpany chairmans personal request, raised his hands in a gesture of surrender. Right next to her, Kuroki also had a face of not understanding what Chairman Wang was talking about.
Chairman Wang.
Sun Hui intervened and said.
Not all chemists have expertise in art. Although there are those in the field of archaeology, they are a minority. These people focus on air purification; they wont be of help with that sculpture.
Chairman Wangs expression turned to Is that so? and then looked at Jeong-woo.
This friend knows much more than a Korean archaeology professor, right?
Who? Him?
Sun Huis gaze also shifted towards Jeong-woo.
What is the chairman talking about?
Jeong-woo swallowed a groan. Typically, archaeologists were much more specialized. Chairman Wang, who had observed work with a professor in the past due to an art forgery issue, seemed to have a strong misunderstanding.
Sun Hui shot a nce at Jeong-woo.
The chairman knows well. So, can you understand what the problem with that sculpture is?
Well
Jeong-woo nced at the y soldiers. Then, his gaze lingered on Sun Hui, who stood there as if mocking him.
While working with Mei, he might shout humility, but there was no need to do that to this person.
Well, honestly, its not easy.
Ha! Chairman, do you see this guy withdrawing already?
Ah, I wasnt talking about myself. I already found it.
Sun Huis face stiffened at Jeong-woos response.
Already found it?
Yes.
Without equipment? Someone cant answer that just with words. Whats the problem?
Its not a problem you should be asking, but rather, Chairman Wang, your opinion is needed. Chairman, shall I exin it right away?
Chairman Wang nodded with keen interest.
Jeong-woo examined the skin of the y soldier at the molecr level, expanding it to the world of molecules, and said.
You mentioned coloring? The structure of this naturalcquer is in a state of moisture saturation. The dye polymer to fix the color wont prate.
What about removing that naturalcquer? Ive used thetest preservatives several times.
It wont be easy to peel off because it doesnt dissolve in water or organic solvents. Unless you carefully remove it with a specially designedpound, the surface may be slightly damaged.
Jeong-woo, who had been focusing on the molecr world, suddenly thought about something he could use to wash away that naturalcquer.
Chairman Wang nodded approvingly at Jeong-woo.
Indeed. The answer is crystal clear. I understand why Michle was so impressed. Now, what about the preservation after removing it?
Just a moment!
In the meantime, Sun Hui, who had finished the analysis to some extent, spoke confidently.
Chairman, theres no need to listen to him. I understand the preservation method for this sculpture very well. Ive already received rted materials from the research team at the University of Munich, who managed the Terracotta Army found in Xian.
The Terracotta Army?
Sun Hui sessfully diverted Chairman Wangs attention, and he smiled with a triumphant expression.
Using a sticposition based on hydroxyethyl methacrte, employing ion polymerization
Thunk. Thud
Jeong-woo, who had been lost in thought, pulled something out of his pocket and tore it apart. While about half of the audience, including Chairman Wang, was listening to Sun Huisplicated story, their gazes involuntarily turned to Jeong-woo.
so, using the radiation braking reflection effect in the polymerization process
Crunch!
At this moment, Jeong-woo was simr to a scene-stealer. The main actor appears on the screen, but the extra next to them is so peculiar that all attention is focused on them.
So, the radiation braking reflection
Seeing that everyone was not paying attention to her words and all focused on Jeong-woo, Sun Hui stopped talking.
What are you doing?
Ah, did I disturb you? Please continue. If its about the radiation braking reflection, youre nning to enhance the preservation effect by killing microorganisms and fungi, right?
Rather, as Jeong-woo alone showed interest, Sun Hui, with her pride hurt, asked with irritation.
Whats that? A diaper?
Jeong-woo removed the wings of the sanitary napkin he had brought, flipped it over to reveal the superabsorbent polymer, and snapped it shut.
Excuse me.
Jeong-woo, standing up, asked Chairman Wang.
May I wipe that?
Chairman Wang, who trusted Jeong-woo infinitely due to Michle, nodded.
Jeong-woo wiped the polymer of the sanitary napkin he held in his hand on the cheek of the y soldier. Swiftly, the naturally colored light emerged beyond the wiped-off dark browncquer.
Chairman, earlier you mentioned finding the original color. I think this is it.
What?!
Chairman Wang, jumping up, rushed to Jeong-woos side. Pushing Sun Hui, who was holding measuring equipment, far away, he stood in front of the y soldier.
This is it. It was this color.
Chairman Wang, who closely observed the wiped y soldiers skin, eximed in admiration and pointed to the object in Jeong-woos hand.
What is that thing, exactly?
Jeong-woo couldnt answer that it was a cut sanitary napkin, so he thought about an appropriate answer and said.
Its a special absorbent. It doesnt have a name yet because its still under development at KG Chemicals.
Sell that to me right now! Its an incredible discovery.
Theres only one left now. Ill just give it to you.
Cant you make more?
Uh Ill look into it a bitter.
Sun Hui, holding an infrared spectrometer worth a hundred thousand euros in one hand and a research result document worth several tens of thousands of euros in the other, looked nkly at the back of Jeong-woos head.
For this research, he invested a tremendous amount, but he came here now with just a diaper, holding Wangs heart captive. How could such a thing happen
When Lungyun stood at the podium, the conference room fell silent.
Jeong-woo, awaiting the results, looked at Sun Hui with an anxious expression.
The leverage with Chairman Wang Liming, which he had aimed for, turned out to be of little significance.
Who would have thought he wouldnt even care about the bidding.
If they were going to lobby, it should have been directed towards the CEO.
Jun Chai sighed deeply and asked Mei.
Theres no hope, right?
Why do you think theres none?
Sun Hui told me everything. About the email you received.
Mei chuckled and pointed at Jeong-woo, who was sitting in the front row.
Thanks to the assistant team leader, our chances are high.
Because of the bypass?
No, just because of him.
Jun Chai, who didnt know about what happened in the VIP reception room, could only look puzzled.
Please, please.
Kim Tae-san muttered as if telepathically urging Lungyun to mention KG Chemicals name.
Finally, Lungyun tapped the microphone and spoke.
Before I announce the results, I would like to thank all the participants in the bidding. The level of the systems was high across the board. Even Sumimoto Chemical, which received the lowest score in performance evaluation, was deemed capable of producing good air.
The heads of the Japanese representatives drooped at the mention of thest ce.
Themon opinion of the evaluators was that no matter which system is chosen, we can breathe high-quality air. Therefore, in selecting apany, performance did not y a significant role.
The heads of the Japanese representatives lifted again.
Sun Hui also rxed her slightly frowned expression. The possibility of choosing their system, the mostpetitive in terms of price, had increased.
Kim Tae-san clicked his tongue.
So, in the end, they are you just looking at cost-effectiveness?
Lungyun scanned the people in the conference room.
Thepany that moved my criteria as the final decision-maker acted with a heart prioritizing those who breathe the air. They seemed genuinely concerned about the breath of our Jinma Group employees. I will choose your air purification system, KG Chemical.
As Lungyun finished her announcement in a calm tone, the conference room fell into a brief silence.
We won?
Kim Tae-san rejoiced as if he were about to jump. Jun Chai looked at the bewildered Sun Hui, then pinched his cheek in disbelief.
And then, with teary eyes, Mei, who had been looking at the podium, stood up.
Mr. Kim.
At her call, Kim Tae-san turned with a wide smile.
Start developing the catalytic filter devised by the assistant team leader. Make it connectable to the central system.
What? Why?
Beijings air pollution is worse than you think. Level 10 is not safe. We will find new advantages and challenge public institution bids.
Kim Tae-san chuckled at her words.
The KG Chemical responsible person, pleasee with the relevant documents.
At Lungyuns call, Mei stood up with a bag containing the contract. Kim Tae-san watched her walk out and muttered.
Adding one more level to make it 11? Seriously. By the time the research is done, theyll probably say, Lets go for 100 levels. Still, its fortunate that they didnt mention ying around after assigning me the team leader position.
Jeong-woo, who was approaching, heard this andughed.
Will the gossip continue until the end of the project?
Its stifling on days like this. Ah, work, work. Lets grab some duck, Jeong-woo. Where should we go?
Assistant Ha said he made a reservation.
Ah, right. Lets go where he booked.
Mr. Han. The chairman is looking for you.
At the sound of the secretarys voice from afar, Jung-woo said to Kim Tae-san,
Just a moment. Ill be back soon.
As the two suddenly disappeared, Kim Tae-san turned his gaze to Jun Chai. As the senior researcher of the Filter Team, he hadnt even exchanged a word with the core researcher of the Sensor Team.
Jun Chai.
Yes, Mr. Kim.
That about the Sensor Team.
Kim Tae-san cleared his throat and nonchntly said.
It seems like the big office is too spacious. Starting tomorrow, just take a few of our guys. And Mingji from the Sensor Team? He seems interested in the filters. Send him to us.
A small exchange between team members of the joint Korean-Chinese project began two months after the project started. Smiling brightly at Kim Tae-sans request, Jun Chai nodded in response.
Due to a morning mistake, Song Boyeong, who was anxiously awaiting news of a business trip to China, was suddenly startled by a phone call.
Jeong-woo?
-Oh, senior. Is it a good time to talk?
Although it wasnt a video call, Song Boyeong lowered her head toward her phone.
Im sorry! I identally packed the wrong box in a hurry.
-Because its urgent, save the apology forter. Jun Chai and I will ept beef aspensation. About that material um, yes. High-absorption polymer development product. How much of it is in stock?
What? Why do you ask?
-The chairman here ordered about a thousand of that Wait a moment. Yes, sir. No? A thousand boxes?
Song Boyeong raised her head with a smile at the voice on the other end of the phone.
-He ordered a thousand boxes of that. Wow, thats a huge order. Until when can you produce it? The unit price will be set at the industrys highest.
What, what did you say?
code: Molecr Formtion
case: Tailored Catalyst for Air Purification Filters
research: Developed during a business trip to China, where the air was filled with fine dust, this research resulted in a highly efficient filter capable of purifying pollutants at the level of toxic gases with a 99.99% purification rate.
Chapter 92
Chapter 92- Wildfire(1)
On theptop screen, the words Special Coverage Article were typed. The man in his mid-thirties, stretching his hands after removing his ring, continued writing the document.
This is a miraculous record of a chemist who was there on that day. The names of some interviewees who requested privacy have been anonymized as .
The man transferred the interview recording file from his phone to theptop and plugged in his earphones.
Crackle.
-Han Jeong-woo is it? Hes the best among the chemists I know.
While sliding through the on-screen coverage photos, the mans gaze lingered on one particr person.
A young man in histe twenties.
His smiling face in what seemed to be a difficult situation was truly impressive. Since theposition was excellent enough to be featured as the main image, the man printed it for the purpose of showing it to his supervisor. Then, he began writing the article in earnest.
First Discovery
At the end of March, the Korea Meteorological Administration issued a drought alert.
Expecting the effective humidity to drop below 25% in the central and northern regions, forestry officials in each city and county entered emergency mode.
Every year around this time, its chaos, absolute chaos.
Lee Heung-sik, a civil servant at the county office, was in charge of tonights nighttime patrol. Driving a domestically made straw cart on National Route 46, he asked the director of the recreation forest management office, Park Cheon-gu, sitting beside him.
How are the hikers?
A few troublemakers. Even if you tell them not to, they just dont listen. Nowadays, its difficult to go after them one by one.
Just close the doors until it rains. Weve already announced that if residents burn their fields, well impose fines.
As he descended the mountain path, Lee Heung-sik nced at the fields on the mountainside, seeing something like smoke rising, he clicked his tongue.
Ugh, not listening is the biggest problem for everyone.
The car screeched to a halt. Lee Heung-sik, who rolled down the window, stretched his neck.
Hey, put out the fire! Remember when you burned down Naksansa Temple in Yangyang doing the same thing!
Then how do you clean up all the chili powder scattered around?
Its a spring drought. Its chaotic everywhere. Just scratch it and push it to one side. Dont burn it until April.
Ridiculous.
What? Sir!
Watching the argument between Lee Heung-sik and the resident, Park Cheon-gu sighed and turned his eyes to the opposite side.
At that moment, something dark red,pletely different from the red light of the evening glow, flickered into Park Cheon-gus field of vision.
Hey, Heung-sik.
What the hell? Even if I impose a fine here, I cant say a word. When you say nice things
Heung-sik!
At Park Cheon-gus shout, Lee Heung-sik turned his head.
What?
That thing!
Lee Heung-siksplexion changed as he saw the smoke and mes rising from the mountainside. At a nce, it was no ordinary fire.
Darn it. Call it! Emergency contact!
Holding his phone, Lee Heung-sik urgently pressed the number for the Forest Fire Prevention Department.
8:30 PM 2 Hours after Discovery
Jeong-woo was on his way to Han River Park with three high school friends after a tiring week of a business trip to China.
It was Friday evening, marking the end of a demanding week, and they nned to enjoy a pleasant night with beer, chicken, and friendship.
Hey guys, how about my Laura? Isnt she a beauty?
pping his hands, Park Soo-chan stepped on the gas, causing the car to vibrate. As the speed increased and the car shook ordingly, Jeong-woo in the passenger seat, along with his two friends in the back, screamed.
Laura, huh? Isnt this junk going over 80?
Jeong-woo lightly stroked the interior of the car, as if consoling it. At this gesture, his two friends burst intoughter, and Soo-chan made a puzzled expression.
Who dares to disrespect me when they dont even have cars?
Jang Tae-yeong, the friend in the back seat, looked at Soo-chan with a disapproving face.
Just showing off by bringing a barely functioning car. Do you have to do that? If you have to, go abroad like Jeong-woo. The view in Venice was to die for.
Who made it easy for us to go? If you keep bad-mouthing Laura, get out. Run over there.
Tae-yeong tilted his head in defeat. Kim Jeong-heon next to him asked.
Soo-chan, what wind blew you to buy this car? Insurance fees at our age are no joke.
There were too many local events, so I chose this. Since Im in charge of fireworks, its convenient to bring things with the van.
Soo-chan said this and looked at Jeong-woo.
My dear friends help yed a big role.
Oh, surprising.
Jeong-woo flinched at Soo-chans joking tone.
Dont use words like love. Its a warning.
My friend Jeong-woo, Ill dly give you a ride in Laura every day if you just say the word.
Shut up.
Amidst the noisy conversation, they turned onto the entrance road to their destination.
Zzing.
Jeong-woo received a text on his phone and checked it.
[Next weeks showcase coincides with a CF shoot. I cant seem to find time at all. My body feels weird.]
It was Yoon Yi-seol. Immediately, I sent a reply asking [Where are you going with this?] As if she had been waiting, another text message came from her.
[My anxious heart is pounding. I keep wanting to see someone. I cant wait for 10 months]
[It seems like Im not the cause. I have 9 months left.]
[!!!]
As he continued the conversation with her, he started worrying about the CF shoot next week.
Soo-chan, starting to slow down as the traffic piled up, nced at Jeong-woo.
Why the long face? Is Laura bothering you?
No, its nothing. Oh, let me ask you guys something.
Putting his phone in his pocket, Jeong-woo opened his mouth with a serious tone.
Suppose, hypothetically, theres a curse that makes the other person fall asleep while kissing. Do you think you could still date?
What movie did you watch toe up with such useless talk? Shouldnt you ask if theres a girl to kiss first?
Soo-chan red up like a typical single guy. Tae-young, after thinking for a while, answered.
I tried dating a pen pal. It was manageable.
Terrible. Dont say such things somewhere else.
Laughing at Soo-chans excitement, Tae-young sneered.
Do you know the beauty of mentalmunication?
Maybe its like themunication between me and Laura?
That guys crazy.
Their argument quickly evolved into a response to Kim Jeong-heon, who has been dating a woman for seven years.
If you have that ability, Id give my all to have it. Just a kiss, and no nagging. Its not a curse for married men; its a blessing.
You should say that to Ms. Hye-yeong.
Its okay. Now I have a close friendship with Hye-yeong. She doesnt get mad at this level.
Since there was no satisfying answer to their refreshing responses, Jeong-woo sighed deeply.
As they entered the entrance road to the parks parking lot, Soo-chan, who was waiting for the other cars to enter, suddenly turned to Jeong-woo as if he had just remembered something.
Oh, right. I saw Eun-sil.
Dont lie.
Its true. She sent a friend request on Facebook and left a message. Ill show you when we get down. She turned into a real woman.
Jeong-woo thought it wasnt a lie. However, if he were to see a friend from his childhood, wouldnt it be quite awkward?
When I asked about you, I replied that youre doing well.
Dont talk nonsense.
Its normal to brag to your first love. Thats how it should be.
What if its not the first love?
Then just a kiss? Youre scary.
Just a peck! Oh, lets stop talking.
The car entered the parking lot.
Jeong-woo pulled out a beer box from the trunk.
Im ordering chicken, sweet and sour pork, and anything else you guys want. Its on me.
Jeong-woo, you seem to be doing well. I want bossam!
Add vegetable intestines too!
After ordering a bunch of side dishes, the four people sat around an outdoor table next to the park camping site.
Each holding a canned beer about to be opened, suddenly, Soo-chan let out a groan.
Hey, guys! Stop! Something big happened.
What happened?
One of us has to eat only side dishes. They have to drive.
Jeong-woo gave Soo-chan a look of disbelief.
We can call for a driver.
The car is small. Five cant fit.
Since they experienced thepact size of Laura whileing here, the four exchanged nces.
Kim Jeong-heon was the first to speak.
I need to drink. I have to relieve the stress of studying for the civil service exam.
Its the job season, and Im stressed too.
At Tae-youngs voice, Soo-chan also shouted loudly.
I want to hang out with pretty girls like Jeong-woo!
Each stating their reasons for needing to drink, showing an attitude of nopromise, Jeong-woo put down the canned beer he had in his hand on the table and said.
Lets be fair. One round of coin tossing.
Call!
Drawing a line on the ground next to the table, the four guys stood side by side. Each holding a 100 won coin, they took a moment to catch their breath.
I used to use this for decisions in high school.
Soo-chan confidently tossed the coin first. The coin spun around gracefully andnded on the drawn circle on the ground, bouncing once and entering the center.
Nice!
Jeong-woo thought that Soo-chan had a good chance of winning.
Soo-chan, your skills havent rusted.
Hahaha!
Tossing their coins second and third, both Tae-young and Jeong-heon threw their coins close to the circle. Watching this, Jeong-woo sighed.
Hey, are you kidding me?
The first-ce Soo-chan looked at Jeong-woo andughed.
Thest to toss the coin, Jeong-woo felt tense.
Oh well. Fairness is overrated.
Having made quite an order for side dishes, not being able to drink beer would be unreasonable.
He pretended to reconsider the angle to throw the coin, Jeong-woo shook his hand, concentrating the dust particles around him. Especially, he concentrated on collecting the most dust particles around Soo-chans thrown coin.
Go!
The coin, flying almost straight rather than in an arc like others, was maically attracted to Soo-chans coin.
Okay!
Satisfied with a smile, Jeong-woo saw the dust particles focused on the coin suddenly scattered, pushing Soo-chans coin away. The problem was that there was still momentum left on Jeong-woos coin.
Ting!
With a cheerful sound of coins colliding, Jeong-woos coin went into the circle, and Soo-chans coin bounced out.
Uh?
In the blink of an eye, Soo-chan, who was about to win first ce, became thest ce. At that moment of astonishment, a deliveryman on a motorbike approached from a distance.
Is there an order for sweet and sour pork?
Here!
Jeong-woo raised his hand quickly and patted Soo-chans shoulder, who was in despair.
Think of it as fate. If you get drunk, Laura will be sad. If you want more side dishes, order them.
Jeong-woo, did you deliberately target mine?
Deliberately, yes, but I didnt expect you to best.
Hey, you!
They gathered around the table again.
Jeong-woo poured a beer and was about to take a sip when a call came in, so he had to put it down again.
Looking at the phone screen, it was Director Gong Kyung-ho from KG Industries. Jeong-woo quickly answered.
Yes, Director Gong.
-Where are you?
Im near the Han River, why?
-I just got a call from the fire disaster headquarters. They asked for your location. They said you have to go. Try calling the number Im giving you. 010
He memorized the number.
Where do I have to go?
-Given the huge number of pharmaceutical orders, it seems like a serious fire has broken out. They designated you at the disaster headquarters to control and manage it. Its under the national mandatory mobilization order Thats what the firefighter who called said.
It was a mandatory mobilization order for reasons that he couldnt understand.
After ending the call, Jeong-woo dialed the number he had memorized.
The signal went through, and amid the loud wind noise, a strong voice was heard.
-Hey, Jeong-woo.
Chief Miles?
The face of the well-built firefighter he had an acquaintance with in Cheonan came to mind.
-Yeah, its me. Is this your number?
Yes.
-Now you have my number.
The fresh and daunting expression of Miles, who kept winking and telling him to be a firefighter, revived in his memory.
You didnt call just to make a joke, did you?
-Where are you?
Im near the Han River in Nanji, but why?
-Dont move from there. Im heading there now.
Whats going on?
-A wildfire broke out in the Goseong area, and initial suppression failed. All the firefighters that can be mobilized in Seoul are on their way for emergency support. Youre included in the personnel forming the onsite control headquarters. They need a chemical expert.
The mention of a wildfire surprised Jeong-woo.
How big is it?
-Watch the news. Well be there in about 2 minutes.
Jeong-woo lowered his phone and immediately opened the inte browser. The top search result was already about the wildfire. Clicking on it, he found breaking news articles.
Forest Fire Breaks Out in the Maebong Mountain Area of Goseong. With 20 hectares of forest turned into ashes, the damage is spreading due to strong winds, raising concerns of arge-scale disaster
Jeong-woo, do you prefer sweet or savory pork?
Soo-chan asked while breaking a wooden chopstick. Jeong-woo, with a nk expression, turned his head away from the news.
Just eat it as you like.
Jeong-woo, who had been lingering over the canned beer on the table, nced back at Soo-chan and spoke again.
Soo-chan, you can have that beer. I have somewhere to go.
Now? Is it rted to work?
Jeong-woo shook his head. If its Goseong, its far to the east from here. It would take at least 3 hours by fire truck.
It seemed like the healing Jeong-woo hoped for today was not supported by the sky.
While waiting for Miles.
Suddenly, a roaring sound echoed from the distant sky. As it was loud enough to be considered an explosion, the eyes of the three friends sitting at the table simultaneously turned towards the sky.
Whats that!
When the table vibrated, Soo-chan stood up in surprise, holding a piece of sweet and sour pork in his mouth.
A helicopter with the words [SEOUL 119 RESCUE] appeared in the darkness. Along with flickering lights, the helicopter, hovering in the air, emitted a bright pir of light from the end.
-Oh, oh, Han Jeong-woo. Wheres Han Jeong-woo?
.
Jeong-woo was speechless at the announcement from the helicopters loudspeaker.
Wasnt iting by fire truck?
The bright pir of light, which had been searching the ground, nced at the table where Soo-chan was. Then, it found Jeong-woo next to him.
-I like sweet and sour pork. Hold onto it. It might fly away. Han Jeong-woo, stay still.
The helicopter got closer.
Thududududu!
As the descent downdraft covered the area, Jeong-woo, covering his face with his hands, reflexively closed his eyes.
With the sound of swooshing, someone strong descended from the helicopter and suddenly stood in front of Jeong-woo.
Good job. Ill tie this around your waist.
With wind in his face, Jeong-woo, who opened his eyes in the gust, widened them at Jeong Pil-du, who had already wrapped a rope around his waist and clicked a carabiner.
Pil-du?
Its been a while, Captain Han Jeong-woo.
Jeong Pil-du smiled innocently at Jeong-woo.
I was officially assigned about two weeks ago. Under Captain Ma.
Oh Congrattions?
While talking, Jeong Pil-du pulled the rope in his hand and sent a signal.
Drrrrrr
Jeong-woo, momentarily sucked upward, closed his eyes reflexively as his body was lifted into the air, and he unintentionally screamed.
The moment of being forcibly boarded onto the helicopter, flying in the sky, was simply unbelievable.
Jeong-woo!
As his friends were abruptly taken away by the helicopter, a bewildered Soo-chan ran over.
Whats going on! Why are you taking Jeong-woo!
After a while, Miles reached out his arm to Jeong-woo, who had arrived at the side door.
What in the world
Jeong-woos voice was drowned out by the roar of the helicopter, making it barely audible. Miles, who had untied Jeong-woos rope after he got on, chuckled and put the helicopter headset on Jeong-woos ears.
-Can you hear me?
-What is this?
-Its the only luxury the Special Disaster Scene Commander can afford. Wee. Since anyone cant enjoy this view, take your time to appreciate it while were on our way.
Surprised, Jeong-woo calmed his thumping chest and looked down beneath the helicopter.
It was a sky view he had never seen before.
At this moment, he was hovering over the city center of Seoul.
Thudududu!
The turning helicopter began to fly eastward.
Interview: Park Soo-chan
I once got investigated by the FBI because of his coin toss scam.
-FBI?
Oh, dont be surprised. This is my story. Usually, when someone suddenly falls from a helicopter and grabs a person, you think of spy movies, right? I just yed around with that a bit. Its easy to exin. Reporter, your expression why
(Heter asked to omit this part in a whisper.)
The helicopter appeared, and he was grabbed and lifted up. I waspletely out of my mind. But then, I realized it was a fire helicopter. The guy who lifted Jeong-woo was also dressed as a firefighter.
-At that time, you didnt realize the urrence of arge-scale wildfire along the East Coast.
Thats right. I thought I was just going to have a drink after a long time, and things turned upside down. When we were in high school, we used to gather a lot in that Han River park. It was the ce where we first learned to drink Oops. Not me, just Jeong-woo.
Chapter 93
Chapter 93- Wildfire(2)
9:32 PM Meeting
-Yes, Governor. The situation room is being set up at the entrance of the recreation areas parking lot. I will assess the scale of the wildfire and join the headquarters.
Themunication from Miles reached Jeong-woo, who was wearing a headset.
Flying from Seoul to this location, Jeong-woo had heardmunications with the authorities such as the Forest Service, police, and military personnel. He had a rough idea of the unfolding situation.
A few hours ago, a wildfire was discovered near Goseong. The initial firefighting and containment efforts were carried out by the fire brigade and the forest service team that responded to the report.
However, due to the dense forest terrain and dry weather, the wildfire quickly became uncontroble. In response, the firefighting authorities dispatched Miles, who was the director of the central region and had extensive experience in handling major disaster scenes.
Well be arriving soon! Rescue team! Stay alert and assess the terrain!
Miles shouted to the six members seated in the back.
As the helicopter, flying over the dimly lit terrain, finally crossed over a mountain.
Ah.
Unconsciously, Jeong-woo couldnt help but groan.
A forest filled with soaring mes and thick smoke.
The intense heat emanating from the area made Jeong-woo feel as if his body were being engulfed in mes.
Sizzle.
-Captain Miles, its difficult to secure a front view due to the smoke.
In response to the pilots report, Miles gestured for the helicopter to circle outward with a twirl of his fingers.
-Searchlight!
A beam of light swept over a burning tree. The flickering mes connected to the adjacent branches.
This is hell, truly hell.
Muttering with a serious expression, Miles soon unfolded a topographical map. As he checked the area where the fire was spreading using a pen, he furrowed his brow when the smoke obstructed his view.
Darn it. Its hard to distinguish between smoldering areas and active fire spots.
As the reconnaissance continued, Miles kept clicking his tongue. Due to the ash and smoke covering the entire mountain, it wasnt easy to secure a clear line of sight. Even looking down from the sky, the scale was so massive that it couldnt be visually grasped.
-Fly a bit higher!
Shouting into themunication device, the helicopter ascended.
I should lend a hand, right?
Jeong-woo, determined, asked Miles over themunication device while alternating his gaze between Miles topographical map and the wildfire area.
-What exactly is the fire line?
-The line where the fire is spreading. For this level of wildfire, direct firefighting has limitations. Pouring water from a helicopter is only effective momentarily. We need to predict where it will spread, dig trenches, cut trees, and create a barrier to stop the fire.
Establishing a strong defense line by understanding the movement of the fire. Miles had been nning this since the initial reconnaissance.
Its really crucial.
With a firm decision, Jeong-woo focused on a spot below full of smoke. He closed his eyes for a moment, then opened them.
Got it.
Infrared vision capable of detecting temperature.
Through the smokeyer, he detected the wavelength of the mes emanating heat from the ground.
-Captain, that steep valley there. Theres more fire than elsewhere. A line is forming.
-Where?
Jeong-woo precisely pointed to a location outside the window.
-There.
A glimpse of mes through the smoke disappeared.
Miles stared in that direction, and when the helicopter moved forward a bit more, revealing a clearer view, he discovered a line of mes spreading in a semicircle below the valley.
-Oh, for real.
-Here too. The wind is strong. The mes are dancing.
When Jeong-woo gestured to the opposite side, Miles turned his gaze to the endpoint.
-Indeed. The the fire is astonishing.
Miles, finishing the recording on the topographical map, patted Jeong-woo on the shoulder. Although he intended it to be a light tap, Jeong-woo, taken off guard, bumped into the helicopter door before recovering.
-It hurts!
-Haha. It feels safer when youre here. Want to join the weather expert for the strategy meeting? Jeong-woo, can you also smell the wind? Lets analyze it together. Its necessary for constructing the defense line.
-Werent I here for advice on firefighting chemicals?
-As a side note. If the heavens send us a firefighter, we should make good use of him. Starting with a rookie. Isnt that right, Jeong-woo?
Seated next to Jeong-woo, Jeong Pil-du nodded in agreement with a naive expression. Then, he spoke into themunication device.
-In my heart, Mr. Han Jeong-woo is still our teacher.
Miles gave a thumbs-up in response.
-See? Even the newly recruited rookies recognize Han Jeong-woo. You were born to be a firefighter, right?
-Did my mother ever say that?
Knowing Miles intention to lightly tease, Jeong-woo turned his head outside the window with a calm expression.
-Theres a ce with intense currents. It looks like it might spread soon.
-Where?
While the helicopter rotated widely above the wildfire area, Miles, with Jeong-woos assistance, meticulously drew a more urate map of the fire terrain than what was captured with the thermal camera.
-Oh, thats not section 9. It looks more like section 8, below that rock.
Jeong-woo grabbed Miles hand and shifted the pen to the side. After marking the hotspots and the direction of the fire, Miles grinned at Jeong-woo.
-Did you just hold my hand? Its warm.
-Come on. Stop doing that.
Jeong-woo quickly pulled his hand away and turned his gaze below the helicopter.
Having made a big loop, they began examining the area in detail.
Wait. Whats that?
Amidst the zing mes, a distinctively cooler figure flickered through. Straining his eyes, Jeong-woo focused more to see two individuals moving amidst the mes. Due to the high temperature all around, their figures stood out even more.
-Captain, there are people down there.
-What?
Surprised, Miles pressed his forehead against the window and looked down.
-I cant see anything.
Jeong-woo, unable to see through smoke and mes, gave a helpless look.
-I saw them using a fire extinguisher and moving.
-Engaged in firefighting activities?
Miles continued to focus in the direction pointed out by Jeong-woo.
-Hignd Situation Room. Come in, over.
Crack.
-Yes, Im the director of the Hignd 119 Center.
-Did you receive any reports of someone being trapped in the fire? Its the northwest point, 1 km from the resort.
-That area was evacuated by us and the firefighting team an hour ago. Everyone has returned, and except for the report of discovering the fire, there havent been any reports of casualties yet.
-Understood. Please contact us immediately if you receive any other news.
After ending themunication, Miles and Jeong-woo, who exchanged nces, questioned each other.
-Two people?
-Yes.
-The firefighting team has at least seven members in action. They also have radios. Unless someone has gone mad, there wouldnt be any members rushing in there without orders.
-Thats true.
Although it was the words of a genius firefighter bestowed by the heavens, a more definite piece of information was needed before deciding to send personnel into a dangerous area. Thats why Miles widened his eyes and focused on the direction Jeong-woo indicated.
-Ah, why cant I see it? My eyes are good.
Jeong-woo, gaze lingered on the two figures struggling in the fire. There was no time to explore various possibilities in a situation where someones life was at stake.
-Mr. Pil-du, is there anything like water in this helicopter?
Jeong Pil-du quickly opened a box next to the first aid kit and took out a water bottle.
-Thank you.
Jeong-woo soaked a handkerchief with water, pretending to wipe his neck, and then discreetly ced it into the pocket containing the spare battery.
-Captain, if we confirm it, can we rescue them?
-Of course.
Jeong-woo put his hand into the pocket. Sizzling sounds were heard, but amidst the helicopters noise, no one noticed.
Crack.
-We have 10 minutes of fuel left. We need to move to the refueling point soon.
The pilots voice made Miles nod in acknowledgment.
Meanwhile, Jeong-woo gathered the lightning bolts he had collected and shot them through a small gap in the helicopter window.
The lightning bolts swept away in the wind caused by the helicopters propellers, scattering in all directions.
The thunderous roar echoed!
As the scattered lightning bolts absorbed toxic substances, including carbon monoxide, a phenomenon known as smoke purification urred.
-Oh?
Miles, who had been watching below, widened his eyes. Someones arm, engaged in a struggle with a fire extinguisher towards the mes, appeared and disappeared suddenly.
-Its a person!
-Really? Did I see correctly?
Jeong-woo asked, releasing a sigh of relief.
Miles, with the smoke thickening again, raised his voice towards the disappeared figures.
-They must be crazy. Why are they crawling into that mess?
Jeong-woo thought that a reliable fire brigade would now be dispatched to rescue them. However, at that moment, Miles turned his head and shouted.
Get ready!
Ready!
The six members of the Central Fire Rescue Team, sitting in the back seat of the helicopter, immediately started putting on personal protective equipment.
Whats going on? Are we going straight there?
Jeong-woo asked Miles.
-What do you n to do?
-This area will soon be a burning field. The support team that breaks through the mes is already past Daegwallyeong. The chances of holding out until then are low. We need to at least provide them with basic survival gear.
Although not at the level of a fire chiefs judgment, even in Jeong-woos eyes, they seemed precarious. Miles began giving instructions to the rescue team leader preparing for the strong current through themunication device.
-Well establish the first defense line 500m south, guide the isted individuals there.
-Got it. But, Captain, I havent identified the location of the rescue target yet.
-Ill do it through the radio from above Ah. Pilot! How much time do we have left?
Crack.
-Seven minutes. We need to head to the supply base in at least three minutes.
Miles let out a deep sigh.
-Lets do it ording to the textbook. Set the direction and avoid thebustion line to the blocking area.
Beep beep beep.
A gust of wind blew up nearby, causing the pilot to pull the joystick. Along with a warning sound, the helicopter quickly ascended.
Whoa!
Jeong-woo tightly grasped the safety belt, experiencing a gravitational force beyond that of a roller coaster. Being in the sky, even a slight tremor felt like a continuous situation of falling.
-Are you okay, Jeong-woo?
-Yes
The other firefighters showed no change in their expressions, seemingly ustomed to this feeling.
-You wont throw up, will you?
-Not to that extent.
Miles patted Jeong-woos shoulder encouragingly, then turned his head outside and became puzzled.
-Oh, we missed the isted individuals location. Pilot, turn on the searchlight!
Upon this request, Jeong-woo weakly raised his hand and pointed to a direction.
-There.
-Uh Yes, I see it now. Ah, Jung-woo, yourplexion is so pale; we can see everything. Youre a pro, indeed.
Kim Jae-ho, the rescue team leader, asked Miles.
-Captain, where did Han Jeong-woo say the location is?
-Its on the slope. But, with the current visibility, its hard to distinguish whether theres a slope.
-Ill go down and check.
-Just a moment. There are still two minutes left. You need to have a clear view of the target location. Ugh, if only the reinforcement team were ready
Although Miles was giving instructions to the rescue team leader through themunication device, his gaze was fixed on Jeong-woo, emitting a desperate energy.
-If someone reliable led us, it would be much easier to identify the isted individuals. If someone who can see through the mes like a ghost is with us, we can rescue them quickly
Unable to escape that desperate energy, Jeong-woo said.
-Im just an ordinary person. Dont trust me too much.
-Ah, ordinary people always say that. Even a veteran firefighter who fought fires for 20 years was surpassed by a skilled person. If that skilled person sees fire like a ghost, we could quickly rescue them
-Even so, how can I walk into the mes barehanded?
Miles nudged the me-resistant outerwear under Jeong-woos feet with his toe.
-This is a top-notch model. Just released for special supply.
-Really? Should I wear it?
-The choice is yours. Just so you know, this rescue team won a gold medal at the Firefighting Olympicsst year. They are guys who can survive no matter where theyre thrown. Just keep it in mind. Top-notch firefighters can cover you more than enough.
Kim Jae-ho turned on themunication device, saying.
-Captain, its not a gold medal, its a bronze medal Oops.
Miles hand, like a lightning bolt, flew and blocked Kim Jae-hos mouth.
In the midst of the conflict, Jeong-woo witnessed one of the figures on the ground tumbling down the rocky slope.
Huh
Reactively grabbing the me-resistant outerwear, Jeong-woo asked.
-Hey, Captain Ma. Honestly, tell me. Did you call me as a chemical consultant or as a volunteer firefighter?
-You little punk.
As Jeong-woo put on the outerwear, Miles, who was buttoning it up for him, turned his gaze to Jeong Pil-du.
-Pil-du! Get ready too. Your mission is not to rescue isted individuals but to provide close protection to the only chemist in the country here.
-I understand!
Rumble.
The helicopters door opened, and a rope descended onto the terrain without mes.
The strong wind carried the pungent smoke into the helicopter, making everyone inside squint for a moment.
In the midst of it, Miles, who carefully secured the rope around Jeong-woos waist, said.
-Lead our team well. Lets meet at the defense line.
Miles took themunication device from Jeong-woos head, covered him with a helmetbeled Beware of wildfires, and pressed the switch on the rappelling device as Jeong-woo finished preparing to descend.
Uwaaa!
Jeong-woo screamed as hended on the ground. Although he had never tried a base jump before, today marked the second time he stumbled in mid-air.
The phrase never again seemed to naturallye to mind as the helicopter ride, his first in life, felt like a series of traumatic incidents.
Beside Jeong-woo, the rescue team members rapidlynded on the ground, each expressing their own experiences of freefall.
Jeong Pil-du, whonded softly on the ground, approached Jeong-woo, who had a pale face, and helped him untie the rope.
Phew, sorry. Ive been shot twice inbat, but this helicopter rappelling is something else.
Helicopter rappelling requires a lot of training.
Smiling, Jeong Pil-du handed Jeong-woo a bag he had been carrying.
There are gloves and a smoke mask inside.
As Jeong-woo put on the backpack containing the personal gear set, the team leader approached.
Is the direction towards the cliff?
Uh wait a moment.
Jeong-woo cast his gaze towards the direction of the burning forest. After closing his eyes for a moment, when he opened them again, he could sense the wavelength of the infrared region emitting heat.
A bit more to the right. As I descended, I briefly saw someone copsed, and another person was blocking the mes in front of them.
Of course, it wasnt a fleeting nce but a real-time description of the scene.
Nodding, Kim Jae-ho turned to the rescue team and shouted.
Advance the equipment team! The rest, assemble the grappling hooks! Jeong-woo will move with the front line in the center.
Two members carrying firefighting equipment with CO pressure tanks took the lead, walking forward. The others, holding grappling hooksbined with shovel handles, formed a protective circle around Jeong-woo and began to move.
Chwak!
mes surged in the direction they were heading, and the me-retardant was sprayed. A team member, using a grappling hook to push away embers, sent a signal that the area was cleared.
Jeong-woo, walking in apletely different world than when he looked down from the sky, was now intensely focused on anticipating where the mes might erupt rather than monitoring how and where the wildfire was spreading.
During his walk, he noticed a massive movement of wind and dust particles. His hair stood on end.
Stop!
At Jeong-woos shout, the lead two team members abruptly halted their steps.
10 meters ahead.
With an unexpected explosive sound, a column of fire shot up as two sets of mes collided. It was a phenomenon where the bundled gas was unfolded due to an updraft.
Uwoah.
A team member, wearing a face of seasoned experience, swept his chest with a gesture of familiarity.
This direction is close to the ignition line, so we should go around it.
Did you hear Jeong-woos instructions? Turn!
At Kim Jae-hosmand, the lead team members changed direction and sprayed fire extinguishing agents.
Moving for about ten minutes, simr incidents had urred several times. In the chaotic forest, Jeong-woos guidance had be more than just earning the trust of the rescue team; it had be absolute directional guidance.
Watch out on the left!
A gust arose, and branches poured down like rain. As they were not powerful enough to prate their fire-resistant suits, they continued moving with only their faces protected.
Ah, its hard to breathe.
Do you need water?
Im okay, Captain. I can endure it.
Jeong-woo, walking at a pace synchronized with firefighters ustomed to daily physical training, continued his steady walk without a single furrow on his forehead, even though he breathed heavily.
ncing at Jeong-woos side profile, Jeong Pil-du couldnt help but admire the fact that the chemist, who was once terrified of the strong helicopter wind, now exhibited the most audacity in the face of dangerous mes.
Were almost there.
Jeong-woo spotted a flickering figure beyond the mes and shouted.
Hey!
The sound didnt transmit well due to the wind. Jeong-woo pushed the auxiliary battery into his glove and, taking a deep breath, transmitted sound waves through the air.
Interview: Jeong Pil-du
I believe in that. An act of courage from someone can bring a better tomorrow for others. In that sense Jeong-woos choice that day was indeed courageous enough.
Chapter 94
Chapter 94- Wildfire(3)
PM 10:07 Rescue Team Descending from the Sky
Son Dong-joo, a professor of forest resources and an ecologist, visited the natural monument conservation area of Hyangro Peak over the weekend, only to be confronted with a situation as unexpected as a lightning strike.
Communication in the evacuation shelter was cut off, and mobile phones were not working at all. So, the only option was to descend to a point where they could use a fire extinguisher to make a report.
Cough.
Professor Son looked up at the mountainside he had just rolled down, covering his mouth with a handkerchief. A significant ident was narrowly avoided.
Professor!
His student, Jeon Yoon-seok, hurriedly ran toward him, holding a fire extinguisher and aiming it at the surrounding mes.
Sshhh
A white liquid sprayed out. After a while, the sound of the spray stopped.
Oh, we used it all. Are you okay?
Just scratched.
Professor Son got up with a groan, his mouth covered with a handkerchief.
What should we do now? We cant move an inch without a fire extinguisher.
Professor Son couldnt give an answer to this question. Now, it seemed that the only option was to sit here and wait for the mes to pass.
Is the phone still not working?
Yoon-seok shook his mobile phone towards the sky.
Not at all. I think the nearby base station burned down. I heard the sound of a helicopter passing by earlier, though.
Even so, they had probably never seen a ce so filled with smoke. Professor Son looked up at the sky with a desperate expression.
Although it was a clear day, the sky was filled not with stars but with sparks.
Lets move a little more. The people in the shelter are trusting us. If the wildfire engulfs that ce
Just thinking about it was terrifying.
Now, I dont even know the direction.
Follow the slope down. Standing still wont give us any answers.
They walked briefly in the predicted direction of the highway. Suddenly startled by mes shooting up, Yoon-seok avoided them and stumbled.
Yoon-seok!
Ugh.
Yoon-seok grimaced. His wrist, hitting the ground, was sore, and his palm was scraped, blood dripping.
Surrounded by heat, the two of them huddled next to a rock. With their bodies lowered, they could only watch helplessly as the forest in front of them burned.
It was a hellish scene.
There was fire everywhere, and there was no path.
Professor.
Yoon-seok, who had been sitting idly, spoke.
The people left at the shelter must be finished now, right?
Dont say such things.
They were all nice people, who loved animals. Especially the veterinary sister
At least, if only this ce could escape the disaster. Professor Son prayed to the sky.
If I knew it would be like this, I would have called in the morning. Sorry, Mom.
Professor Son patted his students back with a bitter expression.
-Hey, you two! Can you hear me?
At that moment, the heads of Son Dong-joo and Jeon Yoon-seok turned simultaneously at the strange sound that echoed like a mountain stream.
-Rescue teams are approaching from the direction youre looking at. Dont move. Fires are everywhere around you.
The two, who never thought someone would appear in these mountains, looked around hesitantly in the foggy smoke.
Crack!
However, in the midst of the mes, the appearance of rescue team members emerging one by one made them realize that this was not a dream.
Unbelievable
Professor Son felt a sudden relief as the eight members of the rescue team approached in formation. One of them stepped forward.
Im Rescue Team Leader Kim Jae-ho. Is anyone having difficulty moving?
Yoon-seok quickly stood up and helped Professor Son to his feet.
Were fine. But how did youe? Did you manage to make a report from the shelter?
Shelter?
The rescue team leader looked at Yoon-seok with a puzzled expression. Professor Son, regaining hisposure, spoke.
Firefighter, sir. There are still five people at the Hyangro Peak shelter. Since the phone is down, we came down forcefully to make a report
Unable to understand the exnation from Professor Son, the rescue team leader immediately grabbed a radio.
Situational room. Situational room. This is Rescue Team 1.
Click.
-Did you secure the rescuees?
Rescue isplete. But there are more isted individuals in the direction of Hyangro Peak. Please confirm the shelter location and provide support.
-What? That ridge is all surrounded by the danger ofbustion. Helicopters cant enter at a low altitude in the center of the wildfire.
A serious conversation about the rescue ensued.
-What does Jeong-woo say?
Just a moment. Let me switch.
While the rescue team leader approached the lone firefighter wearing a Beware of wildfires safety helmet, another member handed Professor Son and Yoon-seok portable heat-blocking masks.
Mr. Jeong-woo. Its Captain Ma.
Jeong-woo grasped the radio handed to him by Kim Jae-ho.
Click.
-Jeong-woo, what do you think? Do you remember the topography to Hyangro Peak?
I remember.
Jeong-woo turned his gaze to the ridges above the mountain range.
Are there any rescue teams that can arrive immediately other than us?
-Its still in the nning stage for the defensive line. Support Team 1 from the east has just crossed Taebaek Range.
If after we avoid the mes and climb up to Hyangro Peak, we break through the thinnest burning point. Can we make it out in time?
-East? In that area, we can also deploy the extinguishing team. Forestry officials are waiting near the nearby blockade line.
Since Jeong-woo and Miles had been studying the same topography map for a long time, they had developed a level of understanding.
-The problem is whether you can safely move through that chaos.
I can do it. Ive be somewhat ustomed to avoiding the mes.
-If youre sure, I can push through too. Okay, lets switch to Jae-ho.
Jeong-woo handed the radio back to Kim Jae-ho.
Yes, sir.
-Whats your judgment on-site? Can we trust and enter?
Kim Jae-ho looked at Jeong-woo and answered as if there was no need to think.
If were talking about Firefighter Han Jeong-woo, I want to recruit him as a member of our rescue team. Were already like one body.
-Is this crazy? Trying to pull out amand team leader to a rescue team. From now on, call him Deputy Team Leader Han Jeong-woo.
Who is that? Are you talking about our rescue team leader?
-Really?
Jeong-woo, tongue-tied by their conversation, said.
Excuse me, Im just rted to chemistry
-We absolutely cant give him away!
Seeing Jeong Pil-du chuckle at the radios exmation, Jung-woo shook his head.
A littleter, the personnel were reorganized as instructed by themand center.
The rescue team of two heading towards the 1st defense line to the south and the two rescued individuals first began their descent, retracing their steps.
Then, a six-member rescue team set out towards the mountain ridge to rescue the shelter upants, following the instructions of the situation room.
Inside the parking lot, Seoul Citys disaster support fire trucks were lined up.
The makeshift tented Wildfire Incident Command Post was bustling with preparations for the uing first response meeting.
Click.
-Rescue team of 2, currently arrived at the defense line.
Okay. Is there an ambnce there? Send them off. You two,e to the headquarters.
Amidst busy civil servants installing monitors andmunication equipment, Miles put down the radio and turned his head to the topographic map on the table.
Oh, Chief. Forest Service extinguishing team is waiting in the northeast here. Please deploy them forward.
Are you really sending rescue personnel into that hellish ce?
When Forest Fire Prevention Division Chief Oh Seon-yong sent a skeptical look, Miles answered calmly.
Weve already received a radio that those two have reached a safe area.
Thats sheer luck. Crawling into the fire line in this inferno is suicidal. Was there really no other way?
Luck?
Miles jaw muscle twitched as he ground his mrs.
Then did I send my own men tomit suicide? Give the movement order. Right now!
As the muscle-bound guy got visibly angry, Chief Oh flinched at his momentum. He picked up the Forest Service radio with a discreet look.
Captain Ma, Mayors call!
At themunication officers announcement, Miles pointed to the wired telephone on the table.
Uh, connect it.
As he answered the call, the voice of the mayor came through.
-The meeting is about to start?
Yes. Once the military liaison officer and the meteorological bureau official arrive, the organizationalmunication channels will be set up. The video call is also ready.
-Understood. The cooperation system at the city level will bepleted soon. Also, I just heard some news. Youre currently rescuing Professor Son Dong-joo, who was trapped in the wildfire?
The two rescuers arrived at the defense line two minutes ago and are being transported by an ambnce.
-Phew, thats a relief.
The voice of the mayor on the other end sighed in relief.
-I was worried since he frequently goes to the mountains, but its a relief. Its a major disaster, but with Chief Mas prompt response, we can still feel at ease.
Miles scratched his chin as he heard that one of the rescued individuals was an acquaintance of the mayor. From discovery to rescue, it would have been impossible without Han Jeong-woo.
-Professor Son has been researching the flora and fauna of the East Coast for nearly ten years. If you have any questions about the nearby forest resources, ask him.
Ill keep that in mind.
-There are people at the evacuation center too, right?
Weve also deployed a rescue team there.
Miles looked at Chief Oh and said to Chief Oh in a somewhat sarcastic tone.
Hes coordinating operations very cooperatively with other department heads, so dont worry.
After finishing the call, Miles gaze lingered on the situation board inside the tent.
[Wildfire Incident Site Casualty Status]
[Deceased: 0 Injured: 0]
Miles fervently wished that none of those numbers would increase until the wildfire waspletely extinguished.
However, having experienced numerous disaster scenes, he knew that such a wish was close to a miracle.
As the smoke column rose, asionally apanied by distant roars, Miles, ncing beyond the mountain ridge, muttered.
Even you, dont get hurt. Please.
Ugh, Im dying.
After ascending the mountain trail for nearly 30 minutes in a ce filled with fire, smoke, trees, and ashes, Jeong-woo felt his limbs giving way.
[Hyangro Peak Shelter 100m Point]
Having focused his gaze on the half-burned signpost, Jeong-woo turned his head back along the path he had traversed.
With each rapid growth of the wildfire, the released energy was sending sparks flying hundreds or even thousands of meters away.
The spectacr disy of mes, resembling missiles, flying here and there with a speed of 10 meters per second, was producing new ignition points that hadnt been witnessed an hour ago.
This looks serious.
A phenomenon not detected when observed from above. In this state, Miles ignition point map would need to expand much further.
There it is!
At the shout of the lead member, Jeong-woos gaze turned back to the middle of the ridge.
The shabby shelter came into the rescue teams view. Since it was already halfway burned, the rescue team hurriedly ran towards it.
No one here.
Upon the report from the leading member who had inspected the inside, Jeong-woo scanned the surroundings with eyes assessing the heat.
Where are they?
On the slightly sloping hill on the opposite side of the shelter, where the me assault was rtively subdued, a figure was vaguely visible.
They seem to be taking shelter over there.
Pointing in that direction, Kim Jae-ho turned on the shlight, illuminating the path ahead.
Hey there! This is the rescue team!
The figure, confirming the arrival of the rescue team, emerged from between the rocks.
Firefighter? Is this for real?
You guys came to rescue us?
Were alive
Since there were only four people visible, Jeong-woo, still searching for the remaining one, witnessed a sudden suction of heat.
Something big ising!
At this warning, the experienced rescue team members immediately stopped and lowered their posture. However, the people on the opposite side, eager to meet the rescue team as soon as possible, did not stop walking, expressing confusion on their faces.
Kim Jae-ho shouted to the team as people approached the danger zone.
Protect each one!
Even with this warning, the chaotic wind, akin to a hurricane due to the massive wildfire below sucking in oxygen, caused tree branches and embers to shoot upward.
Kuoooo!
Burning branches fell like rain.
In the midst of this, Jeong-woo spotted the fifth person staggering on the other side of the steep path.
Why is she alone over there? Its dangerous.
The four rescue team members were each wrapping around their respective partners, making it impossible to move.
Pil-du, theres a person here too!
Jeong-woo rushed toward the fifth figure.
Jumping over rocks and avoiding a medium-sized burning tree, he managed to approach the person who was crouching to avoid falling embers.
Just before arge burning branch fell, Jeong-woo could cover the person with his outerwear as protection.
Are you okay?
The trembling person, under the protection of Jeong-woos outerwear in the dark shadows, looked around with cautious eyes.
A slender figure of a woman. Due to maintaining thermal vision and moving, all that could be confirmed was her long hair; her expression couldnt be seen clearly.
Fi firefighter?
In the shadow cast by the outerwear, a stranger, a man with glowing eyes like a cat in the darkness, appeared. The woman, taken aback, asked.
Are you here to rescue us?
Jeong-woo closed his eyes tightly and then looked at her with normal visible light, pointing to the helmet he was wearing.
Be careful of the wildfire. I came to check because of this campaign.
What?
Realizing that this was a joke, the frozen woman smiled awkardly.
The hurricane storm that had raged for a while finally subsided.
Jeong-woo shouted towards the back.
Now its safe!
The team members helped each other up. A man who was far away ran towards the woman.
Are you okay?
Yes. Im fine, Chief.
The woman grabbed Jeong-woos arm and stood up, weing the approaching man.
Why did you go there alone?
I thought Professor mighte
Jeong-woo quickly spoke in response to this conversation.
If youre talking about the two who went down first, we received a radio saying they reached a safe ce. We met them on our way here.
Really? Phew, thats a relief.
The woman sighed in relief.
Jeong-woo, looking at the womans face illuminated by the light of the wildfire, felt a strange sensation. The eye features seemed like those of someone he had seen somewhere before.
Healthy-looking skin and lively eyes. Memories of someone from the past who, despite a modest build, used to dominate the neighborhood with a strong hand shed in his mind.
Is that even possible?
Gazing back at him, the woman also tilted her head, smiling when their eyes met.
Firefighter, whats your name?
Me? Han
As he was about to answer, someone approaching from behind shouted towards the woman.
Eun-sil! I told you not to move alone.
Jeong-woo fell silent.
Eun-sil? Go Eun-sil?
Are you by any chance, Jeong-woo?
Chapter 95
Chapter 95- Wildfire(4)
Could this be called a fateful reunion?
Go Eun-sil couldnt believe that a rescue team, including her elementary school ssmate, hade up through the sea of fire.
Just a minute ago, they were in despair.
Risking their lives to descend, they found their phones continually out of service in the darkness. They had to rely on the sky to guide them through the spreading mes towards the evacuation center.
Jeong-woo, are you a firefighter? ording to Soo-chan
Eun-sil.
Yeah?
Lets talk in detail after safely getting down. Anyway, its good to see you.
Oh? Uh, yeah, same here.
Jeong-woos gaze towards the mountain was exceptionally serious.
This incredible coincidence didnt seem to be heading towards a happy ending just yet.
Gather around! Well distribute fire protection equipment.
At the call of one team member, Go Eun-sil nced at Jeong-woos back and, like others, moved behind.
It will protect you from smoke and heat.
Amidst the team members distributing special vinyl masks covering the entire head and firefighting nkets made of fiberss, an older-looking man stepped forward.
Im Rescue Team Leader Kim Jae-ho. Answer while wearing it. We need to identify you and report to themand center. Why did youe here, of all ces?
We were here to manage endangered animals and nts in this area. One of us is a journalist who came to cover our work.
The director of the National Park Management Agencys Ecological Restoration Department and two employees, a veterinarian from the Animal Protection Association, and one social affairs reporter.
After confirming their identities, Kim Jae-ho picked up the radio.
Command Center. Command Center. This is Rescue Team 1. Weve secured a total of 5 isted individuals at the evacuation center. Currently preparing to descend.
Squeak.
-Any injured individuals?
No. The list of rescued individuals is
Kim Jae-ho, who quickly reported, was approached by Director Nam Jeong-yeol.
Theres a mountain rescue team on the southwest side of this location, on Mount Seoraksan. If you talk to them theyll support us with a helicopter. We have an agreement with the National Park Management Agency.
We also arrived by helicopter initially. If it were essible, we wouldnt have climbed through these mes.
Kim Jae-ho opened his mouth to those who seemed not to fullyprehend the seriousness of the situation.
Let me briefly exin the situation in this area.
The following exnation from the rescue team leader was increasingly grave.
This area was dered a disaster zone due to a wildfire, and it was the most dangerous ce. If they didnt evacuate as soon as possible, there was a high risk of losing their lives due to mes and toxic gases. On top of that, the advancing fire line was expected to forcefully break through, posing an even greater danger.
The five isted at the evacuation center were both dumbfounded and at a loss for words.
Why did this happen
Director Nam stared at the ming forest with a disheartened expression.
A man in his mid-thirties, who had been holding a camera like a lifeline, asked Kim Jae-ho with a bewildered expression.
Jumping into a pit of fire, are you in your right mind? Is that something a 119 firefighter would say?
Despite the challenging attitude of the man questioning him, Kim Jae-hos expression remained unshaken.
You said youre a journalist, right?
Im Seong Ra-il from Dongmyeong Ilbo.
Theres a question journalists always ask at the scene. Was that rescue the best option?
Seong Ra-il, trembling in fear, and others in a simr state, were carefully scrutinized by Kim Jae-ho. He calmly spoke.
The best response from a firefighter at a disaster site threatening lives may not be the correct answer. However, who can determine the best response in such a situation? You, the journalist? Us? A third party who hasnt experienced this situation?
Seong Ra-il couldnt answer Kim Jae-hos question.
As someone who has experienced a scene like this a bit more, Ill give you an advice. If you find a way with a high probability of survival, act without dy. Its a hundred times better than just standing still. But if you dont know the way
Kim Jae-hos gaze turned towards Jeong-woo, who was observing the area below.
Find the person who seems to be the safest in this hell. Then follow them, whether its to live or die. My team and I came here that way, and thats how well survive in this ce.
Descending the steep cliff, Rescue Team 1 and the five rescuers confronted swirling mes with the force to uproot trees.
A dead-end alley.
Throughout their descent from the peak, they had faced the mes, making it inevitable to feel despair, but it was especially intense here. In the smoke-filled surroundings, the only visible light amid the haze was the crimson mes.
Finding a way in such a ce was practically impossible. However, people, clinging to a glimmer of hope, focused their attention on one person.
We have to jump over there.
Everyone was startled at the sound.
Kim Jae-ho, who was standing beside Jeong-woo, said.
It seems much more intense here than elsewhere. If we have to go through, whether its firefighting equipment or team members, well lead the way. Kim Yi-hyun, Park Dong-myeong!
No. The eastern fire line has thickened. We should conserve our supplies as much as possible if we intend to break through.
But
As the fire is concentrated here, the area right behind is rtively safe for a while.
Even Kim Jae-ho, who had consistently trusted Jeong-woo, had a doubtful expression, given how threatening the mes were.
Jeong-woo observed the two currents beginning to intertwine and said.
The timing will be apparent. The time to pass will be about 20 seconds. The distance is approximately 50 meters.
Due to the dense smoke, people couldnt know where they were or which direction was safe. They could only rely on Jeong-woos voice.
Jeong-woo, though already hoarse from shouting on the way, had no time to rest in order to boost the spirits of those who could only be pessimistic in this dreadful heat.
Is there anyone here who cant run 50 meters in 20 seconds? Im sorry, but you have to run now. Run at full speed, go and copse. Im counting! Three, two
Shooooo.
All kinds of branches and nearby mes swirled in a whirlwind, soaring high into the sky. Peoples eyes widened at the unexpected path that appeared.
One! Run!
At Jeong-woos shout, a team member with a rake ran ahead, dodging the smoke. The rescuers followed, using the path he secured.
Jeong-woo, who was running at the back, calcted the reaction time while watching the space where the mes disappeared as oxygen was rapidly sucked in.
It wont be 20 seconds. 15 seconds, no, 10 seconds?
In the midst of catching his breath, rotating his head was not a normal act.
Among those running behind him were Jeong Pil-du and Go Eun-sil. Jeong Pil-du, who had intentionally coordinated with her to protect him, wasnt a problem.
Eun-sil. Faster!
Im going.
When you were young, you used to outrun the kids without hesitation.
Why bring up the past now? Just because I grew a bit taller, are you getting jealous?
No, its because in 5 seconds, this ce will be a sea of mes.
Eun-sils eyes widened. Jeong-woo pushed her back, increasing the speed as much as possible.
When you pass through this smoke, youll see a big tree. Hide right behind it.
The first team member to arrive took a position behind a tree that hadnt caught fire yet.
Over here!
As individuals arrived one by one, while staying close to the team member, a whirlwind of mes suddenly appeared in that spot with the strong wind.
Whooosh!
mes, rising high, covered Jeong-woos back. The hot air swept over thetest me-resistant outerwear that was supposed to be special equipment.
Run, run!
Jeong Pil-du, who had arrived a step ahead, grabbed Go Eun-sils arm and pulled her alongside a tree. Jeong-woo also barely threw himself behind the tree.
As soon as they escaped from the mes behind, Jeong-woo pointed upwards and shouted.
Watch out for embers! These are also significant!
Escaping from the mes behind, a storm of fire at the back, and a shower of fire above.
Crouching down and trembling, Go Eun-sil felt Jeong-woo covering her back with one side of his coat and asked.
Are you okay, Jeong-woo?
Even though the fire looks scary, thebustion reaction is straightforward. Fuel, oxygen, wind. If any of the three is weak, the mes quickly die out.
While lying t on the ground, Seong Ra-il felt his heart calm down as he listened to the voice of someone who was analyzing the situation more calmly than anyone else.
In this moment of chaos, when he thought death was closest, the young mans actions of sharing a coat with others brought something captivating to his gaze.
Perhaps it was the journalists instinct.
Reflexively feeling his chest to open the cameras rapid-fire case, Seong Ra-il continued to capture the image of the young man.
The falling embers stopped.
Lets go now! Weve ovee the danger. Moving to the east!
Interview: Son Dong-joo
When the rescue team appeared through the mes, I thought I might have seen it wrong, or rather, I thought it was a dream.
-ording to the team leader, you were fortunately discovered during helicopter reconnaissance.
Luck? Im not sure if that was luck. Even if we dont know, we probably wouldnt have been able to save you. I have a question. How did you manage to escape from there? Werent you in the midst of it as well?
-This is an interview with the professor.
Dont beat around the bush. Lets hear it. All other articles are just spective. Youre the only one who knows the details. Well, is it because its a special report that you cant tell me?
-Thats not it. I just dont know how to express it yet. Walking through the mes relying only on one persons voice, the experience at that time
Are you talking about the chemist?
-Yes. Since that experience became the reason for deciding on this coverage.
11:30 PM The Best Answer from a Chemist
Outside themand center, beyond the control line, broadcast vehicles from various media outlets were lined up.
After more than 5 hours since the incident, here, over a hundred firefighters from Seoul and Gyeonggi regions, along with around ten helicopters supported by the fire authorities, are in full preparation for deployment. Even from this location, which is 5 km away from where the wildfire is raging, the smell of burning is so intense that it feels like its vibrating
Experts from the Korea Forest Service have stated that due to the rapid spread of the fire in steep slopes and ravines, initial firefighting efforts have failed. It is predicted that damage to the forest area will range from 20 to a maximum of 50 hectares
Amidst the ongoing emergency broadcasts from each broadcasting station, someone during coverage suddenly stopped filming, boarded the reporting vehicle, and disappeared.
Whats happening? Where is JBN going?
They said the results of the emergency meeting will be announced soon, is there anywhere more important than here?
While journalists were discussing, a call came to one of them.
Yes, chief. I heard that Central Fire and Rescue Team 1 has been dispatched to rescue five people isted at the wildfire site. Their status is unknown?
A text message arrived for another journalist.
[En route for coboration with the Korea Forest Service rescue team. Heading to the east of Hwango Peak.]
News from various sources began to circte, each receiving information from their respective contacts.
The situation was uncertain, with the possibility of rescuers or group members emerging.
Larger broadcasting stations divided their reporting teams, while smaller ones hesitated.
It was hard to tell how much time had passed as they walked through the indistinguishable smoke.
Go Eun-sil mindlessly followed the person in front of her. Tears welled up in her eyes due to the persistent smoke slipping through the gaps in her mask. She walked through the ankle-deep mes without feeling the anxiety that it would now be hotter.
Wait.
Jeong-woo grabbed her arm as she stumbled.
Go Eun-sil, who was about to step on a branch covered in mes, paused as she realized her actions.
Ah, sorry.
You seem to have inhaled too much smoke. Just a moment.
With a crackling sound, something sparkled in the field of vision and then disappeared. As the smoke that had filled the front of the mask disappeared, the tears also stopped to some extent.
Ah
The rescue team leader who had been walking ahead approached Jeong-woo and handed him a walkie-talkie.
Mr. Jeong-woo. Its Captain Ma.
Crackle.
-Han Jeong-woo. Whats this about changing thebustion line?
Go Eun-sil, feeling a bit clearer-headed, fixed her gaze on Jeong-woo, who was on the walkie-talkie.
-The ignition point increased by 1.5 times? In just an hour?
The wind is too severe, more than anything. Even the thin east side has mes in three ces now. Ive seen the fire flying over to the mountain beyond the blockade several times.
-Got it. Well send a car. Come straight to the situation room as soon as you reach the safety zone.
It was a conversation that seemed important and serious. Jeong-woos expression was dark. When she continued to stare at him, Jeong-woo turned his head, smiled calmly, and looked away.
Were okay. We can get out in a little while.
How do you know the way so well?
If you think about it, its chemistry. Its hard to exin.
At this answer, Go Eun-sil remembered the text message sent by her old friend Park Soo-chan a while ago.
[Our Jeong-woo? Doing great. He became a researcher at a majorpany. KG Chemicals.]
He clearly said he was a researcher. Thinking about it from her childhood perspective, it didnt seem like a fitting profession, but now that she faced Han Jung-woo, he was more than just an expert.
Its really you, Jeong-woo?
Why? Doesnt seem like it?
The kind and considerate old image of him, who extended his hand first to her when she transferred to a new school with no friends, ovepped throughout the encounter.
No, it doesnt matter.
What are you talking about? Oh? Watch your head.
Amidst asional falling embers, the group continued to walk without rest.
About five minutes passed.
At that time, in the smoke, where only the sounds of each othersbored breathing could be heard, somewhere, a high-toned animal cry, sounding like a whimper, echoed.
Go Eun-sil perked up her ears and looked around.
Director Nam, is this, by any chance
Yeah, its the cry of a marten.
Endangered wildlife, grade 2. One of the species they had been observing and researching on Hwango Peak.
Jeong-woo, who was walking ahead, stopped abruptly.
Theres something over there. In our way.
As they moved a bit forward, they saw a 30-centimeter marten writhing in the ash, unable to breathe.
Someones shlight illuminated the marten. Nam Jeong-yeol, who was nearby, said.
Its not an adult. These little ones must have their mothers by their side. Probably due to this fire
Oh, no.
Jeong-woo clicked his tongue at the prospect of a dead parent. When Jeong-woo was about to approach the marten, who was unable to hold himself up due to weakness, Go Eun-sil quickly grabbed his arm.
It may look gentle, but its a top predator.
When the marten realized they were approaching, it went wild. The dying creature revealed a sharpness that made it look like it would bite anyone who approached.
Go Eun-sil, after carefully observing the martens whole body, said.
It seems more like suffocation from the smoke than burns.
Jeong-woo clicked his tongue.
This damn wildfire is a disaster for them too.
Kim Jae-ho, the team leader at the front, spoke to the people.
Theres no time to waste. If were not going to catch it, lets move.
With the need to keep moving, there was no time to pay attention to the marten, which was showing its hostility.
As they continued to move, Jeong-woo looked at the marten as if it were nothing and reached his hand into the air.
Phew, smoke, go away.
What are you.., doing?
At Go Eun-sils question, Jeong-woo scratched his chin with a somewhat awkward expression.
Just.
Crackle.
Around the marten, white shes gathered,pletely different from the sparks. Crackling, the animal, which had been breathing heavily, soon stabilized its breath and calmed down.
A small creature suffered in the middle of the forest as the mes consumed it.
Through its jet-ck pupils, the footprints of people moving away to the other side of the fire could be seen.
Oh, Chief, are you out of your mind? Who on earth woulde through this?
In front of the scorched forest, 20 meters from the burning pit, Lee Heung-sik, a forestry officer from the county office, wore an expression of disbelief.
It was an order, yes, but with only twelve firefighters in the suppression team, there was a danger of being swept away, let alone trying to control the raging mes.
Captain, the fire is likely to reach here soon. Shouldnt we retreat? Weve waited as much as an hour.
Im seriously considering it too. Let me try the walkie-talkie.
While calling the situation room and waiting, the walkie-talkie blinked.
Crackle.
-Fire suppression team on standby at the east fire ignition line, do you copy?
What?
Lee Heung-sik pressed the transmission button on the walkie-talkie with a surprised expression.
Forest Service fire suppression team leader here. Who are you over there?
-Its Kim Jae-ho from the rescue team. Were nning to break through the fire line soon. When you see the fire light, concentrate the firefighting equipment in that direction.
Youre inside?
As absurd as it sounded, there was no time to be dumbfounded. Lee Heung-sik ordered all members carrying backpack pumps to prepare for forward waiting.
Where is it? Where?
Observing the mes for about a minute, a point of fire suddenly surged like a flickering candle. Along with it, the light of shlights began to twinkle.
Theyre here! Concentrate!
A stream of water from the backpack pumps was directed toward a point.
On the opposite side, an airpressed firefighting device shot out, creating a small path through the sea of mes.
Shoot, shoot! Pour it in!
After a while, about a dozen people walked out of the mes.
Crackle.
-Team leader, have you met them? Tell me. Is everyone safe? Please tell them that everyone is safe.
A transmission came from Chief Oh Seon-yong.
Lee Heung-sik looked at the survivors who emerged from the inferno with an expression of disbelief.
Are you all out? How many in total? Report to the situation room.
The firefighter wearing a Beware of wildfires safety helmet, walking out from the far end, answered Lee Heung-siks question.
Ah, there are eleven of us.
While answering, something ck suddenly shot out from under the firefighters feet and swiftly brushed past Lee Heung-siks side.
Startled, Lee Heung-sik jumped to the side.
The firefighter, surprised and confused, continued to speak.
and a marten.
Chapter 96
Chapter 96- Wildfire(5)
As the radio waves from the base station reached the point where they walked, someones phone rang out as if it were on fire.
Yeah, I came out safely. Oh, sweetheart, dont worry. Thanks to the firefighter, I didnt get hurt at all. Huh? Retirement? Im not doing anything dangerous. Its just an unfortunate wildfire You want me to go out and die? Honey!
Seong Ra-il, who was capturing the rescuers and those rescued, including Nam Jeong-yeol, who was talking to his family, turned his gaze to the rescue team walking silently in front.
Click.
The member who had steadfastly guarded their sides in this hellish ce seemed to have reached the end of life.
Theres no reason to be afraid of them; they are the same people. If there are heroes in reality, they are undoubtedly referring to individuals like them.
There theye! Everyone is alive!
As they emerged from the forest and onto the unpaved road, the broadcast station cameras focused on the group.
With the ry vehicles lined up in the mountains, the rescuers walking at the front couldnt help but be startled.
-Breaking news.
A reporter standing to the side spoke passionately into the camera.
-Suddenly, five people, including Mr. Nam, who were trapped in the refuge of Hyangrobong due to a rapidly spreading wildfire, were safely rescued by the rescue team from the Seoul Central Fire Station, who risked their lives to air-drop. The quick situational judgment of the on-site manager, who was on helicopter patrol, led to this miraculous rescue operation
As they approached, journalists with recorders and microphones rushed forward.
JBN Reporter Yoo Byung-ho here! Youvee back from a ce where survival seemed unlikely. Anyments?
OBS here! About the method of escaping on foot through a ce where the temperature instantly reached 1,000C, experts have various opinions
How did you endure for over an hour in arge fire
Walking amidst the crowd of reporters.
Seong Ra-il had always roamed around for coverage, but he had never been the subject of coverage, so he looked bewildered at the bustling journalists.
La!
Huh? Senior.
Among the reporters was a senior reporter from the same newspaper. He looked at her with a face that had aged a decade.
When I heard you went for coverage at Mt. Maebong I thought I would have to hold a funeral for you.
I thought the same.
Well, seeing you joking, I can rx. Anyway, lets do some coverage. Isnt that experienced rescuer in front the team leader?
Senior. We should focus on someone else rather than the rescue team leader.
Who?
Confirming that it had be an event receiving this much attention from the press, Seong Ra-il could only focus on a young man wearing a safety helmet in the chaos.
If there was someone with abundant stories, it would undoubtedly be him.
It was Mr. Han who led us to safety.
I dont know, I was just following Jeong-woo.
The fire was just burning, and Mr. Han said, Wait for three seconds! and three secondster, the path was open. You should have seen it.
Despite the chaotic interviews mentioning individuals simultaneously, when the name Han Jeong-woo was mentioned, the reporters attention turned towards him.
Han Jeong-woo? Who is Han Jeong-woo?
Hes not here. Where is he, Han Jeong-woo?
The senior sent a look to Seong Ra-il, asking, Is the person youre talking about Han Jeong-woo?
Seong Ra-il nodded, pointing to the young man walking alone in the back. He was paying attention only to the burning forest.
Mr. Han Jeong-woo!
At the strong call of a reporter, the young man turned his head.
Yes?
It seemed like a stampede, when the reporters rushed towards Jeong-woo once his location was confirmed. Even though it wasnt a firste-first-served situation, reporters with recorders in hand eagerly threw questions.
Is it true that you led these people through the fire?
Youre wearing a different firefighting suit than the rescue team. Are you a wildfire expert?
Even the seemingly unshakeable rescue team leader, Kim Jae-ho, looked bewildered as camera shes went off from all directions. However, Jeon-gwoo remained indifferent, focusing only on observing the wildfire.
Jeong-woo, over here!
Jeong-woo!
Whether he was familiar with cameras or had another reason, now that the crisis seemed to have passed, why was he so absorbed in scrutinizing the wildfire?
The young man who had guided the group like a miracle, upon reflection, wasnt even a member of the rescue team, yet he had plunged into the wildfire.
Seong Ra-il sensed the instincts of a journalist twitching.
Staring at Jeong-woo, he had a strong premonition that his extraordinary story entangled with this massive disaster was far from over.
Hey.
The first response from Jeong-woo was a surprised exmation, causing the leading journalist to pause.
Mr. Han Jeong-woo, in the midst of that fire
Huh?
Before the question could finish, Jeong-woo, who was looking towards the wildfire, let out another surprised exmation, stealing the timing from the journalist.
However, a relentless question attack is like a lifeline for an active journalist. The journalist continued to press on.
The reason behind this miraculous rescue in the midst of the fire, tell JBN viewers!
Rescue? We havent escaped to a safe area yet.
Jeong-woos firm answer left the journalist dumbfounded.
Team leader!
Jeong-woo called out to Kim Jae-ho, who was standing at the forefront.
The number of fireheads in this area has increased from three to five. The wind keeps getting stronger, so we need to get out of the blockade quickly.
Kim Jae-ho nodded his head. Then, he shouted loudly to everyone.
Did you hear that? This area is inside the blockade! Evacuate immediately towards Route 46!
Amidst the buzzing journalists, Jeong-woo pointed to the broadcast station vehicle that was visible.
Its going to be ruined if it stay there. Please leave quickly.
JBN reporter Lee Byung-ho, with a skeptical expression at Jeong-woos words, asked.
Isnt the wildfire a km away from here? In such a short time, will the mes reach this ce?
Not exactly.
Then
Something like that?
Jeong-woo pointed to the sky, and burning pine needles and branches fell in an arc.
Although no one was hit since they fell on the nearby farnd, it was enough to send shivers down the spines of those watching.
Ssh.
Led by Captain Lee Hong-sik, the extinguishing team concentrated the water stream towards the falling embers.
Meanwhile, Jeong-woo, who had been closely examining the other side of the wildfire area, changed his expression.
To the extinguishing team! Something big ising! Be careful!
Shaking his head, Lee Hong-sik, taken aback by the sight of a tree trunk half-exploding like a bomb due to the wind speed of 15 m/s, fell backward, splitting his buttocks on the spot.
Uh Ugh.
The surrounding team members quickly used the water pumps to suppress the fire on the tree trunk.
Jeong-woo gestured towards Lee Hong-sik and said to the nearby journalist.
Did you see that? If that falls on a car, it wont be okay Huh? They left.
Since they werent going to y the role of a war correspondent risking their life for coverage, various broadcasting vehicles, including JBN Lee Byung-ho, began to leave one after another.
Having witnessed fires of this magnitude so frequently that it no longer fazed them, the five seasoned rescuers chuckled as they observed those journalists.
Clear the remaining embers as much as possible while moving!
Kim Jae-hos instructions were given.
Rescue Team 1 and the Forest Service firefighting team formed lines and walked for about 20 minutes. A road with around 100 Forest Service employees preparing to establish a firebreak was visible.
Finally, they escaped from the shelter and arrived at the eastern blockade line.
Anyone injured?
The paramedic who had been waiting with the team after receiving the call approached with an emergency box.
No serious injuries. Just need some water.
Me too!
As water bottles were passed around, the weary group found a ce to sit and catch their breath.
Jeong-woo, please take some water.
Jeong-woo epted the water bottle thrown by Jeong Pil-du and sat directly on the asphalt on the side of the road.
After more than two hours of hiking, his leg muscles were more sore than ever.
Youve been through a lot, Jeong-woo.
Go Eun-sil sat down next to him. Taking off her face mask and sweeping her sweat-drenched hair to one side, she looked at Jeong-woo, now appearing more alive.
I was so overwhelmed after getting out that I couldnt even greet you properly. Thank you for taking care of me all the way.
Its not just me. Mr. Pil-du also went through a lot protecting you.
I already greeted him. Right, Officer Jeong Pil-du.
Jeong Pil-du, who was drinking water nearby, nodded shyly with a smile.
Watching Go Eun-sil, who was shaking off the dirt from her shoes with a firefighters nket, Jeong-woo asked.
So, you became a veterinarian?
Go Eun-sil turned her head and gave him a yful smile.
Why? Doesnt it suit me?
I remember you werent the type to be fond of animals or had a delicate personality.
What kind of personality did I have then?
An overbearing personality who drags you down a stern schoolyard alley and forcibly kisses you?
I remember that well.
Smiling at Go Eun-silsughter, Jeong-woo remarked.
Soo-chan still talks about that incident.
You didnt refuse back then. Why are you acting like a victim now?
I couldnt say anything. A girl who transferred just a week ago, why is she doing this to me? It was shocking.
You treated me well, thats why.
After making the statement, Go Eun-sil looked at Jeong-woo with surprise.
You look exactly the same. It brings back memories.
Jeong-woo turned his gaze towards her. Except for the lively eyes, the face was faint in his memory.
Eun-sil, I dont think I would have recognized you if I had seen you in passing.
Maybe it was because they didnt meet again in ces like school reunions, but the expectation of an awkward encounter was pleasantly shattered.
They chatted naturally, catching up on old stories.
Lets have a little more to drink.
Go Eun-sil reached for the water bottle Jeong-woo was holding. Jeong-woo, surprised, moved the bottle aside and said.
Get a new one.
Hey, cant you even give me a sip?
Jeong-woo, who was pondering inwardly, replied.
I developed a trauma. Ever since what happened with you, I became sensitive to every action involving the mouth. Even indirect kisses.
Youre lying.
No, really.
In response to Jeong-woos yful response, Go Eun-sil looked at him with disbelief.
Then what? Have you never kissed a girl before?
Well noment. Privacy.
Come on,e on.
Jeong-woo avoided Go Eun-sils gaze and turned his head toward the mountainside, where he noticed something intriguing.
That marten is still here.
Where? Oh my, it seems like its been following us all this time.
A small creature scurried about on the rice paddies. Despite the clear distance from the well-lit area with vehicles and people, it didnt run away.
Jeong-woo pointed towards the mountain on the opposite side of the barricade.
Marten, go over there.
Do you think itll understand?
What else can we do? It might be dangerous here too.
Just a moment. This guy is an expert. Hes a professional wildlife capturer.
Go Eun-sil approached a man sitting next to Chief Nam Jeong-yeol and struck up a conversation.
Fascinating. Did you follow us?
Just to be sure, Jeong-woo discreetly released a shbang using a battery he had in his gloves.
With a loud bang, a sh lit up the surroundings, and the marten followed the scattered shes.
Really.
He sent the shbang a bit further.
The marten moved as if possessed, chasing the shes. In this way, they crossed National Route 46 and arrived at the forest untouched by the mes.
Strange. It seems like he see us as a guide.
Employees of the Ecological Restoration Department, Moon Hyeokjae and Go Eun-sil, approached Jeong-woo while conversing.
I rarely see a case where trust is built with a wild animal in such a short time. If you can get closer, you can wrap it in a shirt or nket and ce it in a safe ce.
Really?
But why did it follow us without being cautious? Any opinions?
I have no idea either. Huh? Where did it go?
Go Eun-sil turned her gaze towards the reeds and her expression became perplexed. Jeong-woo pointed with his glove towards the dark forest.
It seems to be going there on its own.
What? Oh my, it seems like weve worried for nothing.
Jeong-woo threw another lightning bead towards the distant forest.
Jeong-woo soon sent hisst shbang towards the distant forest. The marten, which had nced towards Jeong-woo once, briskly disappeared into the darkness.
Make sure to find a safe haven.
That ce was a serene spot without mes or smoke.
The midnight forest, which would normally seem eerie, felt cozy now. Jeong-woo couldnt help but smile inwardly.
Squeak.
-This is themand vehicle driver. We have arrived.
Upon receiving the radio message, Kim Jae-ho approached Jeong-woo.
Now, it seems like you should go to the situation room.
Upon hearing this, Jeong-woo turned his gaze to Go Eun-sil, who had been shouting with him for a while.
Ill go. Lets all have a drink together with Soo-chanter.
Youre going to stay here at the scene?
Probably.
Alright. See youter.
Jeong-woo, who had boarded the firefightingmand vehicle stopped on the road, disappeared to the other side.
Even though its a happy ending, is it an open ending?
Quietly observing the direction where Jeong-woo disappeared, Go Eun-sil received a text message on her phone.
[What will you do, Eun-sil? We are currently setting up a medical camp. You can rest if you want.]
The Korea Animal Rescue and Management Association also provided support to treat wildlife affected by the wildfire. Without much hesitation, Go Eun-sil replied.
[I have to help in this situation. Where did you set up the camp?]
Inside themand center at the wildfire scene.
Around the expanded situation board near Mt. Maebong, members of the emergency response team were gathered.
Beside the fieldmand chief, Miles, stood the emergency rescue control officer and the fire helicopter supervisor.
Next Oh Seon-yong, the head of the Forest Service wildfire prevention manager, were the military information officer and the director of the meteorological office.
On therge monitor on the opposite side of the table, real-time channels were open, disying video calls from the governor, mayor, county executive, police station, and health officials who were waiting for updates.
Miles held a radio tuned to the public channel.
The current time is 00:05. As the crews arrive at the containment lines, we willmence operations. In case of safety issues rted to wildfire suppression, decisions will prioritize the judgment of the on-site suppression chief. While maintaining the containment lines is crucial, first and foremost, take care of your own safety.
The containment line operation around the Mt. Maebong area involved cutting down trees in an area 1-2 km away from the fire line, clearing leaves and debris, and digging into the soil where the fire was severe.
Over 5,000 personnel were involved, including firefighters, military, police, Forest Service, and civilian organizations.
Near the roads where mechanical equipment had easy ess, cranes and bulldozers were mobilized. In the rtively inessible mountainous areas to the north, helicopters and airborne firefighting teams were additionally deployed.
Within a radius of 100 km from the wildfire epicenter, all fire watchtowers were currently manned by three shifts of observers, diligently detecting any areas where the fire might spread rapidly.
Squeak.
Chapter 97
Chapter 97- Wildfire(6)
-Cheondori has arrived. The vigers are here to help, and well work together.
-Operation Firestorm has begun. Absolute no ess near the southern line after this.
-Joined forces with the firefighting team at the blockade. Restrict entry to Route 46 for civilian vehicles afterward.
While information on the situation board kept circting without a break, the p of the tent opened, and the smell of burning rushed in. Then, Jeong-woo entered.
Miles, who was listening to the radio report, made eye contact with Jeong-woo and gestured to the seat next to him.
With a sense of unease at the unfamiliar faces inside the tent filled with the smell of burning, Jeong-woo walked in.
He was stunned to see arge screen on one side with the faces of the governor, the mayor, the chief of police of Gangwon Province, and themander of the 12th Division.
Whats going on here?
Only those in positions with significant responsibilities were present, making Jeong-woo wonder if he belonged here.
Standing next to Miles, the emergency rescue control officer, Shin Jong-seok, nced at Jeong-woo.
Why are you dressed like that?
I was in the wildfire until a moment ago.
Wildfire?
Miles lowered the radio and lightly tapped Shin Jong-seoks shoulder.
Hes Han Jeong-woo. Remember Hwacheon?
Hes that young?
Shin Jong-seok looked surprised, then extended his hand for a handshake.
Nice to meet you, Mr. Han Jeong-woo. I cant thank you enough.
Thanks?
In the winter, werent you the chemist who got us out of a five-thousand-car pileup in Hwacheon without a single casualty? Ive never heard such apliment before. Themander was in a frenzy.
Ah
While shaking hands with Shin Jong-seok, who seemed pleased, Jeong-woo caught the attention of Oh Seon-yong, who was in conversation with the head of the meteorological office.
Who is he?
Hes Han Jeong-woo, the chemist who helped us in Hwacheon.
Chemist?
Upon Miles response, Oh Seon-yong chuckled.
Then he should be at the supply site, not here
Observing Jeong-woo from head to toe, Oh Seon-yong trailed off. The fireproof suit with plenty of scorch marks clearly indicated how intense the encounter with the mes must have been.
Excuse me, did youe here for firefighting operations?
Miles took the initiative to answer this question as well.
Dont you know? Hes the friend who resolved the situation you dismissed as luck. The one who kept the death toll on that situation board at 0, not 7.
Oh Seon-yong closed his mouth in surprise.
Miles pointed to the topographical map.
Jeong-woo, this is the ignition point map, including the new reports from surveince posts at 50 locations. What do you think?
Just a moment.
While Jeong-woo began examining the situation board, a radio transmission came in.
-This is Fire Captain East 3. The fire is approaching at a dangerous rate. Please send all avable firefighting resources, as it may reach the fire line soon.
Jeong-woo lifted his head to Miles, who had ordered the deployment of fire trucks andrge helicopters around the vicinity of the third ignition line.
What I saw from the surveince posts and what Ive seen passing through are almost the same ignition points. Besides the areas that will be ignition points in the future, this is too optimistic an assessment.
Jeong-woo recalled the chemical reactions he had carefully considered.
There were many dead trees in the eastern forest area. Fuel that hasnt rotted due tock of rain but has turned into firewood. Residues of leaves and dry grass remaining in the soil. The forest itself could be called a natural kiln.
Miles and other officials turned their gaze to Jeong-woo as he continued his fluent analysis.
In predicting where the fire will spread, we need to urately understand not only the wind speed and direction but also the past state of the forest.
The past?
Miles, who knew more about nearby forest resources than anyone else, thought of Professor Son Dong-joo.
Jong-seok, send one car to the designated hospital for the injured.
Miles, instructing to bring Professor Son, looked at Jeong-woo as if asking if there was anything more to add.
While passing through the ce that was a fiery hell on all sides, Jeong-woo brought up a story he had contemted throughout.
The hot gas gathers in various ces, making the intensity of the mes severe in many areas. If this flows along with the wind towards the firefighting line, people nearby could be in great danger.
Heh, Im worried about that too. Not everyone can assess and respond to the fire as well as you can.
Thebustion reaction involves fuel and oxygen. The three factors of fuel, oxygen, and wind must be in harmony for it to grow. We cant control oxygen and wind here. However
Jeong-woos eyes sparkled.
Fuel is different. Its fixed in ce and burning. If we can induce a reaction that forcefully propels this fuel into the center of the high-intensity mes, could we cut off the pulse of the wildfire?
Propel it away? Jeong-woo, do you know how to make a bomb? I mean, youre a chemist. Still, this problem is not at a level where I can approve your unteral decision.
While Miles mentioned obtaining approval from everyone in the emergency control room, Oh, who was listening nearby, spoke with a serious expression.
Mr. Han Jeong-woo. Ive visited firefighting operations in wildfires in the western United States. Ive seen a method of dispersing ignition balls shaped like table tennis balls from a helicopter to intentionally cause an explosion. However, that was merely symbolic, simr to a match, and in our country, we cannot use explosive materials like that.
Jeong-woo responded to the misunderstanding between the two people with the highest authority on the scene with more precise words.
I guess you can consider it a bomb, but were not using fire; were using water. The special me retardant that KG Chemicals brought this time can be considered as such.
After a while.
Jeong-woo entered the outer area of the parking lot that was being used as a supply point.
Unlike themand center where fire trucks were waiting, this ce had vehicles from external support parked.
From a small van from a nearby hospital carrying medical supplies to a 1-ton truck loaded with personal equipment like shovels needed to construct a firebreak.
In the midst of it all, threerge trucks with KG Chemical markings were also present. As he approached, someone with a familiar face was anxiously pacing in the parking lot.
Mr. Jeong-woo!
Deputy Gong Gyeong-ho spotted Jeong-woo and approached.
Youve been through a lot huh? What on earth happened?
Seeing Jeong-woo up close, Deputy Gong widened his eyes. Probably because of the shoes coated with charcoal and the outerwear that had turned into an ash-colored coat.
Jeong-woo exined the detailed story that had be like this in four hours with a bitter smile.
Approaching the back of the truck, Jeong-woo, after confirming that both trucks were already empty, asked Deputy Gong.
Is this everything you brought?
We swept everything from the warehouse. Except for the powder extinguisher that was in the production line due to the sudden order. Theyre being rushed, but they wont arrive until tomorrow. Is there any policy from the Situation Room about the chemicals?
Well
As Jeong-woo sifted through various medicine boxes in the third truck, he recalled the words Miles had said just beforeing here.
-Jeong-woo, as you can see, thousands of people are entangled in this situation. I can only assign one helicopter for now. If theres any progress, Ill request from the Forest Aviation Equipment Division as well. They have manyrge helicopters there.
Jeong-woo turned to Deputy Gong.
From now on, were going tobine the chemicals that the firefighting helicopter will carry. Could you help me a bit?
Here?
Its an emergency situation.
Seeing Jeong-woo starting to carry boxes with his sleeves rolled up, Deputy Gong hurriedly ran over to assist.
If its abined chemical, what principle is it based on? Are you trying to enhance the firefighting performance suitable for arge wildfire?
No. The basic performance of chemicals that block oxygen or lower the ignition point has no room for further improvement.
Then what
Jeong-wooid out the boxes one by one on one side of the parking lot.
He calmly exined to Deputy Gong, who was curious about what could be done in a ce without sophisticated measuring tools or equipment for synthesizingpounds.
Ill exin the theory of the non-uniform reaction of thisbinationter. I could babble about the bulk density form of catalytic particles in the fluid medium for at least 10 minutes. Just think of it as an upgrade that ps the me throwing a tantrum.
A strange glint flickered in Jeong-woos eyes as he spoke, wearing work gloves.
The only tool he had was a simple shovel.
But with his current chemical abilities, there was no need to worry. He was doing his best to extinguish this wildfire. That was all he needed to focus on tonight.
Jeong-woo gathered a handful of stardust in both hands and passed it on with the shovel.
To the south, in the Guman-dong Valley.
Forestry firefighters, wearing safety helmets, pushed their backpack pumps towards the approaching fire.
Block it! The school is 100 meters behind!
At themand of the leader of Team 9, hands holding the nozzle of the backpack pump became busy.
A firefighter, who was swinging a heat-resistant nket against the mes that crossed the firefighting line, sat down on the ground, breathing heavily.
As sirens red, a firefighting pump truck stopped on the road. Firefighters who responded to the request came out with pike poles. The faces of the firefighters spraying water were filled with exhaustion, not having rested for a minute during the night.
To the west, in the Neatgang Vige area.
As mes nearing 1,600 degrees split rocks in half and shot up, a soldier, digging the ground with a shovel, was startled and fell backward.
Bum-jin!
The nearby squad leader ran to the fallen soldier.
Ugh.
The soldier, with second-degree burns on his backhand and forearm, moaned in pain.
Squad leader, quickly take the injured to the emergency medical tent! The rest, pull yourselves together!
Thepanymanders shoulders felt even heavier as the toon leader, sweating profusely, pounded the ground.
However, if this breach urred, not only the unit but also the nearby vige would be entirely engulfed.
When you see fire, report it immediately, and call the firefighters first! If we fail, a whole vige will disappear tomorrow!
To the north, at the Chiljeong Peak hiking trail.
Power pumps installed throughout the fire line were activated, spraying water ahead.
Weve almost got everything under control here. Stay strong!
A firefighter from the Gwangjin Fire Station, dragging a hose that was several hundred meters long, stepped forward, then shouted as he stepped on a depressed point in the ground.
Arge tree root had burned and created an invisible pit in the ground. Due to this, he, who suffered severe burns even on his knees, sat down on the ground and looked up at the sky.
In the night filled with struggle and mes.
This battle seemed to have no end in sight.
[Forest Fire Casualty Status]
[Deaths: 0 Injured: 48]
Watching the situation board, Miles let out a deep sigh.
Sigh.
-Team 16. Leg injury reported. On Chiljeong Peak.
Ill send a rescue helicopter.
Ending the radiomunication, Shin Jong-seok erased the 48 and wrote down 49.
Today, as the humidity reached the lowest levels this spring, dry heat from the descending air currents over the Taebaek Mountain Range,pounded by the Foehn effect, was piercing through the fire lines.
Listening to the meteorological factors analysis by the forecaster, Oh Seon-yong muttered with a raised eyebrow.
At this rate, when the sun rises, the scale of the wildfire will be uncontroble.
Miles expression became even more solemn.
The fairy tale-like story that the heavens bestow grace upon human efforts seemed like an unreachable miracle, especially in disaster zones.
He felt stifled, not knowing what further measures to take from here. The answer was not visible, leaving only a sense of frustration in his heart.
JBN Breaking Footage
Isnt the wildfire a km away from here? In such a short time, will the mes reach this ce?
Not exactly something like that?
Following Han Jeong-woos pointing finger, the cameras focus shifted to the sky.
Fireballs soaring from the distant mountain. Voices around eximing, What, what is that! in surprise, were captured directly in the footage.
Hoodeduduk.
The fireballs poured down onto the rice field like rain.
The astonished face of Reporter Lee Byung-ho, with his jaw dropped, contrasted sharply with the calm expression of Han Jeong-woo, creating a striking image on the screen.
To the extinguishing team! Something big ising! Be careful!
As Han Jeong-woo, scanning the sky, shouted again, the camera recording the scene shook in confusion.
And then.
Boom!
Something mmed into the rice field like a cannonball.
From various directions, screams of Ahh! and Run away! echoed. Reporters turned into startled rabbits. The camera scanned the broadcasting station vehicles, starting their engines and departing one by one.
Afterward, the camera hastily zoomed in on Reporter Lee Byung-ho approaching, and as it continued to record, something suddenly popped out from the dark forest, prompting an instinctive zoom.
A marten with glowing ck eyes like buttonholes.
The innocent and naive expression of the marten,pletely at odds with the tense situation, briefly became the hidden protagonist of this chaotic scene before disappearing in a hurry behind Han Jeong-woo, who stood far away.
Retreat! This area is insane!
Lee Byung-ho, who had rushed over, climbed onto the side of the car.
The camera went off.
The screen made a pop sound and switched again.
Reporter Lee Byung-ho, holding a microphone, opened his mouth towards the camera.
This is the eastern area where the construction of the firefighting line by the 3rd firefighting team is in full swing. As of 2AM, the mes have approached within 300 meters, causing anxiety for everyone. Despite continuous helicopter support for firefighting efforts, there is no sign of the fire subsiding.
Tududududu!
Three KA-32T helicopters created a misty fog in the front airspace and disappeared.
Helicopters continue to be deployed to assist in firefighting, but there is no sign of the mes diminishing.
The camera panned over people throwing trees with electric saws in the background. Then, it turned to a scene where mes shot up in the distance, creating sparks in the air.
Whoa!
Be careful, itsing this way!
In the midst of the confusion, Lee Byung-hos report continued.
The on-site director in this area, Chief Hong Dong-sik of Jongno Fire Station, has expressed the determination to absolutely defend the firefighting line. Concerns about a major ident are growing as injuries due to the fire persist.
Above Reporter Lee Byung-hos back, a small helicopter with flickering lights approached.
Dudududu
Since the airspace was filled withrge helicopters going back and forth, no one paid much attention to it.
From the small helicopter passing over the mes in front of the firefighting line, a drum barrel began to fall to the ground. The mes protruding eagerly touched the falling drum barrel.
Experts warn that if we dont seed in containment by morning, a nightmare simr to the 2005 Yangyang wildfire could happen
In the cameras frame, the drum barrel, emitting a sh of light, was captured.
As if lightning struck from the sky, the cameras focus shook wildly. The cameraman who was filming trembled, causing the camera to shake.
A catastropheparable to the Yangyang wildfire is looming
The drum barrel exploded in mid-air.
Kuaaaaah!
A tremendous roar spread 300 meters in front.
Lee Byung-ho, who was reporting, turned around in surprise.
What the hell!
As much as the vibration, a thunderous scream erupted from Lee Byung-hos mouth. Realizing that he was in the midst of reporting, he urgently began to describe the scene unfolding before him.
Did you all see that! A bomb suddenly fell on the wildfire site!
However, to call it a simple bomb would be an understatement considering the very peculiar phenomenon that followed.
From the exploded drum barrel, cone-shaped masses poured out, not mes, but jelly-like chunks that were split into tens of thousands.
Falling to the ground, these chunks began to knock down everything that was burning on the mes with a forceful impact.
The, the fire
The mes that had approached the firefighting line lost momentum and dwindled.
The people on the screen were momentarily speechless, witnessing the unexpected turn of events as the falling chunks did not extinguish the burning like blowing out a candle with a breath but rather, like smashing a candlestick with a hammer, they forcefully knocked everything above the burning mes..
Chapter 98
Chapter 98- Wildfire(7)
06:26 AM Turning Point
The kitchen felt empty, as someones absence lingered. Jeong-chan, yawning, sat next to the dining table.
Mom, brother didnte home yesterday?
Yeah.
Hes been staying out a lot these days.
Jeong-chan, who tasted the soup Hong Ji-sook haddled for him, nced at the TV in the living room, where breaking news about the wildfire was in full swing.
It seems like its still chaotic over there.
-The massive wildfire that had burned over 100 hectares of forest and encroached on nearby viges in Goseong seemed to show no signs of subsiding. However, a dramatic turning point urredst night when KG Chemicals me retardant was deployed.
KG Chemical? Thats where brother works.
Jeong-chans eyes widened at the tremendous explosion scene disyed on the screen.
Wow, did you see that, Mom?
Its been on all morning.
-Lets get more information by calling our on-site reporter, Lee Byung-ho.
-Yes, this is Reporter Lee Byung-ho! I am currently standing in front of the temporary supply depot. Trucks carrying KG Chemicals special me retardant have been shuttling back and forth here all night.
The camera panned towards an open space with stacked stic boxes. A person moving through them briefly appeared and disappeared.
The person wearing that safety helmet looked a lot like him.
At Jeong-chans words, Hong Ji-sook turned her head. However, the screen quickly transitioned to a 3D animation exining the principles of the special me retardant.
He must have looked simr.
Amon face, just a coincidence between two simr-looking people?
Common? Mom, your standards for appearance are too high.
-This me retardant added a material capable of exerting strong physical force on the existing cooling effect. ording to officials, a researcher from KG Chemicals Materials Science Center used unique core technology to produce
As theplicated exnation continued, the attention of the two returned from the TV to the dining table.
Jeong-chan, who had been chewing and swallowing for a while, looked up.
By the way, why didnt brothere home? Another overtime? Business trip?
Hong Ji-sook poured water into a cup and spoke.
He said hes meeting Soo-chan. Tae-yeong and Jeong-heon too.
Those guys too? Theyre nning to drink without me. It must be nice for those who have Saturdays off.
Dont get influenced by their atmosphere; focus on your studies.
Got it.
Jeong-chans gaze lingered on the TV where the news was ending.
-The wildfire continues to spread due to the prolonged dry weather. Will today be the day to control the mes? Residents in the region are anxious.
Beyond the screen focusing on the reporter, a young man stretching appeared.
Jeong-chan, sipping water, confirmed the young mans face and muttered.
Hmm, why is he there?
The morning sun was gradually illuminating the surroundings. The night had been heated by the mes that blossomed from Mt. Maebong, and the sky still carried a dark red tint.
Ah, my back.
Jeong-woo sealed the drum container, closed the lid, and stepped back. The special me retardant, crafted tirelessly for a staggering five hours, amounted to a total of nine containers. With the chemicals running out, further production was no longer possible.
Mr. Jeong-woo, the truck has arrived.
In response to Deputy Gongs voice, Jeong-woo nodded and sat on an empty box. He silently watched thest drum container being handed over to the hands of the personnel from the Korea Forest Service.
Im d it worked.
Although he hadnt rested a moment throughout the nights work, Jeong-woos eyes were still clear and sharp.
Perhaps influenced by the ample intake of caffeine after a long time, Jeong-woo felt a slight sense of anxiety.
Still, if insomnia was the price of trying to fix this situation, it was a price worth paying.
Chiik.
-Jeong-woo,e to the situation room.
A voice came through the walkie-talkie attached to his hip. Even a brief rest seemed elusive as the wildfire was still in progress.
Deputy Gong, its a call for me.
Thank you for your hard work. Ill take care of the cleanup.
Let me know as soon as the second batch arrives.
On the way to themand center, Jeong-woo observed the emergency response of the Central Fire Stations Rescue Team 1, rushing to the scene.
As Kim Jae-ho, who had ordered the departure while riding on the fire truck, passed by Jeong-woo, he briefly lowered his head in acknowledgment.
They probably didnt get much rest either.
Trapped by the mes, suffocating in the smoke, crushed by rolling logs and rocks. Many injured had been brought to the emergency medical tent here.
When Jeong-woo entered the situation room, a meeting was already in progress.
All the team leaders, as the fire line stabilizes, start clearing the debris in areas where there is a concern for human casualties
Miles turned his head to Jeong-woo during the radio instructions and gestured with a short nod.
If the fire spreads around the transmission tower, report it immediately to the situation room. When the dew that formed in the early morning dries up, the fire will intensify.
Jeong-woo stood in his ce, examining the situation board.
Incorporating information provided by Professor Son Dong-joo, the topography map included elements rted to forest resources.
The area where the intense fire raged saw a significant reduction in numbers since the moment the special me retardant was deployed. However, the current issue was the widespread of the fire.
Attempting to suppress the mes spreading across 200 hectares of forest with 5,000 personnel was an impossible task.
Areas where the fire was not expected to spread significantly were boldly postponed to a lower priority, and they started the suppression process in the dangerous areas obtained from Professor Sons information.
After a night of crisis, this was the firefighting policy set in the meeting.
Mr. Han Jeong-woo.
As Miless radio instructions dragged on, a military official approached Jeong-woo. He was introduced briefly yesterday as Lieutenant Colonel Hwang Soo-seung, the information officer of the 12th Division.
Can we have a brief conversation?
Jeong-woo nodded, and Colonel Hwang asked in a low voice.
Is KG Chemical involved in defense-rted matters?
What? No.
That bomb you detonatedst night. The Division Commander was very impressed, and he asked if you have any intention to enter into a defense cooperation agreement with the Army Materiel Command.
Bomb? It wasnt anything like that.
It had the powerparable to a 150mm towed howitzer. Anyway, if you have thoughts on this, he wants you to connect with the person in charge at the Materiel Command. Please contribute your strength as a Korean citizen for national defense.
After Colonel Hwang returned to his ce, Jeong-woo shook his head slightly, appearing somewhat bewildered.
Making a bomb was still chemistry. However, that was a problem to consider when a war broke out.
On the other side, Oh Seon-yong and the Provincial Governor were in conversation through a video call.
As of now, there are 78 injured. Two severely burned patients have been transported to Seoul AN Hospital by helicopter.
-They should be safe. Cant you keep applying that me retardant that worked so wellst night? The media was making a big deal out of it.
Well, about that
Oh Seon-yong gestured to Jeong-woo, indicating for him to answer. Jeong-woo walked to the spot with the burn camera and looked at the Governor on the screen.
We ran out of materials. Additional materials are currently being produced at the factory and are expected to arrive by evening.
-Ah, I see.
And thisbination chemical has a strong explosive reaction, so it cant be used near people. When performing widespread firefighting operations like now, it needs to be carefully deployed. We cant afford anyone else getting hurt.
The governor looked at Jeong-woo, who answered calmly.
-Is there anything else you need? Ill take responsibility and support everything Mr. Han does.
Ill let you know if anythinges up.
-Dont hesitate to ask for anything.
At the governors unusual interest and remark, Shin Jong-seok, who was receiving a report on the status of the injured, became surprised and raised his thumb towards Jeong-woo. Jeong-woo walked over with a cool expression and stood next to Miles.
bear with it a bir more.
Chiik.
-Understood.
-Captain Ma, youve worked hard.
Afterpleting all the orders, Captain Miles turned his head to Jeong-woo.
Jeong-woo.
Yes.
Do you want to take the helicopter one more time?
Jung-woo hesitated.
Let me buy that fire-sniffing ability. How much?
Interview : Miles
Jeong-woo? Three words: heavenly, descended, firefighter. And theres more. The next chief of Central Fire Department, the Command Team Leader No, Chief Superintendent.
09:05 AM War of embers
Drrrr!
The sound of helicopter propellers was familiar after experiencing it once. However, this time, sitting right next to the pilot made the sensation entirely new.
As Jeong-woo boarded, the pilot extended noise-canceling headsets towards him.
-You can adjust the wireless channel by turning this part. Well depart once you fasten your seatbelt.
Shortly after, the reconnaissance helicopter ascended into the sky.
The daytime world visible through the cockpit was quite different from the night when nondscapes were visible.
Beyond the spread-out ridges like a fan, the deep blue East Sea came into view, dazzling Jeong-woo for a moment.
Wow.
Eventually, the helicopter changed direction.
Jeong-woo unconsciously swallowed a groan.
The mountains and fields engulfed in mes. The thick smoke rising from various ces vividly revealed the extent of this disaster.
Jeong-woo, no time to enjoy the scenery. Every minute counts.
Jeong-woo, who had never been particrly interested in public-spirited activities, felt a surge of energy throughout his body when he realized that five thousand people were still battling within the wildfire.
Jeong-woo grasped the mini topographic map handed to him by Miles.
Having adjusted the wireless channel, Jeong-woo closed and opened his eyes firmly.
The abstract world, filled with smoke, transformed into a silent realm detected solely by temperature.
He addressed the officials waiting in the situation room.
-Lets start cleaning up the embers.
Walking through the smoldering embers with a fire rake, Park Cheon-gu, the manager of the recreation forest, noticed a helicopter hovering above. He brought the walkie-talkie closer to his ear as it buzzed.
Chiik.
-Team 1. Theres a highly mmable area with a lot ofbustible materials at 70 meters in the 12 oclock direction. Prioritize extinguishing this area first. A fire head is heading your way.
Got it. Squads 1, 2, 3! Follow me!
Five firefighting team members clung to a 500-meter hose pulled from the roadside.
Swoooosh!
A robust stream of water spread out in front of them.
Noh Il-jeong, the chief of the fire department in Gunpo City, in charge of the 7th firefighting squad, was sweating profusely, facing a ze where a direct firefighting solution seemed elusive.
The jet of water ceased.
Already done? Rece the pump!
Recing!
As the team members lined up and conveyedmands toward the road, a click from the walkie-talkie sounded.
-Chief Noh, theres an area 150 meters north with a spring. If we use it as a water source, it will save a lot of distance.
Oh, really? Holy water! Jin-cheol! Get the power pump!
A helicopter passed over their heads.
Walking through the charred area, the members of the 13th firefighting squad, lined up in a row, each person with a debris detector who systematically scanned the sensors.
A beep sounded, and one person stopped.
Smoke!
The surrounding team members began cleaning up using rakes and backpack pumps.
Lee Cheong-jun, the chief of the firefighting team from Yangyang County, sighed. Having participated in firefighting operations during the Yangyang Mountain Fire in 2005 as a field public official, he was well aware that searching a 10-hectare forest at this slow pace would take at least two days.
In this situation, the rate at which the remaining embers could expand was faster than the speed of the search.
Thud, thud, thud!
A small helicopter appeared in the sky above.
Click.
-13th firefighting squad. Do you hear me?
Yes, Im the chief of the firefighting squad.
-As were scanning the ground with heat detection equipment, Ill guide you through the key points. Do you have a map? Please check the coordinates.
Lee Cheong-jun took out the topographic map.
-The B-13 area currently under search has wind blowing towards the firefighting line. There isnt much mmable material left, so focus on the natural leaf litter zone between B-12 and 11. Also, be cautious in the B-10 area where we applied special agents from helicopters in the early morning, focusing more on the cleanup of fallen dead trees than embers
Lee Cheong-juns face brightened at the very efficient search instructions.
Interview: Kim Jae-ho
I have never seen anyone who can see through the fire as clearly as he does. If he participates in the Firefighting Olympics, winning the overall championship is not impossible. We were evenly matched in the physical fitness events, but we lost to other countries in firefighting.
05:30 PM Oveing the Crisis
The forest monitoring officer at the wildfire surveince outpost was patiently observing the reduced smoke and mes, feeling somewhat relievedpared to the morning.
His duty involved using apass-like detector that rotated 360 degrees to check the surroundings, monitoring the shapes and movements of smoke that periodically entered his field of vision. When the timer rang, he turned his attention first to Mt. Maebong. Then, he radioed the information officer at the Forest Service.
The extent of the wildfire evolution by the next day after the initial response is something Ive never seen before.
Click.
-Agreed.
The decision of the on-sitemand responsible for deploying a significant number of veteran pilots to operate helicopters and digging the firebreak aggressively was considered insane when first heard yesterday. However, the results were now unfolding before their eyes.
Click.
-Bringing in that expert from KG Chemicals made the most significant impact. Hes been flying around in a helicopter all day.
Agreed.
As the monitoring officer turned the detector towards the other side of Mt. Maebong, he paused.
Huh?
If white smoke spreads widely on the ground, it means grass is on fire. If the smoke is dark or blue and rises narrowly, it indicates that a fire has caught on sturdy trees. And if both are ovepping
Wi-wildfire detection! Towards Masan! 10 km east of Mt. Maebong!
Chapter 99
Chapter 99- Wildfire(8)
At the same time, at themand center.
Jeong-woo sat down on one side of the parking lot, feeling exhausted.
Everything had been burned to a crisp.
Except for the time he had lunch with the pilot, eating a hamburger, he had spent a staggering 10 hours in the helicopter and at the fueling station.
His ears felt stuffy, and as he sat on the ground, he could sense the vibrations of the helicopter. Now, even the effects of caffeine seemed to have worn off, and sleep was creeping in.
Ugh, Im dying.
Ring.
A call came in, and when he picked up the phone, it was Yoon Yi-seol.
Yes, Ms. Yi-seol.
-The manager saw you on a JBN breaking news video. Are you in the wildfire area in Goseong?
Jeong-woo shared the same story he told his mother and Soo-chan earlier in the morning with Yoon Yi-seol.
Its for work. Its not dangerous. The situation is almost over.
-Is the researcher shown in the media you, Jeong-woo?
I dont know. I havent had a chance to watch the news.
-They say there are almost 100 injured. Dont get hurt. Ill be mad.
Remembering what he went through when she got mad, Jeong-woo chuckled before responding.
Even if that happens, Ill just take the scolding. Dont do anything else.
-Dont do anything Ugh. You made it worse. And I called because I miss you, so dont hang up. Lets talk for another 5 minutes. If I get sick, youll be the one to me.
Herughter was contagious. As they talked, Jeong-woo, who had been tired, found a sudden burst of energy.
If Yi-seol sings a song next, I feel like all my fatigue will disappear.
After ending the call, Jeong-woo, who had been resting for a while, was approached by others in a simr state.
Team leader, Mr. Pil-du.
It was the members of Rescue Team 1.
In this area, it was hard to find someone not in such a condition. Even journalists broadcasting 24 hours a day were scattered and sitting in various ces.
Kim Jae-ho stood in front of Jeong-woo and asked.
We have some cup noodles. Would you like to join us?
Sure, sounds good.
Nine men gathered around cups of ramen with water, chatting amicably.
Every time we go on a rescue mission, the firefighters we know always talk about Mr. Jeong-woo.
Really?
They say youre much better than Captain Ma. Comints circte that with only muscles instead of brain, he assigns tasks crudely. I honestly agree. While other teams get rotating shifts, were directly under him, and its always to the most challenging ces.
At these words, Jeong-woo turned his head towards themand center tent. If Captain Ma had heard, the veteran firefighter who had steadfastly survived in any disaster situation would be in danger for a different reason.
I heard youre quite popr with that school friend. Maybe
No, nothing like that.
But you do have a girlfriend, right?
Jeong-woo chuckled and evaded the question.
During the time it took for the ramen to cook, they shared stories about the incidents and idents that urred betweenst night and today.
A sense of camaraderie emerged from facing life and death together. Jeong-woo found this feeling not unpleasant.
It was about two minutes after pouring hot water when themand center tent suddenly opened, and Miles stuck his head out.
Jae-ho! There are isted individuals to the north! Since the terrain is rough, dispatch on a rescue helicopter!
Upon thismand, all members of Rescue Team 1 put down their chopsticks. It was an absolute jinx circting among firefighters. A rescue request alwayses when the ramen is cooked.
Oh no.
Kim Jae-ho, who noticed Jeong-woos gaze, smiled wryly and said.
Well be back before the ramen is cooked. Secure the survivors safely.
Take care ande back safely.
After the rescue team left, Miles approached Jeong-woo with a bitter smile.
Our leader of the rescue operation. Lets have a drink when we get back to Seoul.
What position do you have this time? Are you still in charge of the chemicals?
Hehe.
With a gentle gaze, Miles asked seriously.
What miracle brought you down from the heavens?
What?
Chiik.
-Captain Ma! To themand center!
With an urgent radio message, Miles expression changed.
Sensing the seriousness of the situation, Jeong-woo quickly left his cup of ramen and rushed to themand center.
Is the fire spreading?
Jeong-woo turned his gaze to the section marked on the topographic map.
The newly reported fire was a location where the fire slowly gathered along the cliff and suddenly exploded into an uncontroble ze.
If the response was even slightly dyed, it could turn into a massive fire like the one fromst night. Moreover, right next to it were densely popted areas with pensions, ski resorts, and an elementary school.
Miles ordered the deployment of helicopters and summoned all avable firefighters.
Chiik.
-Sorry, we dont have the capacity.
-Were in the same situation.
-Captain Ma, do we have any relief personnel avable?
Firefighters who had been active for 18 hours were grappling with fatigue and ovepping problems. The response from the firefightingmanders, who were already struggling to assist with the existing wildfire suppression, was almost non-existent.
There were only one or two ces that could be spared.
Miles, who was contemting, decided to redirect the situation by urgently deploying around 50 firefighters who had been reserved as rescue personnel.
If we had some of KG Chemicals chemical left, it could have been somewhat helpful.
Regretting theck of resources, Miles observed the situation. Meanwhile, Jeong-woos phone rang.
Huh? Why is this person?
Jeong-woo moved to a corner of the tent and pressed the answer button.
Director Yoon Jaegil?
-Oh, Jeong-woo. Its been a while.
How can I help you?
-KG Chemical is making such an impact. We, as the same chemical supplier, cant just sit idly by, can we? Ive sent Park Il-seongs team, so Han Jeong-woo, the field manager, please make good use of it. He should be in the external parking lot now.
News of Yujin Chemicals supply was a wee development.
After ending the call, Jeong-woo quickly scanned the forest resource situation that Professor Son had analyzed before approaching Miles.
Captain Ma.
Miles, who was on the radio, turned his head.
For the personnel to be deployed, please tell them to bring my powder chemical instead of the supplied one. Give me about 20 minutes, no, 10 minutes, and Ill prepare a fire retardant tailored to the wildfire outbreak area.
Jeong-woo rushed out of the tent swiftly.
Team Leader Park!
Park Il-seong stepped down from the truck adorned with Yujin Chemicals logo. ncing at Jeong-woos condition as he approached, Park Il-seong clicked his tongue.
Captain Ma, what on earth are you having this guy do?
Well, there were a few things.
Jeong-woo, who had spent a day in the wildfire area, looked like a firefighter who had engaged in fierce battles.
Heh, youve be a firefighter.
Jeong-woo lightly brushed off Park Il-seongsment and pointed to the truck.
Please open the warehouse. We need to release the chemical quickly.
Got it.
As Jeong-woo selected the boxes of chemicals by type and continued to bring them out, Park Il-seong approached and asked.
Are you not just releasing it, but nning to further improve it here? Our mobile researchb hasnt arrived. Its not avable domestically right now.
Im just going to mix it a bit, so you dont need to worry about it.
As Jeong-woo opened the boxes, a glint appeared and disappeared in his eyes.
Park Il-seong observed Jeong-woo, who started the mixing process with just a shovel, with a sense of wonder.
Chiik.
-Were approaching from the north side of Masan.
Miles, who was receiving reports from the members who were dispatched for initial suppression, examined the topographic map and spoke.
The road next to the farm there is the fastest route. The first team to arrive should assess the fire situation and report.
Chiik.
-Its more serious than expected. Dozens of ignition points within a 1 km radius. Im not sure if we can suppress it with just these personnel.
Upon hearing this report, Miles gaze turned towards Jeong-woo.
A fire that persisted for an additional 10 minutes due to a 10-minute dy in departure. However, Jeong-woos judgments, as demonstrated yesterday and today, were always correct. Those 10 minutes must have been worthwhile.
Miles, holded the radio.
Hey, guys. The chemicals youre carrying on your backs is top-notch. Heard about the early morning bomb story by the KG Chemical expert, right? Have confidence, and lets crush all these damn wildfires!
Chiik.
-The first team is heading out to control the fire.
Now youre a chemical expert, huh? Came full circle in the end. Phew.
In response to Jeong-woosment, Shin Jong-seok, who was checking the situation of the injured, burst into a chuckle.
Interview: Shin Jong-seok
-How was he in the situation room?
Can I be honest? Despite being the emergency rescue control officer, I couldnt help but be amazed. It was around 1AM, I think? When he suggested injecting a special form, only Captain Ma paid attention. But then, bam! Did you see the news too? Without the special form he came up with, the eastern containment line would have been breached.
-It was mentioned that he was also involved in the daytime residual fire suppression operation.
Involved? No. He led it. Was he good? Let me put it this way by evening, he had gained deep trust from almost all the site managers. In the midst of a serious situation, he became a ray of hope, you could say. Chemists are truly amazing, arent they? I dont believe chemistry is omnipotent in firefighting, but he kept making me think otherwise.
11:03 AM Those who survived
Twelve hours had passed since thest report on the massive fire. Miles surveyed each person inside themand center carefully from the central table.
As of now, the Special Operations Site Commander is transferring all authority to the Forest Service.
An official deration that the disaster level had dropped brought a collective sigh of relief from everyone in the situation room.
Shin Jong-seok spoke up as well.
Final report from the Emergency Rescue Control Officer. Two critically injured individuals sent to Seoul have been safely treated. No new injuries have been reported on the scene for the past twelve hours.
[Deceased: 0 Injured: 81]
Records of victims from thest two days.
Miles walked up to the situation board and pointed at the 0 under Deceased with his finger.
In my 13 years as a firefighter, Ive never seen a disaster scene where no one died despite injuries. Oh Seon-yong, youll be in charge of the long and tedious remaining fire suppression. Please keep this number frozen here.
Ill do my best.
Jeong-woo.
At Miles call, Jeong-woo, who had been dozing off, abruptly opened his eyes.
Oh! Is it an emergency deployment?
Wearing a Beware of wildfires hat, Jeong-woo jumped up.
Your job is done now. Go back and rest.
Oh, you surprised me. Is it finally over?
Looking unbelieving, Jeong-woo scratched his head. Miles nodded respectfully.
Im really thankful that you were here at this scene. You fought alongside us like a firefighter, even though youre not one.
Seeing Jeong-woo, who seemed taken aback, Miles bowed his head.
Dont say that. We all went through it together.
Oh Sun-yong also approached Jeong-woo, extending his hand.
If Han Jeong-woo were at the Forest Service, every spring would be a joyful time. Thank you for being a great help in tackling the fire.
Oh Not at all.
As the warm atmosphere continued, Jeong-woo quickly bid them farewell and left.
Woosh
Jeong-woo, sitting in the back seat of the firefightingmand vehicle heading towards Seoul, cast his gaze outside, observing the scenery.
The traces left behind by the raging mes swept through the majestic mountain ranges and fields. However, the sky above was as clear and blue as the East Sea he saw yesterday.
On the opposite side of Mt. Maebong, where he had sent the marten, the forest remained with the same circr pattern of trees. If spring rain falls and nurtures the sprouts, the forest will once again be a haven.
As the car moved along the road, they passed by a tentbeled Wildlife Rescue Camp.
Its Eun-sil.
Inside the open tent, examining a young mountain goat with traces of soot from the fire, Jeong-woo admired her focus and thought, How cool is that?
Wildfire.
This disaster endangered not only humans and trees but also the animals living in that area.
Why did I help so diligently?
The sense of duty couldnt be so profound. Why did he endure 36 hours here, sacrificing hisfort and luxury?
I dont know. Nature and humans. As long as everyone is safe, thats enough.
Yawning loudly and stretching his stiff arms and legs, he vividly remembered something he longed for.
The canned beer he hadnt had a chance to enjoy, drawn to this ce.
Imagining taking a refreshing sip, Jeong-woo buried himself in the seat.
Insomnia sucks.
As soon as he closed his eyes, sleep poured over him.
Interview: Yoon
Han Jeong-woo Hes the best chemist I know.
-How did you learn about the fact that a special feature article is being prepared?
Dear reporter, observing him and not writing an article about him is an insult to him.
-What kind of connection do you have with him?
A very close~ rtionship. If I had been a bit faster, he could have been mine. This is still top-secret, but Im nning a huge project for him. A next-level total care system. This will be an amazing coboration project
(Professional discussions went on for a while.)
-You requested anonymity, but is it okay to disclose this information?
Please edit it appropriately. Emphasize that someone is paying a lot of attention. Well then, the interview ends here. Wow! I want him, Han Jeong-woo!
The damage from the wildfire was minimal. An announcement from the Korea Forest Service stated that it would take about 30 years for the forest in Mt. Maebong area to be fully restored.
However, on that day, those who tirelessly ran in the opposite direction of everyone fleeing the wildfire rescuing all life they could find. Now, they can witness the long process of this forest being restored, having survived to see it all.
As Seong Ra-il, typed away, he turned his head to see the dawn sky outside the window stretching.
After pressing the save button, he got up from his seat.
Returning with coffee, he picked up the photo he had printed a few hours ago from the printer.
Because so much was captured in one frame, the scene when he took this photo became vivid in his mind again. It was a sight that had left a deeper impression on him than any story he had covered in his eight years as a journalist.
Underneath the smoky night sky, the mountain engulfed by the wildfire and the ckened pine trees at the foot were visible.
On the left, there were the rescue seekers trembling to avoid the approaching mes, and on the right, a rescue team member facing the flickering mes from a position ready to protect them.
And then.
In the midst of the desperate mes, the one holding the center of the group appeared when burning branches fell incessantly from above.
-Itll be over soon.
Pointing towards a woman in a firefighting suit, he calmly exined, through gestures and words, that this ce was not to be feared.
His smile, reassuring his anxious friend, was truly bright and tender.
After a brief rest, Seong Ra-il, who had ced the photo next to hisptop, began the final typing.
when asked for an interview, he politely declined, saying he simply doesnt have the time.
He also stated that he is not a special person. He did what any of the other five thousand ordinary people deployed for this task would have done.
When asked about what he would do after leaving the scene he answered with a shower, a can of beer, and sleep.
A regr person who became family to some, a friend to others, and a savior to a few.
Han Jeong-woo.
He is a chemist.
-On-site reportage Wildfire, Dongmyeong Ilbo, Reporter Seong Ra-il.
code: Molecr Form
case: Wildfire Suppression Megaton me Retardant
research: Developed at the end of March for arge wildfire near Goseong, the exposed chemical instantly coagtes moisture, exerting a physically powerful force.
feedback: There is a potential for misunderstanding it as an act of war when used near ceasefire lines.
Chapter 100
Chapter 100- Weekly Chemistry(1)
The discussion among the center directors at the KG Chemistry Central Research Institute conference room revolved around who should take the lead in presenting the first-quarter research performance, coinciding with the earning season.
With a broad smile on his face, Jang Tae-seon was the first to speak.
The focus should be on fundamental materials, shouldnt it? We sessfullypleted the project with Audrey, a symbol of sophistication that greatly enhanced the brands value. Is there another center that has properly finished a project in the first quarter? Anyone?
Hey, Director Jang.
Noh Jong-seon chuckled dismissively.
Didnt you hear about our Dust Project? Its being lifted bypanies like Jinma Group, and were on the verge of entering the Chinese market.
Wait until the fall when the entry is all settled. And when you talk about scale, do you know about Jeong-woo making a big hit with the new product for KG Life and Health? They say theres a potential to dominate the Asian market, and they even hired Yoon Yi-seol as a model.
Do you know that Jeong-woo sold boxes of the results of the early-stage polymer project hes been working on in China during his business trip?
Why would Center Director Noh spoon-feed the basic material polymer project!
I mean, what about your involvement in the Fragrance Center project? Didnt you just snatch the CF that Jeong-woo was supposed to shoot on Thursday?
What? Jeong-woo got the CF?
Dont speak if you dont know.
A heated debate ensued between the two, but other center directors didnt intervene. They were just wearing expressions of envy, mixed with jealousy and rivalry.
Since were talking about it, let me bring up something. Our Jeong-woo made a big ssh in the media as a material science researcher this week. Its a story that shareholders would love. The main point is in our favor.
Our Jeong-woo? Dont call him so familiarly!
Director Yoon Donghwi of the Pharmaceutical and Bio Center couldnt bear it any longer and mmed the table.
Jeong-woo, Jeong-woo! What are you guys doing during a meeting? Is the research performance report a kids game? In that sense
Yoon Donghwi turned his head towards Director Songu, who was sitting calmly and sipping coffee.
Jeong-woo will finish his assignment in the Materials Science department this week. Where do you n to send him next? Just to let you know, in our Pharmaceutical and Bio, there are ten potential projects that could achieve significant results this year. Weveid out the ying field for Jeong-woo.
Caught off guard by Yoon Donghwis attempt to grab Jeong-woo, the directors of the Electronic Materials and Battery Center were irritated.
Senior Yoon. Electronic materials are currently in a fiercepetition with the mobile phone business team for disy development. If Jeong-woo doesnt participate in the research on the next-generation mobile phone that will determine the market for the next three to five years, who else will?
Uh? Are you trying to push him into a long-term project? Lets talk about batteries. With the newly promoted lithium-air battery, 30 private space developmentpanies are already lining up. Oh well, NASA and ESA have expressed interest. If this goes well, batteries with the KG Chemistry brand will flood the space station. If theres a bigger project to prove our technical prowess, please tell me. If Jeong-woo bes the team leader, it should be at this level.
After a prolonged and inconclusive discussion, the attention of the directors turned to one person.
Director! What do you think?
Songus gaze shifted to the conference table.
Jeong-woos next assignment? Well, maybe
As Songus voice lowered, the directors ears perked up.
I think we should prioritize the ce that needs him the most.
That would be our battery department!
No, its electronic materials!
Pharmaceutical and Bio is the most likely!
And dont forget fundamental materials!
When Jang Tae-seon interjected with Lets add another one for polymer, Noh Jong-seon bit his tongue.
It was understandable that the directors were restless. In the past few months, Jeong-woo had achieved results far beyond everyones expectations.
With an iprehensible level of chemical sense and diligence inpleting assigned tasks, he was the sole researcher who exceeded everyones expectations. Who wouldnt covet such a talent?
As Songu calmly sipped his coffee, observing the chaos, he looked over at Shin Yoon-seok.
Dr. Shin
Yes, sir.
Yujin Chemical made an interesting offer.
Shin Yoon-seok examined the document Songu had pushed towards him and widened his eyes upon seeing Jeong-woos name.
This is not just about paying money to borrow a person. It seems like Yoon Jaegil is determined. Our directors may be in chaos, but it seems like this director doesnt care as long as he has Jeong-woo.
So, Dr. Shin, what do you think about this proposal?
Well, its not just about sharing overall benefits by dispatching one person. From a performance perspective, it can bring unprecedented advantages. Of course, in terms of Jeong-woo himself, its an opportunity that may note easily in his career.
Songu nodded, smiling gently.
But there might be a catch.
Yoon Jaegil may not reveal his true intentions. Without urately understanding that, we could end up raising the stock prices of rivalpanies just because of Jeong-woo.
Songu nodded again.
Dr. Shins insight is appreciated. We still have time, so Ill consider it a bit more.
Yoon Jaegils proposal was bold enough to shake the director. He couldnt wait to see where Han Jeong-woo, who was winning everywhere he went, would end up this time.
On Thursday morning, Jeong-woo yawned as he boarded the subway.
It was the end of his schedule at the Materials Science Center, and it was about time for discussions about the next assignment. His mind was in a state of uncertainty. Amidst this, today and tomorrow were scheduled for shooting amercial.
Poster shooting in the morning. CF shooting from the afternoon till tomorrow. Will I be able to do well?
Yoon Yi-seols deration, thrown casually like a passingment, was enough to make Jeong-woo uneasy.
ying the role of a chemist who sprinkles a magical deodorant on those struggling with odors. That was the initial story he had with the manager.
However, when Yoon Yi-seol epted the advertisement, the concept had changed somewhat, and he was filled with worries as he couldnt even anticipate how she would appear.
Dont be shaked if she looks pretty.
The impulsive kiss he had given her when she confessed, rejecting her feelings, hadplicated matters.
Sighing, he leaned against the swaying subway car, and his phone beeped with a message.
[This is Shin Ki-joon. Have you seen the real-time search rankings? Check thements on your channels newly updated video and contact me.]
Huh? An update?
Except for the cable cooking show episode aired as a special for the Lunar New Year, he was aware that there hadnt been any recent video uploads.
Curious, Jeong-woo raised his head and opened the video app.
Channel Chemistry- [Subscribers: 135,034]
Molecr Chef (feat. Yoon Yi-seol??) [Views: 450,674]
me Prophet [Views: 733,070]
[0m 6s]
like that?
A fireball falling from the sky. Jeong-woo pointing at them.
What!
Ahh!
Amidst the screams, Jeong-woos hand moved again.
To the extinguishing team! Something big ising! Be careful!
A burning tree trunk descended vertically onto the field.
Ahh!
Run!
The screen transitioned, and an interview scene appeared.
The fire was just burning, and Mr. Han said, Wait for three seconds! and three secondster, the path was open. You should have seen it.
The scene continued with the helicopter dropping a special fire retardant and exploding.
Jeong-woo clicked his tongue, wondering when such a video was filmed. With so many reporters and cameras around, it wasnt surprising that something unusual had happened. Since he was told to check thements, he scrolled down the screen to confirm.
-Who is this guy, anyway?
-Hes a special agent who infiltrated a chemicalpany. During a mission, he got shot and fell, losing his memory. He doesnt even know who he is; thats how he became a disciple of justice.
-Ja Jason Han?
-Please do a live broadcast. Ive been eagerly watching every single ad.
-Can we have more frequent updates? Once a month its too infrequent.
-When are you going to start streaming! Im craving for videos!
The sudden increase in subscribers, nearly four times the usual, was odd, but most of thements were asking for more videos or live broadcasts.
Why? Did I rank first in the humor board or something?
Jeong-woo wondered as he opened the inte window and checked the real-time search rankings. Han Jeong-woo was at the top. He reflexively searched it.
Breaking News: Chemist who prevented wildfire disaster!
Researcher who resolved the Hwacheon avnche in cooperation with the fire authorities this winter.
A legend that spreadte through SNS, which yed an active role in the Han River iron bridge corrosion problem.
Is this about me?
Channel Chemistry. Approaching 150,000 subscribers. A prmosing YouTube star?
A KG Chemical official reports that he will shoot a CF today.
Even someone not famous seemed to have every little thing turned into a news article.
Come to think of it, a few days ago, he remembered receiving a call from Reporter Seong Ra-il asking for an interview, which he declined.
It was because he couldnt find the time after finishing the Dust Project.
They said they would write the article, so I told them to go ahead
He had expected a special article but didnt anticipate it being this significant.
Jeong-woo lifted his phone and dialed Shin Ki-joons number.
-Have you checked?
Uh yes.
-Reporters are contacting me. There must be a lot of interview requests from KG Chemical as well.
They already know about the CF shoot.
-To avoid interference with your work, it might be better to hold a joint press conference.
A press conference? Ugh, what do I say?
-Reporters wont easily let go of someone who seems to have enough charm for the public, and youre a guaranteed clicker for the day.
Jeong-woo felt a strong sense of inconvenience and hesitated for a moment, as he sensed it would be troublesome.
Even if you say that, I dont want to have a press conference about this. Its not just me who suffered in Goseong. Is there no quiet way to handle this?
-If not a press conference, you might consider simrmunication. Have you confirmed that your channel subscribers want to see you?
If itsmunication
-I mean the previously mentioned real-time streaming. It may sound grand, but its something you can do anytime, anywhere with just a phone. Nowadays, young stars enjoy talking directly with fans for even just 10 minutes.
When he had some free time, Ki-joon suggested trying a brief session, especially during todays CF shoot. It was a chemistry-rted product advertisement, and if it followed the format of exining it, Jeong-woo wouldnt need extensive preparation. Above all
In Ki-joonsst words, Jeong-woo felt a deep allure.
-We can arrange for a celebrity makeup artist who excels in camera appearances.
He hadnt thought about it. The meaning of dressing up and wearing makeup like a celebrity. Jeong-woo wondered if today might be the day he could look the most impressive in terms of appearance in his life.
9 AM, at a studio dedicated to shooting posters in Gangnam.
Oh my, Yi-seol, arent you exceptionally beautiful today?
Yoon Yi-seol grinned at the makeup staff holding a brush for cheek touch-ups.
Really? Does it make guys hearts flutter when they see me?
Of course. Go out to the shooting set. People will only have eyes for you.
Examining her face reflected in the mirror from various angles, Yoon Yi-seol gained confidence and clenched her fist.
She contemted a strategy to steal Jeong-woos heart, whom she hadnt seen in a long time. To achieve that, she first needed to appeal to the CF director about the necessity of bold acting.
Manager Ji.
Yeah?
Manager Ji, who was reading a newspaper article on his phone in one corner of the waiting room, looked up.
You said that Director Jeong Bom wille for the CF shoot today.
Yeah.
Can I meet him separately before the shoot?
For what?
When Manager Ji asked sharply, Yoon Yi-seol looked away.
Well, you know. Isnt it okay to say hello before the lead actor starts? I have some opinions about the shoot too.
If youre going to raise issues with the CF concept, you should have told mest week. If youre asking me to delete the hug with Jeong-woo, think again. She was embarrassed that her clothes smelled before she hugged him, so she put on some Chaffrin.
At Manager Jis hasty prediction, Yoon Yi-seol looked at him through the mirror and said.
Why are you making such a misunderstanding? Please let me meet him separately before running away like that.
Wow, Yi-seol, did you just open your eyes so dramatically? You could try out for morning dramas.
To thisment, Yoon Yi-seol widened her eyes even more.
Yes, thats right. Im not the kind and gentle Yoon Yi-seol from before. What I want to do is what Ill do without hesitation.
The makeup staff, who was tidying up Yoon Yi-seols eyshes with mascara, could onlyugh at her cute defiance, which seemed like she was just squinting at a close friend.
This is freaking me out, Im going to manage, okay. Ill put in a call. Maybe Ill ask to lunch or something.
Opening the door, Manager Ji looked at someone passing by and eximed.
Amazing. Does finishing makeup make such a difference?
Yoon Yi-seol, who overheard Manager Ji, asked him curiously.
Who is it?
Jeong-woo. Wanna see?
The door swung wide open, and Jeong-woo stood in front of it.
Good morning, Manager. Its been a while, Yi-seol.
Looking at the reflection in the mirror, Yoon Yi-seol squinted. Her heart pounded when she saw Jeong-woo.
She intended to shake him vigorously, but if she wavered from the start, what could she do? Thinking this, she pped her cheek and said.
Whats with the hair
Huh? Is something strange? Its my first time doing waves with a curling iron.
It suits you well. Even though youre not a celebrity.
Oh
Her expression seemed angry, but Jeong-woo couldnt figure out what to say in response to Yoon Yi-seols atmosphere, which didnt seem particrly angry.
Whispering lowly, Manager Ji tapped Jeong-woos shoulder.
You dont have to worry too much about Yi-seols condition this week. When she feels like shes nning something great on her own, she gets like this. Maybe shes nning some surprising event for the showcase.
Something great, the showcase Right?
Sure.
Chapter 101
Chapter 101- Weekly Chemistry(2)
Jeong-woo was focused on the poster shoot in the studio, where hot lights were shining down.
Can you tilt your head slightly to the right?
Like this?
The photographer manipted the reflector to emphasize the contours of Jeong-woos face and said.
Pull in your chin. Keep your gaze forward~ Perfect!
Click. Click.
Each time the sh went off, there was a subtle tension. However, Jeong-woo had to hold himself as if he were a model, as the photographers demeanor changed drastically when he had a stiff expression.
Ugh, its awkward.
Thanks to the tailored tuxedo to enhance my appearance, it was difficult to breathe. Why was the bow tie so ufortable? It couldnt be more awkward, even though it was already awkward.
Now, change the pose. This time, try a slightly arrogant gaze. Imagine the Chaffrins bottle in your hand as a deadly weapon. Shooting stance. Like James Bond, you know?
Like this?
Striving for the best photo was somewhat equivalent to experimenting for the best result.
One hour was spent on facial makeup. While expecting to tidy up eyebrows or highlight the skin color, he never dreamed that there would be a separate perm for managing eyshes.
Click. Click.
Lets tidy up and go again!
As soon as the photographersmand came down, makeup staff rushed in, tidied up his hair, wiped away the sweat on his forehead, and evenbed and trimmed his eyebrows before disappearing.
Time passed without knowing how things were going. When he had heard the shutter sound hundreds of times, the photographer lowered the camera and said.
OK! Thats enough. Change the set color, and call Yoon Yi-seol in 10 minutes.
Finally, the shoot was over, and with relief, he stepped out of the lights. However, when he looked at the monitor, the photos taken just now were disyed.
Looking closely, Jeong-woo was startled.
Who is this?
A man standing proudly. No matter how you looked at it, it wasnt himself.
Perhaps magic wasnt exclusive to chemistry after all.
Heading towards the waiting room, Jeong-woo encountered Yoon Yi-seol in a dress, apanied by the staff in the hallway.
Wow
Faced with hermanding presence, Jeong-woo had to suppress a sigh.
The celebrity makeup, which he thought was ordinary, had a power that made him mistake whether he was handsome.
Thus, he could clearly feel how beautiful someone could be when already looking beautiful without it.
You go first. I have something to discuss with my manager.
Sure?
The hallway cleared as the staff disappeared. Yoon Yi-seol, with sparkling eyes like jewels, directed her attention towards Jeong-woo.
Hey. Han Jeong-woo, who rejects confessions but kisses freely ording to his own heart.
Yoon Yi-seols sudden direct hit brought a sh of memories from not long ago. As she approached and stared intently, Jeong-woo involuntarily averted his eyes.
Why cant you look me in the eye when you say youre so shaken and confident that youll give me an answer after 9 months?
Because of her mentioning the most difficult thing to address, Jeong-woo, in a state of being taken aback, started with a polite greeting.
Did you sleep well? Is everything okay with your body?
Well, every day exhausting because of someone.
Yoon Yi-seol, who used to be so nice, didnt let a single word pass smoothly. Jeong-woo recalled the ominous words that Manager Ji had given him.
The shoot today. Will it end safely?
Why are you asking me that?
Because Yi-seol keeps looking at me with those eyes.
What eyes?
Like youre scheming something.
With a meaningful expression, Yoon Yi-seol only looked at Jeong-woo without saying a word.
If you have something to say, just say it. Let me prepare mentally.
Tsk. Even if you dress up, its not like youll reciprocate. Why is your tie crooked?
Yoon Yi-seol approached and fixed Jeong-woos bow tie.
Do you know that the makeup artist also gave me waves like yours? Its a couple concept today.
Yoon Yi-seol, who transformed her long straight hair into voluminous curls, smiled brightly. Jeong-woos guard melted away at her affectionate gestures and smile.
Yeah. Shes Yoon Yi-seol. Theres no reason for her to create a difficult situation for me.
Jeong-woo spoke softly to Yoon Yi-seol.
Manager Cha mentioned that if the shoot goes smoothly, it might end by tonight. Since the showcase is tomorrow evening, try to finish early and get some rest. Even though filming is not familiar to me, Ill do my best to cooperate.
With a hum, Yoon Yi-seol lowered her head, forming an expression that made it clear that it would never happen.
Are you telling me to kick away the chance to be together 24/7?
Its because Im worried. If the schedule is tight, Yi-seols condition deteriorates, and if theres a mistake during the showcase
What mistake? Like this?
Yoon Yi-seol, who had just kissed Jeong-woos cheek. Jeong-woo caught off guard froze in embarrassment.
Stepping back again, Yoon Yi-seol grinned and opened her mouth.
I have a lot of time next week.
Yes?
You should understand without pretending. Its about going on a date.
A date
Oh. Ill just hold hands, so dont worry about your condition, Jeong-woo.
Casually grabbing Jeong-woos absent-minded hand, Yoon Yi-seol, as a staff appeared on the other side of the hallway, said.
If you reject, youll have to endure my numerous mistakes today.
What kind of threat was this? Even though Jeong-woos heart was pounding, he couldnt take his eyes off her sunny smile.
It seemed like this would happen.
He felt like he would shake uncontrobly as soon as he saw her.
However, the more he was attracted to her, the more clearly he realized there was a line that must be drawn.
Just one year, enjoying chemistry and spending time together was satisfying for Jeong-woo. Still, she kept making him think about life after that.
Im sorry.
Genes transformed by consuming proteinplexes. An opaque future after the contract ends.
Even if all of this was temporary, Jeong-woo still wasnt sure.
As uncertain as he was about how problems arising from him might cause her harm, these days were full of unpredictability.
Yi-seol, I am someone with everything uncertain.
Yoon Yi-seols eyebrows twitched at Jeong-woos serious expression.
The side effects of the drug are just part of it. Were still researching
So, youre rejecting the date because of that?
Yoon Yi-seol immediately cut off Jeong-woos words. Jeong-woo shook his head.
Its not about the date.
Thats the only problem I have!
Yoon Yi-seol raised her voice and shot Jeong-woo a challenging look.
Im not asking for much. Just meet next week on my day off, see each other, enjoy the cherry blossoms, have a meal, and maybe get a confession or a kiss. Its not that difficult.
Despite speaking out of anger, she added something without realizing it. Yoon Yi-seol felt it, too, and quickly continued.
Anyway! Jeong-woo, if youre confused, Ill rify it for you. Whos talking about marriage? Just like me a bit. Dont feel burdened.
Being with her made him follow emotions rather than logic. Jeong-woo tried to keep himself from making the same mistake asst time, leading her to the doctor. He tried to speak calmly. However, Yoon Yi-seols response was quicker, reading Jeong-woos expression.
I knew it woulde to this, so I prepared everything.
Yoon Yi-seol firmly grasped Jeong-woos wrist and put something on. When Jeong-woo looked down at his wrist in confusion, he saw it was a smartwatch used for exercise.
I understand everything. You keep hiding your true feelings. Today, Ill properly check.
Pressing the button on the smartwatch, Yoon Yi-seol pointed at the LED screen disying heart rate.
[120 BPM]
The heart rate was definitely not within the normal range.
Hey, hey. Why is your heart pounding like that? Are you mad at me?
[120 123 125.]
The numbers kept rising. Yoon Yi-seol stared piercingly at Jeong-woo, sending a beautiful and provocative nce in the midst of it.
Ill give you a pass for once or twice by calling it a coincidence. But. If it goes over 140 three times before the end of the shoot, its a clear signal for a date next week. If it goes over 150
Yi-seol, the shoot is starting!
A staff member shouted from the end of the hallway. Yoon Yi-seol raised her hand in acknowledgment and, as she passed by Jeong-woo, whispered.
Cant help it. Even if you say no with your brain, it seems your heart is not that good. Well have to date.
Thump.
[130 135]
Confirming the reality of what Yoon Yi-seol was preparing, Jeong-woo was left dumbfounded.
The full-scale CF shoot began at the KG Chemical headquarters.
Jeong-woo sat in the fragrance centers perfume room, watching the staff set up the shooting equipment. Having experience participating in cooking variety shows, being surrounded by multiple cameras, sound cables, and lights in a studio felt familiar.
Rehearsal in 15 minutes!
At FDs announcement, the hands of the staff became even busier.
While reviewing the script and the storyboard on the table once again, Jeong-woo couldnt help but sigh. The TVmercials of 15 and 30 seconds, focusing on scenes of product usage, and the 1-minute and 1-minute 30-second inte ads embellished with consumer interviews posed no problem.
However, a 3-minute video with aplete story arc was different. Although Yoon Yi-seol was the main model, Jeong-woo had a substantial amount of screen time. It wasnt a simple ad with a bright smile, saying, Chaffrin works well~.
Surely, theres some intimacy involved.
When his gaze lingered on the nned hugging scene script for the evening, Jeong-woo lowered his head. Even if it was a different situation, the BPM was expected to soar to the sky here.
I should have refused, saying I cant do it.
Once he started to be swayed, there was no time to think.
Jeong-woo pressed a button and checked his heart rate. A normal range fluctuating between 68 and 70. Even considering the sensors margin of error, it seemed fine.
If this keeps going over 140 and she checks it, even if I dont confess it will be obvious that I falled for her.
Stay calm. Cant I control my own heart?
Continuing deep breaths, the BPM dropped from 68 to 65. A very stable value.
Jeong-woo.
Turning his head at someones call, Jeong-woo saw Manager Cha Jin-seong approaching.
Manager Cha nced Jeong-woo up and down, then opened his mouth.
Look at how cool you look.
I spent an hour on makeup.
Jeong-woo smiled modestly.
I saw the news.
Manager Cha ced his hand on Jeong-woos shoulder and, with an admiring expression, said.
Jeong-woo, you really did something amazing. Im surprised every time I see it. Thanks to you, the CF synergy seems to be good. I dont even know how to thank you.
No problem.
Although the mornings real-time search rankings had dropped considerably, it was still at 7th ce.
Meanwhile, friends messages kepting, and he had to turn off his phone to avoid phone calls.
Next week is a new assignment, right? Center directors are going to be in an uproar.
Even without that, Director Jang is
Jeong-woo showed Manager Cha the message Jang Tae-seon sent. [Jeong-woo! How much? How much to have you!] he read aloud. Manager Cha smirked.
If you officially join in July, it should be interesting.
I might take a break by then.
Ill leave you now. Do well with the shoot. If you need anything, call me anytime. Ill be on standby until tomorrow.
Yes, Manager.
A littleter, Yoon Yi-seol and the director entered the fragrance room.
I didnt know Yi-seol had such passion for acting.
Ill trust and follow Director Jeong.
Ill capture a great picture too.
With a lightugh and a conversation with the director, Yoon Yi-seol walked over to Jeong-woos side.
Are you ready to shake things up?
Im prepared.
If you surrender now, Im willing to finish it on our next date.
I have to try being a man at least since Im born as one.
Yoon Yi-seol, with a fist pump and a yful smile, looked at Jeong-woos wrist.
You know its synced to my phone, right? If you really want to date me that badly, I wont stop you.
Lets speak straight. This is Yoon Yi-seols unteral announcement
Oh, did I make a big mistake here?
In this crowded ce where CF staff andpany researchers gathered to watch the shoot, Jeong-woo remained silent in response to her determination.
Win first. Then think.
Before making a decision, Jeong-woos determined breath continued.
Director Jeong Bom sat in the directors chair and spoke into the microphone.
-Standby!
Chaffrin 3-Minute CF 1-1 Fragrance scandal
-Mr. Han Jeong-woo, just follow the rehearsal. Dont be nervous.
Jeong-woo couldnt admit to the director that his tension was not due to the shoot but solely because of Yoon Yi-seol.
-Ready~ action!
A beakerbeled Experiment 1 focused on Jeong-woo, who was mixing chemicals.
Right now, Jeong-woo was portraying the chemist who created Chaffrin. The behavior of holding a bottle with transparent paint to exaggerate the color was a routine experiment, so acting was not difficult.
Drip.
The door to the fragrance room opened, and Yoon Yi-seol, wearing a white gown, entered. A mobile camera approached her face.
Hello, Im Yoon Yi-seol, a new researcher.
The sweet fragrance story of Jeong-woo, who became a KG Life Health researcher, and his assistant Yoon Yi-seol. That was the content of the 3-minute story.
Jeong-woo, focused on the experiment, didnt hear her words and continued pretending to mix the chemicals.
With curiosity, Yoon Yi-seol approached Jeong-woo. Her gaze felt on his neck, and Jeong-woo felt a slight shiver.
Um, what are you doing right?
In the middle of this dialogue, he turned with the beaker in his hand, rehearsing the scene where they collided.
Jeong-woo turned as promised.
Ugh.
And, following the rehearsal distance, he turned a bit closer, meeting eyes with Yoon Yi-seol.
[120 122]
Even without looking at his wrist, he could tell that his heart rate was rising. Their eyes met, and the beaker containing Chaffrin fell, creating a gentle fragrance.
Her surprised expression, enjoying the pleasant scent.
Wow, whats this?
Chaffrin.
Its nice, the fragrance.
Smiling with a face full of joy, she looked at Jeong-woo with affectionate eyes.
The first scene ended here.
The ad text in the storyboard shed in Jeong-woos mind.
-Yoon Yi-seols exciting fragrance scandal begins.
As soon as the director called cut, he checked his wrist.
[135 141]
Already?
Chapter 102
Chapter 102- Weekly Chemistry(3)
Chaffrin 3-Minute CF 1-4, Confession with Fragrance
-Action!
Yoon Yi-seol, peeking out from the door of thepany library, turned her attention to Jeong-woo, who was searching for materials between the shelves.
Her trembling gaze looking at Jeong-woo was perfectly captured by the camera.
-Its very emotional now.
While watching, Yoon Yi-seol was surprised to see another woman approaching Jeong-woo and speaking to him confidently.
She, who was about to follow them, checked the smell of the gown she was wearing and was startled.
I can smell the stew I had for lunch.
She returned to theb, grabbed a spraybeled Chaffrin, and lightly sprayed it on her clothes.
She sprinted through the hallway and returned to the library.
Excuse me!
Yoon Yi-seol stood in front of Jeong-woo, who was reading a book. The wind from the fan gently tousled her hair.
The entire scene was filled with the atmosphere of Chaffrins fragrance.
This is
Yes, that fragrance. Senior made it the day you wereing.
-And the fragrance that made me fall for you.
As the voice-over line ended, Yoon Yi-seol hurriedly said.
I like it.
Chaffrin? I like that fragrance too.
No.
Yoon Yi-seol sat next to Jeong-woo.
The two gazes intertwined affectionately
-Cut! Yi-seol, how can your acting be so lovely? Now, lets have a close-up of the scene where both of you are looking at each other.
Phew.
Jeong-woo, after hearing the words I like it, saw his heart rate spike and finally felt relief as it settled down. [139 BPM] It was a close call.
After the makeup staff came to touch up his face and left, the scene of them sitting face to face at the library table began filming.
-Gently, please.
At the directors request, Jeong-woo felt a sense of crisis approaching. Sitting quietly, making eye contact with someone who likes him felt like a form of torture in some aspects.
-Ready, action!
In the space where nothing was heard except the whirring of the camera, and all the staff held their breath not to disturb the emotions.
-Good, good. Keep looking at each other for another 10 seconds.
Her gaze was intriguing. How could she capture the trembling and poignant emotions so genuinely?
Jeong-woo felt a sense of urgency. Considering that this was only the early stages of filming, there was still a long way to go.
Jeong-woo. This is acting. Its not real. But why does Yi-seol seem so genuine? No, dont be deceived. Shes a veteran who has shot multiple music videos.
Amidst countless thoughts, as he tried to calm his heart at that moment.
Suddenly, a hand emerged from under the table and gently covered Jeong-woos hand, even going so far as to hold his finger. In Yoon Yi-seols gaze, casually looking as if nothing happened, Jeong-woo was caught off guard.
The warmth of the hand. An unexpected physical contact.
His heart surged more than ever.
-Jeong-woo, your expression is perfect now! Ah, you could be an actor.
Its only natural.
Because this emotion is genuine.
Cut, the sound reached him, and he reflexively checked his heart rate.
[143 BPM]
One more hurdle, and it would be her victory.
Chaffrin 3-Minute CF 2-3 Fragrance date
On a sunny spring evening at Yeouido Park.
-Now, well shoot the scene of you two having a natural conversation from a distance. Rolling, action!
Jeong-woo and Yoon Yi-seol sat on a bench, looking at the camera about 30 meters away.
In scenes like this where theres no given dialogue, what do you usually talk about?
Just casual chatter, or sometimes we y word games when theres nothing specific to say.
I see.
Yoon Yi-seol nced briefly at Jeong-woos wrist.
Youre holding up better than I thought.
Since the surprise attack at the library, Jeong-woo had been demonstrating superhuman patience, keeping his heart rate below 130.
Now, holding hands is something Ive gotten used to.
Let me see your hand. Lets check if its really be familiar.
Just y along with word games. It seems fair that way.
At Jeong-woos stepping back, Yoon Yi-seol burst intoughter.
Give it a try.
Should I go first? Polymer.
Oh, freedom?
Europium.
Pium? Dont talk about nonexistent words.
Atomic number 63. Theres an element named after the European continent.
Wow, really?
Continuing the word game, from man to iridium, monthly rent to cesium, Andante to tecium, when Yoon Yi-seol heard tecium, she opened her eyes wide and looked at Jeong-woo.
Ugh, Im frustrated. Im not just losing.
These are the only familiar words I have.
Curse you, science.
The camera captured the two of them naturally chatting and exchanging words like a couple in love, creating a pleasant atmosphere.
-Cut! The atmosphere is great!
Chaffrin 3-Minute CF 2-5 Fragrance memory
The final scene of the 3-minute story ad.
Jeong-woo faced challenges from the rehearsal onwards.
-After the dialogue, well zoom in. Since Yi-seols face may be covered by Jeong-woos back, please be careful with the angles when hugging.
Ah, yes.
Jeong-woos decision, thinking that he only needed to embrace her once,pletely shed with reality as he found himself closely attached to Yoon Yi-seol for the tenth minute for camera tracking.
-Camera 2. Try capturing it with a burst shot. Yi-seol, would you tilt your head to the side?
Like this?
The preparations needed for a beautiful scene were somewhat analogous to experimenting with numerouspounds and catalysts for a single sessfulbination.
Yi-seol.
Yes?
Ive had this question since the first shoot.
Jeong-woo asked Yoon Yi-seol, who stood there with a constant smile.
Why are there so many gods of dating in this story ad?
I wouldnt know. Im not an ad nner.
Really?
Yoon Yi-seols cheeky smile appeared. She grabbed Jeong-woos left hand, which was casually wrapped around her back, and pulled it forward. Confirming that his heart rate had surpassed 120 after looking at his wristwatch, she said.
Its risky. I was going easy on you.
A sweetpromise. It seemed like she thought she had already won.
If youre going easy on me Just doing that next week is enough, right?
Ah, if its the same as before, Ill be at a loss. At least, you have to do this much
Yoon Yi-seol puckered her lips towards Jeong-woo. In a split second, his heart rate skyrocketed to 137.
I didnt know you were such a mischievous person, Yi-seol.
You dont know who made me like this.
-Entering the shoot. Standby!
Jeong-woo and Yoon Yi-seol stepped apart.
This wont do.
His heart rate had already shot up. If they had to hug for real with the dialogue during the shoot, not only would it exceed 140 due to the aftermath of that physical contact, but it might even reach a dangerous 150.
In the midst of his helplessness, the camera started rolling.
-Ready, action!
Under the cherry blossom tree where petals fluttered down, the two started walking side by side. Yoon Yi-seol began her lines.
Do you remember?
What?
Suddenly, she made a fist. Although this action wasnt in the continuity, it was within the predicted range.
The day you shyly confessed, the exciting fragrance.
Thanks to Chaffrins ad line being whispered like lyrics, Jeong-woo suffered a serious heart attack.
With a bright eye smile, she approached even more.
I like you.
Me?
No, your fragrance.
Yoon Yi-seol pretended to smell Jeong-woos clothes, even though this was part of the ad scene, not a music video. It was beautiful nheless.
Now, the embrace was about to begin.
If things continued like this, her intentions would seed splendidly.
Amidst his embrace, Jeong-woo hugged Yoon Yi-seol at an angle that showed her face clearly to the camera.
Uh-oh, this is bad. Lets be careful not to exceed 150.
With a resigned sigh, he blinked for a moment.
Jeong-woo noticed an unusual wave emanating from his wristwatch.
The 2.45GHz microwave wireless frequency spectrum. It was connected to Yoon Yi-seols phone in her pocket.
When he turned his gaze forward, he saw a simr ashen residue filling the entire sky.
The fact that only one type of wavelength was clearly distinguished meant another possibility for Jeong-woo.
No way.
He gathered stardust in his left hand. Adding energy from the watchs battery, he threw the stardust into the frequency emanating from Yoon Yi-seols pocket.
Thud, the connection between Yoon Yi-seols phone and the waves was severed.
Whoa.
In the meantime, Yoon Yi-seol, who was tightly embraced, felt her body temperature clearly, and Jeong-woos heart thumped wildly.
Yoon Yi-seol quietly pressed her ear against Jeong-woos chest, smiling with the look of victory.
-Cut! That was great!
Its unbelievable.
Whats wrong?
Yoon Yi-seol, sitting in the back seat of the van, wore an expression of disbelief as she checked her phone records.
Looking at the graph that showed her heart rate didnt exceed 130 during the final embrace scene, she was at a loss for words.
Look at this. The readings are strange.
She extended her phone towards Jeong-woo in the adjacent seat. Jeong-woo pretended to examine it closely and replied.
I practiced for 10 minutes before that, so maybe thats why.
Lies. I heard your heart pounding loudly. It was so intense that even I was surprised.
Machines dont lie.
While Jeong-woo dismissed it with a nonchnt tone, he was secretly astonished. At the moment when the actual readings would undoubtedly have exceeded 150, no information was recorded due to the blocking of data heading towards that phone.
Since the smartwatch itself didnt store the readings, it unintentionally became a perfect alibi.
Although it stung a bit, he had no intention of refusing this absurd bet at the time.
Hmm, I almost ended up dating Wait? This isnt whats important.
He hadnt considered issues like side effects of the medicine or uncertain futures.
Jeong-woo was shocked as if he had received a blow to the back of his head. Yoon Yi-seols spell was truly excellent at paralyzing rational thought.
This shouldnt happen. I even cleared a whole day next week forcibly
Seeing Yoon Yi-seol murmur with a teary expression made Jeong-woos heart soften.
When will you take a break?
Its okay. I dont like sympathy.
Well, if you were going to make a checklist, I was nning to do it together. Since returning from Goseong, my sleep cycle has been a bit unstable.
Yoon Yi-seol, who had been sulking, snapped her head up.
Monday, Wednesday, Friday.
I thought you only managed one day off?
Ah, ah. Can you hear me?
Jeong-woo extended his phone forward, facing the screen directly. Reflected in the camera were his own face and the rapidly scrolling chat messages below.
[Its Han Jeong-woo.] [Surprise streaming!!] [Hey, where are you? Broadcasting station?] [Jeong-woo, I enjoyed the video!] [Hey, this guy. Were you always this handsome?]
With dozens of sentences passing by without pause, it was challenging to keep up, let alone read them properly. Jeong-woo started with the preparedments.
Its past 10 PM, and over two thousand people have gathered. Thank you all. Im here at the Chaffrin ad filming set in Paju. I turned on the broadcast during a short break.
[Congrattions on trending #1~ I searched you right away.]
I was surprised too, and I searched dozens of times.
To a casual chatment, Jeong-woo smiled and replied. Soon, a reaction like [kukuku] followed.
[The thing you dropped from a helicopter in Goseong. Is that a military bomb?]
My friend also misunderstood. Its just a chemical reaction. Some of the chemicals are instantlypletely burned to create water, and then a catalyst is added to use it as a cont. Its a loud reaction due to the uneven condensation of heat
[So, its like a bomb.] [Exining it is so sexy. Jeong-woo oppa~] [Whats a catalyst?]
Since most people either didnt understand or didnt care, Jeong-woo summarized briefly.
Not a bomb but a me retardant.
As the chat speed became familiar, Jeong-woo continued the conversation without hesitation.
[Mom says keeping batteries in the refrigerator makes themst longer. Is that a superstition?]
Not a superstition, but all batteries slowly lose their charge over time. However, dont put things like a mobile phone battery in it. Nickel-metal hydride, zinc-carbon, or alkaline-manganese batteries are better stored at low temperatures.
[Post-its dont get sticky like glue on your hands, but why do they keep sticking?]
Its because the pressure-sensitive polymer microcapsules are muchrger than the adhesive in glue. This is a patented product of thatpany, and Ill refrain frommenting on the more detailed principles.
Those who asked about chemical curiosity were the most numerous.
[Do you have a girlfriend? When was your first kiss? Whats your ideal type?]
Secret.
[Chicken breast or thigh? Seasoned or fried? ck bean noodles or spicy seafood noodle soup?]
teo3461-nim, do you like your moms cooking or dads?
Then came those who asked about personal preferences.
[Dance for us!]
If I do that, Ill lose a thousand subscribers.
[Can you set off fireworks again like you did at Yoon Yi-seols performance?]
Youll have yo go to a show to see that. My friend Soo-chan, who appeared as the snow removal captain, is in charge of that now.
Those who just ordered anything came next.
Amunication broadcast, which seemed tost for an unknown amount of time, continued for about 30 minutes.
Mr. Jeong-woo, well start shooting in 5 minutes.
Jeong-woo turned his head at the staffs voice.
I probably should go now. We need to film the scene where the product is used. Since Ill be broadcasting asionally in the future, please continue to love the channel Chemistry.
Finishing the prepared closing statement, he waved his hand on the screen. Chat messages like [See you again!] and [Good luck with the CF!] continued to scroll.
Amunication broadcast tried as an experiment.
Jeong-woo couldnt help but nod at Shin Ki-joons words that it wouldnt be as difficult as he thought.
The next day.
Director, theres an unexpected visitor waiting in the lobby.
Songu pressed the button in response to the secretarys call and asked.
Who is it?
Its Yoon Jaegil.
Pushing up the sses hanging on the tip of his nose, Songu grinned. It was an unexpected visitor on a Friday morning.
Let him in, and bring the documents Im currently printing.
A littleter.
A man in his mid-forties, dressed in a sophisticated suit, entered the directors office.
Long time no see, Director Songu. Its been sincest years Industrial Research Institute conference, hasnt it?
It seems so. Would you like some coffee?
Thank you.
As Yoon Jaegil sat on the sofa, he immediately brought up the matter.
The proposal I gave youst time. I know youre still reviewing it, but we need to send the confirmed list to TAPS as soon as possible. If you have additional conditions, well do our best to amodate them.
Total care for the Song Yu-gwan project, youre preparing for a significant challenge.
Youre exaggerating. Director, I earnestly request your assistance in having the necessary talents for this challenge.
Trans-ska Pipeline System.
Yoon Jaegil strongly wished for Han Jeong-woo to join the biddingpetition for Yujin Chemicals project, aiming for thergest metal facility in the northern hemisphere located in ska.
I know Director Yoon has some great ideas, but
The conversation paused due to the secretary who brought the coffee. Songu observed Yoon Jaegil and then spoke.
Its going to be a month-long assignment, this is not only my decision but also the decision of Researcher Han Jeong-woo. Assuming that Researcher Han Jeong-woo approves, I am likely to ept these conditions and allow the assignment.
A document was exchanged on the table. Yoon Jaegil read the document and chuckled.
It gives me chills to think youve been considering this.
So, what do you think?
We should do it.
Yoon Jaegil, who gave a firm answer, extended his hand.
One month with Han Jeong-woo. Yujin Chemical will secure it at any cost, even if we have to make a deal.
Code: AF-5
Case: Radio Wave Blocking
Research: By resonating free electrons tuned to a specific frequency range, the transmission capacity is nullified, blocking the reception of radio waves.
Chapter 103
Chapter 103- Old Steel Great Line(1)
Clutching the newly updated passbook in his hands, happiness filled Jeong-woos face as he exited the neighborhood bank.
The total bnce in his current ount was approximately 27 million won. This sum included three months worth of sry, the first-round ad revenue from the video-sharing site, and the menu earnings from Hyeon-mins restaurant.
If I consider the year-end bonus piling up, debt settlement wont be a problem anymore.
He thought that his younger brother, could support himself through university without taking out a student loan. Even if he chose a costly major, Jeong-woo could fulfill his brothers desire for a romantic backpacking trip during his university days.
As this idea crossed his mind, a wicked smile appeared on Jeong-woos face.
Even when he turns fifty, hell still be cleaning my room, heh
While climbing the hill, his phone rang, and he answered it.
Ah, Soo-chan.
-Where should we meet? Its Friday night, we gotta go out!
Soo-chans lively voice resonated through the phone speaker.
Ill stop at my house, and Im heading to Moms store next. Come over there first.
-Ji-sook restaurant? Okay. Ill bring Laura along. Ive been craving your moms special bean paste stewtely.
Although they intended to treat themselves to a delicious meal on payday, if the craving called, why not? Jeong-woo wasnt particrly fussy about expensive meat.
Entering his house, Jeong-woo took off his suit and put on casual clothes.
Since the cold hadntpletely receded, he added another jumper before heading outside. He carefully ced his passbook with 25 million won and the seal in his inner pocket.
How long Ive been waiting for this day.
It was a monumental 100th day. Although he had always been overshadowed within the family hierarchy, today he could proudly dere himself as number one.
When he handed over this substantial sum to repay the mortgage, he anticipated how moved Hong Ji-sook would be. Jeong-woo swelled with expectation.
After about ten minutes of walking, Jeong-woo arrived in front of the restaurant located between his house and the market.
A one-story, worn-out brick building.
In business for about 15 years, the ce may have shown signs of aging, but it was a local favorite with many regr taxi drivers and a constant stream of customers.
Jeong-woo stopped in his tracks under the faded sign that read Ji-sook restaurant.
I should tidy up the repair neatly. Maybe put in a new transparent ss door to show off Moms face for the 15th-anniversary celebration.
As he pondered the grand interior design for the restaurant with next months payday, he heard the familiar voice of the womens association president from inside.
Did you also use this restaurant as coteral?
I cant wait to hear it. Did your husband mention it?
No, what? That your eldest son got a good job, and is doing well?
Jeong-woo tilted his head.
The restaurant as coteral?
The conversation continued inside.
Oh, oh! Jeong-woos father is here.
Its not like that. Geum-hee, stop talking nonsense and go home after finishing the garlic. Isnt it time for your husband to return after finishing at the bank?
He looked at the books and hes worried about you paying a lot of interest. Whats the point of going in for five thousand won?
It was a conversation Jeong-woo couldnt stop listening to.
Meanwhile, an old-fashioned sedan approached the alley, its engine purring.
Jeong-woo, Im here!
Soo-chan, rolling down the car window, waved with a bright smile.
Wow, the smell of food. Ah, Im hungry.
By the table where the stew was boiling, Jeong-woo sat facing Soo-chan.
Mother, can I have one more bowl of rice, please? And could you add a bit more of broth and ham?
I think I gave you enough, but youre eating well.
Haha! Its been a while, and it tastes amazing.
Soo-chan happily devoured the stew, singing along to a tune. Jeong-woo looked at him with a bewildered expression.
Hey, why are you gulping down the stew like its soup? Isnt it too salty?
Of course its salty. The ham broth makes it savory and irresistible.
As Hong Ji-sook poured additional ingredients into the pot, Soo-chan raised both thumbs, saying, Its the best, Mom!
Half a bottle of soju quickly vanished alongside the stew.
Oh, right. Jeong-woo, did you see Eun-sil? How is she? Does she still likes you?
Are you drunk already? Dont be ridiculous, I just met a ssmate.
Still, I envy you.
Jeong-woo clinked sses with Soo-chan, watching Hong Ji-sook washing dishes in the kitchen.
If the debt has increased, why didnt she mention it?
As Soo-chan barged into the restaurant hungry, Jeong-woo missed the timing to confidently hand over the passbook.
Moreover, the words of Madam Im Geum-hee, the womens association president, kept lingering in his mind. As his thoughts became moreplicated, the alcohol didnt taste like alcohol, and the heavily salted stew became nd.
Ugh.
When it was 9 PM, Hong Ji-sook, done with her business, approached the table. Seeing two empty soju bottles, she turned to Jeong-woo and said.
When youre done, clean up and put it in the sink. Stop drinking after the third bottle.
Got it.
Mother, thank you for the meal!
Sure, Soo-chan, feel free to enjoy and leave.
Watching Hong Ji-sook leave the room, Jeong-woo took out the passbook and seal from the jacket hanging on the chair.
Soo-chan, wait a moment.
Huh? What is it?
Jeong-woo, who hade out immediately, rushed to Hong Ji-sook.
Mom.
Why did youe out? Its cold.
I forgot to give you this.
Jeong-woo handed the passbook to Hong Ji-sook, who looked puzzled.
Ive been saving this. To repay the loan for our house.
I thought it was an overdraft ount. But why are you repaying the loan?
I used it.
Oh, never mind. If you have that kind of money, use it to repay your tuition first.
That one has a low interest rate, so its okay to keep paying. Here its just a couple hundred, not a big deal, around 25 million.
Hong Ji-sooks eyes widened at the amount. Jeong-woo forcibly ced the passbook in her hands.
Mom, Im going to y a significant role in the family this year. Dont hesitate to tell me if you have any difficulties.
This money
Shocked, Hong Ji-sook couldnt say anything for a moment. Jeong-woo calmly smiled and said.
I dont earn money like Dad in a weird way, so you dont need to refuse.
Take it back and pay the debt in your name first.
Mom! Why do you argue so much? Jeong-chan is going to college next year. We should live well together until he settles down.
Hong Ji-sook stared at Jeong-woo for a moment without saying a word, then quietly ced the passbook on top of a stack of recycling boxes in front of the restaurant.
I can pay off the debt slowly. I may not be able to pay you or Chan, but Im not going to take your money. Ive been working my ass off at the restaurant for that.
Jeong-woo shaken asked about the conversation he overheard earlier.
Whats the five thousand won for? With this, you can repay it right away.
Dont interfere in adult matters. And I wont say it twice. Spend the money you earned.
Ignoring him, Hong Ji-sook walked away with quick steps.
Im an adult too!
Facing his resolute mother, Jeong-woo let out a deep sigh.
Ugh.
His gaze lingered on the passbook lying on the box.
He thought it would be enough, but now theres an additional five thousand won. If it were the year-end season, he could easily resolve it withmissions.
Just the fact that Hong Ji-sook had decided to bear the debt alone from the beginning made Jeong-woo feel heavy-hearted.
Whats this burden shes talking about? Every time she boils beef soup, she puts on a show saying its not free.
Still, he felt proud to see a momentarily pride look in his mothers eyes, acknowledging the fact that he had saved this amount.
Its just a little more. I can settle it by going to the bank and talking to Mr. Cho about an agreement.
The days continued to April, alternating between coolness and a warm breeze.
Seated in Research Lab 1, Jeong-woos eyes widened as he listened to the new instructions regarding the assignment that came down from the director.
They want me, even though its not a subsidiary but apetitor?
I guess you can decide for yourself. Let me know once youve made up your mind.
Jeong-woo sighed as he nced through the document handed to him by Oh Seung-ju. Staring at the logo of Yujin Chemical at the top of the papers, thoughts of Yoon Jaegil, who had tried to recruit him, shed in his mind.
He really doesnt know how to give up.
Flipping through the pages, Jeong-woo discovered that the project aimed to expand Yujin Chemicals gship Total Care System into the international market. He read about their entry into thepetition amongpanies diagnosing and managing the world-famous oil transportation facility, the ska Trans-ska Pipeline.
Why me?
Thinking he didnt need to endure the trouble of paperwork, Jeong-woo ced the documents on the table. However, as if it had been waiting, his phone rang.
Seeing the representative number for Yujin Chemical, Jeong-woo frowned, walked out to the corridor, and answered the call.
-Mr. Jeong-woo, its Yoon Jaegil. Im sorry to bother you this Monday morning. Did you happen to see the proposal?
Yes. Youre going to provide Total Care for the oil pipeline, right?
-I want to hear your opinion, Mr. Jeong-woo. I need to notify the pipeline servicepany of the list by 10 AM
Jeong-woo, who had been leaning towards rejecting, perked up at Yoon Jaegils following words.
-Its abrupt, I understand. But your abilities are crucial for this job. Youll need to go to a remote and challenging location, but you dont need to worry about safety since weve assembled the best survival team. And theres a danger allowance attached, payable at 500% of your monthly sry if the project seeds, of course.
Danger allowance?
-Oh, yes. In our case, we guarantee 500% of your monthly sry for the same period. Thats if the project seeds.
The words were like a sh of light.
If I decide to participate, Ill also
-Of course. Well guarantee 500% of yourpany sry, and even if it fails, well still pay the dispatch allowance.
A chance to earn more money in a short period. Jeong-woos heart wavered. Just a little hardship, and he could soon see the satisfied expression on his mothers face, a face that might take months to appear.
That was enough for Jeong-woo.
The director told me to do as I want, I just have to make my mind.
-Mr. Jeong-woo, inspired by your work on the Han River Iron Bridge, we were able to push this project forward. Please dont just think of it as a rivalpanys work; consider it a chance for a Korean to be recognized in the global petroleum industry.
Ill do it.
-Pardon?
I said Ill take on this project.
On the other side of the phone, a relieved exhale was audible.
-Youve made a wise decision. The departure is in seven days, but from 1 PM today, everyone involved will gather to receive advice from pr experts. Can you make it?
As long as thepany approves, no problem.
A few hourster.
Jeong-woo stood in front of the address Yoon Jaegil had sent him, wearing a puzzled expression.
A first meeting in a warehouse?
At the end of a narrow alley was the Incheon Terminal Logistics Complex. With asional sightings ofrge trucks, scarce human presence, and unnecessarily wide roads, this ce was the location of Yujin Chemicals logistics warehouse.
Looking around to find the management office, Jeong-woo noticed a person swiftly passing by.
Hmm?
Despite the chill in the air, a blonde woman in shorts was riding a longboard at the end of the alley. Her back view, gracefully pushing the board and smoothly making turns, was captivating.
As she made another turn, their eyes met, and she cheerfully greeted, Hi~, waving. Jeong-woo reflexively waved back.
She swiftly disappeared from his sight, leaving Jeong-woo bewildered.
What? Enjoying free time in a ce like this?
Though she seemed young, it was hard to guess her age since she was a foreigner. Since the ce where the foreign woman appeared was inside the logistics warehouse, Jeong-woo entered with an even more curious expression.
Entering the open space, he walked a bit and saw frozen storage units with the Yujin Chemical logo and container-shaped offices. Finally spotting people, Jeong-woo hurriedly approached.
Are you Mr. Han Jeong-woo?
Joo Hana, the team leader, recognized Jeong-woo in front of the office and greeted him.
Wee.
Long time no see, Team Leader Joo.
Fortunately, youve decided to join the team. Ive been hearing about your achievements from Director Yoon.
Though the reason for joining was solely for money, Jeong-woo felt a slight pang in his chest. However, he was confident in his ability to handle the job.
Just like during the Han River Iron Bridge project, inspecting specific facilities and identifying corroded areas wasnt that difficult.
Bowing his head to Joo Hana, Jeong-woo cheerfully said.
I look forward to working with you.
Likewise.
Unlike Jeong-woo, who was dressed in formal attire, Joo Hana was in sportswear. As most people inside the office were simrly casually dressed, Jeong-woo asked with a curious expression.
But what exactly are we doing here?
Well be undergoing adaptation training.
Training?
Probably because the destination is near the Arctic. Ah, its time. Follow me.
Joo Hana, pointing to her wristwatch, started walking towards the frozen storage. Jeong-woo followed her, realizing that there were nine members of the Total Care team. They also had a pr specialist responsible for safety.
Are you Mr. Han Jeong-woo?
Entering the frozen storage entrance, a man in histe twenties approached Jeong-woo.
Im Shin Seong-beom from the Mechanical Team.
Do you know me?
I do. During the iron bridge issue, Team Leader Joo kept talking about Mr. Han Jeong-woo. Haha.
As Joo Hana red, Shin Seong-beomughed and excused himself.
Everyone on the team knows Mr. Han Jeong-woo, so feel free to talk to us. Though youre an outsider, know that your position is just below mine. Youre the assistant team leader.
Ill keep that in mind.
At 1 PM, all nine members of the Total Care team gathered inside the frozen storage.
Jeong-woo exchanged nods with them and quickly scanned their faces. Then, he surveyed the inside of the warehouse.
The wall was frozen with a pale frost, and in the center were ninerge bags neatly lined up.
Is this some kind of cold adaptation training?
If not, there would be no reason to conduct it in a frozen storage, so Jeong-woo was somewhat convinced.
The team members conversations reached Jeong-woos ears.
Im reminded of the severe cold weather.
Me too. The ground would freeze so hard that even with a shovel, it was tough to dig through. The squad leader would go crazy yelling at us to set up the tent quickly.
Jeong-woo also had simr memories from his military life. It was painful at the time, but now it was just a topic for idle chatter over drinks.
Thunk.
The opposite door opened, and someone entered, causing all the banter to cease.
A foreigner in military-style attire with a ck beret. Moreover, he was an enormous man, close to 190cm in height.
Wow, look at those muscles.
His physique was so robust that it reminded him to Miles. With a body as solid as a rock, the imposing aura emanating from him made Jeong-woo instinctively stand upright and look at him.
Shouldering the bag he carried, the man ced it on the ground with a thud and looked around at the people.
My name is Dwayne Stillwell. Im your instructor. Just call me a wolf.
The instructor named Wolf gestured towards the entrance he hade from, and with a creaking sound, both the front and back doors of the frozen storage were closed.
The inside became pitch ck, and Wolf spoke.
Before you, you have backpacks with cold weather gear. Each of you, take one and find your spot.
Jeong-woo followed the others and stood in front of one backpack.
After confirming that the prepared individuals were ready, Wolf shouted towards the outside.
Activate!
A vibration sound, about ten times louder than the hum of a refrigerator, echoed, and the digital thermometer on one side of the wall gradually began to drop.
The first survival rule in pr regions. Check the temperature at every moment with your eyes open. And prepare ordingly. Everyone, open your backpacks and equip the gear for minus 10 degrees. Execute.
Jeong-woo quickly opened his backpack inside the warehouse, where breath became visible.
The basics of cold weather areyering. Oneyer at a time, step by step. Now, prepare the Prtec synthetic fiber midyer and GORE-TEX jacket. Wear gloves, hat, and boots.
Since the clothes were neatly stacked, the order was not confusing. He put on a top that reached his neck andfortable-looking pants.
After wearing gloves and pulling a fur hat down to cover his ears, the temperature gauge on the outer wall indicated -10.
Ugh, its cold.
Minus 10 degrees Celsius meant a temperature where shivering could persist even if wrapped in a padded jacket and a scarf. Jeong-woo felt his fingertips gradually bing numb.
The temperature you feel now. Consider this a warm day in ska.
What?
Not only Jeong-woo but also the eyes of the teammates next to him widened in surprise. Team leader Joo Hana seemed not to have heard yet, as she was still struggling to put on snow boots.
Now, minus 20 degrees. Put on an outeryer and wrap your entire face with a hood.
The inside of the frozen warehouse started to get even colder. Jeong-woo quickly put on a parka and zipped it up. His lips trembled, and his body shivered periodically.
Now, most likely, youll experience temperatures like this the most. Those who have finished putting on their clothes, try moving around.
With severalyers of clothes, his body felt sluggish. Jeong-woo swung his arms around, trying to shake off the chills.
After about a minute, Wolf, wearing a jacket, spoke to the others.
Have you adapted? If ska had only this temperature, the instructors wouldnt have met you. Now, minus 30 degrees. When the wind blows strongly or the weather is bad, this is the temperature that inevitablyes.
The digital thermometer disyed -30.
Wear another pair of mittens. Wear goggles for eye protection. If theres a part where you can directly feel the cold here, it means you havent buttoned up properly or the zipper isnt closed.
Jeong-woo, feeling like he would freeze in this world, shivered after finally putting on all the gear.
When you have no more equipment to put on. You may encounter minus 40 degrees. At that point, the only way to endure is to maintain your body temperature.
As the temperature gradually dropped towards minus 40 degrees, people sighed.
Breathing deeply at this temperature freezes even the lungs, so avoid it. Inhale lightly and exhale lightly. There! Refrain from making drastic movements to raise body temperature. If you copse at minus 40 degrees, your bones will turn to dust.
Shin Seong-beom, who was doing jumping jacks, stopped abruptly.
Is this the deadly cold where you die if you doze off?
Jeong-woo also stopped waving his arms and looked at the others. They were all shaking as if they were about to die.
How many days in your life youll experience such cold? The colder it gets, the luckier you are, thinking positively and having the mindset to ovee. Now, lets finish it.
As if he was concluding, Jeong-woo thought the temperature would rise now. However, Wolf decisively shattered Jeong-woos expectation.
April in ska is rtively warm. The chance of experiencing temperatures below minus 40 is low. However, if you cant handle it properly when ites, you could die. Thats why Ill continue training you every day until departure. Assistant!
With Wolfs voice, the door of the frozen warehouse opened, and a person wrapped in a coat entered.
Jeong-woo widened his eyes at the sight of therge fan that the person brought. He had a sense of what kind of training it might be.
Nature never stays still. Learn the action rules with the assistant on how to deal with strong winds. Execute.
The fan started to operate.
As a biting wind swept through the frozen warehouse, the assistant gestured for the people to gather.
Stick together!
Amidst the lively voice of the assistant, Jeong-woo, freezing to death, turned his head. She wore silver ski goggles, making her appearance unrecognizable, but her voice was that of a young woman.
Preserve each others body temperature and minimize the area exposed to the biting wind.
Nine team members, plus the assistant. Ten people stood shoulder to shoulder.
Jeong-woo, feeling something might happen, instinctively raised his palm towards the fan.
Fighting the urge to send something towards it and turn it off, he felt the gaze of the assistant next to him, so he stopped.
In a snowstorm situation, enduring one minute in a safe area increases the chances of survival rather than moving recklessly.
After saying this, Wolf turned off the fan exactly one minuteter.
When the wind stopped, Jeong-woo felt like he could survive even at minus 40 degrees.
As we return to the normal temperature, follow the assistants movements to loosen up your body.
The assistant stood in front of the people and began doing something like stretching. Even though it was freezing to the point of breath freezing, Wolf and the assistant showed no signs of sluggishness.
Following the assistants posture of stretching, except for Joo Hana, the rest let out small screams from their stiff joints.
The hazard pay wasnt for nothing.
This frozen warehouse training, experiencing the fear even before going to ska, wouldnt be taken lightly. The actual conditions might be worse than here.
The digital thermometer attached to the wall gradually started to rise.
When it reached 0 degrees, Jeong-woo felt his body warming up slightly. It felt like cold water friction. After experiencing minus 40 degrees, 0 degrees felt warm. However, Wolf didnt instruct them to take off their thick outerwear, so he stood still, waiting.
One team member unzipped his parka, feeling stuffy.
Dont do that.
The assistant shook her head towards the team member.
Right now, your skin is in below-freezing conditions, but your head is not freezing. Skin not adapted to rapid temperature changes is at risk of frostbite.
Jeong-woo couldnt help but be surprised by this exnation.
10 minutester.
Wolf took off his outerwear and spoke.
Those who are sweating, now its time to take off your clothes.
Jeong-woo, feeling dampness on his back, was sure he had sweated and took off his outerwear.
Ugh, feels like I survived.
It wasnt a long experience. It was just about 30 minutes of experiencing temperature changes, but it felt quite exhausting. After putting down the heavy outerwear and taking off the midyer, it felt a bit morefortable.
I should prepare separate cold protection measures for this, right?
The first thing that came to mind was hand warmers. They shouldst for about an hour in an emergency situation.
In the meantime, the assistant who stood in front of Jeong-woo also took off her outerwear and pulled down her ski goggles.
Huh?
Upon closer inspection, she was the foreigner with blonde hair who was riding a longboard earlier. With a body that caught everyones attention, she had a pretty face that looked quite Western. All the mens eyes were now focused on her.
I didnt introduce my friend.
Wolf pointed at the assistant.
This is Kaya Stillwell, the pr specialist who will guide you along. Shes eighteen. Dont underestimate her just because shes young. She has experience climbing the Everest.
Kaya, as she was called, nodded slightly toward the people.
Eighteen?
Jeong-woo couldnt believe that this young woman, who, in Korean age, was the same age as his younger brother Jeong-chan. Although he couldnt see her face, her overall physical development from height suggested she was a full-fledged adult.
Thats right. Considering it that way, that rascal is even worse.
After confirming that everyone had taken off their winter clothes, Wolf spoke.
The second danger youll encounter in ska is encounters with wildlife. Take a short break, and Ill teach you the basics of using equipment to drive them away.
Kaya, now in short sleeves, stood next to Wolf.
Will all of these weaklings freeze to death as soon as they arrive in Prudhoe?
Her gaze scanned the men who seemed to be sitting exhausted, and it lingered on Jeong-woo, who was alone in a suit.
It looks like he came straight from work.
All of them are office workers.
Ha. Theyre not nning group suicide, are they?
Choose your words carefully. Look, shes the team leader, so be careful.
Kaya, with her fists clenched, looked at Joo Hana, who was taking off her clothes while groaning, and asked.
Academy got tough, didnt it? I never thought they would organize a group of civilians to cross ska.
Wolf pped his hands to signal the end of the break and responded.
Kaya, theres something mysterious about Asians. Once they adapt, theyll keep up just fine.
Looks like Dad is getting old, talking about superstitions.
To your eyes, the world must seem old. Take your seat. Were going to train with the tools.
After giving Kaya a pat on the back, Wolf spoke to the people.
Everyone, take out the equipment from your backpacks. Any military veterans here?
All the men raised their hands, and Wolf chuckled.
Thats why Korea is great.
Chapter 104
Chapter 104- Old Steel Great Line(2)
Jeong-woo opened the small backpackbeled Survival Kit and pulled out the metal container at the top. Inside were various tools, including a flint, waterproof matches and a fishing line.
Feels like preparing for camping?
While examining the contents of the metal container, Jeong-woos gaze lingered on a packet containing pills and powder. One was a chemical to purify water for drinking, the other for washing.
Ew. If I drink this, itll probably taste like swimming pool water.
Still, familiarity with chemicals brought a slight sense of attachment amidst this unfamiliar training. Observing people inspecting the contents of their bags, Wolf spoke up.
If you dont know how to use any equipment, ask me or Kaya immediately.
What caught the mens attention was a multi-functional shovel made of carbon steel.
This shovel looks American, right? Well designed.
It even has a saw de.
As most items were not significantly different from camping gear, they focused more on neatly arranging them in front of them than questioning their usage.
Wolf, satisfied with the people who seemed familiar with the equipment use, spoke again.
Some of you might wonder: no lighter, just a flint? In a world where you can automatically mark your location on the map by turning on your mobile phone, why apass? Unfortunately, more than half of the terrain youll pass through here is wilderness immune to the advantages of civilization. Moreover
When a profanityced expression like crazy fucking cold emerged, everyone fell silent for a moment.
One more thing. When facing wildlife, the most useful equipment you can use is this.
Wolf put a whistle in his mouth and blew it sharply.
Animals like reindeer and wolves that move in herds are scared away by loud noises before approaching.
After the exnation of the equipment was finished, Wolf turned his gaze to Kaya.
Kaya, how do you deal with bears in ska?
Bear spray is the only means of defense.
Kaya took out the spray from her hip pocket and showed it.
On the nose and mouth precisely. Practice spraying it in an open space by yourself.
Everyone picked a small bottle containing pepper extract from their belts. Joo Hana, looking at thebel on the bottle, checked the information and asked when she saw that the range was only 3 meters.
What if it only reaches the fur from a distance?
If youve angered a bear, wouldnt you rather freeze to death than wish to be in a state where it attacks?
Everyone flinched at this response. Wolf frowned, raising his hand.
Kaya, cant you be more serious?
In response to Wolfs serious look, Kaya, after reattaching the spray to her waist, spoke again.
Bears dont have the concept of confrontation. You have to avoid them at all costs. If you find footprints, feces, traces of fish, or a ce where theyve dug up the ground looking for small prey, immediately retreat.
Kaya reached for her binocrs.
Anticipating the territory of wildlife is the more important survival tool than any other.
While everyone nodded at the concise exnation to gather observation equipment, Wolf had moved to stand in front of the fan.
Attention!
Everyones heads turned towards Wolf.
The exnation of wearing cold-weather clothing and other equipment is now finished. From now on, well move on to practical training to stimte your survival instincts.
Whirring
Suddenly, the fan started running. With anxious looks, everyone turned to Wolf, and his voice echoed cruelly throughout the warehouse.
The situation suddenly faced an onught of extreme cold. Endure for 30 minutes each. Start!
The open door of the frozen warehouse mmed shut with a thud. As the cold air rushed in, the digital thermometer, which had approached 20 degrees Celsius, began to plummet in an instant.
The quickest to react was the blonde assistant instructor, Kaya. She shouted to everyone after putting on gloves.
Never touch tools with bare hands! If your skin freezes, it will tear apart.
A team member who was fiddling with a pocket knife was startled and quickly put it down.
Jeong-woo, although the temperature disy on the wall had not yet dropped to below freezing, shivered and groaned.
That wind is brutal.
There was a considerable disparity between the actual temperature and the perceived temperature.
As the cold set in, everyone focused on bundling up for warmth. In the terrifying fear of the temperature dropping rapidly, meticulously putting onyer afteryer of instion was by no means an easy task. Some team members, in their urgency, were putting on the heaviest parka first, discarding items like neck gaiters and midyers onto the floor.
The frigid chill, carried by the wind, swept through the warehouse. People screamed in pain at the bone-chilling cold.
Hats! Goggles!
It wasnt until the temperature reached around minus 5 degrees Celsius that Jeong-woo managed to put on sufficient cold-weather clothing.
Just as everyone sighed in relief, Joo Hana, who hadnt finished putting on insted pants, caught Jeong-woos attention.
Oh no.
Since the two of them were only wearing midyers, Jeong-woo instinctively approached and grabbed Joo Hanas arm.
Its going to be minus 10 degrees soon.
Joo Hana shivered but expressed gratitude with her eyes.
Kaya turned to Jeong-woo and said.
Ill take care of her, so start getting dressed.
Ive almost put everything on.
Buttons, strings. Theyre not properly fastened.
The wind, driven by the biting cold, prated the gaps around ankles and necks. Jeong-woo, despite the fact that the temperature disy on the wall hadnt dropped to below freezing, shivered and groaned at the chilling sensation.
This wind is mercilessly cold!
A team member, who had ignored the order and only put on an outeryer, screamed and took off the outeryer again.
At this point, with the internal temperature marking minus 7 degrees Celsius, not a single person was properly dressed in warm clothes.
Kaya, after sessfully getting Joo Hana into pants, looked at Wolf.
It wont work.
I calcted that they wouldnt be familiar with wearing equipment. If you think theyve reached their limit while observing up close, let me know.
Even Wolf, who had only put on a long-sleeved shirt, showed a disappointed expression. Kaya, ncing at the temperature gauge heading towards -10C, shook her head.
I guarantee you, these people will freeze to death in two minutes. Bringing weaklings who cant even handle this temperature to ska makes no sense.
At Kayas assertive tone, Joo Hana, whose movements were sluggish, shrank her neck.
Jeong-woo couldnt help but marvel at the two survival experts who seemedpletely unaffected by the cold, despite the temperature dropping to such extremes.
Despite their different professions and lifestyles, he found it fascinating that they could perceive the same temperature so differently.
Shes right. Even with this setup for enduring minus 30 degrees Celsius, I cant bear it like this. Is there no way?
Jeong-woo, whose gaze lingered on the square tin can with the lid open, focused all his attention on the molecr world that was expanding greatly. Perhaps due to the thought of freezing to death, countless reactive thoughts were racing through his mind.
My ears! It feels like theyre falling off!
No sensation in my toes!
Cries echoed from all directions. Contemting, Jeong-woo grabbed the tin can in his hands.
Five minutes after the freezer was restarted.
Wearing just one jacket, Kaya noticed that Joo Hanas lips were gradually turning blue, realizing that she had reached her limit.
Just as she was about to signal Wolf that they should end the unexpected training on the first day, warmth gently brushed against her cheek.
Turning her head with a curious look, Kayas gaze was captivated by a young man vigorously shaking a tin can.
Wondering what he was doing, she watched him. As the warmth that had touched her cheek turned into a warm breeze enveloping her entire face, Wolf, suspecting that the freezer had been turned off first, looked at the temperature gauge.
It recorded a normal descent, marking -15C.
However, the more the young man shook the tin can, the more warm air seemed to be generated around him.
Hey, whats that?
Oh, this?
The young man mumbled in Korean, Ah, its hot! and then set down the scalding hot tin can.
Hmm, maybe an emergency stove?
Why answer a question with another question?
Hold on a moment.
The young man turned his head towards Joo Hana.
Team leader,e over here. This heater will be warm for a while. Come here all if youre cold!
The young man started shouting something Kaya didnt understand, calling people over. Drawn by the warmth that came into the cold, people gathered around the tin can.
It feels like Im alive.
Why is it so warm?
Although the temperature had dropped to minus 20 degrees Celsius, most people around the tin can stood with expressions indicating that it was bearable. Kaya couldnt help but alternate her gaze between the young man and the tin can.
With her hand reaching for the tin can, Kaya mumbled something and tapped the shoulder of the young man, who was murmuring something.
Hey. I dont remember including a stove in the survival kit. Besides, this isnt the heat a portable heater can produce.
The passion for survival hidden inside seems to have squirmed its way out.
The young man pointed at the boiling tin can and smiled. Puzzled and intrigued by this unconventional heater she had never seen before, Kaya asked again.
Whats the principle behind this?
Joo Hana, now with apletely rxed expression, and the other team members, all wore equally curious expressions as they looked at the young man.
Um basically, you could say its a simple exothermic reaction. By mixing the sodium isocyanate found in the refined pill with the magnesiumponent in the matchstick, its rusting the inside of this tin can. It will react for about 30 minutes.
Everyone, except Kaya, opened their mouths wide at this exnation.
Burning by rusting? Wow. Ive only heard rumors; this is truly innovative.
Come to think of it, didnt Jeong-woo make that bomb fire extinguisher? Hes the MacGyver of the chemical world.
Kaya looked at the young man with a bewildered expression as if to say, What kind of conversation is this? Sensing that energy, the young man spoke.
Well, to put it simply, I fed the box some heat-generating powder, shook it vigorously, and the tin can got angry, producing heat.
Is this a joke?
Its chemistry.
25 minutes after the freezer was restarted.
It feels like a campfire in here.
Dont say that. That girl has been giving Jeong-woo suspicious looks since earlier.
Are you this week?
Jeong-woo, sitting amicably around the tin can, nced at the people engaged in friendly conversation. Despite the cold wind blowing in the freezer at -30C, it felt somehow cozy inside.
Since theres something warm in front of us, the perceived temperature is not that bad.
It was cold, but bearable.
Even after looking at this multitool shovel, its still impressive.
Wi Ji-seong, the eldest in the team from the equipment team, managed to endure the cold and, when he had some leisure, brought out the multitool shovel like a microphone. With a polished voice, he spoke.
Ah, the duty officer has an announcement. Due to heavy rain, instead of individual maintenance, drainage work will be carried out. Bring the shovel and trench tools, assemble at the drainage site.
Ugh, terrible. It would be easier if it rained.
At Shin Seong-beoms sigh, Wi Ji-seong turned his head.
Private Shin. Looks like youre being assigned to water drainage duty.
Ugh, stop saying that. I already feel like Im in a nightmare in the army, enduring the cold like this.
As Shin Seong-beom grumbled, even Joo Hana, who didnt know military life well, looked at him curiously. Wi Ji-seong, this time, turned his head towards Jeong-woo.
Sergeant, do your job well. Well be relying on you for the long term, okay?
Oh, Im a heavy sleeper in the morning. If theres no roll call or drills, Ill think about it.
Jeong-woo exchanged jokes with Wi Ji-seong and, while everyone was engaged in conversation, he turned his head towards Kaya, who was sitting stiffly.
Were talking about the Korean military.
No need to trante.
With a sharp response, Jeong-woo scratched his chin and spoke quietly.
Whether its properly dressing in cold weather gear or using a specialized heating stove for cold weather, I see it as the same context, just in different fields.
In a tone that seemed to console a child who knew nothing, Kaya was moved.
Even if you say that, I still cant understand the situation at all.
I dont understand either, youre just wearing a jacket in this temperature.
Well, because weve received special training!
Kaya raised her voice, but when everyone stared at her, she quickly shut her mouth.
Todays training ends here.
When Wolf finally opened the door to the freezer, cheers erupted from the people.
Remember that enduring adaptation training without skipping is the path to happiness in ska.
Yes, sir!
Thank you, sir!
As people rushed outside in joy, Kaya walked in for the cleanup. Wolf chuckled as he noticed her particrly gloomy expression.
Why does it seem like youre not in a good mood?
Youve seen the strange training we just had. If they cant properly wear cold weather gear, theres an increased risk of freezing for everyone.
Even so, theres no reason to get angry. We provided survival tools and set the training conditions on our side, and they used them in their own advantage.
Theres something unsettling.
Kaya, organizing her cold weather gear in her bag, grumbled.
I felt like the moments when I had to endure training to survive in the pr region were being belittled one after another.
Kaya, I told you. Asians have a mysterious energy flowing within them.
Do you have to keep saying that?
Wolf chuckled slightly and then lifted a bag in each hand and headed outside.
Kaya also picked up her bag and, while standing outside the freezer, encountered the young man.
Oh? Can I help you?
Its okay.
The young man took the bag from Kaya with a grunt.
What are you doing?
At Kayas cold gaze, the young man smiled and said.
Well, your way of speaking is exactly like my younger brothers style. Even the age matches.
What are you talking about?
He says he doesnt like it, but it all shows on his face.
Kaya was slightly taken aback but then snorted.
In the next training, you wont be able to trick me like earlier.
Its not a trick; its chemistry.
The strange chemist who turned a freezer into a backyard camping ground in the extreme environment of ska.
Whether what he showed was an Eastern mystique as Wolf imed or just a simple trick, Kaya vowed to confirm it thoroughly in the future.
That evening.
Jeong-woo was packing his belongings in the room.
For the intensive adaptation training, the entire Total Care Team would be staying together in amodations near the warehouse. Jeong-woo also nned to leave early in the morning to participate in this.
Starting today, for a month. Since I chose this to earn money, I should work hard and seed as much as possible.
He nned to simply tell his mother that he was going abroad. Saying it was a business trip to a remote ce with temperatures dropping below minus 40 degrees would be surprising.
Oh, right. I have a promise.
Jeong-woo took his phone in hand and dialed Yoon Yi-seols number.
The signal went through, and her lively voice immediately reached him.
-Mr. Jeong-woo at this hour? How did you know my radio schedule ended? Itste, but want to go on a date?
Uh Ms. Yi-seol, about that.
At Jeong-woos hesitating words, a sudden sigh came from the other end of the call.
-Somethings up this week. Well, youre not going to say something like you are not able to do it, right?.
Fortunately, its not that.
-Phew.
Not this week, but Ill be on an overseas business trip for the entire month.
A deep silence followed. Wondering if he had mixed in a joke unnecessarily, Jeong-woo swallowed hard.
Ms. Yi-seol?
-Are you making excuses because you dont want to date?
No, its not that Well, our meeting wasnt for a date but to go through the checklist, right?
-Thats not the important part. Its not really for a month, is it? Where are you going? If you clear some time in between like in Venice, even for a moment, wont we be able to meet?
Im sorry.
-Theres nothing for Mr. Jeong-woo to be sorry about. You wont even like me because you wont see me for a long time
In Yoon Yi-seols lonely voice, her face vividly appeared in his imagination. Not knowing she would be this disappointed, Jeong-woo couldnt continue the conversation.
Chapter 105
Chapter 105- Old Steel Great Line(3)
The next day.
Jeong-woo roughly unpacked his belongings in the Total Care Teams lodgings and copsed onto the bed. Perhaps due to ponderingte into the night, his head felt somewhat heavy from the morning.
-This is an official matter now. Please stop creating a sleeping beauty until we find a solution.
Dr. Moons warning was already apparent. It had reached this point because of Jeong-woos indecisiveness and lukewarm attitude.
However, subtly or explicitly expressing her feelings, because of Yoon Yi-seol, Jeong-woo kept forgetting what the current situation was.
The desire neither to hurt nor to be hurt. Was this simply a thought born from a narrow mind?
Ugh, why is this so difficult.
Zing.
While tearing at his hair on the bed, Jeong-woo received a text from Team Leader Joo Hana.
[Theres a drone exercise, soe to this address by 9 AM.]
Drone?
Walking into the parking lot, Jeong-woos expression was somewhat excited.
A total of 800 miles. To explore the section covering 1,280 kilometers, like walking across the Han River Bridge, it would probably take at least a year. One of the ways the Total Care Team chose to supplement that was through aerial reconnaissance for video analysis.
Catching deteriorated parts quickly with a real-time transmitted screen would be the most crucial key to gauging the sess or failure of this task. Jeong-woo was fully aware of this, as there was a five-thousand-dor deposit riding on his shoulders.
Where is she?
Turning his head, he spotted a van with the Yujin Chemicals logo. It seemed that Shin Seong-beom from the Mechanical Team was taking a ck case out of the trunk.
Director Shin, good morning.
Oh, Jeong-woo.
Ill help.
They both lifted the case and ced it on the ground.
Wheres Team Leader Joo?
Shes in the warehouse office.
Why didnt shee?
We can handle it to some extent. The team leader instructed me to help you with the practice.
Jeong-woos eyes widened.
Do I operate this too?
Since youll be in charge of the ground pipeline, its better for you to get familiar with it. It has AI correction, so the operation isnt too difficult.
I see.
Inside the open case, a solid drone body weighing 6.95 kg was revealed. Seong-beom took the drone out into an empty area and smoothly attached the propellers.
It looks expensive.
This is used for bridge inspection domestically. The one currently in ska is a special model for the pr region.
The size of the main body,beled X900, was about 1 meter. Jeong-woos fantasy about flying remote-controlled airnes flickered.
Sir, are you flying a ne?
Wow, look at that huge thing.
Two little kids riding scooters approached the X900, which looked like a transforming robot, and started watching with amazed expressions.
Stay a few steps back; the wind is strong.
As Seong-beom warned them, the kids stepped back, marveling at the sight.
Jeong-woo, this is the controller.
Jeong-woo received the controller with a touch screen and was bewildered by the unfamiliar buttons.
Its my first time with a drone.
Set waypoints on the linked map, and when you press this button, itll automatically fly. The controller disys the video, but the connected monitor allows for more detailed confirmation.
Listening to the exnation about analyzing the altitude and position of ground objects precisely with dual GNSS, Jeong-woo set a nearby section and pressed the button.
Buzzzz
The four propellers rotated heavily as the drone lifted slightly. Thending gear folded, and the drone slowly rose into the air. Jeong-woo was amazed by the drones magnificence.
Wow.
Instinctively, Jeong-woo pushed the left stick upward. The sight of the drone rapidly soaring to an altitude of 50 meters delighted the kids who cheered while looking at the sky.
Its flying!
The drone leisurely roamed around the parking lot, following the predetermined path. Due to its stable movement, there was no need for additional maniption.
Sir, can it shoot missiles?
Shoot them fast!
The kids gathered around Jeong-woo, bombarding him with various questions and requests, envy written all over their faces.
Jeong-woo, not ustomed to the somewhat shaky controls with even a slight touch of the stick, shook his head.
Sorry, Im a novice at drones.
Aw.
Seeing the disappointed expressions of the kids, Jeong-woo forced a bitter smile.
Its fun, but itll take a while to get used to it.
For a while, he absentmindedly stared at the sky, trying to familiarize himself with manual control. The kids soon lost interest and rode their scooters, disappearing into the distance.
The connected screen looks like this.
Seong-beom ced aptop on top of the case.
Jeong-woos attention, which had been focused on piloting while looking at the sky, returned to the monitor.
We installed a 16x zoom optical camera. You can control the direction and zoom with this switch.
Following the exnation, Jeong-woo zoomed in on the drainage pipe under the bridge.
Oh, this should make verification easy enough.
Jeong-woo quickly examined the surface of the pipe on the monitor through the molecr view.
The paint has been applied for over a year. This part looks like it could corrode severely within a month, and the connection socket here has been corroded for a while.
Watching the monitor together, Seong-beom raised his eyebrows.
Huh? This socket? Oh, we passed it.
As the screen shifted to the adjacent pipe, Seong-beom scratched his head.
Haha, Im not sure. Wait, let me rewind it.
The recording screen went back ten seconds.
Here and here.
Jeong-woo pointed out the discovered areas one by one. Seong-beom, who was watching the monitor with him, shook his head in surprise.
Its indeed suspicious regarding the corrosion risk. I should send this video to the Incheon city side. Huh, you noticed in just a few seconds. I can now understand why Team Leader Joo was so insistent.
Can you teach me how to adjust the flight speed?
Push the pitch all the way forward. If you think its moving faster than expected, lower the sensitivity setting.
Listening to the exnation to familiarize himself with manual control, Jeong-woo focused on the controller. Suddenly, the scenery of the street on the monitor caught his eye.
Under the spring sunlight, people enjoying walks and jogs on the morning bicycle path were captured by the drones camera. Due to the warm weather, everyone was dressed in light attire.
Aerial shots are nothing special, but they turn out like artwork Oh?
On the other side of the bicycle path, a familiar foreign woman was seen riding a longboard.
Her lightweight attire made her stand out even in the crowd.
In the screen, Kaya waved at the drone.
Wearing an action cam on her left wrist and wireless headphones on her head, Kaya passed through the bicycle path with the aura of a model showcasing the two products. The kids on scooters, who had passed her, also showed surprised expressions with wide-open mouths.
This youngdy is a YouTube star.
Seong-beom pointed at Kaya on the monitor.
They say she gets a lot of views with just one video. She mentioned doing a personal shoot in ska this time.
Really?
Despite the mention of a famous figure posting extreme sports activities on video-sharing sites, Jeong-woo wasnt particrly surprised. After all, he also managed a channel with nearly 150,000 subscribers.
As the test flight concluded, the drone descended and arrived at the parking lot.
At the same time, Kaya also turned her board towards the parking lot and entered.
Hi guys.
With a stylish turn, the longboard came to a halt with a clunk.
In response to Kayas greeting, Seong-beom, pointing towards her on the monitor, had a somewhat absent-minded expression. Even Jeong-woo, who was putting down the controller, had to inwardly sigh at her sensual figure that hade so close.
No, Jeong-woo. Shes just a girl. Shes underage.
With her headset lowered around her neck, Kaya turned her gaze toward Jeong-woo.
Is that X900 yours?
Uh yes.
Jeong-woo, hearing a faint melody from Kayas headset as she approached, raised his eyebrows. It was a Korean song, specifically Yoon Yi-seolstest release.
Memories of the background and confession behind this song came to mind, and while shaking his head, Jeong-woo was slightly amused. Yet, when Kaya spoke, he paid attention.
The rotation looked very unstable, especially the ROLL axis.
Its my first time trying it today.
No wonder. That model can simte if you connect it to an app, so practice diligently.
Kaya seemed very familiar with drone filming like this. Jeong-woo, recalling Seong-beoms words, asked her.
Kaya, were you working on a video for your YouTube channel with the action cam?
I shoot it whenever I have a chance. The editor polishes it up.
At the mention of a separate editor, Jeong-woo sneakily asked.
How many subscribers does your channel have?
Well, about three million?
What?
Jeong-woo fell silent at Kayas response, who possessed a vastly different number of subscribers. He thought he should avoid mentioning Channel Chemistry as much as possible in front of her.
Oh, Jeong-woo.
Seong-beom turned his head towards Jeong-woo and flicked his fingers.
Dont you also have a YouTube channel
Uh, shall we have our second practice?
The cold adaptation training session began at 1 PM.
Just like yesterday, use every method avable to endure.
Wolf shouted as he looked around at the people standing in the middle of the refrigerated warehouse.
30 minutes. Start!
The warehouse door closed, and the industrial fan started operating.
Having experienced it once before, everyone swiftly began putting on their clothes. However, screams erupted from various ces as they hadnt fully adapted to the cold.
Kaya nced at Jeong-woo.
Today, she took out the survival kit from the bag. The tool exnation was done, and it was judged that there was a need for cold resistance training. Naturally, she expected that the miraculous results ofst time wouldnt be repeated, so she anticipated the contemtive expression on his face.
However, Jeong-woo was sitting on the warehouse floor with a nonchnt expression. Perplexed, Kaya focused her gaze on him, and her expression changed.
He was crumpling the clothes given to wear under the instion suit in his hands.
What, what are you doing?
In response to Kayas question, Jeong-woo pointed to one side of the ceiling.
Theres an infrared light here.
What?
The fabric of these inner clothes uses a heating material that amplifies infrared. By mixing it with the capsaicinponent in bear spray and continuously storing the friction heat Oh, wait a moment.
From the innerwear he had been fiddling with for a long time, a pungent scent of peppers wafted, making Kaya wrinkle her nose.
Team Leader!
Today as well, Jeong-woo draped a fiber bundle around Joo Hana, who was wearingyered thermal suits.
Oh? Its warm.
Take it off and press it against your back tightly if you start feeling cold.
Seated again, Jeong-woo resumed speaking.
Where were we? Anyway, although the smell might be a bit strong, this is a heat storage material called Tempil.
What is that?
Kaya lost her words.
Assistant Manager Min, from the maintenance team, ran to Jeong-woos side.
Please me too just spraying bear spray is enough?
Its not something you should blindly imitate. Ill handle thebination, so you just apply it yourself.
Wi Ji-seong, who had been trembling, approached Jeong-woo like lightning.
Mr. Han Jeong-woo
You too, sir? If you need it the inner set is insufficient, take it out of your bag.
The refrigerated warehouse was instantly covered in the heated enthusiasm of those working to create heat-retaining innerwear and the sharp fragrance of bear spray.
Kaya, with a bewildered expression, turned her head towards Wolf. After shrugging his shoulders, Wolf pronounced the word asians and smiled.
Second training session.
Bear spray is confiscated.
Hey, Kaya. Where does it say you can do that!
You set up two industrial fans. How do you expect us to endure!
In response to peoplesints, Kaya responded calmly.
After all, its a liquid that cannot be brought on board an aircraft. Youll have to buy it locally.
After the ruthless measure, the door of the refrigerated warehouse closed.
Wooong!
At the moment when two fans spewed icy winds, Jeong-woo raised his hand confidently.
Instructor Wolf. I have this inside my bag. Can I use it now? It looks expensive.
Holding a mountain-sized hand warmer, Jeong-woo looked apologetic. Wolf chuckled in response.
It doesnt matter, but thats something you put in your sleeping bag to use while sleeping. Its effective when theres enough heat.
Then let me see how long itsts at minus 30 degrees celsius.
The sound was strange, but Kaya didnt notice the hint.
Engage!
Minus 30 degrees celsius.
In an environment with a strong wind, peoples expressions turned as if they were about to die.
Stick together!
As the training reached the point where they had to endure by gathering in a circr formation to block the wind, Kaya finally wore a satisfied smile.
In the extreme conditions where the only support was each others warmth, this time she thought it was a proper endurance training.
Jeong-woo, shaking a hand warmer in his hand, dropped it in the middle of the group.
Huh? What kind of warmth is this?
Shivering, Shin Seong-beom lifted his lowered head. Then, he discovered his colleagues looking around with the same surprised expression.
Dont be surprised. Finnish hand warmers are effective, but the forced reaction onlysts for five minutes.
Kaya looked at the hand warmer emitting heat iparable to the tin can and then turned her gaze to Jeong-woo.
With the warmth brought by the five minutes he created, they easily endured the remaining 20 minutes.
Third training session.
Engage!
Taking out shbangs and glow sticks from his bag, Jeong-woo tore their surfaces with a pocket knife andid them on the ground.
Jeong-woo, what is that?
If youbine this explosive, it will generate heat even in the cold.
The expression on Kayas face, looking at Jeong-woo, gradually turned into astonishment.
Fourth.
Sharpening the handle of a folding shovel with a pocket knife, creating metal dust, Jeong-woo, observed closely by Kaya, asked.
What are you doing, Mr. Han?
If you mix only salt here, it bes a natural hand warmer. Interesting, right? And easy.
Ah, I see.
Thud!
Jeong-woo stood alone outside the tightly closed door of the refrigerated warehouse.
All he had done was follow Wolfs instructions to survive by doing whatever he could, but Kaya had angrily kicked him out.
Four dayster.
A long line of people carrying sizable bags filed into the Incheon Airport gate.
At the forefront of those dressed as if it were midsummer, despite the chilly weather that was not suitable for short sleeves, was Yoon Jaegil, the only one wearing a suit.
Everyone, youve worked hard during the training. Well be departing in three hours, so brace yourselves. Wolf, please keep our team members safe.
Yoon Jaegils words, wishing for the safe return of the Total Care Team, were met with a nod and a smile from Wolf, revealing his healthy, tan skin.
Jeong-woo.
In the midst of people moving toward the airline counter for check-in, Yoon Jaegil called Jeong-woo to stand beside him.
Its going to be a challenging journey.
Im prepared for it.
Not only the environment but also severe opposition from the officials of thepany managing the pipeline. If the moment of decisiones, boldly take action. Team Leader Joo Hana will also actively follow your opinions.
Yoon Jaegil firmly grasped Jeong-woos hand and shook it.
The sess or failure of this mission depends solely on Han Jeong-woo.
Ill do my best.
-Ladies and gentlemen, hello. This is Korean Air flight KE010 bound for Seattle.
As the in-flight announcement echoed, Wolf fastened his seatbelt and turned to look at Kaya. Watching Kaya adjusting her action cam on her wrist, Wolf clicked his tongue.
Youre filming again?
Do you know that I make much more profit from this channel than from the academy sponsorships?
Kaya.
Wolf sighed briefly and spoke.
I warned you about bringing the logic of capital into the survival field. Eventually, to get one more thumbs up, youll have to find more provocative ces. Ive seen many survival experts ruin themselves like that.
Well, that shouldnt be a problem. Fortunately, my poprity has more to do that I look like my mother than extreme wilderness exploration.
Seeing Kaya smiling, Wolf momentarily wore a proud fatherly smile. The lens of the action cam she was filming with pointed towards a young man loading luggage onto a shelf near the entrance.
Now, what about that guy, Dad?
Why? Hes been training properly since Wednesday.
Did you hear about him disassembling a smoke grenade to make a portable heater?
Haha. That was really funny. Hes an amusing friend.
As Wolf and the young mans eyes met, the young man lowered his head and exchanged a nod. epting it, Wolf continued.
Mr. Yoon, the employer, says this young man made significant contributions at disaster sites in Korea.
Disaster sites? Hes just apany employee.
I dont know. Oh, by the way, I heard there are videos of him on YouTube.
A request to turn off mobile phones was announced, and Kaya, without being able to search for them, pressed the end button.
Seated, just before turning off his phone, Jeong-woo noticed a blinking message. It was from Yoon Yi-seol. Jeong-woo hesitated about opening it, but realized it would shake him if he did.
See you in a month.
Perhaps during this time of contemtion, he might find the best answer.
As the in-flight announcement ended, the ne began to move.
Via Seattle, they were en route to Anchorage, skasrgest city, and from there to the town of Deadhorse, where the first oil pipeline base was located.
The grand journey had begun.
Mile 0 Minus 26 degrees Celsius, Prudhoe Bay
The bulging mountains and sunken valleys were all filled with snow. In the distance, the vast ck sea of Prudhoe Bay, meeting the clear sky at the end, was captivating enough to catch everyones gaze.
Inside the 18-seater small ne, which was crossing over the mountain range with a cheerful engine sound, Jeong-woo couldnt help but marvel at the skanndscape.
-We will soon arrive at Deadhorse airport.
Along with the pilots voice, the nes altitude gradually decreased. The petroleum base of Prudhoe Bay, with its bustling oil trucks, came into Jeong-woos view.
Its like an industrialplex in the middle of the Arctic.
The ne, with a rough descent,nded on the runway.
Tomemorate this historic moment of stepping into the Arctic town for the first time, Jeong-woo, bracing himself, opened his mouth.
Hello, ska!
However, as soon as the door opened, a fierce wind rushed in, and his teeth shed sweetly, leaving him speechless.
Oof, what the heck!
The cold is no joke.
Rising from his seat amidst the screams of the people, Wolf, checking the wrist thermometer, asked.
Minus 26 degrees. What should we do?
Only then, amidst the people who were putting on their winter clothes while looking for their bags, Jeong-woo, too, awkwardly put on his clothes. Wearing a hat and tightening his coat cor, he got off the ne.
Whoo-!
The first greeting that ska extended to the group was an enormous cold that felt like it could freeze ones lungs.
Jeong-woo, huddling his body, lost his words in the biting wind, as if saying, Wee, its the first time in a weather like this, isnt it?
We have to stay here at least three weeks, right?
The road ahead went ck.
Chapter 106
Chapter 106- Old Steel Great Line(4)
The Korean team has arrived.
Neogi, who was sitting quietly in the management office, turned his head at the sound of his subordinates voice.
Gather them in the multipurpose room. Also, inform the other teams that the meeting is starting.
After giving the instructions, Neogis gaze lingered on the table, where documents provided information about thepanies tasked with the precise inspection of the pipelines at the oil facility.
Baker Hughes- Machinery experts. Patented technology in data umtion using robots, infrared imaging techniques, and leakage detection sensors.
Rust Guard- Corrosion specialist. Produces corrosion-resistant products independently. Extensive experience in managing numerous aging pipelines within the United States.
Yujin Chemical- Structural support experts with a mobile researchb capable of independent detection and on-site analysis.
Neogi let out a small sigh. The main reason for summoning three externalpanies simultaneously was the inadequacy of TAPS engineers alone to safeguard this extensive facility.
Particrly, the incidentst month involving a corroded pipe at [Pump Station 7], resulting in the leakage of 300 barrels of crude oil, was critical. With each passing day, the risk of idents increased on the pipeline, and the pressure from environmental groups, the media, and federal regtors intensified.
Five years as an oil pipeline manager in a ce where even a one-day shutdown can make international oil prices to fluctuate.
Neogi had only umted a stack of unused vacation days, digestive issues, stress-induced hair loss, and no time to spare.
Ding.
-Everyone is here.
Upon receiving the message from his subordinate, Neogi stood up from his seat and put on his coat.
Inside a spacious building filled with various tools, Jeong-woo was observing two differentpanies.
Baker Hughes had only five personnel. They were assemblingponents atop a maintenance tform, with a robot resembling an excavator, 5 meters in length.
Thats a $3 million smart pig. It moves through the pipelines, detecting potential hazards along the way.
Jeong-woos jaw dropped when Shin Seong-beom tol him the value of the impressive machine.
Rust Guard had a bustling atmosphere. Most of them were men in their thirties or forties, all wearing cowboy hats and sunsses.
Probably around sixty people.
Observing the tall and muscr white men dressed uniformly, Jeong-woo couldnt help but think, They exude a cool vibe.
Do you know them, Deputy Shin?
Rust Guard is well-known in North America. They use their maic field detectors to move through the pipelines and detect any issues.
For 800 miles?
There are hundreds of corrosion inspection specialists like you in theirpany, Jeong-woo.
If it was divided among many people, Jeong-woo could understand.
Jeong-woo continued to find it fascinating that cowboys with the unique profession of corrosion inspection specialists were handling a $3 million precision machine.
Vroom
As the sound of a truck engine echoed outside, a casually dressed man with rough skin and eyesses opened the door and entered.
Seeing the ess card hanging around his neck with Management supervisor written on it, Jeong-woo sensed that he was the overall responsible person for this task.
Looking around at the gathered people, the man spoke.
Im Bhaskar Neogi. Would the team leaders from each group pleasee this way?
Including Joo Hana, the team leaders from bothpanies approached Neogi.
The management supervisor lookspletely Korean.
ording to the information he heard, over half of the employees here were Inupiat. The employee who gave them a ride in a car was also of the Inuit tribe.
People are not unfamiliar, which is good, but its tough with this kind of weather outside.
Even though it was the same sub-zero temperature, Jeong-woo keenly felt the weight of the winds chill the moment they got off the ne. The frozen warehouse training was just childs y.
Jeong-woo nced towards Wolf and Kaya.
Wolf, silently standing with his arms crossed, and Kaya, who was filming in all directions with her action cam on her wrist, showed no signs of being affected by the cold.
Mr. Han.
Kaya, making eye contact, spoke to Jeong-woo.
Could you say hello to everyone here?
Hello~ Should I film too?
Its a trip with everyone. Mr. Shin. Over here.
Responding to Kayas call, Shin Seong-beom either smiled at the action cam or at her, casting a nce between her and Wolf, then immediately turned his head away after catching Wolfs indifferent gaze.
Please share the preparations each team has been making.
David, the Baker Hughes team leader holding a monkey wrench, was the first to speak.
As soon as the entrance to the pipeline is ready for maintenance, we can deploy the smart pig.
We tried using a pig with an ultrasonic detector long ago, but it couldnt collect sufficient data due to the wax build-up inside.
Baker Hughes maic sensor is much more precise. We dont consider old issues as a concern.
Ran, the Rust Guard team leader, interjected with a grin.
Hey, Dave. Why arent you mentioning the new issue? Those sensors get buried in wax and break easily.
David, giving Ran a sharp look, asked.
And you think detecting pulses with a voltage meter used 40 years ago is the solution?
The simpler the structure, the less likely it is to betray you. Mr. Neogi, we are ready to depart anytime. Weve perfectly nned the route, and well finish the 800 miles in not 20 but within 12 days.
How about staying below -20 degrees Celsius for the entire week?
No problem. We, former cowboys, roamed the Rockies in the dead of winter. Minus 20 degrees is a warm temperature for us.
Confident in Rans assurance, the tall men nearbyughed. Of course, David smirked with a slightly annoyed expression.
Amidst the tensepetition between the two teams, Neogis gaze turned to Joo Hana.
What about Yujin Chemical? Since you arrived less than 30 minutes ago, you can discuss the overall preparations for tomorrow, the start date.
David and Ran also directed their eyes at Joo Hana.
As both men seemed to underestimate her from the beginning of the meeting, Joo Hana intended to respond carefully. However, she overheard a conversation in the background.
Machines and people. Even in such unfamiliar work, theres an overflow of experts.
Mr. Jeong-woo, you still dont seem to know how much impact youll have on thesepanies.
No way.
Though joining at thest moment, the presence of the most reliable team member was reassuring.
Joo Hana faced the two men and spoke.
Wepleted our preparations a month ago. Yujin Chemical will demonstrate the results, not just talk like these gentlemen here.
David showed surprise in his eyes, and Ran chuckled unexpectedly.
Everyone, please pay attention.
Neogi gathered the team members from the threepanies in the multipurpose room and raised his voice.
Once considered thergest private project in the United States, praised as the pinnacle of engineering achievement, the pipeline has now be an ailing old man. I hope all of you can find the right diagnosis and solution.
Chapter 107
Chapter 107- Old Steel Great Line(5)
Mile 5 32 degrees below zero, Deadhorse
Twelve hourster, it was time for the first official day of the event. Jeong-woo, who had woken up in a container amodation near Deadhorse Airport, looked out the window as soon as he regained his senses.
The sunlight reflecting off the white ins was incredibly intense.
Not a cloud in the sky. It must be warm.
However, Seong-beom, who had been sleeping in the bed next to him, brutally shattered Jeong-woos expectations with some information.
The morning temperature is minus 32 degrees.
Whoa.
He felt like he might freeze to death with the news that it might be colder than yesterday.
After a quick shower, he stepped outside the amodation. Among the dozens of vehicles lined up in the vast parking lot, he noticed a familiar bus.
I didnt expect the mobile researchb toe all the way here.
Director Yoon Jaegil pushed for it strongly. Especially if Jeong-woo utilizes it as intended, we can gather several useful chemical products for pr life.
His intentions are really clear.
Seong-beom smiled at Jeong-woos muttering.
Upon entering the mobile researchb, he saw team members sitting for a meeting. As soon as Jeong-woo took his seat, Joo Hana, who had been monitoring the monitors, spoke up.
Did everyone sleep well? In the initial stage, well operate with four teams as nned. Be especially cautious during movement since most of it is snowy terrain.
One drone team, two metal detection teams, one data collection and maintenance estimation team. The list of nine people and todays expected moving points appeared on the monitor.
Wi Ji-seong, a member of Detection Team 1, pointed outside.
Team Leader Joo, when I tried probing the ground earlier, it was frozen solid. Im not sure if the detection rod will go in properly.
Joo Hana turned her head towards Jeong-woo at his concern.
At what temperature can we use the megaton de-icer?
Huh? Did you bring that too?
To Jeong-woos surprise, Joo Hana nodded as if it was obvious.
Thinking about the chemical form of the de-icer he madest winter, Jeong-woo asked her.
The anti-freezing protein held by the mobile researchb is extracted from pr bacteria, right? The maximum temperature of that bacterias activity should be the limit.
Joo Hana searched the database and answered.
Minus 25 degrees.
Upon hearing the news that it couldnt be used in todays weather, Wi Ji-seong was pondering whether to use a trenching tool. Jeong-woo suddenly remembered and suggested.
You just need a hole big enough for the detection rod to go in, right? How about triggering an exothermic reaction that melts the decision altogether?
What do you mean?
Using chloratepounds. Potassium, magnesiumbined in the right proportions to rapidly induce abustion reaction
As Jeong-woo exined, the eyes of all the team members widened. Doubting if they heard it wrong, Joo Hana asked.
Are you suggesting making a bomb?
No. To produce a meaningful me reaction, you need to create an incendiary mixture by mixing napthenic acid and aluminum salt with petroleum. But you dont need a hole diameter of 5m.
Listening intently, Wi Ji-seong replied, 5 cm is enough. Joo Hana, confident that it was Jeong-woos suggestion, allowed the use ofpounds held by the mobile researchb.
If its just enough to melt the ground, go ahead and make it.
Sure.
After the arrangements for each teams exploration zone were finalized, Joo Hana spoke up for thest time.
As felt yesterday, we have lower visibilitypared to otherpanies. Support from TAPS is also prioritized lower than the two otherpanies. However, if we demonstrate our capabilities here, I am confident their discrimination will turn into shame. Its going to be cold, but lets do our best.
Understood.
Lets do it!
Fighting!
The determined team members walked outside to prepare for the journey.
Jeong-woo opened the ss door and entered the makeshiftboratory. Wearing gloves on both hands and protective goggles, Wolf walked into the mobile researchb.
Team Leader, should we set up the base camp near the [Second Pump Base]? Please radio so that we can return before sunset.
Ill send the message.
Is there a long-distance team travel today?
Probably the drone team will go the farthest.
Really? If its a drone, its Mister Han, right? Where is he
At Joo Hanas gesture, Wolfs gaze turned towards the inside of the ss door.
Whats he doing?
Hes making a mepound to melt the ice on the ground.
Wolf watched Jeong-woo with interest, his fist clenched.
20 minutester.
Jeong-woo walked out carrying a container filled with white coin-shaped crystalline structures.
Here.
Already done?
Wi Ji-seong was surprised as he took the container.
The facility is good.
He answered like that, but he had obviously been simultaneously conducting a synthesis operation manipting free electrons in the molecr world.
They were too busy examining the inside of the container, and dindt notice the gradually diminishing red energy flickering in Jeong-woos eyes.
How do we use it
Jeong-woo quickly exined as he took off his protective goggles.
ce it where you want to make a hole, and when you strike it with flint, it will ignite on its own.
Is it that simple?
In response to Wi Ji-seongs skeptical reaction, Jeong-woo gave a confident expression as if to say theres no need to say more.
Really, Mr. Jeong-woo seems capable of making anything with just words.
Well, if its chemistry.
Beside Jeong-woo, Wolf approached with a wry smile.
Is Mr. Han from the EOD in the South Korean military?
Huh?
Jeong-woo raised his head at Wolfs mention of the explosive ordnance disposal unit.
He was in the rifle corps and mainly did a lot of tinkering.
Surprising. If its a subject that involves making a miniature grenade in 20 minutes, anyone from any military would have been tempted. If you ever get involved in a war, be sure to transfer to the ordnance. It will be an excellent force.
Praise emanating from Wolf, a survival instructor from the UKs special forces SAS. Wi Ji-seong, who was shaking the container happily, froze in his arm movement.
8:30 AM.
The wind wasnt blowing, so it wasnt as cold as Jeong-woo had anticipated.
In a corner of the parking lot that could amodate three ser fields, Jeong-woo spotted a domestically produced 1-ton truck that seemed out of ce in the mysterious atmosphere of the pr region.
Was this also imported from Korea?
Its cheaper to transport vehicles with charging generators from the local area than to rent them.
The blue truck, which looked like it should be wished well for good farming this year, revealed arge box containing a generator and a drone when Seong-beom removed the winterized cover from the cargo bed.
Even though it looks like this, weve also attached satellitemunication equipment. You can make a direct call to Korea.
Jeong-woo admired the imposing presence of the antenna, as thick as a plumbing pipe, above the modest telephone.
Ill start the engine.
Seong-beom sat in the drivers seat.
As Jeong-woo, who was loading a backpack into the cargo bed, saw another bag suddenly rise, he turned his head.
A blondedy wearing silver ski goggles extended her hand.
Kaya?
Youre going far from the base camp?
Ah yes.
Wolf says its unlikely, but he wants me to go with him in case we run into wildlife.
Mentioning Wolf, Kaya suddenly turned her head as if she had just remembered.
Dad told me to get a grenade from Mr. Han. Is that a joke?
Jeong-woo hesitated for a moment, then nodded. He had to exin to Wi Ji-seong earlier that it wasnt that kind of bomb. Eventually, he felt relieved and left after demonstrating it outside.
Mr. Jeong-woo, the heater is working really well. Oh? Kaya, hi!
Seong-beom, leaning out the drivers side window, discovered Kaya and greeted her with a pleased smile. Kaya also waved back brightly in response to the greeting.
Jeong-woo pointed to the truck.
This car has a bit smaller seating.
Its small? Its spacious. In Kathmandu, there are 12-seaters with 30 people riding. If you hang on the roof and go for 8 hours, this kind of car is heaven.
Opening the passenger seat door and gracefully climbing into the middle seat, Kaya smiled brightly.
If you mentioned Kathmandu, is the capital of Nepal. Jeong-woo wondered how much wild experience the eighteen-year-olddy, who imed to have been to Everest, had. Even if he didnt know, it seemed clear that it was due to Wolfs early education.
Vroom.
With a very familiar engine sound, the truck began to travel along the snow-covered road depicted like a canvas. The brown unpaved road on the snowy canvas looked very warm, bathed in sunlight.
Mile 43 33 degrees below zero, Arctic Tundra Zone
In all directions, a lone drone hovered in the vastnd covered with snow and rocks.
While capturing the zigzagging silver pipeline, the drones camera lens caught a cowboy hat.
One person every 2 miles.
In the harsh cold, Rust Guard corrosion experts persevered, walking diligently to check if there were ck puddles or wet ground. This scene was captured by the lens and transmitted to Jeong-woos view as he controlled the drone from outside, 5 miles away.
They must be checking diligently despite the hardships. Its so cold.
As the day progressed, Jeong-woo, who thought it would be less cold, found himself constantly shivering after the wind started blowing.
Seong-beom, who was standing next to the truck and answering a satellite phone call, spoke up.
Mr. Jeong-woo! Team Leader is asking how much progress well make today. Rust Guard covered 45 miles, and Baker Hughes covered 50 miles.
We can do about
The drones maximum range is 5 miles. The time it takes to fly the drone in both directions for precise filming at a specific point of the pipeline is 30 minutes. Calcting the vehicle travel time to the next point, it came out to be approximately 10 miles per hour.
Maybe we can cover 70 miles.
After finishing the report, Seong-beom, who put down the satellite phone, approached.
Wow, it looks like this will be done in two weeks.
I dont know yet. We also need to analyze the footage, and the mountainous region will be much slower.
Since the Brooks Range, a formidable obstacle, was still holding out 140 miles ahead, Jeong-woo couldnt easily estimate how long it would take.
There are signs of deep wrinkles all over this section. Maybe rocks collided. We should select this as an urgent repair point.
Where?
Since the drone had already passed that point, Seong-beom rolled back the recording screen.
Oh, Deputy Shin. Wait a moment.
While watching the recordingptop connected to the drone, Jeong-woo, who was supporting the pipeline with an H-shaped high-strength beam, noticed a peculiar mark.
Did something scratch this?
As curiosity arose, the view expanded into the molecr world.
In the sharp gap of the split iron, marks resembling animal fur were visible. He even confirmed the cross-section of the fur, almost unaffected by the cold and wind. It was a very recent trace.
Although it was a mark that did not affect the corrosion of the pipeline, it seemed like something to check. Jeong-woo turned his head toward the roof of the truck.
Kaya.
In response to Jeong-woos call, Kaya, who was observing in all directions with binocrs, lowered her gaze.
What?
Is there any wild animal in this area that could leave w marks about 10cm on an iron pir?
If its scratched enough to leave a mark on iron, you might suspect a pr bear.
Do they live in a ce like this? Not floating on ice, but are they seals here?
If its a food issue, there are reindeer and Arctic hares, and in summer, they go further ind from the tundra.
At the mention of the possibility of a pr bear appearing, Jeong-woo swallowed a groan.
So, which direction is it?
Jeong-woo called out the coordinates that the drone had passed. Kayas binocrs pointed in that direction.
Could we really meet one?
If they were toe face to face, it wouldnt disappear like the cmercials where you sip it deliciously and vanish.
Jeong-woo, feeling around his waist, decided to check the bear spray just in case.
The drone, which hadpleted a 5-mile search,nded next to the truck.
While Seong-beom was recing the battery, Jeong-woo approached Kaya.
What do you see?
A bear.
She answered sofortably that Jeong-woo momentarily doubted his ears.
Really?
Kaya gestured for Jeong-woo toe up. Jeong-woo climbed onto the truck and raised his binocrs in the direction Kaya pointed.
He opened his mouth in surprise at the appearance of a bulky, 2.5-meter-long adult pr bear walking leisurely on the snowy ground.
No need to be nervous. It hasnt noticed us, and the distance is sufficient.
Even so
Jeong-woo thought of someone who had passed by with the drone and moved the binocrs. He spotted a cowboy hat near the 40-mile point of the pipeline.
He seems quite close to that cowboy. Shouldnt we tell him?
Do you have a way to contact him?
Well Should I shout at least?
Kayaughed, thinking it was a joke.
Chances of a single bear attacking a person are almost nonexistent. It will probably avoid us on its own.
What if its not alone?
Theres nothing as dangerous as a wild animal protecting its cubs. They wont take any risks.
Upon hearing this, Jeong-woo lowered the binocrs and squinted his eyes.
When he scanned with infrared vision, the unmistakable warmth of the pr bear was revealed in the all-white world. In Jeong-woos survey of the surroundings, a round space where warmth could be felt captured his attention.
A den nestled in the snow. The thickness of the snow was finely adjusted, creating a space where the temperature was maintained close to 0 degrees. Inside that space were two bear cubs and their mother, emitting warmth, as they cuddled together.
That guy was the father bear.
How do you know?
Jeong-woo pointed with his finger toward the location of the den. Kaya, who received the binocrs, carefully examined the area around the den and eximed. Two bear cubs awkwardly walked out of the den.
You said youve never been in the wild like this before.
I learned from you.
Kaya nced at Jeong-woo.
I dont remember teaching you anything?
I must be the student who learns one thing and knows ten, I guess.
Haha. You arent a humble student, I see.
Jeong-woo took out a short-rangemunication radio with a maximum range of 3 miles from his waist.
Wait a moment. First, let me give a warning.
Were we sharing a wireless channel with otherpanies?
After smiling silently at Kayas question, Jeong-woo raised his hand over the radios battery. Although the distance was quite far, it was a t terrain with no obstacles, making it possible to transmit ultrasound to some extent.
Jeong-woo, who had gathered a lot of dust particles in his hand, pretended to turn on the radio by opening his mouth.
Aha. Rust Guard. Rust Guard,e in.
Ultrasound radiated in a straight line. Far away, the cowboy hat looked around bewilderedly.
Checking the GPS and trudging through the snowy field, the two members of Detection Team 1 finally arrived at the marked location on the map, catching their breath.
Oh, Im dying.
As Wi Ji-seong surveyed the surroundings, the gaze of apetitors employee standing nearby caught his attention.
It looks like hes here to check the pipeline too.
Jae-sang turned his head.
Rust Guards working method is like purebor.
No need toin. Do you know the average sry of those corrosion technicians? Its 100,000 dors.
Seriously?
The two caught their breath and moved.
Standing on the ground where the signpost for the buried pipeline was slightly exposed in the snow, Wi Ji-seong, with a metal detector on his back, swept the ground and marked a spot.
If it werent for Jeong-woo, wed be digging the ground all day. Thats real manualbor.
The buried pipeline couldnt be precisely inspected with a drone. In such ces, the Total Care Team uses a unique method, installing a probe to touch the pipe, passing current through it to measure the thickness and corrosion level.
Rust Guards employees were also digging the ground vigorously, probably to insert a thick iron rod for a simr task. As the sound of piercing the soil echoed, Wi Ji-seong, watching him struggling, clicked his tongue.
Its a lot of work.
Wi Ji-seong ced a marker at the location indicated by Jeong-woo, indicating the specialpound he had prepared, and ignited the me with a flint.
Sizzle.
With the soft sound of burning, the white crystal, the size of a 500-won coin, created a hole and quickly began to prate the ground.
As they inserted the metal probe toward the hole, it went in smoothly.
Observing this, a Rust Guard employee muttered, What the in astonishment. In just 30 seconds, he became fascinated, watching the two finish installing the probe.
On the evening of the first day of the inspection with externalpanies involved, theprehensive situation room inside the Prudhoe Bay TAPS management office was bustling with radiomunicationsing from all directions.
Neogi, who entered the office and opened the door, turned his gaze towards David, the team leader of Baker Hughes, who was in a conversation with the radio as if he were fighting.
The pressure sensor malfunctioned? You should have fixed it in advance! Send a maintenance vehicle to the Second Pump Station. Why is the pulse analysis so slow?
When Neogi and David made eye contact, David smiled as if there was nothing to worry about.
Turning his head towards Ran, Neogi had to nod. Ran, who used to be quite talkative, was silent.
Whats the matter?
Oh, Chief. Its about
Ran started with a bitter look on his face.
We nned to inspect 45 miles, but we could only manage 38 miles because we couldnt inspect the underground section properly. We didnt expect the permafrostyer to be so hard. It seems like the inspection period will be longer than 12 days.
Disappointed by the somewhat pessimistic reports echoing from various ces, Neogi felt a sense of frustration and looked towards the finalpany.
Satellitemunicationwork ess, receiving only data, and a facial expressionless Joo Hana. It was impossible to tell whether things were going well or not.
One hourter.
It was time for eachpanys report.
We, Baker Hughes, have reviewed the data of the pipes inner wall for 50 miles. We detected around ten damaged areas and pulses.
Analysis of potential corrosion elements appeared on the monitor.
Rust Guard found 20 aged areas. But only up to 38 miles. The pipes around 16 miles, where the thickness is reduced, seemed particrly dangerous.
With a short search distance, Ran, who discovered many scratches and cracks through manual maic field measurements, reported. David chuckled and said mockingly.
If you inspect like that, will it take about three months?
You need substance in the inspection. Trusting machines alone wont find any corrosion.
As the two argued, Joo Hana disyed data on the monitor.
This is the inspection report from Yujin Chemical. We inspected 85 miles today, and there are a total of 102 points where maintenance is required. We marked 40 points that require urgent repairs separately. Depressions and wrinkled areas on the inner wall of the pipe, welding defects, abnormal curvature, small holes, partial corrosion, etc.
Joo Hanas voice, spewing out like a waterfall, left David and Ran dumbfounded.
85 miles.
Considering it was too long a distance to inspect in just one day, the uracy of the report could be doubted. However, as the dangerous elements found by Baker Hughes and Rust Guard were all included in Yujin Chemicals report without missing a single one, the two couldnt raise any objections.
Fast, wless, and more precise measurements.
The team leaders of the twopanies, who had not paid much attention to Yujin Chemical, could only look at the petite Asian woman with atonished eyes at this moment.
Thats all. Tomorrow, due to more underground sections, we have scheduled the inspection area up to the Third Pump Station.
Neogi manipted the keyboard himself, scrolling through the report several times with a satisfied expression.
Really excellent. Total Care, was it? I only knew it as a bridge management specialist, but I didnt expect this level.
Whether its a pipeline or a bridge, rust appears wherever oxidation urs.
Joo Hana confirmed the satisfied face of the management supervisor and added calmly.
In the TAPS transportation team, if you could support us with snowmobiles, the operation would be smoother.
Snowmobiles? Of course, well provide support. Ill even give you two personal snowmobiles. Ah, Team Leader Ran.
Yes?
Please return the two snowmobiles in your team.
Rans expression darkened significantly when the support equipment was taken away because they couldnt handle the work as well as Yujin Chemical. Davidughed with a smug look, and Neogi turned his gaze towards him.
Starting from tomorrow, the maintenance vehicle will be used jointly with Yujin Chemical.
What Why would they need electronic equipment over there?
This team analyzed 70 miles through drone reconnaissance today. They even found traces left by pr bears.
At this, Ranughed loudly and said.
Thats right. Mr. Han, was it? The person doing drone reconnaissance warned our line walkers to avoid pr bears.
Neogi confirmed the schedule for the next day and said.
You dont need to inspect separately where Yujin Chemical haspleted the check. Baker Hughes and Rust Guard will proceed from 85 miles onwards.
Since he couldnt confidently inspect more thoroughly than the Korean team, the team leaders of bothpanies kept their mouths shut.
Afterward, Neogi repeatedly questioned only Joo Hana and then left the management office. That concluded all the evening briefings.
While tidying up to return to the lodging, Ran approached Joo Hana.
Um Team Leader Joo Hana.
Whats wrong?
Joo Hana sent a somewhat cautious nce at Ran, who spoke politely. Scratching his beard, Ran nced around at Joo Hana and cautiously continued.
Its about the underground tunnel exploration. That thing your team is using, the me-emitting device. Can you tell me where to get it? Line walkers are making a fuss, asking for support.
That requires the developers permission.
The developer
Han Jeong-woo.
At the mention of a familiar name, Ran snapped his fingers.
Oh, the drone? Was that thing made by a developer in your team? If so, well officially purchase it as a coborative partner.
Joo Hana, dressed in a Hanbok and wearing goggles, spoke while carefully considering her words.
There seems to be a misunderstanding about Mr. Han. Strictly speaking, he participated as an external personnel with Corrosion Detection Consultant qualifications. Let me exin.
External? Why would a corrosion specialist like Yujin Chemical bring a consultant?
Ran looked at Joo Hana with a gaze of iprehension. Joo Hana opened the management office door and said.
Its strange not to coborate. After all, someone with such exceptional chemical intuition is rare in the world.
The door closed, and she disappeared.
Not only Ran but also David, who was listening to the conversation, became intrigued about who Han Jeong-woo was.
Chapter 108
Chapter 108- Old Steel Great Line(6)
Mile 85 28 degrees below zero, Second Pump Base
Jeong-woo awoke early in the morning.
He had slept ufortably in a tent pitched in the middle of a snowy field. The sound of ice freezing and the growl of wild beasts echoed around him. Every aspect of this ce was unfamiliar to him.
However, it wasnt these strange experiences that roused him from sleep.
Back when I was going around for interviews, who wouldve thought Id dream of something like this.
Lying in a region far above the tree line, camping as if in some distant northern territory, was something he could never have imaginedst year.
Of all the things he had wanted to do, achieved or not, nothing seemed more surreal than this current experience.
These days, filled with unexpected events, even vague anxiety crept into him, wondering where this journey would ultimately lead.
Maybe 36 hours in this snowfield makes me more sentimental.
After roughly ten minutes of staring at the swaying tent ceiling, the subtle emotions of dawn faded, and rationality returned.
I came here to make money. Time to work.
Deciding to check the temperature since he was up, Jeong-woo crawled out of his sleeping bag and dressed inyers of winter clothing. Wearing two pairs of socks and a fur-lined pair had be as routine as preparing for a regr workday.
Carefully unzipping the tent to ensure he didnt wake the other three sharing it with him, he stepped outside.
Reaching for his belt, he pulled out a digital thermometer and pressed the button.
[-28]
Still, he felt a bit relieved, thinking it was a few degrees warmer than yesterday.
Slowly inhaling the crisp, pollution-free air, Jeong-woo cast his gaze towards the distantnd where the sun was rising.
The orange glow of the sun, shimmering subtly above the horizon against the snowy morning backdrop, was incredibly majestic.
Ahh~ Perfect weather for flying a drone.
Mile 97 26 degrees below zero, Continual Tundra
Since todays ground exploration segment was short, Kaya did not apany them. Jeong-woo and Shin Seong-beom had alreadypleted their objectives and were analyzing the footage, waiting.
Beep beep beep.
The satellite phone rang, and Shin Seong-beom picked up the receiver.
Yes, Team Leader What? Who are you?
Given that there was only one person who would contact him, hearing a different voice made Shin Seong-beoms eyes widen. He turned his head toward Jeong-woo and spoke.
Theyre looking for you, Mr. Jeong-woo, from Rust Guard.
Me?
As Jeong-woo received the weighty satellite call, the voice of the other party reached his ears.
-Mr. Han. My name is Ran.
Hello.
-You declined our proposal, so Im reaching out personally.
Rust Guard wanted to purchase apound that could melt frozen ground. Due to the hassle of using thepound from apetingpany and mobile researchbs, Jeong-woo had previously declined outright.
My stance remains unchanged.
-Before presenting new terms, I wanted to rify that Rust Guard didnt enter this deal as a countermeasure against Yujin Chemicals.
Rans voice was rather serious.
-The oil spill idents in April 2006, 4,800 barrels, and January 2009, 1,100 barrels, caused significant economic turmoil in North America. And there was another incidentst month. While we acknowledge Yujin Chemicals diagnostic systems are excellent, if theres even a slight chance our line walkers, with 30 years in the field, can find a single w, we wont give up. To diagnose the pipeline properly, we absolutely need the product developed by Mister Han.
Hearing this, even Jeong-woo couldnt help but feel swayed. The sincerity in the other partys voice, emphasizing the sole purpose of protecting the pipeline, was evident.
Even if I agree, you still need permission from Team Leader Joo Hana.
-Team Leader Joo Hana has agreed to follow the new terms I presented. Hence, this satellite call.
New terms?
-Youve seen the pipeline map, right? Theres a section in the Brooks Range where vehicles cannot enter. Even using drones for detection from the outside will have limitations. Were preparing surveince nes to transport our line walkers to that location. Thats our condition.
This seemed quite reasonable. Suddenly, a thought urred to Jeong-woo.
Youre going to fly and insert them in the middle of the mountain range?
-If its a natural airstrip on ice, thats sufficient. Weve even contracted a nepany with skilled pilots.
Jeong-woo had heard that in ska, given its vast area, surveince nes weremonly used as primary transport. He nodded, seemingly without reservations.
Alright.
-Thank you. Well send people to your base camp.
A win-win deal had been struck between them.
Of course, the bonusmission Rust Guard would pay through KG Chemical by the end of the year was an unexpected windfall. Ending the call, Jeong-woo chuckled at the unexpected additional ie.
Mile 105 27 degrees below zero, Third Pump Base
A truck driving along an unpaved road veered into a base situated on a snowy tundra where a circr pump facility stood.
Jeong-woo stepped out of the truck.
Ah, Im hungry. Lets eat first.
Ill just get the charging generator running and follow right behind.
The base camp was, as it was yesterday, an open space with the pump facility serving as a windbreak.
As Jeong-woo walked, likening the scene to the snowy campsite he had been to before, his eyes caught a blondedy setting up a camcorder on a tripod.
What are you doing?
Kaya turned her head.
They say we might get a clear view of the northern lights today.
Northern lights?
Its expected to be between brightness levels 3 and 4, something that might only happen once every few years. Our channel editor was so insistent he even made a satellite call.
A mysterious phenomenon of nature visible from ska.
Upon hearing this news, Jeong-woo felt a thrill akin to an adventurous boy. He thought that if he hade near the Arctic Circle, he should definitely capture at least one photograph beneath the northern lights.
Where did I put my phone? No, I should ask Kaya to take the picture with her good camera and send it to meter.
In front of four neatly arranged tents, team members who had returned earlier were gathered around a small fire.
Mr. Jeong-woo, would you like a cup of cocoa?
Sure.
Mook Soo-min, a deputy in the data collection team, offered Jeong-woo a cup. As he sipped the hot and sweet liquid and took his seat, Wi Ji-seong, who had been loudly talking, gave him a nod before continuing their conversation.
Snowmobiles are fast, but man, its freezing. Youll get frostbite if you ride for too long.
Team 2 couldnt use them much for the same reason. Anyway, remember the cowboy we met halfway? How we discreetly inserted a probe where he was after we finished? I wonder how suspicious he is.
Those guys mustve had a tough time. Oh, by the way, Jeong-woo, you said you werent selling that, right?
No, I agreed to make it. There were conditions attached.
A diversionary tactic? Haha, youre clever.
It wasnt intentional, but the conditions did end up favorable for us.
As they conversed about the events of the day, they didnt realize that the sun had already begun to set.
10:30 PM.
Some were asleep, while others remained awake to witness the phenomenon unfolding in the sky.
Jeong-woo was among thetter.
Having carefully opened and activated a hot pack, he waited for roughly two hours.
Is it going to appear?
He turned his head toward Kaya, who was chatting with Wolf while looking at the stars in the sky, not appearing particrly restless as someone who had never seen the northern lights before.
Ah, its cold. I think I should give up.
Shin Seong-beom, shivering, crawled into the tent. The only remaining team member from the Korean side was Deputy Lee Jae-sang from Team 1.
Deciding whether to continue waiting or to sleep, Jeong-woo approached Kaya.
Hey, Kaya. How did you know about the news of the northern lights?
To this query, Wolf chuckled before answering.
I know someone at NASA.
NASA?
A space weather forecasting expert. Responsible for observing sr activities.
Suddenly feeling a surge of credibility, Jeong-woo decided to wait a bit longer.
Wondering how phenomena rted to sr res or sma from the corona would appear to the molecr eye, he became even more intrigued.
Around midnight, even Lee Jae-sang gave up and went inside.
Guess its not happening tonight.
Just as he felt the cold reaching his toes, changes started appearing in the sky.
Its starting.
As Kaya began recording with her camcorder, Jeong-woos gaze also turned skyward.
At first, it was almost indistinguishable whether it was a faint cloud or scattered moonlight. However, as his eyes adjusted to the darkness of the night sky, it finally revealed its form.
Wow
Jeong-woo couldnt help but exim in awe.
A curtain of eerie green light shimmered in the sky as if swaying with the wind, an ethereal dance of charged particles at an altitude of 100 kilometers.
Mr. Han? You said you wanted to capture it.
When Kaya approached with her high-definition camera, Jeong-woo finally snapped back to reality.
Ah, right.
He struck various poses: a typical tourist pose, a pose of someone overwhelmed by the majesty of nature, and even a cheer pose with Wolf. After the exhausting four-hour wait, it felt rewarding.
Its truly amazing. Id regret it if I hadnt seen it.
Jeong-woo examined the northern lights through the molecr perspective.
The natural light emitted by oxygen and neutral nitrogen molecules covered the entire spectrum of electromaic waves, from infrared to ultraviolet. It reminded him of the vivid disy he had witnessed after taking AF-5 in Venice, yet this was a refined and mesmerizing spectacle.
Is this a cosmic chemical reaction stemming from sr winds?
Jeong-woo held a battery in his hand and tried to project a tiny spark into the sky. However, it was immediately swept away by the cold winds, unlike the northern lights, which seemed transcendent.
Afterward, Jeong-woo continued to observe the northern lights.
At 1:30 in the morning, Wolf also entered the tent. Kaya looked at Jeong-woo and smiled broadly.
Looks like youre deeply impressed.
I never realized the significance of the 557.7-nanometer wavelength.
What?
I mean I was referring to the color of the northern lights.
Jeong-woos eyes, which had been fixed on the sky for a full two hours, shimmered with a strange energy, as captivating as the northern lights itself.
Kaya nced at him with a sense of wonder before quickly lifting her wrist-mounted action cam to capture footage. At the sound of the machine whirring, Jeong-woos gaze shifted toward Kaya.
Are you filming again?
My dad says the Inuit people call it the torchlight guiding the souls of the dead to the celestial realm. For a moment, I thought I saw that torchlight in Mr. Hans eyes.
Thats unlikely.
Ill send you the footageter for confirmation. They seem like the Inuit people living here.
Kayas expression showed no sign of jesting.
A torch for the deceased
It wasnt proof of the existence of souls. However, Jeong-woo pondered whether when people die they be souls, encountering something that doesnt seem like the light of this world might make the transition less disconcerting.
Mile 137- 41 degrees below zero, is this hell?
Everyone, wake up.
The fifth day since arriving in ska began with Wolfs rigid voice.
Team members, dressed in insted clothing, emerged from their tents, facing the biting cold that felt like it could slice through flesh. Their expressions were tense.
The weather isnt favorable. If you feel the cold intensely, immediately cease activity and return to base camp. Those wearing metal-framed goggles should cover the areas touching their skin with gauze and must never touch anything with bare hands.
Mile 145- 39 degrees below zero, beginning of the Brooks Range
There was no movement in sight in all directions.
The air blowing over the frozen mountains felt so cold that merely watching the footage transmitted by the drone made Jeong-woo shiver.
Hi, Mr. Han.
Passing by Jeong-woo, who was operating the drone in freezing temperatures, a cowboy-hatted figure waved. Ever since Rust Guard employees got thebination explosive two days ago, they had been increasingly friendly.
Jeong-woo responded with a nod and warned him to be careful on the slope ahead. Shin Seong-beom, inspecting the pipeline, watched the passing cowboy hat and said.
Earlier, our team leader mentioned it. Now, Deputy Chief Neogi is right next to us, waiting for our inspection results. The games over.
Thats fortunate.
Though he said so, Jeong-woo wasnt particrly thrilled.
Flying drones over endless pipelines, reviewing reports, and performing routine tasks while also enjoying breathtaking naturalndscapes.
Money was abundant here, yet it seemed of little use. So the concept ofpeting with thepetition has long been lost.
Is this what life alongside nature is like?
However, the remote controller he held and the drone flying beside the mountain seemed too worldly to signify such a life.
Lost in thought, the almostpleted footage from the returning drone suddenly shook. Jeong-woo was startled.
Why is it doing this?
Shin Seong-beom also looked at the monitor and opened the status information pane in surprise.
The video transmission is normal, but it seems the controllers signals arent reaching well. Theres interference between automatic and manual flightmands.
Interference?
Gazing into the sky far away, beyond 500 meters, Jeong-woo squinted.
He recalled the colors of microwaves witnessed within the northern lights, where excited electrons roamed in a spectrum of electromaic waves. Upon opening his eyes, the ash-colored microwaves connecting the controller and the drone were vividly clear.
Got it.
He discerned between automatic and manual flightmands, making the drone respond with every pulse of manualmands, almost as if seizing control of a year-long experiment.
Hmm.
Turning his face towards Shin Seong-beom with a look of concentration, Jeong-woo started talking.
Tiny ice particles from the mountain range seem to be rising due to updrafts. Certain frequencies are scattering.
Really?
Puzzled by Jeong-woos exnation, Shin Seong-beom looked up, seemingly unsure.
We need to be careful today. The cold has severely affected battery efficiency.
Due to the mornings minus 41 degrees, they were flying within a 2.5-mile range instead of the usual 5 miles.
Once the drone returned safely, Shin Seong-beom immediately checked its status.
Watching this, Jeong-woo asked.
What if this breaks down?
Theres a spare drone at Anchorage Airports warehouse. But its not set up for pr conditions, making it hard to use until we cross this mountain range.
Upon hearing this, a sinking feeling overwhelmed Jeong-woo.
If the drone disappeared, inspection speed would significantly decrease. Even now, with Rust Guard increasing each persons range to 2 miles, Yujin Chemical couldnt keep up.
While Baker Hughes, using smart pig, might be slower, they were consistent.
Faced with the reality that the project could fail if the drone broke down, Jeong-woo looked at the X901 in astonishment.
Dont fail on me, my five thousand.
Mile 167- 23 degrees below zero, Fourth Pump Base
On the eighth day of ground inspection, things began differently than usual.
It feels wrong to only have you, Mr. Han, do all this hard work. You should have had a ne ready in advance.
Jeong-woo nced at Shin Seong-beom with a look of apology after cing a ck case onto the surveince ne.
The route for inspection was a challenging section atop the Brooks Range, surrounded by icy regions. Due to the need to rece batteries for the X901 drone provided by Rust Guard, the number of personnel who could go was limited.
Dont worry too much. Its quite warm today.
Take this. Ive packed some chocte and other things you might need.
Shin Seong-beom handed Jeong-woo a pouch filled with heartfelt items. Smiling, Jeong-woo epted it and took his seat on the ne.
Kaya, carrying a bag full of safety gear, also boarded the surveince ne.
cier trekking! Thanks to Mr. Han, Ill have some special memories from this trip.
Hearing her cheerful voice, Jeong-woo cautiously remarked.
In Korea, memorable trips are usually ssified into two categories.
Two categories? What do you mean?
Those that are vividly remembered due to hardship and those that are simply enjoyable This would be thetter, right?
Of course. For an ordinary person to undertake such a magical trek would cost a fortune. I dont have enough time to be happy.
Kayas answer was filled with anticipation.
As three Rust Guard employees boarded the surveince ne, the pilot started the engine.
Vroom, vroom!
With a light whirring sound typical of the surveince ne, the propellers began to spin slowly, propelling the ne forward.
Seeing Shin Seong-beom still looking apologetic through the window, Jeong-woo nudged Kaya, gesturing toward him.
Kaya waved, and Shin Seong-beoms lips reflexively formed a grin. However, he stopped and looked away when Wolf stepped up beside him.
Momentster.
With a dizzying sensation, the view of the pump station outside the window quickly diminished, shrinking to the size of an ant.
Chapter 109
Chapter 109- Old Steel Great Line(7)
Mile 197 24 Celsius degrees below zero, Atigun Pass
The reconnaissance ne, having soared over the mountain range, descended over the valley of the Brooks Range spread with ciers.
While Jeong-woo, whose face had turned pale from the intense turbulence, Kaya continuously eximing in awe at the scenery below.
The reconnaissance ne gradually lowered its altitude over a t cier region.
Click, whirrr
The skilled pilot safelynded the ne on the snow-covered ground.
After setting down the ck case, Jeong-woo nced around.
Andscape entirely nketed in white beneath the towering peaksden with perennial snow. Although picturesque, there was no time for admiration due to the pressing schedule.
They needed to quickly fly the drone around this vicinity for a 10-mile inspection before meeting Shin Seong-beom, who had been waiting approximately 4 miles away on the cier.
Good Luck.
With a wave from Rust Guards three mountaineering experts, Jeong-woo and Kaya began heading north. They had heard that these experts had received specialized mountain training and were here for a two-day inspection.
Mr. Han, start with these.
Kaya said, handing Jeong-woo spikes for his shoes. After securing the drone case around his waist with a rope, he attached the spikes.
Though they could carry the items, Wolf had advised that pulling them like a sled would be much more convenient.
Are you ready?
Kaya, wearing silver goggles, looked back at Jeong-woo. To prevent corneal damage from sunlight reflection, he also wore goggles.
Im ready.
Ill go ahead. Let me know if you have trouble breathing.
With favorable weather conditions and almost no wind.
Jeong-woo earnestly hoped that the journey would conclude as Kaya had wished: a trip with barely enough time to experience the happiness it promised.
Huff, huff.
Walking for an hour on the icy surface reflecting warm light made Jeong-woo breathe heavily, sweat drenching him despite the cold.
When Jeong-woo attempted to unzip his winter gear, Kaya immediately raised a hand.
If the inside frosts up, itll stick to your skin. Keep it zipped until it dries, even if it feels damp.
Heeding the warning, Jeong-woo refrained from unzipping.
Kaya, be honest here.
Whats up?
Where are we supposed to find happiness on this trek?
In response to Jeong-woos somewhat frustrated question, Kaya smirked.
Even after seeing such a beautifulndscape, you say that?
It loses its charm after staring at it for so long.
Facing andscape rarely touched by human presence, although it seemed like a difficult statement to make, Jeong-woo maintained a serious expression.
Kaya halted and asked.
So what does Mr. Han consider happiness?
Its simple. Buying things I want, eating delicious food, watching entertaining movies.
Do you know what most people want to do most before they die?
Travel, perhaps?
With a smile that seemed to confirm the correct answer, Kaya spoke.
You can do what you mentioned anytime.
Even so, indulging in this physical difort for a scenic view isnt exactly my cup of tea.
Enough chatter; lets keep going. Were almost there.
Upon reaching the end of a snowy hill, a steep valley embraced by a silvery pipeline came into view.
At 11 AM.
Jeong-woo, who had just finished a quick inspection of the northern 5-mile stretch with the drone, reced its battery and turned his head towards Kaya.
This will be over soon
She was filming this side with her action cam.
But why do you keep focusing on me?
To capture the moment you find happiness.
Whooosh
The drone ascended and began moving southward along an oil pipeline.
Click.
-Mr. Jeong-woo, video transmission is proceeding as usual.
Through the radio, the voice of Shin Seong-beom, about 4 miles to the west, reached them. Jeong-woo, keeping an eye on the direction of the transmission, spoke to Kaya.
Perhaps Mr. Shins face will be the key to finding that happiness.
Shortly after, about 15 minutes afterpleting the southern reconnaissance, the drone began its return.
Quicker than expected.
The journey here was challenging, but inspecting just 10 miles wasnt overly difficult.
Jeong-woo finally found the leisure to admire the surroundings.
The pipeline extending like a roller coaster from one peak to another was breathtaking.
Impressive
Noticing Kayas action cam still pointed at him, Jeong-woo focused intently on the controls.
Its on autopilot; why are you so engrossed?
Preparing for any rare dangers. Remember the day it hit minus 40 degrees? If we lose this drone, our team is doomed.
So, no room for errors?
Youve got it.
After Kaya gave him a brief look implying he should focus on enjoying the trek, she began scanning the binocrs in the direction they were heading.
Alright, pride preserved.
Just as he was feeling rxed waiting for the drones automated return, the monitor screen on the controller suddenly went ck.
Huh?
Surprised, Jeong-woo looked around, fearing a signal loss, but the drone had vanished into thin air.
Click.
-Mr. Jeong-woo! Do you hear me?
In response to Shin Seong-beoms radio transmission, Jeong-woo also promptly replied.
Deputy Shin, the drone disappeared.
-Confirmed. You see a flock of birds there? It made an emergency maneuver to avoid a collision.
Seeing Jeong-woos serious expression, Kaya approached.
What happened?
The drone
-Usually, during such evasive maneuvers, it descends significantly, seemingly crashing. Only thest GPS coordinates remain; the transmission has cut off.
X901, which is worth a staggering 500 million won to Jeong-woo, has fallen somewhere in that mountain range.
-The coordinates are 68.183
Jeong-woo ryed the coordinates he heard on the radio to Kaya. After examining the map, Kaya said.
If its here, we can n a recovery and detour tracking route. Time is tight; Mr. Hans stamina might be an issue.
We have to do it.
Given the situation, with the remaining schedule all messed up and the project potentially on the line, Jeong-woo had no choice but to brace himself for whaty ahead.
Its around here.
Kaya pointed to the t icy area below the valley.
Jeong-woo, panting heavily, scanned around trying to locate the drone.
Where is it, where?
As Jeong-woo looked around frantically, he noticed the ion molecules used for ultra-low temperature batteries fluttering in the air. Following their trace, he soon discovered the drone lodged in the snowy field.
Hastily, Jeong-woo approached and retrieved the drone, then pressed the transmission button on the walkie-talkie.
Deputy Shin, I found it.
Click.
-Well done.
Ive inspected it; there seems to be damage to the battery connector.
-As long as the propeller and motor are intact, repairs shouldnt be difficult.
The drone seemed almost undamaged, likely because it crashed in a soft area.
Thankfully.
Having walked non-stop for an hour and a half, Jeong-woo sat down next to the drone. Kaya approached him.
Now that weve retrieved it, lets eat. We need to refuel because we have about 5 miles to cover before we set up camp.
1PM They had missed lunch due to the unexpected events.
Jeong-woo opened his bag, revealing biscuits, cereal, and a box of jerky. Kaya sat beside him, preparing for their meal.
Five miles, you say?
I think itll make the trek more interesting.
Kayah shed a bright smile.
Navigating through the treacherous snowy terrain was exhausting. Just the thought of it wore Jeong-woo out, and he let out a sigh.
It was when he tore open a packet with a rustling sound to pull out some jerky that something suddenly popped up, piercing through the snow near where the drone was buried.
Startled, Jeong-woo quickly stood up. However, the emerging creature simply watched him intently without making a move.
A fox?
The fox, with fur whiter than snow and a plump tail waving lightly like a g, took another step closer to Jeong-woo.
Wow, its an Arctic fox.
Kaya eximed, immediately fumbling to turn on the action cam.
Jeong-woo asked the Arctic fox, now within arms reach.
Arent you afraid of people?
Its round ears perked up. Seeing its gaze fixed on the jerky in his hand, Jeong-woo shook it curiously. The foxs head followed the jerkys movement from side to side.
Well, I guess why not.
Its unlikely that an animal in the wild could be easily charmed by appearance alone. Given the snacks provided by Shin Seong-beom and the ample food they had, Jeong-woo tossed the jerky to the Arctic fox.
The fox leapt slightly, gracefully catching the palm-sized jerky. Wagging its tail in apparent delight, it bounded across the snowy field and soon disappeared downhill.
Hey, at least say thank you!
Thinking that he should at least get a thank-you for witnessing the creatures lethal cuteness with its jet-ck eyes, Jeong-woo said to Kaya.
It seems the foxes around hereck manners. Not even a thank you.
Is iting back?
Huh?
Jeong-woos attention shifted back to Kaya, who was still recording with the action cam where the Arctic fox had disappeared.
Bounding back to a certain distance, the Arctic fox stopped, crouched down, and observed Jeong-woo intently.
Why is it behaving like that?
Well, in seasons like this where food is scarce, they often follow predators like pr bears, so they can get leftover meat. Maybe theyre assessing if Mr. Han can be one of them.
Really?
In response to Kayas spection, Jeong-woo widened his shoulders and let out a forced cough, attempting to disy the primal allure of a Korean man. However, he noticed that the creatures gaze was fixed on the pouch it had pulled out.
It was the snack bag that Shin Seong-beom had given.
Does it see me as an easy mark?
The pouch was filled with chocte pie and salty sausage. It was the kind of treats you cant get in this neighborhood.
Taking one out and chewing on it, the creature stared at him with sparkling eyes. The pure and clear anticipation in its gaze reminded Jeong-woo of someone in Korea.
Come to think of it, doesnt it resemble Yi-seol?
A small and adorable figure with a white face. A cute creature with deer-like, no, fox-like pupils. As he continued to stare, Jeong-woo couldnt resist tearing off a piece of sausage and tossing it to the Arctic fox.
Swiftly catching the sausage mid-air, the fox wagged its tail and disappeared below the hill.
Why doesnt it eat and carry them like that?
It could have apanion.
Well, it must be lonely living alone in a ce like this.
Jeong-woo checked with the infrared view if the creature had a nearby den.
Huh?
About 50 meters ahead, under the hill.
In a space resembling a den, there was not only the creature with the sausage but another form as well.
However, it didnt show the same skin temperature as the first one. It had a much colder hue, resembling ice chunks rather than the temperature inside the den.
Its dead?
Another Arctic fox, this one not breathing like a snotty one. The one who had ced the sausage in front of him licked his face once, then went back out. He came running up to Jeong-woo, looking at him expectantly.
What
Jeong-woo unwrapped several sausages and ced them in front of the Arctic fox.
You should have some. Your friend cant eat.
The Arctic fox that had bitten five sausages vanished.
When it didnt reappear after a minute, Kaya turned off the action cam, disappointed.
What did you say at the end?
Considering theres no need to mention taking care of a dead friend, Jeong-woo vaguely gestured.
This is it. Lets eat and survive.
After finishing their meal, Jeong-woo tied the recovered drone with a rope and slung it over his back.
Lets go.
Once Jeong-woo finished his preparations, Kaya approached him.
Isnt it heavy?
Its fine.
She too was burdened with various cold-weather gear, carrying something heavy on her back just like Jeong-woo. In front of an eighteen-year-old girl, he was showcasing rather poor stamina today.
Current time: 2PM
If Kayas words were urate, they should see Shin Seong-beom and the truck by 6PM, provided they maintained a normal pace.
As expected. This special journey was the former, not thetter.
Recalling the special hardships of their military days when they walked until nightfall, Jeong-woo clenched his teeth.
The two soon began moving westward.
It had been an indeterminate amount of time since they started walking.
Lost in thought, Jeong-woo was merely following Kayas footsteps when a faint, elusive presence caught his attention, repeatedly appearing and disappearing beside him.
Huh?
Turning his head, he met the ck eyes of an Arctic fox, which responded with a quizzical Hmm?
Jeong-woo lifted his goggles and blinked. When he looked again, the Arctic fox was still walking alongside him.
The creature would walk a few steps, nce at him, then walk a few more steps before looking back at him again.
Whats up?
At Jeong-woos muttering, Kaya turned her head.
It seems to be following you, Mister Han.
Kaya too seemed intrigued upon spotting the Arctic fox.
With a questioning gaze, Jeong-woo looked at the fox as if asking, What are you doing here? The fox responded consistently with a nonchnt Hmm?
Kaya, earlier you mentioned something about a predator, right?
Yes. Foxes have a tendency to follow such creatures.
Jeong-woo waved his hand as if asking if the fox was expecting food to be given to a deceased friend.
I get your situation, but Im serious here. We need to descend before freezing to death.
The fox circled around, seemingly following Jeong-woos hand gesture.
Huh?
The fox, which had been blinking, circled around once more and then brushed against Jeong-woos leg.
Why is it doing this?
Its showing affection to Mister Han.
Jeong-woo looked down at the Arctic fox. There was no way this unique creature didnt know that its friend had died.
He pondered that leaving all the food in front of its deceased friend might be its own way of saying goodbye.
Dont keep staring at me like that. It makes me nervous.
The Arctic fox tilted its head, perhaps understanding Jeong-woos words, but responded with another Hmm?
Beep.
-Jeong-woo, can you hear me?
Hearing the radio sound, Jeong-woo instinctively reached for his hip.
Yes, I can hear you.
-Theres an update from themand center. Expect snowfall in some parts of the Brooks Range from 5PM. Whats the weather situation over there?
The Arctic fox looked curiously at the radio sound.
Jeong-woo turned to Kaya.
Did you hear that theyre expecting snow?
Snow?
Kayas gaze moved towards the fog-like clouds forming beyond the ridge.
I didnt realize that was a snow cloud.
What should we do?
Beep.
-Mr. Jeong-woo. This is Wolf Instructor. I need Kaya.
At the sound, Jeong-woo held out his radio to Kaya.
-Kaya. Are you there?
Yes, Dad.
-If you think you cant leave the mountain within 30 minutes, move to the temporary shelter Rust Guard is using. Youll see it on your way down.
Kaya scanned the ins through her binocrs.
I see it about 1.2 miles away.
-Ill notify Rust Guard. Lets avoid the snow and think about our next steps.
Turning to Kaya after finishing the radio conversation, Jeong-woo asked.
Is it too difficult to continue downhill?
-It seems Mister Han has reached his limit. Its a matter of physical endurance. We cant maintain full speed for another two hours. Its safer to rest and assess the situation before descending.
4:30PM.
The destination for the two abruptly changed to the temporary shelter. The Arctic fox seemed to have chosen its own destination, following Jeong-woo closely.
Chapter 110
Chapter 110- Old Steel Great Line(8)
Whoosh
The snow from the pr regions that began to fall from the obscured sky was far from the romantic snow one might wish for a white Christmas.
Jeong-woo felt the sting every time the air, filled with tiny ice crystals, touched his skin, making him acutely aware of any gaps in his winter gear. And no amount of zippers or buttons couldpletely seal those gaps. He simply had to endure.
Ah
His breath wasbored, covered by a winter mask and his head wrapped tightly with a hood. The frigid air he breathed in felt as if it would tear his lungs apart.
Since visibility is poor, dont stray too far.
Kaya warned as she walked ahead. She too was tense, given the fast-approaching snowstorm.
Jeong-woo struggled to keep up with Kaya as she trudged along with her pickaxe.
If only the wind wasnt so relentless
He shivered uncontrobly, not like the shivers he knew from winters in Korea. He felt his energy depleting with each step, a vicious cycle of physiological reactions.
Does this count as enjoyable trekking?
Even if freezing to death in a snowstorm awaited at the end of this journey, it seemed a fitting end. The distance from family and friends felt dauntingly vast, making Jeong-woo slightly apprehensive.
In that moment of overwhelming thoughts, arge snowke hit his goggles. Then, an Arctic fox, meandering beside him, came into view.
Youre still following me?
As Jeong-woo recognized it, the Arctic fox circled around, looking up at him with its bright eyes, reminiscent of Yoon Yi-seols, momentarily diluting his fear.
Is weather like thismon in your neighborhood?
No answer came to his silent query.
Admiring the creature enveloped in fluffy fur, Jeong-woo couldnt help but envy its vitality.
The Arctic fox sensed Jeong-woos tremors and brushed its soft fur against him. Though his thick winter clothing prevented any real warmth, the gesture warmed his heart, thinking of their bond sealed with six pieces of jerky and sausage.
Thanks, little guy.
A silent cheer from the Arctic fox, and they walked for about five minutes.
As the snowfall intensified, Kaya took out a rope, securing one end around her waist and offering the other end to Jeong-woo.
Connect this. Only step where Ive stepped from now on.
Even her voicecked vigor.
Are you alright, Kaya?
Dont worry. Were less than half an hour from the shelter.
Snow had begun to form where Kaya had walked ahead. It was piling up. Jeong-woo couldnt help but feel sorry for relying on her so much, given how young she was.
Suddenly, the Arctic fox, trailing beside Jeong-woo, darted forward, emitting a high-pitched animal cry, obstructing Kayas path.
Whats wrong?
When Kaya stopped, the fox did too. After probing the terrain with her ice pick, she discovered a thinyer of snow covering a dangerous crust.
Snow has umted on the crust. It could have been dangerous. Did you know?
After reassuring words and a pat on the foxs head, Kaya proceeded carefully. The Arctic fox returned to Jeong-woos side without hindrance.
Kaya must be exhausted.
Her arms, even when briefly touched, felt weak. Despite her cold-resistant constitution, the same biochemical processes would deplete her warmth when energy was low.
Jeong-woo noticed Kayas pace had significantly slowed.
Following wont cut it anymore.
If the Arctic fox had its fur and Kaya her experience in pr regions, he had one unique weapon: chemical reactions.
If its damaged, I apologize to the gods. Survivors must survive.
Removing the battery from the drone on his back, Jeong-woo held it, analyzing its internal chemical reactions.
30% charge remaining. If I stimte the ions in the electrolyte and alter the membrane structure
A chemical reaction that Cheon Seung-guk had performed in Venice, one that would sustain heat for an extended period, shed through his mind. He selected that reaction, even if it was a one-time use.
sping the free electrons in both hands, he gathered as many as possible. With a sizzle, sparks enveloped the entire battery, causing the Arctic fox to startle and look at Jeong-woo. Seeing the curiosity in its eyes, Jeong-woo chuckled.
Inside the battery, dust particles swirled around the separator responsible for the exchange of cations and anions. Soon, the ions inside began to spiral, following this current.
Approximately one hour. Around 55 minutes, just in case there are variables.
Holding the warm battery, Jeong-woo sped up to approach Kaya.
Kaya.
Its dangerous, so stay right behind
Insert this.
As Jeong-woo reached out, unzipping Kayas winter coat, she looked surprised.
What are you doing?
Jeong-woo ced the battery inside a pocket of Kayas coat and zipped it up again. Feeling unexpected warmth, Kaya touched her coat, looking even more astonished.
What is this?
A portable battery hea ahem, a heater.
If you had this, Mister Han should have used it.
I cant burden others now that Im an adult.
He raised his thumb in a manly pose, though it didnt look so great due to the mittens.
Although the blizzard still stung and his hands and feet felt numb, his shaking muscles calmed down after the Arctic fox started walking beside him. Jeong-woo, pondering if this was the human survival instinct that emerged in extreme situations, gestured for Kaya to proceed.
Lets go. Before we freeze to death. Oh, just in case, remember myst will and testament.
Last will and testament?
I dont want to trek for free in such a euphoric manner.
With augh at Jeong-woos still-frosty joke, Kaya moved forward.
After battling the blizzard for another 50 minutes, a temporary shelter finally appeared ahead.
I made it.
A cabin used since the construction days of Song Yukwan. Though humble, Jeong-woo thought it would be cozier than any hotel if it could shield from such a blizzard.
Well done, Mister Han.
Kaya hurried toward the shelter.
Wait a moment.
Jeong-woo grabbed her shoulder and unzipped her coat. Seeing Jeong-woo carrying the battery, Kaya asked.
You brought it to return it?
Its time-sensitive.
Jeong-woo gathered dust particles on the battery to stimte the remaining reaction and tossed it onto the snowy ground. With a whoosh, mes erupted, igniting the binders, separators, and active materials inside.
The Arctic fox between them hopped around, seemingly amused by the mes.
Mister Han
Kayas shoulders stiffened at the fact that she had been carrying a potential fireball. Jeong-woo patted her shoulder reassuringly.
I had the reaction time figured out. I may not be an expert in many things, but Im quite proficient in calcting such chemical reactions. And a little burn is better than freezing to death.
Inside the shelter, three members of the Rust Guards mountain search team were waiting.
Rustle.
-They havent arrived yet?
It seems theyre trapped in a blizzard. Not aplete whiteout, but it came down quite suddenly.
Luke suggested to the base camps control room that they should arrange an emergency rescue team since the two members of Yujin Chemicals, who were supposed to arrive, had been missing for an hour and a half.
Luke! Was there some sort of signal re outside?
Looks like there are people out there.
At the sound of colleagues observing outside, Luke approached the window. Through the blizzard, a light flickered, casting a shadow that appeared to be human. Lukes expression brightened.
Hold on. I think theyve arrived.
-Report back with certainty. The Korean guide here is giving me a stern look.
Continuing to peer outside, Luke widened his eyes upon seeing three shadows illuminated by the flickering light, one of two humans and another shadow of an animal trailing behind.
Simpson. Did those peoplee with a dog this morning?
Hmm. They were carrying arge box. Looked like equipment.
Equipment, right? Is it just an illusion because of the blizzard?
Thud.
The door opened, and snow and wind rushed in. As the people inside raised their hands to shield their faces, the door closed again.
Luke lowered his hand and looked at the neers.
Jeong-woo removed his goggles and took a deep breath, saying, Whew, we made it. Kaya also pulled down her mask and greeted with an Excuse me, catching her breath. The Arctic fox wagged its tail once and let out a wild howl.
One, two, three Wait, three?
Rustle.
-Im Wolf. Are they okay?
Uh Wolves? No. Theyre foxes.
-What are you talking about?
Jumping and yelping.
Luke, locking eyes with the Arctic fox, had to pinch his cheek to make sure he wasnt hallucinating.
At 8 PM.
The five people gathered inside the shelter began a modest meal, pooling together the rations they had brought.
It was a simple diet of yeast biscuits and canned beans.
Every time Jeong-woo scooped a spoonful of beans, he shot a little smile at the mustached man who alternated between observing him and the Arctic fox.
I have no idea why this fellow acts this way.
Nowfortably seated, Jeong-woo leaned back, seemingly at ease.
He nced at Kaya beside him, wondering if it was because Shin Seong-beom had fed all the remaining sausages from the snack pouch he provided.
Kaya, youre not supposed to feed wild animals, right?
Usually, no. If they get used to food given by humans, it can impair their hunting abilities. But strangely, this one didnt seem wary from the start.
Jeong-woo remembered that this fox had been lingering around the drone initially. What could it have been thinking when the drone fell from the sky? A potential new friend? A prey like a migratory bird? Either way, it was the fox that approached first.
The Arctic fox darted its adorable eyes between Jeong-woo and Kaya.
Isnt it a crime to withhold while its like this?
Kaya seemed to agree and lightly scratched under the Arctic foxs chin. As the foxs eyes turned crescent-shaped, the three cowboys dining on the other side couldnt help but focus their gazes, looking utterly charmed.
Oh, seeing that one makes me feel like Im having a heart attack. Simpson, youll know what to do if I copse, right? Shove some of this in my mouth.
A cowboy named Luke shook an aluminum container he had hanging around his neck. Simpson turned his head and asked Jeong-woo.
Mr. Han, how on earth did you bring that fox here?
Well
Jeong-woo responded truthfully in Korean, saying, Its a long story.
The blizzard ceased around midnight. However, since there was no heating inside the shelter, Jeong-woo, who had been crouching down, couldnt help but shiver uncontrobly.
Sensing his trembles, the Arctic fox suddenly burrowed into Jeong-woos winter clothing. When Jeong-woo saw the fox peeking its head above his chest, his heart sank with a thud.
The more he met the foxs innocent gaze, the more one person kepting to mind.
Be honest now. Did Yi-seol say you to act like this?
The fox emitted a whimper simr to a puppys cry, wriggling its body against him before settling down to share warmth, eventually closing its eyes.
Jeong-woo gently stroked the Arctic foxs snowy white fur as it drifted off to sleep in his embrace.
He felt as if he had momentarily dozed off.
When a thud sounded on the shelter wall, Jeong-woo suddenly snapped his eyes open. It was already morning, with sunlight streaming in through the cracks in the window.
The three cowboys were buried in their sleeping bags like logs, and Kaya was leaning against the wall, also asleep.
Huh?
Not seeing the Arctic fox that had spent the night in his embrace, Jeong-woo nced around. There were traces of the foxs fur clinging to the window gaps. Furthermore, his winter coat was entirely covered in white fur.
Click.
-Mister Han.
A voice came from the walkie-talkie at his waist, and Jeong-woo quickly grabbed it.
Yes, instructor?
-Ourmander thinks highly of your performance. A fast transport is being sent your way.
A transport?
-A helicopter. Itll arrive in 15 minutes. It willed at Fairbanks, you can thaw out at a hotel there.
Hearing that he wouldnt have to trek down the mountain lifted Jeong-woos spirits. Just as he was about to wake up Kaya, the window creaked open, and the Arctic fox leaped inside.
Where did you go Oh.
Jeong-woo swallowed a groan upon seeing the limp rabbit the fox held in its mouth.
The Arctic fox set the rabbit down in front of Jeong-woo.
Did you catch this to share?
Although no words were spoken, the foxs nudging of the rabbit toward Jeong-woo with its snout seemed to imply just that.
Eat it where I cant see you. Ugh, stop insisting.
The Arctic fox innocently pushed the rabbit forward. With no other choice, Jeong-woo grabbed the rabbit with both hands and aimed it out the window.
Ugh.
Ah, Kaya, are you awake?
As Jeong-woo was about to release the rabbit outside, he looked at Kaya.
Would you like this?
What
A rabbit.
As her eyes opened, she immediately let out a short scream,ing to her senses.
As Jeong-woo emerged from the shelter, a breathtakingndscape seemed to mockingly ask when the blizzard had passed.
After all the trouble yesterday, its so peaceful now.
A gust of wind carrying the scent of fresh snow tickled his nostrils.
Gazing at the distant cloud formations and mountain ranges merging into one, Jeong-woo couldnt deny the surreal experience of being in such a ce.
As Jeong-woo stood on the snowy ground, the Arctic fox that followed him suddenly jumped up, licking his face. It startled him, and he gently pushed the fox away.
Hey, you cant just kiss me like that. Im a dangerous man.
Whether the fox understood his words or not, it created quite a ruckus on the snow.
Kaya, who had been watching the energetic fox jump around with a smile, looked puzzled when she saw it suddenly jump into a small pit beside the shelter.
Mister Han, do you see that?
See what?
The fox dug a burrow.
Kaya filmed the entrance of the burrow with her action cam, looking incredulous.
It made this ce its nest overnight. No easy feat. Mister Han, you must be reallyfortable.
Jeong-woo walked toward the burrow.
What is this
As he raised his head, his eyes met those of the Arctic fox.
I should go now.
The foxs gaze seemed to reflect understanding, looking somewhat downcast. Seeing it close its eyes as he petted it filled him with a sense of regret.
An unexpected encounter, the goodwill it showed, and its unconditional attention, Jeong-woo felt he knew why the fox reminded him of her.
-You wont even like me because you wont see me for a long time
The image of the Arctic fox, which had once eagerly fetched food and licked a deceased friend, blended with the lonely voice of Yoon Yi-seol.
Therge pit the fox had made overnight looked lonely, as if it were a space in need of apanion.
The previous burrow must have been much colder.
Petting something soft was simple enough, but there was nothing he could do about the loneliness the fox seemed to carry. Just like Yoon Yi-seol had said over the phone beforeing to ska.
Im bing more contemtive.
Thud, thud, thud.
The sound of a helicopter approaching echoed from a distance. Jeong-woo shifted his gaze to Kaya, who was filming.
Did you bring something like a pocket knife?
Mile 207 20 Celsius degrees below zero, Home of the Arctic Fox
The Arctic fox peeked its head out from the burrow, beneath which a wooden que read [I LIKE YOU].
As the twinkling stars adorned the sky, the fox, which had been attentively watching the helicopter disappear into the heavens, retreated into the burrow, burying itself in the jacket that still carried his scent from the previous night.
Though the newly made friend had departed, it seemed as if the warmth they shared remained here.
On the helicopter.
Ah, I ended up stripping down too much for this.
Kaya, turning her eyes away from Jeong-woo who was shaking, asked.
Do you have any ns to trek back here again when you get the chance?
No.
You went so far as to strip down to your life-sustaining winter gear for the Arctic fox, right? It must have been an impressive experience for you, Mr Han.
I was nning to buy new clothes since theres a city near the helicopternding site.
Jeong-woo shifted his gaze toward the direction where the shelter, now hidden beneath the mountain range, couldnt be seen and said.
Well I may not be keen on trekking, but visiting a friends home seems like a good idea.
Mile 332 17 Celsius degrees below zero, ins Area
South of the Brooks Range was a less ruggednd where the chilly winds of the Arctic were less frequent.
The snow had melted, and the extended sunlight of mid-April shone upon flowing waters. The earth was gradually filling with green hues from newly sprouted leaves and grass.
Flying the drone over the vastnd, they had nned to cover 100 miles in a day for the 12th consecutive day.
As evening approached, Shin Seong-beom quipped to Jeong-woo, suggesting they might finish in three days at this rate. However, the rough terrain of ska that followed presented another challenge.
Mile 449 12 Celsius degrees below zero, The vige where Bigfoot lives
Seated atop a gentle hill, Jeong-woo cast his gaze upon the dense forest being filmed by the drone.
The atmosphere feels as if something out of a legend truly resides here.
This secluded ce, where human traces were scarce, was nicknamed the home ground of Bigfoot, a mythical giant. While the tale might have been a jest from Wolf, Jeong-woo, who had been surveying the area all morning, could fully understand.
There are quite a few thawed streams here. The cowboy fellows would sink deep into the mud pools.
Shin Seong-beom, who was also observing the monitor, nodded in agreement as if to say, Indeed.
As the drone passed over a watercourse, Luke, who had braved the recent snowstorm, waved his hand towards the sky, seemingly aware of the uing challenges.
Thats Moose Creek ahead. Stay strong.
Jeong-woo offered his support.
Having flown the drone all morning, names like elk, hedgehog, cow, moose, and bear were given to the local rivers based on what was observed. Thankfully, no Bigfoot Creek had been discovered yet.
Capturing that would be quite a find.
Videos of mythical creatures circting on the inte were invariably of poor quality. However, this drone was equipped with an expensive lens capable of capturing even minute details.
Focusing intently on the video feed, Jeong-woo spotted an animal he had never seen before.
Whats that Kaya!
Kaya, who was scouting with binocrs, turned her head at Jeong-woos call. He pointed to the monitor, indicating the creature drinking from the stream.
Its a wolverine.
A wolverine?
Theyre aggressive and fierce. Best not to approach.
After conveying this to Shin Seong-beom, he immediately opened a satellite phone to inform the situation room at Prudhoe Bay.
The drone, which had ventured five miles away, was due to return soon.
Observing the monitor, Jeong-woo suddenly noticed the wolverine sprinting frantically in the distance and asked Kaya.
Why would that fierce creature run away suddenly?
Its the wild. A higher predator must have appeared.
Jeong-woos gaze returned to the monitor at Kayas casual response.
A higher predator?
Up until now, the drone had been flying over the area Jeong-woo named Moose Creek. He noticed an unusual movement in one corner of the monitor.
At first, it seemed like small spots approaching. As one standout point surged forward, the others branched out to form a wide triangle, reminiscent of a cavalry charge.
Zooming in on the drone lens, a pair of golden eyes, with ashen fur and pointed ears, were soon captured on the screen.
Chills ran down Jeong-woos spine.
They were a pack of gray wolves.
Chapter 111
Chapter 111- Old Steel Great Line(9)
The drone was three miles away. While it was unlikely that a pack of wolves would attack this location, Jeong-woo felt an instinctual fear when he saw the overwhelming wildness of the predators on the monitor.
Kaya, look at this.
Upon seeing the several dozen wolves moving in formation, even Kayas expression turned to one of surprise.
Theyre on a hunt. They must have a target nearby.
Is it that wolverine from earlier?
The pack seems toorge for a creature of its size. Probably
While examining the overall view of the forest on the drone screen, Kaya spoke.
I think this is it.
Downstream from the pipeline, he spotted two massive moose, each measuring about 2.5 meters in length. Jeong-woo immediately grabbed the radio, naming the spot Moose Creek.
Rust Guard basecamp, please respond. This is Yujin Chemicals drone team.
Since they had been sharing a short-range radio channel for days, an immediate response came.
-Go ahead.
Were tracking the area around the 452-mile mark. About twenty wolves are on the move.
-What?
The other side seemed startled by the sudden news. Jeong-woo watched as the wolves rapidly surrounded Moose Creek and ryed the information.
Im tracking them right now with the drone. It seems they are hunting on two moose.
Kaya, who had been scanning the area with binocrs, added.
Wolves form packs and establish hunting strategies meticulously. If humans interfere, they can change their behavior unpredictably.
Jeong-woo ryed this information via radio.
-There are three people nearby. I will contact them.
Thinking the threat had disappeared, Jeong-woos eyes returned to the monitor.
The wolves, which had been running quickly, suddenly paused, forming a V-shape to surround the creek. From an unguarded spot, five wolves appeared, howling menacingly.
The signal for the hunt had begun. A resounding howl echoed from three miles away.
Uh, Mr. Jeong-woo.
Shin Seong-beom, witnessing the unfolding scene on the monitor, widened his eyes.
Are they setting a trap and hunting?
Most likely.
As they watched the brutal food chain rtionship unfold in nature, Jeong-woo and Shin Seong-beom could only watch in awe.
Just when Jeong-woo thought it was over, he gasped as a wolf was impaled on a mooses antler and mmed against a tree. Therge moose broke free from the wolves pursuit, sessfully breaking through their encirclement and heading back toward the creek.
Huh?
Jeong-woos eyes widened as he saw the moose suddenly change direction, charging toward the pipeline. Trying to evade a threat from behind, the moose abruptly changed direction and collided with the pipeline.
The wolves, following the fleeing moose, also changed their course.
TAPS Management Office at Prudhoe Bay.
Using the upgraded leak detection software, Ben Watson, a technician from Baker Hughes, who had been under monitoring for the past 13 days, flinched as a warning window shed on his screen.
Between Pump Base 6 and Pump Base 7, there was a noticeable discrepancy in the amount of iing and outgoing crude oil.
Team Leader!
David, who was analyzing the Smart Pig data, turned his head upon hearing Bens exmation.
The internal pressure at the 452-mile pipeline is rapidly decreasing!
At this sound, Joo Hana, Ran, and Neogis gazes all turned simultaneously.
Startled, Neogi asked.
Are you saying theres a crude oil leak?
Yes. Such a drastic pressure change cant be exined unless theres a leak.
Neogis expression turned contemtive, recalling the nightmare fromst month.
Are there people near that area?
Joo Hana realized that the emergency repair point they had reported earlier was right next to it and said.
Our drone team is inspecting nearby.
Please contact them!
Beep beep beep.
When the satellite phone rang, Seong-beom immediately picked up the receiver.
Yes, Team Leader. We are confirming the leak and currently capturing footage with the drone. It doesnt seem like a significant amount from a visual inspection, but
Jeong-woo swallowed a groan as he watched the ck liquid seeping beneath the pipeline.
Having analyzed various traces along the 450 miles, even Jeong-woo, who had reviewed all the evidence, witnessed a real-time situation where the pipeline waspromised for the first time.
Click.
-This is Luke. The vibration of the pipeline has intensified. Its not an earthquake. Are we suspecting an oil leak?
-I felt it too. Shouldnt we contact the pump base to shut off the valve?
-Its quite a lengthy line. Even if we start the shutdown, itll take at least 6 hours, right? By the way, did you hear the howling of the wolves earlier? It sent shivers down my spine.
Since they were still tuning into the Rust Guard wireless channel, their conversation reached Jeong-woos ears as well.
6 hours? Thats toote. The gap keeps widening.
Realizing that this area might turn into an oil field before the shutdownpletes, Jeong-woo had no choice but to shift his gaze toward Seong-beom, who was reporting.
Is it that severe? Understood. We will continue to report without relocating.
Seong-beoms expression darkened after ending the call.
Whats the situation in the control room?
If theres a leak, oil production will immediately halt, and amittee will be convened by the federal regtory agency. And if this esctes into a major incident, ourpanys inspection schedules could be entirely revised
Upon hearing Seong-beoms words about dying the project, Jeong-woo was speechless. It was the reward at the end of the month that motivated him to endure temperatures of minus 80 degrees celsius outdoors and traversing hazardous ciers in a blizzard.
Now, due to the wolf pack and the moose, that sweet reward was in jeopardy.
I may not be able to pay you or Chan, but Im not going to take your money. Ive been working my ass off at the restaurant for that.
The restaurant and coteral issue. His mothers voice echoed in his mind, warning him not to meddle in adult matters.
I may not be the favored son, but Im a recognized chemist. Think. Find a solution.
Jeong-woos gaze shifted toward the pipe from which the oil was leaking.
Click.
-Basecamp transmission. Received confirmation of leakage from the central control room. Location is 452 miles. Requesting response from line walkers.
-Luke. Were one mile away.
-Simpson. Im about two miles out. A leak? Damn it.
Again, the conversation from the Rust Guard side came through the radio.
-Basecamp transmission. Apparently, tightening the screws can slow down the leak. Shall we try?
-Thats the area where the wolf pack was reported.
-I have tranquilizer darts. With of Zoletil, how many can I subdue?
-Two big ones. There are about twenty.
-Shit.
Thinking intently about the molecr world visible through the gap in the pipeline, Jeong-woo had an idea and pressed a button.
Han Jeong-woo from Yujin Chemicals drone team here. Does anyone have chemical agents suitable for installing a detection probe near the 452-mile?
-Oh? Mr. Han? Im Luke. I have two left from yesterdays underground survey.
-Simpson here. Havent used mine since the weather cleared.
Three chemical agents would be sufficient. Every avable molecule around began to rearrange itself in Jeong-woos vision.
Its feasible. Theres a chance to stop the leak before it worsens.
Jeong-woos eyes met Kayas, who was scouting the wolf pack.
Kaya.
Yes?
How dangerous would it be to enter that forest?
Kaya lowered her binocrs and shot Jeong-woo a piercing look. He felt the weight of her expression, as if asking if he wanted to die.
Those wolves are intelligent, capable of hiding their breath and setting traps. The smarter the wild animal, the less likely they are to attack humans, right?
You cant calcte it that way. For someone, even a 1% chance is 100% if it happens. And add to that the environment of a failed hunter.
After listening to her, it seemed they hadnt caught the escaped moose.
If we dont fix the pipeline now, significant damage will ur. Not just to this area but to the environment.
Mr. Han, you seem mistaken. Im hired to ensure your safety, not to protect this pipeline or nature.
Firm in her response, Jeong-woo added.
If we can detect the wolves a mile away?
How?
Jeong-woo couldnt mention infrared wavelengths or anything like that, so he pinched his nose.
My sense of smell is almost as good as a dogs. If wolves approach within a mile, Ill retreat. Will that work?
Kayaughed in disbelief.
Surely youre joking? What if youre wrong?
I cant be wrong. Even a perfume expert from France acknowledged my nose. Given weve been living on canned food, you might doubt it. Stay put.
Jeong-woo scanned Kaya from head to toe, then paused at her hands.
You said you were preparing for camping since you didnt have any guiding to do, but it looks like you caught some fish. Your hands smell like fish mixed with the scent of seawater and river. Some kind of salmon?
Embarrassment shed across Kayas face as she realized that she had never told anyone that she had been fishing.
Jeong-woo looked at her feet and clicked his tongue.
I hate to say this to a youngdy, but those socks youre wearing on the inside, theyve been there for three days. If you thought they wouldnt smell because theyre sandwiched together, you should know the concept of microbial reproduction rate
Stop!
A deeply flushed Kaya pointed to the forest.
Enough! Lets move. I didnt know Mr. Han was so mission-driven.
Rather than a mission, lets call it the destiny of the eldest son.
-Jeong-woo has departed for the 452-mile point for emergency repairs. Kaya is apanying him to prepare for potential encounters with the wolves.
Joo Hana, who was anxiously seated in the Prudhoe Bayprehensive situation room, immediately widened her eyes upon receiving Seong-beoms satellite call.
What did you say?
-The situation is critical, so theres a chance of failure. Ill leave the judgment regarding the report to you, Chief Joo.
She too was taken aback by the unexpected news.
Can they really resolve this?
Joo Hana nced at the TAPS officials bustling around. Particrly Neogi who was giving instructions with a face so pale it looked almost white.
When the reporters ask, inform them that the situation will be exined in front of the Fairbanks headquarters. What? The auditors are already there? We still cant determine the scale of the leak. It hasnt even been five minutes since the discovery! When will the maintenance team arrive?
The roads are not properly set up; itll take at least 8 hours.
If the recovery time is slower than the valve shut-off time, itll be no different fromst month! Given the oil already in the 6th pump base, it could be up to 500 barrels.
Recognizing the severity of the situation, she quickly made up her mind.
Chief.
Neogi turned his head.
Whats going on? Did we receive a new report? Has it worsened?
No. A Yujin Chemical employee will move to the leak point to conduct emergency repair work. If we can stop the leak quickly, perhaps we can mitigate some of the pressure from the federal oversight.
Youre optimistic, but how can Yujin Chemical, without any tools, handle repair work?
The center director had emphasized to Joo Hana that the sess of this project depended on Han Jeong-woo. From my experience working with him, I profoundly understood this.
This was both a crisis and an opportunity.
If they raised expectations with a report thatter failed, the trust they had built could crumble. However, if they seeded, Yujin Chemicals significant impact on TAPS would be an irreceable achievement.
With resolve, Joo Hana responded.
Would you trust someone who can identify molecr forms anywhere, a genius chemist? Hes filled 50% of the inspection report you were satisfied with and is the worlds only expert in corrosion.
Are you talking about the young man from the drone team?
Yes.
The appeal was over. Now, all they could do was anxiously await the results.
Mile 452 11 degrees below zero, Gray Wolf Forest
Upon arriving at the oil-scented pipeline, Luke furrowed his brows. Approximately 100 liters had leaked so far, pooling directly below without spreading elsewhere.
If it just halt here, the situation seems manageable.
Luke thought, even though it was midday, a chilling sensation permeated the air of the forest. Whether due to mood or not, he sensed not only the smell of oil but also a faint odor of blood.
Pressing the transmit button on his radio, Luke spoke,
Simpson, when are you getting here? You havent been attacked, have you?
Chiik.
-Stop with the jokes. With your tiny organ, can you even hold up? If youre about to faint, at least put some heart medication in your mouth and wait.
As Luke inspected the damage to the pipeline, a rustling sound caught his attention, causing him to flinch.
Scared?
It was Simpson. As he approached, Simpson surveyed the area around the leaking pipeline and clicked his tongue.
I was wondering if it was a design issue, since the damage was caused by the moose. Seems its just old.
This area is particrly troublesome. I saw areas where the instion waspromised.
How does Mr. Han n to fix this?
Luke and Simpson exchanged a look of confusion.
With a portable welding kit.
A distant reply drew their attention.
Approaching them was a young Asian man with sparkling eyes, waving his hand. Beside him, a blonde woman walked cautiously.
Mr. Han, Kaya.
Luke greeted Jeong-woo warmly.
You seem cheerful in the middle of a wolfs den, Mr. Han.
There arent any nearby.
Jeong-woo asserted, causing Kaya to turn her head sharply.
Really?
If you still doubt it, I dont know what to say. More importantly, Kaya, could you lend me some res and a survival kit? Luke, Simpson, pass me that pyrotechnic chemical.
Emptying the contents from the steel canister and crushing the coin-sized pyrotechnic chemicals into powder, Jeong-woo immersed himself in thought.
He nned to melt it using a momentary heat, sealing the gap as if soldering it shut. Precise measurements down to the tiniest speck of dust were essential.
If the firepower increased even slightly, the risk of burns from an explosion loomedrge. A stray spark due to ipletebustion igniting the crude oil would escte the situation even further.
If this goes wrong, I might not be able to return to Korea.
With a solemn expression, Jeong-woo unwrapped a purification pill.
About ten minutes into the actual assembly process, Kaya, who had been keeping watch, asked Jeong-woo.
Do you still not smell the wolves?
Ah, just a moment.
Closing his eyes tightly and then reopening them, Jeong-woo scanned his surroundings, taking a deep breath before replying.
The wolf is back over there. That should be proof enough of safety, right?
Skepticism filled Kayas eyes as she lifted her binocrs to scan the area where Jeong-woo pointed.
Meanwhile, Luke, who was tightening the connection on the oil pipeline, noticed that the leakage had increased significantly, almost doubling the pooled oil.
Pounding on the inner wall with a wrench to listen, Luke turned his attention to Jeong-woo, who was deeply engaged in his work.
Mr. Han, due to corrosion, the pipeline here is thinning, making gaps more prominent. If this goes beyond five barrels, well all be covered in oil.
Jeong-woo, in the midst of carefully pouring the contents of a re into the steel canister, lifted his head.
We have about ten minutes left.
Ten minutes? What does that mean?
It means the pipeline will burst.
Simpson, tightening a bolt on the H-beam, was taken aback. Luke, with a puzzled expression, asked Jeong-woo.
Burst? You mean
With more hard wax umtion than soft wax on the inner wall, once it starts to open, it wont just crack. It will widen considerably.
Standing upright and listening to the pipeline, Simpson nodded in agreement with Jeong-woos words.
The muffled sound is due to the hard wax.
Exactly. Once these cracks begin to widen, the leakage rate elerates.
Amidst differing opinions among veteran line workers with 20 years of experience, Jeong-woo pointed to a specific spot within the gap.
If the diameter bes more than 35% thinner at this point, it will inevitably burst. Would you call that a breaking point? Its not just a crack, its a predicted oue.
Luke, intrigued by Jeong-woosments, asked Simpson.
Is Mr. Han talking about the pipeline scale?
Its aplex calction; I cant say for sure.
Hand me the detector.
Holding the portable X-ray fluorescence detector, Luke measured the crack. Confirming its depth to be more than 0.9 mm and width over 60 cm, he calcted.
Simpson, ording to the American Society of Mechanical Engineers explosion-pressure form, the size of the rupture it can withstand is precisely about this length.
Amazing that you remembered that.
Yes, its 10 minutes. No, in 8 minutes, itll be an unbearable rupture.
The pipeline scale is a U.S. standard; how does Mr. Han know about this?
Does it matter? Fairness is universal, whether its Korea or the U.S., or even this skan wilderness.
Luke couldnt help but watch Jeong-woo, who was deeply engrossed in his work, with a mix of admiration and curiosity. Despite his extensive experience and expertise in corrosion, the young Asian man had made his assessments and voiced his opinions merely through observation, revealing an uncanny foresight.
With the flint slightly grinded, Jeong-woo meticulously observed the chain reaction anticipated in the molecr realm before sealing the lid of the metal canister.
Its about done.
Nearly 30 minutes. Despite the sub-zero temperatures, he was so engrossed that sweat began to trickle beneath his cold weather gear.
Slipping on the insted gloves he had set aside for this moment, Jeong-woo carefully lifted the metal canister. Catching the eye of Luke, who had been observing him closely, he acknowledged the gaze.
Is that the welding device Mr. Han mentioned?
It may not look like much, but yes.
You mentioned 8 minutes earlier, but now we have less than 2 minutes.
Its cutting it close. Both of you, step back. Kaya, move farther away.
Confirming that the three had retreated to a safe distance, Jeong-woo shook the canister like mixing a cocktail.
Ssssssss!
A rapid reaction emanated from inside the canister. Seizing the moment, Jeong-woo inserted it into the streaming oil.
The metal surface of the pipeline began to melt.
Feeling the canister securely in ce, Jeong-woo eximed, Hot! as he quickly withdrew his hand. Despite the high-quality leather gloves, the intense heat prated, scalding his palm.
A viscous, dark oil flowed, oveying a mercury-like substance that solidified instantly in the frigid air.
The flowing oil along the pipeline seemed to halt as if telling a lie.
What, what?
What is this
The astonishing sight prompted exchanged nces between Luke and Simpson, both silently asking, What have we just witnessed?
Upon meticulous infrared inspection, Jeong-woo confirmed that the hot oil had indeed started to flow correctly within the pipeline.
Ill need to apply some ointment to this burned hand.
Retrieving a walkie-talkie from his waist, Jeong-woo radioed Shin Seong-beom, who was anxiously awaiting news.
Deputy Shin, the leak has stopped. Approximately 2.5 barrels of oil have umted in this vicinity.
Chiik.
-Wow, did you really stop it? Thats incredible. Ill report to the control room immediately. Any other dangers?
No, just a slightly burnt hand
Jeong-woos expression shifted as he scanned the surroundings.
A wolf. Lurking a mere 200 meters away, it was observing this location closely.
Kaya.
Pointing in the direction where the wolf was spotted, Jeong-woo inquired.
Theres just one wolf observing us. Should we be concerned?
Raising her binocrs, Kaya located the wolf amidst the dense foliage.
It appears to be on reconnaissance.
Which means
We should leave this area before bing prey.
Chapter 112
Chapter 112- Old Steel Great Line(10)
Chiik.
-Listen carefully, Kaya. Wolves are creatures that learn. Theres no way they dont know that if they attack humans, their entire pack could face obliteration.
While departing from thepleted emergency repairs on the pipeline, a message came in from Wolf who had caught wind of the situation.
Holding the walkie-talkie, Kaya amplified the volume for everyone to hear before responding.
They dont seem to fear us. Theyre maintaining distance but continue to follow.
-Seems like a new group with a young alpha. Knowing the dangers, why did you lead Mr. Han here?
Because of my fathers incessant superstitions. A keen sense of smell is just a physical advantage.
Kaya cast a fleeting nce at Jeong-woo. In response to her piercing gaze, Jeong-woo offered a reflexive smile.
-A keen sense of smell?
Exactly.
-Remember encountering that coyote during trail training? Use a re for a warning if theye too close. Theyll scatter in surprise.
All the res were used up protecting the pipeline.
-Hmm. How about bear spray?
That too. By the way, we dont have flints or waterproof matches. Dont even think about making a torch with the leaked oil.
There was a pause in Wolfsmunication, seemingly taken aback.
Jeong-woo felt a pang of regret. He had inadvertently involved his beautiful daughter in this, and now, with no contingency n, his concerns extended beyond just the gray wolves of the forest.
Sigh.
Recalling the lethal muscles of Wolf doting father awaiting at base camp made sweat form on his back.
Chiik.
-I still cant quite grasp how you managed to protect the pipeline with survival tools.
Dont ask me. I was right there, and I still dont understand it myself.
-Could it be the mystique of the East?
They call it the eldest sons destiny. Got anything else to say?
-The rescue team is on its way, so dont worry too much. But remember, artificial threats are effective against wild animals. Show them youre not an easy opponent. Climb a tree if necessary. Wolves cant climb trees.
After ending themunication and attaching the walkie-talkie to her waist, Kaya turned to Jeong-woo.
Did you catch all the precautions?
Yes.
Jeong-woo cleared his throat, diligently scanning the surroundings, wondering if there was still a lurking threat from the wolves.
Ten minutester.
Ah-oooo
The sound of a wolf howling echoed from a distance. In response, howls began to resound from various parts of the forest.
Miss Survival Expert.
With a serious expression, Luke called out to Kaya, who was leading the group.
Arent we supposed to run with all our might before they close in? One of those scouting wolves has been staring at us, making my hair stand on end.
You should never run within a wolfs line of sight. Doing so is no different than dering ourselves prey. Predators instinctively chase the weak.
Luke paused. Upon Kayas advice that standing firm might be better, Simpson pulled out a tranquilizer gun from behind.
Cant believe we cant even run away freely.
With a flick of his tongue, Jeong-woo blinked and scanned the forest through an ultrasonic vision.
A long wave, about 10 meters in length, refracted between rocks and tree trunks, facilitatingmunication among the wolves.
One scouting wolf, which had been tailing closely, perked its ears, paused, and then tilted its head toward the sky.
Is it trying tomunicate?
Thinking he should block it, Jeong-woo immediately took a recement battery for the walkie-talkie from his bag. A sloshing sound came from his hip sk when he tapped it.
Good thing the weathers warm.
To increase responsiveness, Jeong-woo sprayed water onto his gloves and started gathering dust particles.
The free electrons, powered by ion reactions in the battery, extended toward the howling wolf. However, due to the wolfs longer vibrational frequency, he couldnt pull in its ultrasound.
I might have to scramble it.
If the wave had the opposite tremor of the howl, it might block the noise.
Suddenly, Kayas gaze shifted toward Jeong-woo, who was shaking the battery oddly.
What are you doing?
Just a moment.
Jeong-woo vigorously waved his arms to adjust the wavelength, frequency, and amplitude of the ultrasound produced by the free electrons. When ovepped with the wolfs sound, he sent out the dust particles again.
Confused, the howling wolf stopped and looked around, baffled as its sound seemed to hit an invisible wall.
Jeong-woo continued creating dust particles to counteract the wolfs ultrasound.
Eventually, the simultaneous howling that had filled the forest ceased.
Done.
Once Jeong-woo sessfully blocked themunication, Kaya turned her gaze to him.
Seeing her questioning look, Jeong-woo put the battery back in his pocket and smiled awkwardly.
Kaya, do you know about the properties of wave interference?
No.
I was just experimenting. No particr reason.
Kaya pointed to the scouting wolf that had suddenly stopped and was now aimlessly wandering, looking towards the sky.
Maybe its doing so without any particr intent?
I dont know Wild animals are unpredictable.
With an innocent face, Jeong-woo looked at Kaya, who sighed softly while scrutinizing him.
Being with Mr. Han makes everything we trained for to understand natures fears seem trivial.
You dont have to feel that way. I respect and trust your abilities. From the icy ciers to this muddy terrain, our safe movement is all thanks to your guidance.
Thanks for even considering the safety officers feelings.
Kaya responded with a somewhat bone-dry tone, making Jeong-woo chuckle.
If my younger sibling were as reliable as you, the weight of being the eldest son would be somewhat lighter.
Suddenly, an ultrasound brushed past Jeong-woos field of vision. Turning his head, he caught a glimpse of a blunt tail darting away.
The Wolverine is fleeing.
Where?
That way.
By the time Kaya turned her head, the Wolverine had already vanished. Kaya, who had been tracking it with binocrs, let out a low groan.
Our paths intersect with the Wolverines escape route.
Remembering the Wolverine he had avoided a few hours ago, Jeong-woo quickly closed his eyes.
Through infrared vision, he identified five wolves sprinting toward them.
Kaya, the wolves are closing in rapidly. About a mile away, five of them.
Well be caught before reaching the rendezvous point. Can you detect the scouting wolves?
One of them is still there. Cant see him, but hes around 400 meters away.
If any wolf is detected nearby, warn immediately. And
Kaya looked back at Luke and Simpson, who were following behind, before continuing,
Everyone, run. Keep running until Mr. Han gives the signal. We need to buy some time.
Splish.
Mud sttered from the pond.
Watching the scene unfold before him, with the five wolves chasing through the forest, Jeong-woo was reminded of a simr scene he had witnessed before.
The hunting techniques of the wolf pack, pushing a moose into a trap.
He scanned the area cautiously, fearing that if there were a trap ahead, it would be disastrous.
Its okay. Theyre not within a mile.
This judgment was followed by a moment when he took a step forward.
Infrared vision detects objects based on temperature. Therefore, sensing objects that do not retain heat would naturally be slower.
!
Suddenly, a spruce tree that met these conditions sprang up out of nowhere.
In his haste, Jeong-woo turned but got entangled in the protruding tree roots, losing his bnce. He collided with a neighboring tree, and his bag snagged, causing him to change direction.
His body floated as if lying in mid-air.
At 3 PM, skas clear sky disyed a warm hue despite the freezing temperature of minus 9 degrees celsius.
Thud!
Colliding with the ground, his vision plunged into darkness.
Mr. Han!
Whether it was Luke or Simpsons voice, Jeong-woo couldnt tell as he lost consciousness.
It must have been a dream. His hands and feet looked like ferns when he nced at them. Chan was giggling beside him, he couldnt have been more than five years old.
-Brother, lets go together!
Two ordinary little kids visiting their grandmothers countryside home.
Even though they merely dipped their feet into the stream flowing beside the old tree or looked down at the field after running up the hill, their expressions gleamed as if they hadpleted a grand journey.
Whats so enjoyable?
During his childhood, filled with vague imaginings about nature, he had anticipated adventures far more daring and exhrating than anything unrealistic he might experience in the heart of ska.
Growing older and being confronted by the world made him forget.
What the hell, am I dead?
At that moment, when an unexpected sense of unease crept in, he shivered as if trying to wake up from the dream.
Mr. Han, are you awake? Mr. Han.
Jeong-woo opened his eyes amidst throbbing pain. He was still deep in the forest, with Kaya wrapping an emergency bandage around his head.
You see this? Focus.
Kaya waved her finger right in front of his eyes.
What happened?
You have a mild concussion.
The wolves
Jeong-woo quickly sat up. Luke, holding a probe like a weapon, and Simpson, wielding a tranquilizer gun, were on guard, while five wolves appeared about 200 meters ahead.
Theyre almost caught up, and were in a standoff.
At the sound of Kayas voice, Jeong-woo immediately responded.
How long was I unconscious?
10 minutes. Can you move?
Probing around, he felt a lump on the back of his head. Flinching from the pain, Jeong-woo realized he had to move, regardless of the situation.
Its just a headache for now.
As Jeong-woo stood up, Luke sent him a questioning look. After nodding, Jeong-woo turned his gaze towards the wolves.
They stared intently, yet made no further move.
Slowly retreat. Shout if they show any sign of charging.
Kaya instructed, as they began to move backward.
As the watching wolves closed in, Luke shouted, Get away! mming the probe on the ground. Simpson also pped loudly, shouting, Move!
You little brats! We actually protected your forest by preventing the oil spill!
Jeong-woo yelled until his voice cracked, massaging his temples.
It was then, about 100 meters back, a rustling sound announced the arrival of four more wolves.
The difference in numbers spurred the wolves into more aggressive action.
Theyre closing in!
What now, Miss?
Luke and Simpsons bewildered voices followed.
Once were 50 meters further, well reach the pine forest. Climb the trees. Wait for reinforcements.
Pulling out a rope, Kaya made several knots for easy climbing and handed them to Jeong-woo, cutting them into pieces with a knife.
Find a thick tree and tie as high as possible, stepping on it as you go up. Repeat that. You need to climb at least 2 meters. Can you do it?
Ive never done it before.
If you want to protect even a tiny bit of your honor, dont let your epitaph be that of a fallen hero. Its not that hard.
Amidst this, Kaya remained calm and collected, efficiently managing Luke and Simpson.
In a situation nearing a dead-end, Jeong-woo felt overwhelmed by the ring eyes of the nine yellow-shing wolves. It seemed as if they were assessing whether the humans loud noises were mere bluffs.
Dont run!
Upon reaching the forest, Simpson attempted to rush towards a tree. Kaya urgently grabbed his arm.
Slow down. We need to use their continued alertness to our advantage.
As the nine wolves slowly closed in, the group started tying ropes to trees one by one. Kaya, after lightly climbing up using her pickaxe, held a walkie-talkie.
Rescue team, weve failed to escape and are surrounded by wolves. Well provide GPS coordinates, pleasee this way.
Chiik.
-Where are you?
After grabbing and wobbling up a tree, Jeong-woo secured the rope at a height of approximately 2.5 meters. Luke managed to climb up, stepping on the tied rope and hugging the tree tightly.
Simpson! Hurry up!
Im trying!
However, due to hisrger size, Simpson struggled to climb properly.
Upon seeing the wolves arrive within 100 meters, Jeong-woo stifled a groan.
This is really dangerous.
After finishing themunication, Kaya checked on Simpson and immediately descended. She shouted to Jeong-woo and Luke, securely positioned above.
You two stay there!
Approaching Simpsons tree, Kaya started tying the ropes more tightly.
Im sorry, Kaya.
Just climb up.
While Kaya pushed Simpson upwards, the wolves gradually increased their speed, closing in.
Awoooo!
As if signaling, they howled, and given their number, Jeong-woo hesitated to engage. At this rate, it seemed like all twenty would converge on their location.
I need to prepare something.
Jeong-woo reached into his pocket and pulled out a battery. It wasnt arge one, meant for the walkie-talkie, and it had almost depleted.
No, using this as a battery bomb wont work. Itll end up just like a firecracker.
While contemting a solution, Jeong-woo noticed Luke hanging on a nearby tree.
Luke.
Yes?
About that heart medicine. May I use it? Unless its an immediate emergency.
You can carry it around like a talisman, but its not a vascr dtor or a panic-relief pill.
I understand.
Luke, who had an ammo-like medicine bottle hanging around his neck, extended his arm. Jeong-woo took it, opened the lid, ced the pills on his glove, and crushed them with force.
Looking down, Luke was startled and shouted.
Ha, ones here!
Simpson managed to stretch his arm and climb up the tree by force. However, the gray wolf that had been the fastest to charge blocked Kayas path as she was about to retreat.
Kaya froze in her tracks. Whether she remembered the tree she had climbed or not, the wolf stood directly in that direction.
Without uttering a word, Kaya locked eyes with the wolf. Seeing her cautiously stepping backward to find another tree, the wolf growled.
Luke swung the probe downwards.
Damn it! Come this way!
Simpson also put a tranquilizer dart in his mouth and shot, but due to the 5m effective range of the equipment, the dart fell powerless in front of the wolf.
Damn it!
Growl
The wolf bared its teeth as if about to pounce on Kaya.
A split-second moment.
Step back.
Jeong-woo drew thest ion reaction from the battery and shot a stardust towards the wolfs forehead.
Infrared wavelengths resonating with free electron groups.
Feeling the sting from the pouring heat like aser pointer, the wolf retreated with a whimper. Not missing the hesitation, Kaya swiftly climbed another tree.
Whew.
Seeing her relieved expression, Jeong-woo felt relieved too.
Kaya pointed to the wolf ring fiercely from the tree.
Did Mr. Han do that?
What?
Dont fool around. Your actions just now were strange.
Despite the wolfs fierce momentum, Jeong-woo only smirked at Kayas intense gaze.
More importantly, Kaya. Instructor Wolf said to use a re, right? How about a nitroglycerin bomb instead?
What did you say?
Take it.
Jeong-woo tossed an aluminum bottle shaped like a bullet to Kaya.
What did you say earlier? That artificial threats are effective against wild animals? Just throw this. Its an alternative to the res, I forgot.
Kaya stared at the bottle with an incredulous expression.
Are you joking now?
Im always serious.
Inside the heart medicine, he had stored the sensitivepound that causes a physical explosion, nitroglycerin. Jeong-woo calmly spoke, imagining a microcosm of molecules colliding and explosively reacting.
Since they showed the terrifying aspect of the natural ecosystem, we as humans should show them the terrifying aspect of the chemical ecosystem. Its simple to use. Shake it and throw it on the ground.
I really dont understand you.
Assuming it was a joke, Kaya shook the bottle in her hand and threw it to the ground. The bottle rolled on the ground.
Nothing happened.
Angrily, she red at Jeong-woo.
Since it shouldnt explode upon shaking, Ive intentionally dyed the reaction speed. The glycerin inside is about to intertwine
The aluminum bottle vibrated as if it were receiving an earthquake alone.
Its starting. Everyone cover your ears!
Jeong-woo spread his index fingers to cover his earholes.
Crackle, the bottles seal broke.
And
Thepressed nitroglycerin molecules burst out through the crack.
BOOOOOOM!
A sound far louder than the howling of the wolves echoed.
Triggering a chain reaction, the ignited molecules turned into small fireballs, soaring into the air.
The wolves scattered in all directions, howling in confusion.
Jeong-woo turned to Kaya, whose eyes widened in shock after witnessing the explosion, as if reassuring her with his exnation.
When a solid turns into a gas, its volume expands by hundreds or thousands of times. I merely emphasized the sound to allow the molecules to disperse widely. Look, even the wolf that was right next to us is fine.
Thats not the point. What in the world
On the opposite tree, Luke looked at Jeong-woo and then shifted his gaze to the scorched ground, frozen in ce.
Did I walk around with C4 strapped to my neck?
Crackle.
-Kaya, do you copy? Based on the rescue teams location, they should arrive near you in about five minutes. Can you hold on until then?
Kaya held the radio and replied.
Mission aplished. The wolves have learned the terror of a single human.
-What?
Honestly, Im scared myself now.
8:00 PM, downtown Fairbanks.
The lobby of the headquarters building of ska Pipeline Service Company was bustling with reporters, creating a crowded scene. With cameras and microphones focused, Neogi continued his announcement from the podium.
Thanks to the efforts of Yujin Chemical, we were able to stop it early. I would like to express deep gratitude here for the heroic actions of Mr. Han, who discovered the leak and performed emergency repairs on the spot, along with the three people who assisted him.
As soon as he finished speaking, several reporters quickly raised their hands.
-Government authorities have expressed confidence that the pipeline can be permanently operational. However, idents have urred consecutively. Do you have any contingency ns?
-What do you have to say about the controversy that the corrosion prevention measures for TAPS have been insufficient?
-The governor of ska expressed concerns in a daytime interview that the lifespan of the pipeline is limited. What are your thoughts on the immediate closure and recement?
Neogi broke into a cold sweat, unable to easily answer any of the reporters relentless questions. Then, his gaze settled on a vehicle parked outside the lobby.
They had arrived.
This is the same hotel we stayed atst time. Since its directly managed by the headquarters, the facilities are decent. You can even take a hot shower.
Jeong-woo got out of the car, exining to Luke and Simpson. His eyes widened upon seeing the lobby full of cameras and people.
Whats going on?
The doors of the headquarters opened, and journalists poured out. As they surrounded the car, Kaya, who had just gotten out, looked bewildered.
Mr. Han! Who is Han Jeong-woo?
When a reporter holding a microphone asked, Jeong-woo turned his head and said, Me? Cameras shed simultaneously.
Whats all thismotion about?
Drenched in oil and covered in mud, he felt embarrassed to face the media. As he regretted not looking into a mirror, reporters nearby bombarded him with questions.
Can youment on the diagnosis process of the leak?
Environmental experts im that if emergency measures had failed, up to fifty times the amount of oil would have flowed into the Yukon River! Anyments?
What led you to make such a bold decision to enter the dangerous forest without safety measures?
As a corrosion expert, what are your thoughts on the lifespan of the pipeline?
Struggling to find an answer amid the barrage of questions, Jeong-woo sensed that he couldnt head straight to the hotel if he lingered.
Well
As he began to speak, the reporters fell silent.
The emergency repair was an idental urrence during an inspection. Its not significant. Also
Jeong-woo locked eyes with Neogi inside the lobby. He had been pleading for a proper diagnosis and solution for the corroded pipeline.
After inspecting approximately 450 miles, I can provide some answers.
The corrosion of the pipeline, built to withstand strong earthquakes, was due to aging over 40 years. The symptoms of the ska pipeline are simr to arteriosclerosis in humans. The inner wall umtes wax, while the outer wall is damaged by various causes.
Are you saying this pipeline is old and beyond repair?
Jeong-woo shook his head in response to a reporters sudden question.
Do we give up on people when theyre sick? We identify the cause and treat it. Simrly, if managed rigorously now
Estimating the corrosion rate, Jeong-woo continued.
it shouldst about five more years.
The journalists buzzed with murmurs. Neogis expression darkened upon hearing that only five years remained.
Jeong-woo then mentioned appropriate coatings, paints, corrosion removers, and prevention methods for the ska pipeline.
Please dont misunderstand. Thats if an averagepany manages it. With the best specialized team, it shouldst at least 20 years.
Upon this revtion, the journalists erupted in unison.
Who is that?
Well, thats for the person in charge of TAPS to decide. Im too tired, thats all.
With a slight bow, Jeong-woo started walking towards the hotel.
Neogi, looking out, couldnt take his eyes off Jeong-woos departing figure.
Chapter 113
Chapter 113- Old Steel Great Line(11)
Mile 630 6 Celsius degrees below zero, Tanana River
The pipeline inspection that began amidst the freezing cold of 30 Celsius degrees below zero had now transitioned to a region where campers stood out more than wildlife.
On the 16th day, Jeong-woo loaded onto a rubber boat, looking for a suitable spot to fly the drone.
Ah, the wind isnt blowing, it seems we are at 6 degrees below zero.
Upon hearing Shin Seong-beoms sigh from the front seat, Jeong-woo nodded in agreement.
By the way, isnt the scenery breathtaking? Not to mention the air. If ces like this are where we work, I could continue for months, even years.
Id be okay with just a month. I cant eat any more dried fruit or jerky.
Haha, fair enough.
The pristinendscape, with its icy mountains, dense forests, and turbulent streams from melting ciers, made even the protruding rocks in the meadows seem naturally beautiful.
Its truly something.
Jeong-woo couldnt resist taking a picture of the view, so he turned to Kaya, who had followed him.
Kaya, scanning the surroundings with binocrs, was humming a familiar tune. Recognizing the melody, Jeong-woo involuntarily listened closely.
Isnt that In Sleep?
Oh? How did you Oh right, youre Korean, so youd know Yoon Yi-seol.
Because shes a big star.
Theres a certainforting quality to her voice, a sort of British Buddy.
Though unfamiliar with the term buddy, Jeong-woo knew Yoon Yi-seols voice was undeniably captivating.
How do you know her? You heard that song even back in Korea.
I usually listen to some top-ranking songs from the first time I visit a country. This one stuck with me even in ska.
Jeong-woo couldnt help but chuckle at bing a fan of Yoon Yi-seol and was constantly reminded of her face.
I should sort out my feelings soon.
As the day to return home approached, he wrestled with what to say to Yoon Yi-seol that would be in her best interest.
If someone has to get hurt, shouldnt it be me?
A moment of silence along the stream.
A bald eagle soaring high caught Jeong-woos attention. Having spent days flying drones, he vividly pictured the world from the eagles viewpoint.
We must look like ants to them.
For humans, unreachable ces might be just beneath their feet. He hoped this confusing feeling would be a trivial concern.
Hey, Kaya.
Turning to Kaya, Jeong-woo asked.
Can I ask you something?
What is it?
When we were chased by the wolves, we almost died. How could you act so boldly without fear?
I may have more experience in the wild than Mr. Han, but do you have to ask me that?
Sorry, was it out of the blue?
Kaya chuckled.
Why do you ask?
Just jealous.
Mr. Han had his bold moments too, like when he did that chemistry or trick.
Chemistry you say?
Thats right.
Kaya then added more seriously.
Fear freezes people in the face of challenges. If you keep reminding yourself that theres a world where gray wolves exist, you get used to it. The rest is the result of training.
Hearing the 18-year-olds profound words, Jeong-woo felt like his vision had expanded.
Gazing at the free flight of the bald eagle, Jeong-woo solidified his resolve.
Mile 726 3 Celsius degrees below zero, Condo Near Anchorage
18th day since arriving in ska.
Today was designated as a day of rest due to an unexpected spring rain.
Jeong-woo had experienced an unforeseen ident halfway and stayed in a hotel. However, the team members, who had practically lived homeless, screamed with joy upon seeing rooms with properly installed windows.
-Ahh! Why is the water so hot!
Jeong-woo chuckled upon hearing Wi Ji-seongs voice from the adjacent room.
Mr. Jeong-woo, Im heading to the supermarket. What should I get for you?
Shin Seong-beom, dressed casually, stood by the door. Without hesitation, Jeong-woo ordered various items: potato chips, carbonated drinks, and other seemingly unhealthy instant foods.
Anything else?
And some instant noodles.
Alright then.
After being in nature and thening back to civilization, the salty craving was very strong.
After Shin Seong-beom left, Jeong-woo gazed out the window where raindrops tapped against the ss. Rain in ska felt unfamiliar.
Despite it being spring in this region since early April, having lived in sub-zero temperatures, the concept of spring felt like it had evaporated into the distance.
Only 74 miles left.
Jeong-woo pondered over the concluding phase of his schedule.
He had a buffer of three days. Compared to the road conditions and weather, this ce felt like paradise. It shouldnt be too difficult.
Lost in thought, Jeong-woo picked up his phone, which had been charging. In this part of the world, out of range of civilization, there was still wifi.
He connected to the condos wifi. Since he hadnt activated roaming, he received a flood of umted messages.
Among the first to catch his eye was her name.
Open it.
His fingers responded involuntarily to his internal debate.
Instead of text, a video yed. It began ying after downloading for about a minute due to slow wifi.
-I wish I could even touch a pr bears paw, but youre going to make up for it in the date I didnt get promise me youlle back safely.
Jeong-woo chuckled at the first line.
Seated alone in a practice room, she nced lovingly at him through the screen. Soon, she nervously gripped a guitar.
-Sung by Yoon Yi-seol, resenting a man who left to find the aurora borealis. Title: Frozen.
As the download resumed and buffering urred, Jeong-woo ced the phone on the table with regret. He was eager to watch, but the inte wasnt as fast as in Korea.
Even on pause, Yoon Yi-seol on the screen remained breathtakingly beautiful. Heart-stoppingly so.
Knock, knock.
As he waited for the video to fully download, a knocking sound reached Jeong-woo, causing him to turn.
Mister Han, are you in?
Whos there?
Opening the door revealed a man with a cowboy hat and a nose beard. Recognizing the face, Jeong-woo instinctively bowed in greeting.
Huh? The Rust Guard supervisor?
Although they had spoken on the phone multiple times, this was their first face-to-face meeting since departing from Prudhoe Baysprehensive situation room. Curious, Jeong-woo asked.
Whats going on?
Ran smiled faintly and responded.
I have something to discuss. Ive arranged a seat at the cafe ahead. Could you spare some time?
Its my day off, so its fine.
At the cafe he had casually visited, Jeong-woo cringed as he was forced to take a seat, noticeably tense. Several Rust Guard lineworkers stood lined up on one side, which made him feel out of ce. Moreover, it seemed like they had rented out the entire caf as there were no other customers.
Why are they staring like that? Its ufortable.
Caught under the gaze of theserge cowboy figures, Jeong-woo struggled to find a ce to rest his eyes.
Mr. Han Jeong-woo.
Ran, seated opposite him, got straight to the point.
I wanted to meet you before the pipeline inspection ends. I also wanted to give you this.
Upon Rans gesture, a cowboy standing behind him ced a brown leather box on the table.
I believe that meeting you after participating in this event holds more value than achieving administrator status with TAPS.
The lid of the leather box was lifted, revealing an impressive golden revolver, leaving Jeong-woo puzzled.
Ran proudly pointed at the gun, saying.
This is a symbol of a Rust Guard 1st-grade lineworker, a golden revolver. Its a special edition with gold ting on the actual model Colt Dragon used during the Civil War, and there are only 30 in North America. Its value is approximately $250,000.
Why would you give this to me?
Jeong-woo began but was interrupted.
If you join our Rust Guard, well treat you as an experienced member. Hans, bring it out.
A leather bag, reminiscent of a western drama, was ced on the table, appearing to be filled with something.
Its a lineworker set. Apparently, youre participating as an advisor, not as a Yujin Chemical employee. We promise a higherpensation than any offer youve received there. Additionally, well even give you a racehorse that can run through the Rocky Mountains and the Nevada desert.
Ran pulled out two cigars along with a contract from the bag, sniffed one, and offered it to Jeong-woo.
Its Cuban. Would you like to try?
Before he could answer, Ran assumed he would, so Jeong-woo took it hesitantly.
After cutting and lighting one end of the cigar, Ran exhaled smoke, creating a dense atmosphere that seemed to resonate with the men inside the caf.
I quit smoking a while ago. Plus, this is expensive.
Jeong-woo felt pressured by the intimidating cowboy figures lined up as he reluctantly lit the cigar.
When scouting for the best lineworker to lead ourpany. Rust Guards board of directors unanimously decided on Mr. Han, based on your actions during the pipeline exploration. Please take a look at the contract
Team Leader Ran.
Jeong-woo interrupted, closing the lid of the gun box and pushing it back.
I want to pursue chemistry research not corrosion management. I appreciate the offer.
The highest sry for a Rust Guard top lineworker is a million
Sorry, since youve already cut this cigar, Ill dly ept it.
Caught off guard, Ran looked at Jeong-woo with wide eyes.
Who would have thought theyd fly all this way just to meet me.
Jeong-woo muttered to himself as he climbed the stairs toward his lodging. Wearing a cowboy hat and riding a horse across the vast desert might make for a cool picture, but it wasnt something he found appealing enough to make a lifelong career out of.
Hoping that Shin Seong-beom might have returned, he hurriedly made his way. As he ascended to the third-floor corridor, he crossed paths with a foreign woman dressed in a suit who had been lingering outside his lodging.
Excuse me, are you Mr. Han Jeong-woo?
That would be me.
Im Ramona, the HR manager from Baker Hughes. I have a proposition for you
Jeong-woo felt inwardly exasperated that even representatives frompetingpanies were seeking him out.
You dont need to talk about scouting; Im not interested.
The womans expression shifted as she processed his swift rejection.
I flew 20 hours from our headquarters in the UK upon hearing about Mr. Han.
Thats unfortunate, but Im going to decline anyway.
Flipping her long hair back, the woman shed a provocative smile.
Ive booked a nearby pub. How about discussing the contract terms over a drink? Im willing to offer you anything you desire.
Caught off guard by the unexpected allure of the British beauty, Jeong-woo found himself flustered.
Im sorry, that seems even riskier. I cant be too cavalier about this.
As Jeong-woo tried to move past her to open the door, the womanid out various enticing conditions, from offering unmanned aircraft far superior to drones, providing homes and cars as a baseline, to granting the authority to hire any employee he wished.
Ill be waiting downstairs!
Closing the door calmly behind him, Jeong-woo shook his head, wondering how she knew he was on a break and why she suddenly approached him like this.
Shin Seong-beom returned from the supermarket, clutching a bunch of bags in his arms.
Ah, its warm. Home is indeed the best.
Youve worked hard.
Jeong-woo was shaking his phone from side to side, frustrated that the wifi wasnt connecting well enough to finish downloading a video. Shin Seong-beom, who had set down his purchases on the table, nced at Jeong-woo.
Do you know there are Rust Guard and Baker Hughes people in the lobby? Looks like theyre also taking a break due to the rain.
Oh, really?
Deciding hed be bothered if he went downstairs, Jeong-wooy down on the bed. There wasnt much to do outside anyway, and lounging around here seemed like the best form of rxation.
After lying down for quite some time, the video download finallypleted.
Mr. Jeong-woo, the water is boiling.
Jeong-woos nostrils twitched at the thought of the irresistibly familiar scent that would fill the room once the boiling water met the instant noodles. As a Korean, it was a temptation too delicious to resist.
Thinking about filling his stomach first, he shook his head.
Go ahead and eat first. Ill join in a bit.
Plugging in his earphones into the phone, Jeong-woo leaned back against the bed. He pressed the y button, starting the video of Yoon Yi-seols song.
Chapter 114
Chapter 114- Old Steel Great Line(12)
Mile 787 1 degree of freedom, Last Mountain Range
Jeong-woo was flying a drone towards the southern pass within a forest dense with trees.
It was a calm day with a breeze, and mist rose along the mountain slopes. Due to the warmer weather than yesterday, sweat formed even inside his outerwear.
Once I get past this hardship, itll be over.
On the screen transmitted by the drone, a bear was seen engaged in minor light-shading work on the hillside.
Thats a brown bear digging to catch ground squirrels.
Now, even without looking, Jeong-woo could naturally follow Kayas exnation.
Not far from there, other brown bears and three cubs were visible on thend. The chubby cubs were freely jumping into a pond beneath a waterfall, engaging in yful activities.
Theyre a bear family. Should we warn them?
Ill handle it.
This is the Yujin Chemical drone team. Rust Guard situation room, respond.
After sending the warning, the loud cawing ofrge crows flying over the snowy field on the hillside could be heard.
They seem to have a lot to say.
Be careful with the equipment. They might steal out of curiosity.
If that happens, well have to show them the might of a chemist.
Just make sure not to blow anything up.
The drone proceeded, capturing footage of deer grazing, rams running on high-altitude rocky fields, and the wildndscapes of the Chugach Mountains, eventually arriving at a picturesque meadow full of small flowers.
Wow!
Jeong-woo, along with Kaya and Shin Seong-beom, all expressed their admiration while looking at the monitor. But that was it. In less than five seconds, they all shifted their attention back to their tasks.
Watching them, Jeong-woo chuckled inwardly.
When he first arrived, this pristinend didnt feel this way. The towering trees, ciers enveloping mountains, and sudden appearances of wild animals once felt intimidating. Now, it all seemed peaceful.
Amidst the stunning scenery, the monotonous and tedious inspection continued, making Jeong-woo feel like he might doze off. Turning to Shin Seong-beom, he said.
Ill make a satellite call.
Shin Seong-beom set down themunication device hed been carrying on his back.
Dialing the number, Jeong-woo patiently waited for a response.
-Whos this? Whats with this strange number?
Hey, Soo-chan, its me.
-Jeong-woo? Crazy guy. Still in ska?
Im still here. Just wanted you to feel the atmosphere. Wont you evere to a ce this cold? Hear the crow sounds?
-Woah, Im tearing up at the mention of my buddy Jeong-woo. Dont make such calls. When are youing back? Laura misses you terribly.
Are you driving? Still havent junked that crappy car?
-Shut up! Laura, were not talking about you. Hurry up ande back. Im bored.
I mighte this Friday.
Shortly after ending the call, a signal came indicating the drone hadpleted its inspection.
Alright, now we just need to explore backward from Valdez.
Upon Jeong-woos deration, essentially announcing the end of the inspection, Shin Seong-beom cheered towards the sky.
While waiting for the drones return, Jeong-woo pulled out his phone to listen to a song hed been enjoying whenever he found time over the past two days.
Plugging in his earphones, he yed Yoon Yi-seols unreleased track, Frozen apanied by lively guitar apaniment, her sweet voice warmly resonated in his ears.
-Hello, ska. Hello, cold wind. Cant you just let today pass by without any trouble?
Within the transmitted footage from the drone, a cowboy appeared. He took off his shoes and dipped his feet into the river under the gentle sunlight, looking up to the sky with a pleasant smile as he felt the not-so-cold wind.
-Hello, Mr. Bear. Someone I care about is passing over there. Please send my regards.
The brown bear family was in the middle of lunch. The mother beary partially reclined, nursing her cubs, while the father bear, having had his fill,y on the ground with his head resting on his front paws, asleep.
-Or meet an astonishing iceberg.
The river flowing under the cier curved angrily, producing an overwhelming and dreadful roar.
-Or face something so terrifying it freezes the heart.
Wolverine, sipping water nonchntly, started to run away as the wolfs howl echoed.
-Dont forget. The person who will blow warmth into your frozen hands is here.
At mile marker 207 on the pipeline route, an artic fox standing atop a mountain peak looked at the sky tinged with orange hues and hopped back to its sanctuary. A wooden sign reading [I LIKE YOU] still firmly clung to the spot.
-When winter arrives, spring awaits. When lovees, what awaits?
As they tidied up thended drone and shouldered their belongings, Jeong-woo, Kaya, and Shin Seong-beom caught the attention of an eagle soaring in the distant sky.
-How about you? Is your closed heart still in the midst of winter?
At [Pump Station 12] base camp, as Wolf set up tents sweating profusely, his gaze turned toward the darkening sky. Holding a radio, Wolf began calling all team members for a safety check.
-Itll be alright. Spring, love. Theyll open up your closed heartpletely.
As dusk approached, riding on a one-ton truck on the road, Jeong-woo nced at the face of Yoon Yi-seol on his phone. Her eyes, sparkling beautifully, seemed to enter and embed themselves like stars in Jeong-woos chest.
A full moon hangs high over skas mountain range.
As the mountains wrapped in ciers slowly sank into darkness, night fell, and stars appeared.
Mile 800 2 degree of freedom, Valdez Port
Neogi sat at the terminal office of the port, reviewing reports from threepanies.
Baker Hughes data analysis was pinpointing internal risks based on a 99% uracy rate.
The report from Rust Guard meticulously detailed the inspection history, down to a single bolt of the H-beam supporting the pipeline.
And then.
As Neogi scrolled through a report summarizing hundreds of methods to safeguard the pipeline future, a slow smile spread across his face.
Perhaps he could finally take the umted vacation this summer.
Mr. Jeong-woo, weve arrived.
At the sound of Shin Seong-beoms voice, Jeong-woos eyes snapped open.
Ladies and gentlemen, we will soon bending at Incheon International Airport.
Jeong-woo felt a flutter of excitement looking at thendscape of Korea outside the airne window. Who would have thought that the mundane ce he had tomute to at the same time every morning would feel so weing?
Its Korea.
Despite the three-week timeframe, a sense of pride welled up in a corner of his heart, as if he had achieved something significant.
The team was greeted at the immigration counter by Yoon Jaegil, who was shing a broad smile.
Youve all done well. Team Leader, wow, youve lost weight! Spending time in such fresh air has turned you into a natural beauty.
Cut it out. Im tired.
Alright, alright. Ive arranged for a limousine bus, so lets hop on.
With a sharper edge after consecutive flights, Joo Hana pushed the cart and headed toward the gate.
Wow, Manager Wi, youve grown such a beard. It really suits you.
Yes, indeed.
Deputy Shin, are you ready to enjoy a special vacation? If youre going abroad, I can even arrange the tickets. Where would you like to go? Somewhere with a beautiful view?
I wont be going abroad for a while, Director.
After praising each team member for their hard work, Yoon Jaegils gazended on Jeong-woo, who was walking out from the back.
Jeong-woo, engrossed in checking his phone, hadnt noticed Yoon Jaegil approaching.
Mr. Han Jeong-woo!
Yoon Jaegil suddenly stepped in, taking over the cart, startling Jeong-woo.
Its been a while, Director.
I expected sess, but I never imagined youd secure a five-year exclusive deal with TAPS. Its all thanks to you, Han Jeong-woo.
It wasnt just me. Everyone worked hard.
After cautiously ncing at the other team members, Yoon Jaegil lowered his voice.
I heard Baker Hughes and Rust Guard offered a substantial amount.
I turned them down.
As expected. A man who has been with Yujin Chemical has no reason to go to a smallerpany.?
Yoon Jaegils smiling face turned serious.
This project doesnt just end in ska. Perhaps Director Songu demanded a stake in the overseas business of the Total Care System because of this. Of course, your involvement, Mr. Han Jeong-woo, is a prerequisite.
So its not over?
Nothing ever really ends. Everything is susceptible to erosion.
Smirking at Yoon Jaegil, who subtly hinted at the future, Jeong-woo chuckled.
No matter how much more money they offer, some ces are just too tough to handle.
Hahaha!
Yoon Jaegil, still smiling, asked.
What if I guaranteed not 500% but 1,000%?
I still wont go.
Riding in a limousine bus headed for Seoul, Jeong-woo checked a backlog of messages and found one from Kaya, the survival expert he had met in the U.S.
[Ive sent the photos via email and, as promised, linked Mr. Han channel on my channel.]
As a result of posting action cam footage featuring Jeong-woo on Kayas channel, which boasted a whopping 3 million subscribers, he also got some advertising. Since Kaya had voluntarily proposed the idea, Jeong-woo had epted without much thought.
[Im curious, though. The first video on your channel chemistry, isnt that Yoon Yi-seol? Whats her rtionship with Mr. Han? The more I see, the less I understand what kind of person you are.]
Kaya seemed to have watched the video featuring the magician in white.
[Its a rtionship I stumbled upon.]
Replying with this, Jeong-woo became lost in thought.
Concerning Yi-seols rtionship
People seemed to increasingly regard him as a remarkable person just because he had coincidentally acquired great abilities. He had never considered this a bad thing until he seriously pondered his rtionship with Yoon Yi-seol.
Having gained abilities by taking pills, he was originally just a struggling job seeker, a fact he had intended to confess.
However, theforting sentiments conveyed in Yoon Yi-seols song led Jeong-woo to a new resolution.
Awakening from his contemtion, Jeong-woo dialed Yoon Yi-seols number.
His heart pounded as the signal went through. The fear of what would happen if she didnt pick up was overwhelming, but after a few rings, a voice came through.
-Jeong-woo?
Yes, Ive arrived safely in Korea.
-Tsk. So?
Although her voice seemed to carry annoyance, it was easy to imagine a face brimming with joy.
I listened to your song. I nearly got caught by a wolf, saw the aurora borealis, confessed to a fox that looked like Yi-seol, and now that Im back, Korea feels like spring and my heart has opened up.
-What kind of experience was that to speak so haphazardly Wait, what did you just say?
You didnt hear that?
-I did!
Shall we go on a date? As soon as possible?
-Excuse me?
A gasp was audible on the other end. She seemed quite flustered.
-The- huh. Thing isugh!
Click. The call ended abruptly, followed by a text.
[Ill clear my schedule somehow, so no excuses!!]
A smile appeared on Jeong-woos lips.
Yes, sir. If I make the deposit, itll be processed immediately, right? If my mother asks, please just tell her that my father took care of it for now.
Jeong-woo lowered his phone in front of Ji-sook restaurant.
The voice that used to constantly disturb his thoughts, when he was leaving for the Arctic, was his mothers saying adult problems.
The will of his mother, who insisted that her sons happiness was all that mattered, came as a shocking demand for Jeong-woo, who demanded a different treatment as the eldest.
Being grown in stature didnt necessarily mean one had matured.
Though the path to bing a son that his mother could be proud of was still long and treacherous, Jeong-woo felt invigorated internally. He believed that his heart had grown at least as much as the tip of his fingernailpared to a month ago, after enduring hardships on unfamiliar soil and returning.
Im here!
With a creaky and familiar sound, he pushed open the door and entered.
Hong Ji-sook, wiping the dining table, turned her head. Seeing her son, who had just returned after a three-week camping life that looked like a vagabond, she furrowed her brows.
Walking around the neighborhood like that, making a spectacle of yourself. Just go home.
Mom, I was craving your bean paste stew, so I came straight here.
You rascal. Go home and eat.
Im really hungry. Please cook it quickly.
Silently observing Jeong-woo, whose weight seemed to have dwindled and who sported a shaggy beard, Hong Ji-sook headed into the kitchen without saying a word.
Chan is at home, right? I should call him to eat with us.
Having received a message to have dinner, Jeong-chan entered the restaurant and smirked at the sight of Jeong-woo.
So youve been traveling abroad? How jealous.
Chan, Ive never met anyone worth envying. Wild animals dont judge by appearance.
Whatever.
Having tasted a spoonful of the bubbling stew, Jeong-woos face brightened with contentment. Hong Ji-sook, who had set the side dishes beside him, looked at Jeong-woo and asked.
Youre having soju?
Yeah.
Just one bottle.
Got it.
As Jeong-woo began to open the soju bottle, he looked up to see that Jeong-chan had nearly finished his bowl of rice.
Why are you eating so well? Youve gained some weight. Youd be wolf food if you ventured into the wild with that body.
Stop with the nonsense. Ive been studying for the college entrance exams, and Ive gained some weight. Making Su-jin ufortable seeing me like this.
After pouring a shot of soju and taking a sip, Jeong-woo said to Jeong-chan.
By years end, Ill be confirmed for a position. If you get into college,e back after finishing there.
Where?
Its cold, really cold.
As the bottom of the stew became visible, so did the end of the soju bottle.
Do you want more? If so, Ill prepare more side dishes.
Jeong-woo chuckled and shook his head.
Mom, whats gotten into you? Pressuring us to drink. Is it because you havent seen your sons face in a month?
You look like youve been starving.
Ive been eating well.
After ncing at his mother and younger brother, Jeong-woo dered.
Look, I might be a chemist.
Jeong-chan and Hong Ji-sook exchanged puzzled looks.
You were already working in a chemical researchb, werent you?
Just take good care of yourself.
Jeong-woo grinned at their reactions.
Understanding the chemistry reactions around him had changed his life. The resolve now was to maintain this altered path of life due to the effects of the pill.
I have at least seven months of incredible abilities. Whether its omnipotence or whatever, I just have to discover it myself.
With newfound knowledge, not from Cheon Seung-guk but from the transformed Jeong-woo, he felt a burning passion and confidence that he could aplish any research.
Code: Molecr form
Case: White crystals that melt the ground
Research: Designed for probe operations at minus 30 degrees Celsius, its effectiveness has been proven even in the extreme conditions of ska.
Chapter 115
Chapter 115- Chemical Intelligence(1)
Inside the conference room of KG Chemistrys West Building, the first-quarter business performance report meeting was in full swing.
Thanks to the expansion of premium research and the sessful coboration in global research, our revenue has increasedpared to the previous year by approximately
As Manager Jeon Yeong-ho from the finance and ounting team flipped the projector screen, the executives and department heads were left in awe.
Revenue: KRW 5,874.1 billion (a 13% increasepared to the previous year)
Operating Profit: KRW 7,577 billion (a 63.5% increasepared to the previous year)
Net Profit: KRW 6,381 billion (a 93.3% increasepared to the previous year)
a 13% increase. The ratio of operating profit to profit is 63% and 93%, respectively, marking the highest performance in thepanys quarterly history.
Cha Bon-jun, an executive in histe fifties who was sitting at the center of the conference room, looked surprised and then turned his gaze to the director sitting next to him.
Director Park.
Yes, sir.
That preliminary performance report from the beginning of the year, full of pessimistic predictions about domestic economic downturn, reduced inventory, and weakened demand for small battery products. Whosepany was that?
Well that report.
Thanks to that report, I issued defensive guidelines to reduce R&D investment. Shareholders must love such a foolish management strategy, right?
Sir
Under Cha Bon-juns probing question, sweat formed on Park Ho-jins sparse scalp.
Twenty years in thepany, one year as the Director-General of the Strategic nning Department.
Park Ho-jin, known for smoothly handling his work without any major hups, had received praise for his efficiency. Yet, he had no words to justify such a ring miscalction in the quarterly predictions.
The presentation by the former director continued.
In rtion to the factors contributing to the favorable performance, the revenue share of new projects from the Central Research Institute and external dispatched projects is significantly prominent. Please verify the individual profit data from the submitted report, and I will report the results up to the second position here.
As the analysis continued, Park Ho-jins eyes lit up with concentration.
The natural fragrance project in the basic materials field achieved a remarkable feat bypleting all tasks with only 5% of the total research cost, providing the best results for the investment. The air purification project in the materials science field has paved the way for entry into China, currently negotiating contracts with numerouspanies based in Beijing government offices and Shanghai.
Departments heads Jang Tae-seon and Noh Jong-seon, who ranked 1st and 2nd, respectively, side by side in achievements, subtly disyed proud faces. Usually, with such results, praise from the CEO would follow.
Dr. Noh. A record-breaking performance. Our basic materials took the top title on this eventful day.
Dont boast just by listing the profit ratio. Keep in mind the overwhelming dominance of profit in materials science, which is the top in KG Chemistry. Dr. Jang.
The three other center directors, who only held a small portion in the performance ranking, sighed briefly at the conversation between the two neers.
Cha Bon-jun carefully examined the screen and pressed the microphone button.
Dr. Jang, Dr. Noh.
Jang Tae-seon and Noh Jong-seon focused their gaze on Cha Bon-jun, expecting the uing praise.
I remember the New Years meeting. Both of you praised Director Parks report here, providing crucial advice when I was setting operating guidelines. The exact wording was something like this: With many projects in the early stages this year and it being the off-season, its not right to talk about performance. Lets endure some stock price decline for the sake of the second half.
Park Ho-jin, whoseplexion had been darkening, lowered his head deeply, and Jang Tae-seon and Noh Jong-seon looked embarrassed.
Cha Bon-jun continued speaking.
I have one question. If you prepared for such outstanding results and showed humility, how do you n to dispel the public suspicion that you deliberately let the stock price drop to profit from the difference? As someone who purchased a certain amount to defend the falling stock price, I would like advice. How should one handle it when investors feel betrayed?
The atmosphere in the conference room froze instantly. Jang Tae-seon hastily spoke.
Sir, you misunderstand. I also had no idea that the coborative research with Audrey would unfold so well.
Noh Jong-seon began his own defense.
Im the same. We conducted the Dust Project thinking a year ahead, and I didnt predict it would generate this much profit in the first quarter.
After a short silence, Cha Bon-jun spoke again.
From the perspective of running apany, that makes sense. You want to boast even a small achievement optimistically. However, KG Groups motto is transparent management. Weve gained the trust of investors by openly acknowledging difficulties. Please keep this in mind, all executives and below, and be careful not to make mistakes again.
In the chilling atmosphere following the performance announcement, as Cha Bon-jun passed by, he casually asked.
So, what are the business prospects for the second quarter?
After the meeting, in the absence of the CEO.
Park Ho-jin gathered the five center directors of the Central Research Institute and began a serious discussion with a grave expression.
What on earth is going on? I dont meet with you center directors every day, and if I dont have a proper understanding of whats happening in the research institute from the Strategic nning Office, how am I supposed to n the management strategy?
Director Park, its true that we had no idea the overall performance would be at this level.
After a stylish response from Jang Tae-seon, he exchanged a nce with Noh Jong-seon.
Park Ho-jin sighed heavily and spoke.
Whats done is done. We need to formte the second-quarter strategy and report it within this week. Please provide your opinions properly. First, lets discuss this report.
Park Ho-jin, who had been scanning the detailed report on theptop throughout the meeting, pointed out one conspicuous name.
Starting this year, is Central Research Institute also hiring frence researchers? How is it possible that this employee is the key researcher in high-profit projects? Even projects from KG Life & Health and KG Industries. What I find most iprehensible is this.
Park Ho-jin opened the financial statements.
Why is 38% of Yujin Chemicals Total Care revenue included in our profit? Even if I want to release extensive press releases to clear up misunderstandings about the first-quarter performance, there needs to be a convincing exnation.
Noh Jong-seon responded to this question with a wry smile.
Director Park, do you not know Han Jeong-woo?
No?
Oh, you didnt know. The rumor has already spread among the affiliates. He joined us through a special recruitment at the end ofst year, and hes truly exceptional.
As soon as Han Jeong-woos name was mentioned, Jang Tae-seon interjected with a wide smile.
It might seem odd that our Jeong-woo went to ska due to Yoon Jaegils crazy conditions. But that happened because even Yoon Jaegil couldnt resist the treasure of Central Research Institute, which consistently exceeds expectations.
Park Ho-jin, with a puzzled expression, asked Jang Tae-seon.
So, youre saying this outstanding performance is all thanks to Han Jeong-woo? A regr researcher single-handedly surpassing thepanys management strategy and aplishing not one but several tasks? And all of this in just three months?
Its hard to believe, but yes.
All center directors looked at Park Ho-jin with expressions agreeing with this statement.
Afterbining objective indicators and testimonies from center directors, Park Ho-jin reached the conclusion that without Han Jeong-woo, it would be impossible to formte the next quarters management strategy.
The impact that a single researcher could have on KG Chemistry. An unforeseen, truly absurd variable had intervened.
Park Ho-jin immediately opened hisptop and read through Han Jeong-woos personnel file. As he went through the information, he had to doubt his eyes.
He came in as an intern and its already been five months?
He was truly a talent sent unexpectedly from the heavens to help KG Chemistry.
Jang Tae-seon, noticing Park Ho-jins shock, added an exnation.
He might havee in through a parachute-like special recruitment, but hes Dr. Cheon Seung-guks disciple.
If its Cheon Seung-guk, although hes at the top in terms of research in the institute, does he even care about management?
Whats surprising about our Jeong-woo is that, he has skills and a personalityparable to Park, who is at the senior level.
As Park Ho-jin continued to hear more revtions, he had to swallow a sigh. He then found himself contemting the current status of Han Jeong-woo, a regr researcher.
Hes handling work beyond the senior researcher level, yet the treatment is merely at this level. If anotherpany scouts him, it will create chaos not only in the board of directors but also among the shareholders.
That is indeed a concern. Even someone like me is willing to stake the position of the next head of the Basic Materials Center, but I wonder if Yoon Jaegil would have incurred such significant losses if he had just called him.
What does Director think about this?
Amidst everyones silence, Noh Jong-seon raised his head and said.
We have no way of knowing if its not disclosed. He briefly mentioned that Han Jeong-woo, as a disciple of Dr. Cheon, showed deep affection for KG Chemistry.
Really?
Park Ho-jin found himself in a new dilemma. To formte a proper management strategy, there must be a guarantee that this talent currently targeted by Yujin Chemical wont leave KG Chemistry.
Peoples hearts can be swayed in front of positions and money. Its strange not to treat such top-tier talent properly, but at the same time, its difficult to issue personnel orders that vite internal regtions to someone without a masters or Ph.D. degree.
Director Park, may I offer a small opinion regarding the position?
Jang Tae-seon chuckled and, lowering his voice as if to share a secret, continued.
Do you know what position Dr. Cheon Seung-guk had when he was first scouted by KG Chemistry? Its the same for our Jeong-woo
Jeong-woo forced his eyes open at the sound of the rm. It was the third day lying in bed at home, suffering from a cold and swollen tonsils. After returning from ska, the tension that had been tight since leaving home seemed to have finally rxed, resulting in a sudden onset of fatigue umted over the past month.
Despite this, apart from the sore throat that stung every time he swallowed, many other symptoms had subsided.
While sitting in the room, trying to gather his thoughts, the door creaked open.
Brother, wake up!
Due to a request to wake him up if he couldnt get up, his younger brother abruptly shoved his face with a bandit-like expression.
What a surprise, you woke me up. Is Soo-jin still doing well?
Oh, yeah. You look like shit these days.
Lets talk about your belly fat.
Even in the midst of pain, the banter with his younger brother was the same as usual.
Jeong-woo stretched and got up from his bed. As he descended to the lower floor, his mother was nowhere to be seen. In the kitchen, Jeong-chan, his younger brother, made eye contact with Jeong-woo.
Mom went to the early morning market. Are you going to eat?
Im good.
Not having much appetite, Jeong-woo had a ss of juice to start his morning. He then went to the bathroom, brushed his teeth, and stood in front of the mirror.
Ah, I look like shit.
Comparing his current appearance with before he went to ska, he had lost almost 5 kg, making his face look quite pitiful. After washing up and trimming his slightly grown beard, he looked somewhat presentable, but still appeared a bit haggard.
Even with a slightly furrowed brow, he deliberately forced a smile in the mirror.
Cheer up. Were getting busy from today on.
Deciding not to dwell on it and to move forward, it was the first day of work that had arrived.
Though his body was quite fatigued, his mind was as light as ever.
Outside, it was unmistakably spring.
As Jeong-woo walked out from between people rushing through the station exit, he couldnt take his eyes off KG Chemicals twin buildings that he hadnt seen in a long time.
Finally, he felt like he had escaped the wild and returned to human society. Whistling as he walked, Jeong-woos pocket vibrated. Taking out the phone from his pocket, it was a message from the HR department.
Huh? Why are they asking me toe here?
Having taken Monday and Tuesday off due to sick leave, he hadnt heard which center he was being dispatched to.
Jeong-woo entered the main building and took the elevator.
As he went to the 25th floor, the familiar view of the corridor came into his sight. Cheon Seung-guks private researchb, frequently visited by Jeong-woo, was nearby.
If its Room 11 at the end of Section C corridor here it is.
He arrived in front of the opaque ss door and swiped his ess card.
Beep.
The interior space was a modest-sized private researchb, equipped with a workspace with two desks and a smaller cleanroom.
It wasnt at the level of executive-level researchers, but it looked like the residence of a researcher who was at least a team leader.
Is my project immediately starting as I return to work on Wednesday?
Sitting on an improvised chair inside the cleanroom, since there was no guest chair in the office area, Jeong-woo spent his time exploring each experiment tool that was all set.
After about 20 minutes passed, the sound of the door opening from the outside reached him.
The owner must be here.
Jeong-woo opened the door to the cleanroom and reflexively bowed his head.
Nice to meet you Huh? Senior Boyeong?
Tworge eyes without double eyelids were directed at Jeong-woo. Holding a box in both hands and standing in the corridor, Song Boyeong squinted her eyes and stared at Jeong-woo for a while.
Didnt expect you here.
Reacting to Jeong-woos words, Song Boyeong snapped out of her daze and came inside.
Why are you here, Jeong-woo?
The HR department asked me toe here.
Weird. Why?
What about you, Senior?
cing the box on the small desk inside the office space, Song Boyeong answered.
Ive returned to regr work afterpleting Seung-ju sunbaes project. Im assisting senior and getting used to the usual work at the same time.
Song Boyeong pointed towards therge desk with a gesture.
Following her gaze, Jeong-woo turned his head toward the desk. It was a simple desk with only basic office supplies, without a namete.
Who is that person?
I dont know. I received a sudden call from the HR department this morning, I guess you and I came together because were from Lab 1. I dont know anything beyond that.
While saying this, Song Boyeong looked closely at Jeong-woos face.
I heard you went through a lot, and it seems to be true.
Surprised by Jeong-woos thin cheeks, Song Boyeong couldnt look away.
Did anything happen?
My face got half paralyzed.
No way. Senior, my face is the same, just the double eyelids are 1.5 times thicker.
Song Boyeong puffed up her cheeks in response to Jeong-woos teasing.
It was quite peaceful for a month. If it wasnt for a designated location for the dispatch, I would have just sat next to you and watched, my dear junior.
Okay.
Bringing the makeshift chair from the cleanroom, Jeong-woo ced it next to Song Boyeongs desk and sat down. He suddenly remembered and asked her.
Senior Boyeong, do you have all the papers that Dr. Cheon Seung-guk wrote before?
Why?
I want to read them once.
During his days of suffering from a cold, Jeong-woo had thought about his personal research direction, the Project to remain a sessful chemist next year, and reviewing Cheon Seung-guks past actions would make it easier to draw a blueprint.
Song Boyeong clenched her fist and turned her head.
I cant give them to you for free, not to a rival.
Why are you like this? Even though I helped you sell a thousand boxes of that essential item for women, which you couldnt even get beef with yet.
That you.
Now that I know youre the type to keep your mouth shut, Ive seen it.
Song Boyeong was about to answer that she would bring them tomorrow when suddenly someone knocked on the door from outside.
Knock, knock.
Excuse me. Im Jin Yeong-man from the HR department. Is Han Jeong-woo here?
The sound of knocking on the door from outside reached Jeong-woo and Song Boyeong, and Jeong-woo approached the door to press the button to open it.
Han Jeong-woo?
Yeah.
First, take this. Park Ho-jin, Executive Director of the Strategy nning Office, is visiting at 10am. Please wait.
Looking at the table namete that Jin Yeong-man handed out, Jeong-woos expression turned into a questioning one.
Is an assistant researcher here? Her name is Song Boyeong?
Yeah?
Song Boyeong, who had ced the box on the small desk, answered.
Please do a good job for the executive director.
The director? Here?
The HR staff who delivered the surprising news disappeared, and Jeong-woo, who was standing still in front of the door, was approached by Song Boyeong.
The owner of this room is no joke. Its the Strategy nning Office, the core department of the headquarters. Why are you just standing there like that? You should prepare something like drinks in advance when an executive directores. Even though youre leaving for the dispatch in a few days, youre the youngest, Jeong-woo.
Um, Senior. Are there such positions in the researchb?
Jeong-woo showed Song Boyeong the job title and name written on the table namete he had in his hand.
[Special Researcher Han Jeong-woo]
Her eyes widened at what Song Boyeong saw. She realized who the owner of thatrge desk was and had an expression of disbelief.
Excuse me~ Delivery.
Someone approached the open door. With arge flower arrangement ced next to it, the person bowed and disappeared.
The congrattory message from Jang Tae-seon on the flower arrangement read, [Lets celebrate Han Jeong-woo bing a special researcher, letse to the basic materials one more time!].
Chapter 116
Chapter 116- Chemical Intelligence(2)
-The special researcher position is, in a way, a rank given to distinguished individuals mainly invited from outside, a position that they wouldnt want to miss even after the project is over. It doesnt heavily constrain internal personnel regtions, yet the rewards rted to research achievements are on par with those of chief researchers. Isnt it fantastic?
Jang Tae-seon, who called as if proudly confirming whether the congrattory flowers were received well, exined his situation. Quietly listening, Jeong-woo asked.
Why did you give me such a fantastic position?
-Why not?
Beyond the phone, a heartyughter could be heard.
-We put pressure, saying if they treat Jeong-woo harshly, he can move to anotherpany. Director Park felt embarrassed.
I have no intention of moving.
-Its a good thing, isnt it? How about it? A sense of having wings on your back.
If its given by the executive director, it makes me slightly uneasy.
-I have no personal feelings, Jeong-woo. This feeling of wishing you well, its pure in itself.
I see. Then Ill ignore the words on the congrattory flowers. Im busy, so Ill end it here.
As Jeong-woo tried to end the call, Jang Tae-seons urgent voice came through.
-Jeong-woo! Right now, I can only send you to another center, but dont keep waiting! Inside this, you
Click.
Lowering his phone, Jeong-woo looked around his office and researchb once again.
It feels like wearing annoying gloves.
Jeong-woo alternated between the makeshift chair he had been sitting on and thefortable chair next to therge desk. His gaze lingered on Song Boyeong, who seemed half-distracted.
Should I change the desk?
Song Boyeong turned her head as if she hadnt understood. Jeong-woo repeated it.
Senior, use the big desk.
What Is this a joke?
Its consideration.
Fine. Do your work well and take it. The gap has widened, and now I cant even be jealous. Its frustrating, really.
Jeong-woo smirked at Song Boyeongs grumbling.
Senior, I dont need help with what I do. If theres a project you want to participate in while studying, Ill support you.
What are you saying?
Song Boyeong, with widened eyes, looked intently at Jeong-woo.
Are you already pushing me away? What did I do wrong?
Theres been some history, some consideration
No! By rejecting me? No, Special Researcher! Its consideration to show what youre doing properly. Ugh.
With fists clenched and a gaze fixed on Jeong-woo as if to say, Teacher, I want to study! Song Boyoungs eyes overflowed with a passionate eagerness for learning.
It might be tough.
Even though Ive worked my way up from the bottom as a researcher. Fine. Now, think of me not as a senior but as an assistant.
Will that work? Then, a juice. Ive quit caffeine.
Really?
Jeong-woo took a bank card from his wallet and extended it.
Wasnt it for executive Directors visit?
As Song Boyeong received instructions promptly, she bit her lip, then spoke.
if I have to. Ill go to the breakroom. Grape or orange juice?
Well, fresh fruit isnt allowed, right?
At Song Boyeongs scrutinizing gaze, Jeong-woo had to hold back hisughter.
If its hard, you dont have to go. Ill drink from a can. I got slightly healthier in ska and lost weight, but Ill settle for artificial sweetener in fruit-vored soda
Ill go, Ill go!
Song Boyeong, who usually had no talent for handling jokes, found Jeong-woos teasing amusing this time.
Are you sulking?
Of course not. Im just a bit loud and the seniors start misunderstanding
Answering like this, Song Boyeong quickly turned and took off her gown, grabbing her ID card and handbag. While ncing at Jeong-woo from time to time, she made it clear that she was revealing her true feelings.
Chuckling at her genuine reaction, Jeong-woo suddenly added.
By the way, for now, only senior and I are allowed. Lets keep it limited to the two of us.
Why? What are you nning to do?
Surprised, Song Boyeong shrunk, and Jeong-woo quickly raised his head.
Why are you making it so obvious and create a misunderstanding? We shouldnt let things like that easilye in here.
Following Jeong-woos gesture, Song Boyeongs gaze turned toward the flower arrangement that looked suitable for a newly opened restaurant.
It seems like we should be prepared ahead of time for an atmosphere that might suddenlye in. Itll be less tiring that way.
It still seems like youre hoping for something, basic materials center director.
Song Boyeong, who was relieved and rxed, seemed to find Jeong-woos nonchnt attitude a bit overwhelming.
Just in case they suddenly attack us with just the two of us here.
Funny.
10 AM.
The 25th-floor elevator opened, and a middle-aged man with sparse hair and a tall young man stepped out.
Well, even if hes a neer, do you need toe all the way here just to call him?
Manager Lim. Do you think you can properly assess the atmosphere in my room with that rigid atmosphere? If we dont finish the analysis of Han Jeong-woo in the next 2 days, the CEO will urgently call me. You, as the practical manager for the quarterly forecasting report, will probablye with me, right?
Assistant manager Lim Kwang-soo,walking next to the Executive Director Park Ho-jin looked horrified at this response.
Still, its hard to ept that we have to consider the actions of just one researcher for the next quarters business strategy.
Well, try to understand that over the next 48 hours.
In the hallway, Jeong-woo, who was waiting, immediately bowed to the approaching man in the distance, who clearly looked like an executive.
Im Han Jeong-woo.
Oh, no need to be tense. I just came to see your face.
Park Ho-jin shook hands with Jeong-woo, patting him on the shoulder, then turned his eyes towards Song Boyeong. As their eyes met, Song Boyeong greeted him with a smile.
Im Assistant Researcher Song Boyeong.
Yeah, yeah. Nice to meet you. I didnt expect such a beauty in thepany.
Thank you.
Park Ho-jin, feeling a sense of familiarity from Song Boyeongs yful smile, asked.
Have we met somewhere before?
Well, Im not sure.
Song Boyeong lowered her head. Park Ho-jin tried to recall for a moment, then gave up and turned back to Jeong-woo.
So, hows it here? We hastily prepared, so theres only a smallb avable. Around the end of the year, well probably get arger space, so well change it then.
Its okay. This is more than enough.
Examining Jeong-woos face as he responded, Park Ho-jin asked.
I heard you went on a coborative task with Yujin Chemicals. Can I ask what it was for?
I conducted an inspection on pipelines.
Jeong-woo exined the general process.
Oh, now Im curious to see that diagnostic report you participated in. Alright. Oh, this is Manager Lim Kwang-soo. Hell be working with you today and tomorrow topile the report.
A report?
Consider it a performance evaluation that will go to the CEO when you be a special researcher. Manager Lim, share the details.
Lim Kwang-soo, who was 10cm taller than Jeong-woo, quietly lowered his head. Song Boyeong nced at Lim Kwang-soo and, feeling a slight difort, stepped back.
Now, it seems like the introductions are over.
Park Ho-jin concluded as if the business was finished.
Jeong-woo, I heard you did a great job with Dr. Jang and Dr. Noh. Keep up the good work in KG Chemicals research.
Ill do my best.
Yeah.
As Park Ho-jin left, the three people bowed their heads.
Jeong-woo felt relieved inside as the visit from the executive ended lighter than expected. Song Boyeongs phone suddenly rang, and Lim Kwang-soo walked up to Jeong-woo.
Jeong-woo.
Yes?
As the person who has to objectively evaluate you for the next two days, I must inform you that if the results are not good, the position of a special researcher could be at risk. It might be embarrassing, but please understand.
Do what you need to do.
Lim Kwang-soo looked at Jeong-woo with an unexpected expression. The first analysis in Lim Kwang-soos mind was someone who doesnt have big ambitions for the position.
Do I need to help with anything separately?
Just do your usual work. Ill find the relevant information.
But since I havent been dispatched yet, there isnt much to do
Jeong-woo!
Song Boyeong, who ended the call, called Jeong-woo.
Seung-ju senior is transfering and the destination for the dispatch was decided on Monday.
Oh, really? Where?
Pharmaceutical Bio.
The center that receives the most investment from KG Chemicals to lead the era ofprehensive medical care.
That ce was determined to be the location where Jeong-woo had to work for the next three weeks.
Also, today the center director is absent, so were going to meet the main project managers one by one. Not at the 10th-floor research center, but externally Uh, where exactly did he say?
AN Hospital Pharmacy Support Center?
Yes, go there Huh? How do you know?
Jeong-woo couldnt help but smile at Song Boyeongs question.
A taxi arrived in front of the main building of AN General Hospital.
The three people who got out of the car walked into the hospital, where the smell of disinfectant pierced their noses. Jeong-woo and Song Boyeong walked in front, while Lim Kwang-soo quietly followed behind.
Just before entering the lobby, Song Boyeong, with a tense expression, said.
I dont know much about the pharmacy, and I think I followed you for no reason. Im nervous.
Jeong-woo recalled their previous conversation and asked.
Its not because theres another rival, is it?
A rival?
Dr. Moon Chae-eun. I mentioned her before. I said shes the one who has the most frequent contact with Dr. Cheon.
Oh, the beautiful doctor?
Looking at Song Boyeong, who seemed to be ready to shoot fire from her eyes, Jeong-woo yfully grinned.
Senior Boyoung. If you know Dr. Cheon it means its a rival, right? Then Im a little scared.
Unbelievable. No!
As expected. Are you aspiring for the title of KG Chemicals top beauty?
Jeong-woos murmuring made Song Boyeong turn her head away as if she had nothing to say. However, when they faced a mirror in the hallway, she couldnt help but check her appearance.
Thinking that if she had known, she would have done her makeup properly, she turned her head to face Jeong-woo reflected in the mirror.
Seeing Song Boyeong with a flushed face, Jeong-woo couldnt help but chuckle.
Hitting and pping each other to win is not the way to go. Were adults, you know.
Is that so?
Lim Kwang-soo focused his gaze onthe two who walked ahead of him, especially on Jeong-woo, who remained calm and rxed without losing his smile.
If he hadnt gotten married, he would have had the expression of being swayed so easily while standing next to such a charming woman. Rather than awe for the beauty that a man should naturally possess, there was a sense of treating her like a friend.
Carefully suspecting, Is he gay? he shook his head. This was a sensitive issue that required further investigation. Maybe who knows. Is he dating a woman more beautiful than Song Boyeong?
Caught up in these thoughts, Lim Kwang-soo shook his head, considering it absurd to delve any deeper into this matter.
Team Leader Han Jeong-woo?
As Jeong-woo entered the pharmacy support center on the fourth floor, he was greeted by a familiar face. It was Cho Seong-hwan, the curly-haired guy who was the first member of the Audrey Project, and he ran over with a bright smile.
Long time no see, Seong-hwan.
Ive been hearing rumors about your transfer, and Ive been looking forward to it. Finally, youre here.
Cho Seong-hwan, who was happily chatting, was surprised when he noticed the petite and attractive woman who followed Jeong-woo.
Senior Song Boyeong?
Hello, junior.
Why are you here?
Seeing Cho Seong-hwans puzzled expression, Jeong-woo lowered his voice and asked.
What do you think, Seong-hwan?
What do you mean?
KG Chemicals two beauties, Dr. Moon and Senior Song, who do you think is more
Song Boyeong stopped Jeong-woos teasing by poking his side.
Jeong-woo pointed to Lim Kwang-soo, who was standing awkwardly after he finished talking about being a special research fellow.
Hes Lim Kwang-soo from the Headquarters Strategic nning Office. Hell be with us until tomorrow.
Cho Seong-hwan was surprised by Lim Kwang-soos tall stature and his affiliation with the Strategic nning Office. Just as being assigned to Research Lab 1 at the Central Research Institute was considered an elite course in the field, being assigned to the Strategic nning Office at the headquarters was simr.
After ncing at the busy people inside the center, Jeong-woo asked Cho Seong-hwan.
I heard that we need to meet the project leaders working here.
All of the main leaders?
Yes, we need to find a project to participate in for the next three weeks.
Cho Seong-hwansplexion darkened.
Having Jeong-woo here is good, but the atmosphere in the center isnt great these days.
Why? Is the project not progressing well?
That might be a problem, but
After checking that there was no one around, Cho Seong-hwan cautiously continued.
Due to minor mistakes piling up, the standing of researchers from the Central Research Institute has seriously declined.
Mistakes?
Such as not thoroughly checking the medical history of clinical trial subjects, not considering the possibility of conflicts with previously taken medications during pharmacological analysis, not urately checking the appropriate dosage based on physique, which increased the urrence rate of side effects.
Cho Seong-hwan delicately revealed that conflicts had arisen between researchers majoring in chemistry and those with a background in pharmacy or medicine.
Even though were in the drug development team, we mainly studied chemistry, not specialized medicine. We should help each other in these aspects, but the doctors we brought in from outside, especially the team leaders, are ignoring open recruitment. Oh, not my mentor, though. Dr. Moon just ignores everyone.
Meanwhile, in the middle of Cho Seong-hwan discussing how Dr. Moon Chae-eun stands out, someones voice flew in.
Seong-hwan! I told you to bring the clinical analysis data, not make it. Hurry up!
Sorry, a guest came. Ill be right there!
Responding with a loud voice, Cho Seong-hwan turned his head towards Jeong-woo, showing a troubled expression. It seemed that the person who gave the order was one of the doctors recruited from outside.
A guest?
The man who shouted at Cho Seong-hwan started walking toward them from the end of the corridor.
Hey, seriously. Its not like were working overtime too hard, and the work is always so demanding. Thats why I said I wont work with people from the Central Research Institute.
Smirking at Cho Seong-hwans response, the man in histe thirties, hanging a stethoscope around his neck, looked at the three people in front of him.
Whats up, do we have a clinical trial today?
I came from the Central Research Institute. Im Special Researcher Han Jeong-woo.
After introducing his new title, Jeong-woo tried to appear as friendly as possible and extended his hand.
The man,beled as Seon Woo-jin, looked at Jeong-woo intently instead of shaking hands.
Pharmaceutical Bio 4 Team Leader Seon Woo-jin. Are you the one whos interfering, pretending to help but actually blocking the way for everyone by squeezing in?
Well Is that a rumor going around?
Its obvious. Even though our fields are different, it doesnt make sense for someone from the Fire Brigade to be sent here.
Jeong-woo, facing hostility from the beginning of his assignment, encountered an adversarial figure. Lim Kwang-soo silently observed this interesting scene with an intrigued look.
Jeong-woo nced at Seon Woo-jins fingertips. With an expanded molecr view, he saw the substance that the other person had just been handling.
You cant say the fields arepletely different. The development of a new drug starts withbining molecules. Looks like youre developing a personalized obesity treatment drug?
Huh?
Seon Woo-jin looked at Cho Seong-hwan, sending a nce that asked, Did you say something?
We are working on a very special drug, but what do you know about it?
A bluish constetion resembling flower petals.
Thepound at the fingertips, reminiscent of the molecr structure of lc, seemed to have an effect of regting the concentration of specific organicpounds, serving as an energy source within the body.
If its a drug that analyzes DNA and raises the energy metabolism activation switch suitable for that persons adipose tissue, we could make some fuss. Ill had to analyze it again.
How?
The scent of flowersing from your hands. Is it lc? I spected because it seems to be based on the diabetes and obesity treatment drug metformin.
Still
In my opinion, synthesizing alpha-lipoic acid found in spinach or broli here could double the effect.
Is that possible?
Well, if you have doubts, theres nothing I can do. I heard there are five main projects here, so Ill just help with any of them.
Jeong-woo turned his back, indicating to Song Boyeong and Lim Kwang-soo to follow.
Seon Woo-jin, who saw Jeong-woo disappearing down the corridor coolly, wore a bewildered expression.
Hey, Han Jeong-woo! Twice the effect? How on earth!
Then, he followed Jeong-woo. Seeing this, Cho Seong-hwan chuckled at the sight.
Chapter 117
Chapter 117- Chemical Intelligence(3)
Pharmaceutical bio team 3 developmentb.
Mr. Han Jeong-woo, I heard from the center director, but our team doesnt really need any help. We are currently developing a generic pharmaceutical whose patent expires at the end of the year, and we already have ns for the release.
Oh, is that so?
As soon as Jeong-woo entered, Team 3 Leader Jeong Yong-hoe dered, You are not needed, while Jeong-woo nced at theponents spinning in the centrifuge.
Is it a treatment for hepatitis C? Inhibiting virus replication.
Yes, thats right. Since it is also marked with the INN, if you have some pharmaceutical knowledge, you should know what effect it has.
Standing among the people, Team 4 Leader Seon Woo-jin watched Jeong Yong-hoes response and he had a look of regret for not saying something simr. Earlier, he seemed too flustered and appeared toocking.
Jeong Yong-hoe looked at Jeong-woo coldly.
Do you have anything else to say?
No. If its just copying a specified chemical form, I wont be of much help.
Of course not. Now go out, dont disturb us.
Jeong-woo, who confidently entered, showed signs of silently retreating and Seon Woo-jin expressed satisfaction.
By the way, Team 2 is also a generic pharm, so I dont think its necessary to visit them.
Is that so? Then maybe I should go to Team 1 or Team 5.
As Jeong-woo was about to move away, he paused as he looked at a test tube. Out of pure curiosity, he asked about a concerning aspect.
I have one thing Im curious about. Why do you use such aplicated method to extract the nucleotide inhibitory enzyme?
Complicated?
It takes 36 hours to separate rbinant proteins from cultured cells. Then, adding a solvent to the filteredpound and slowly centrifugating it for 6 hours. It takes almost two days to make that.
Its a normal process. The original manufacturer, Gilead, also extracts it in the same way.
Oh, the original. Thatpany seems to have quite outdated gene synthesis technology.
Jeong Yong-hoe raised an eyebrow.
The 22nd global pharmaceuticalpany in sales is outdated? Do you know that the leading domesticpany, Yuhan Pharmaceuticals, is only 83rd in the world?
I dont know well, but chemistry isnt done with money or scale, right?
So? What is Mr. Han Jeong-woos proposal for thetest synthesis technology?
Well, that
About to answer, Jeong-woo suddenly snapped his fingers, a thought crossing his mind.
Oh right. He already said he doesnt need any help. Theres no reason to take up the team leaders time with unnecessary discussions.
As Jeong-woo walked towards the door, Jeong Yong-hoe reflexively spoke.
Wait. How revolutionary are you nning to improve things?
I know youre busy
Either speak up or dont say anything!
Watching Jeong Yong-hoe, who was starting to be swayed by the assertive researcher, Seon Woo-jin felt a sense of unease, as if things might go wrong. Earlier, he had also lost his temper for no reason and regretted it for a moment.
Ill keep it brief then.
With that, Jeong-woo turned on his heels at the door.
Before protein cultivation, optimizing at the gene level first. If we introduce a catalyst that helps in the extraction process, the time will be reduced to one-fifth.
Thats when the original genes are analyzed, is reverse engineering possible?
Its possible.
How?
Jeong-woo sat down, seeking permission from the Team 3 member sitting in front of one of the monitors. He quickly reconstructed the DNA sequence information, which was the basis for the original pharms structure.
Since its tight on time to write down everything, Ive only done a part. Now, if you use a gene vector set up in this way, gene optimization should also be reasonable.
Jeong Yong-hoe hesitated as he looked at the information Jeong-woo had written down, then nodded to his team member. When they put the artificial gene into a simtion to check, a result matching 99.999% with the original pharm structure emerged.
Protein istion 4 hours. 7-fold increase in protein concentration?
Jeong Yong-hoe and Seon Woo-jin, who were witnessing the process improvement, were left with their mouths agape simultaneously.
Ill go meet with another team for now.
Han Jeong-woo, how about theter part
Theres a lot to cover. Lets discuss it when I join Team 3.
Jeong-woo went out. Immediately, Seon Woo-jin, and Jeong Yong-hoe, who were half-stunned, followed him as if they were bewitched.
Pharmaceutical bio team 2 developmentb was bustling with people.
Han Jeong-woo came? Who is he?
You know that researcher who is doing really well that even appeared in KG Life Healthmercialst month?
As soon as they entered the Pharmaceutical Support Center, people gathered to witness Jeong-woo, who had sessively defeated the former doctor team leaders. Most of them were there to witness Jeong-woo now taking on the third team leader.
-Structural changes? Hey, Han Jeong-woo!
As a heated debate erupted inside the development room, everyone held their breath and turned their attention to the intense discussion.
-Were here to work on generic pharms. Are we going to improve the finished product?
-Keep the active substance as it is and just slightly modify for more efficient delivery. The original pharm is absorbed too quickly, causing dizziness and blurred vision.
Behind the buzzing crowd, a man in his early forties approached. Kim Won-bae, a founding member of the pharmaceutical bio center and the leader of Team 1. Seeing him, Seon Woo-jin hurriedly ran over and stood beside him.
Senior.
Oh, Woo-jin. Why is it so noisy here?
Its because of Han Jeong-woo.
That guy the center director was talking about?
Seon Woo-jin nodded and gestured inside.
The sudden proposal to improve the drug in Team 2 irritated Jeon In-gu, the team leader.
What? How much moreplicated will the procedure be? Some crazy young fellow has been sent here.
Kim Won-bae, chuckling, received a brief summary from Seon Woo-jin about what had happened in Teams 3 and 4.
Tell me some belevable lies at least. Finding improvement within 30 minutes? Is he some kind of pharmaceutical god?
After listening to Han Jeong-woos opinion earlier, I had my team members cross-check, and there wasnt a single wrong statement.
A surprised voice suddenly emerged from the previously quiet interior.
-Changing magnesium to strontium?
-The effect is the same, but its more stable.
-Jong-seon, Hyo-il. Put it in this chemical form database and verify it.
Kim Won-bae, having heard the conversation, shook his head in disbelief.
Sess in structural changes is unbelievable, but that guy doesnt know the market situation. For generics, its just a matter of passing the viability test, but for improved new pharms, you need to submit toxicity and clinical trial data to the FDA. The work multiplies tenfold.
But the sales will increase hundreds of times with the substance patent.
At the unexpected voice, Kim Won-bae turned his gaze to the side. Looking up at the tall Lim Kwang-soo, Kim Won-bae sent him a questioning look.
Im Lim Kwang-soo, Deputy Manager of the Strategic nning Office, specializing in big data analysis. I am currently working on the personnel report for Special Researcher Han Jeong-woo.
A personnel report? Whos going to read that?
CEO Cha Bon-jun.
Kim Won-bae spat out a cough and pointed inside.
How amazing is this guy to even involve the Strategic nning Office? But, improving a new pharm is not something you can produce just because it exists. To do it properly, the preparation period alone
-It works perfectly!
At that moment, a shout from Team 2 members was heard.
-What? Did you confirm it properly?
-Based on the data, it seems quite stable. Simr to our first prototype.
Kim Won-bae was speechless. Seon Woo-jin, who was looking at him, exined.
I had my suspicions, but up to Team 2. It seems his skills are indeed solid.
Woo-jin. Is skill the problem now? That guy alone has shaken up the entire pharmaceutical bio team in just 30 minutes.
At least he didnt reach into the Team 4 developmentb. I resolved the situation in the corridor.
Boasting.
And not everyone has fallen. The new pharm from Team 1, which Senior has been researching since the KG Life Science days, is something I dare notment on.
Childrens words can be painful.
Kim Won-bae shrugged his shoulders with a proud look in response to Seon Woo-jins gaze, asking him to show what hes got.
Whats with all this noise? Everyone, move aside!
At the shout, people parted to the sides. Kim Won-bae stared at the young researcher standing inside as he walked in.
Its not a breakthrough or anything, daring to stick his nose into the core project of pharmaceutical bio.
Approaching boldly towards Han Jeong-woo, the arrogant neer on his first day, Kim Won-bae witnessed Team 2 leader Jeon In-gu and Team 3 leader Jeong Yong-hoe standing closely, bombarding him with questions. He raised his hand.
In-gu, Yong-hoe. What are you guys doing? Not working?
Uh, Senior.
When did youe? We were
Enough, enough. Move.
As Jeon In-gu and Jeong Yong-hoe stepped aside, Jeong-woo looked at Kim Won-bae with a puzzled expression.
Im Team 1 leader.
Oh, hello. Special Researcher Han Jeong
Greetings are over. So, you were sent here specially to help us?
Its not that grand, but Ill do my best.
Okay, Han Jeong-woo. Do you know what a beta blocker is?
As Jeong-woo hesitated to answer, lowering his gaze, Kim Won-bae clicked his tongue.
Tsk tsk. If youre not familiar with basic terminology, you cant help with Team 1 work.
Jeong-woos eyes gleamed as he nced at Kim Won-baes hands and cuffs.
By any chance
By any chance, what?
If its apound that blocks sympathetic nerves and imparts a dual effect of generating nitric oxide, I may be able to help.
How could you
INN is in front of Team 1 development room, right? Thepound ingredients were standardized and written there.
Even so, what help can a rookie provide
What I immediately think of is a structure that could help reduce specific side effects. If the vasodting effect of nitric oxide is excessive, it could expand even to cerebral blood vessels, causing severe headaches. Dont you think so?
Is there a way to reduce the urrence of secondary side effects?
In the moment of this follow-up question, Kim Won-bae remembered what Seon Woo-jin had told him earlier. The story about identally getting involved in a subplot, chasing only the tail. That was definitely not a lie or an exaggeration.
That guys subplot is real.
The thought that asking about this might scratch the pride of the top brass at the center made Kim Won-bae hesitate.
Seeing the puzzled gazes of Team 2, 3, and 4 leaders who were looking at him without a word, he had no choice but to make a decision.
Special Researcher Han Jeong-woo.
Yes?
On the first day, I talked too much about work, didnt I? The attitude of moving around tomunicate with team leaders. Good, very good.
Kim Won-bae quickly patted Jeong-woos shoulder, pretending to be grand, and continued.
Wee. Maintain the courtesy between seniors and juniors, and feel free to engage in activities.
I understand. But about Team 1s beta blocker
Oh! Why are you in such a hurry? Take your time to look around and we can talk about it tomorrow. By the way, did you meet our centers ace?
Ace?
Shes participating in Team 5 research. Shes in the hospitals analysisb. Its almost lunchtime, so go and meet her quickly.
Kim Won-bae mentioned thest hidden card while sighing. After Jeong-woo left, Seon Woo-jin stood next to Kim Won-bae.
Why did you just bring him in without crushing him? Why did you let him off so easily?
The center director even urged me. If we scare him and he ends up crying, itll leave a bitter taste.
Oh, Senior. Your personality is admirable.
Taking out a handkerchief, Kim Won-bae wiped the sweat from his forehead and sighed with relief, unnoticed by anyone.
Seon Woo-jin looked at the direction Jeong-woo left and asked.
But the person Jeong-woo went to meet now, isnt it Dr. Chae-eun? Its going to be quite a confrontation. Is it okay?
Kim Won-bae gave Seon Woo-jin a look that seemed to say, Did I send him?, raising an eyebrow.
If you cant handle someone like Dr. Moon, you shouldnt be in pharmaceutical bio.
Well, even so, didnt most of our juniors move to another team because they couldnt handle it? No matter how annoying, we should treat them differently based on what they can and cannot do
Be quiet and lets go to the analysisb. If we get pped by Dr. Moon, at least we can console each other.
The corridor emptied as everyone left.
Standing amidst the crowd, Lim Kwang-soo watched the four team leaders who followed Jeong-woo as if he were possessed.
The sight of Han Jeong-woo, who had been hovering around the central figures of the pharmaceutical bio center, was quite impressive.
Facing an antagonistic team leader with a calm expression, there was no hint of hesitation in his demeanor. Whether intentional or not, he even exhibited the traits of a master trained in the art of fishing, seasoned in the nuances.
Lim Kwang-soo cautiously analyzed him as a type who might induce the opponents mistakes with a calcted and sinister approach. However, his expression when talking about chemical theories consistently revealed authenticity.
I dont know.
An hour and thirty minutes had passed since meeting Han Jeong-woo. There was still more to investigate. With the thought of confirming his past research records first, Lim Kwang-soo headed towards theputer room.
Seong-hwan! Have you heard the news?
Cho Seong-hwan, on his way out after cing documents on Team 4 leaders desk, ran into a senior.
What news is it?
Dont be surprised.
The senior, swallowing hard, spoke.
Han Jeong-woo just wiped out three team leaders who were being picky. When the team leaders ask, Is this possible? he calmly exins with an innocent expression, Yes, it is. It can be done. It was truly mind-blowing.
As expected.
Arent you surprised?
You told me not to be surprised.
Even after hearing about the extraordinary incident, the senior couldntprehend Cho Seong-hwans subdued reaction.
Were you rolling under Dr. Moons feet the whole time, and now youve lost your mind?
Senior, I guarantee that if youre getting surprised now, your heart might fall outter.
As Cho Seong-hwanughed, the senior gave him a puzzled look, wondering what he meant.
Jeong-woo.
Song Boyeong, trailing alongside Jeong-woo as he walked towards the analysis room, cautiously opened her mouth.
The team leaders keep following you.
Let them be.
As she turned her head, the team leaders who had been following them began to turn around and engage in small talk, pretending not to pay attention. This continued until they reached the end of the corridor after passing the stairs on the 5th floor.
Stop it, senior.
Jeong-woo forcibly turned Boyeongs face forward, cing his hand on her cheek.
Didnt you see their attitude towards youm? Just because their pride is high.
They must be strong-willed about their work. We will be working with them for the next three weeks. If you find them strange, its enough just to remember the morning when your eyes were swollen.
What? Wow, really. I didnt know you were such a considerate person. Try being like that to me too.
Seeing Boyeong with her lips pouting, Jeong-woo silently replied in his mind, Teasing you is fun because you have an interesting reaction.
Thunk.
As the door to the analysis room opened, a woman in herte twenties, looking into the microscope, lifted her head.
Jeong-woo?
Dr. Moon, long time no see.
Upon seeing Jeong-woo, Moon Chae-eun, with one eye still on the microscope, raised a finger.
Just wait for a minute. Im in the middle of observing a reaction.
With one eye on the microscope, Moon Chae-eun was recording something on a document. Seemingly deep in thought, her neatly arched eyebrows wavered on her wless, makeup-free skin.
Song Boyeong, who had been silently observing Moon Chae-eun from behind Jung Woo, couldnt help but be amazed by her angelic beauty, akin to an angel in a white gown. She had only heard about her being pretty, but seeing her in person confirmed it.
Boyeong sneakily nced at Jeong-woo. Although Jeong-woos gaze was directed towards Moon Chae-eun, it was focused on the sample inside the microscope rather than her face. Feeling relieved, Boyeong asked quietly.
What kind of task are you working on?
Im not sure about the exactposition. It seems to be a proteinpound not found in the substance library.
Of course, you wouldnt know theposition. What kind of task is it?
Its an investigation into the interaction between new drugponents and proteins. Were trying to minimize potential side effects by identifying the areas where side effects might ur when targeting is reversed. Huh? Who are you?
As Moon Chae-eun reflexively exined, her and Song Boyeongs gazes met. Song Boyeong lowered her head.
Im Assistant Researcher Song Boyeong.
Assistant?
Jeong-woo, returning his focus from the molecr vision, pointed at Boyeong.
Shes my senior, and due to circumstances, were working together. But, Dr. Moon, is that protein in the sample, by any chance?
Thats right. One of the drugs coded as AF. To be precise, AF-3023R.
Although the code name was longer than what Boyeong had expected, she couldnt ask for details with Jeong-woo present.
If its a protein molecrwork experiment, you could develop a customized gene therapy for
Huh? Why are your eyes so bloodshot?
My weight has drastically decreased.
Looking into Jeong-woos face as if diagnosing him, Moon Chae-eun approached and thrust the penlight closer. As she examined his face, her finely ced eyebrows twitched as if deeply contemting something.
Boyeong couldnt take her eyes off the scene between the two. The conversation seemed so familiar that it surprised her, making her cover her mouth.
Did all this happen after you returned from ska? Are your hands trembling?.
Jeong-woo extended his hand, and as Moon Chae-eun shook it here and there, she said.
If your weight doesnt recover naturallyter, consider getting a detailed examination.
I will.
Breathe in deeply.
Oh, Im here on an assignment. Finally, I get to work on the pharmaceutical project
Breathe.
Phew.
Your overall metabolism seems weak. Why did youe to work in this state? Just take a break.
I wanted to spread some viruses to the knowledgeable bug.
Making a joke as usual, Jeong-woo chuckled, and Moon Chae-eun stared at him with a cold gaze.
Song Boyeong couldnt help but cover her mouth in surprise as the conversation between the two seemed too familiar.
I, Ill step outside for a moment.
Boyeong senior, where are you going?
To the restroom.
Thump.
Boyeong rushed out in a hurry.
Looking at Jeong-woo, Moon Chae-eun said.
Quite a cute person. Do I have to worry about another candidate for the sleeping princess?
Boyeong senior? Ah, its nothing. Rather than that, that senior knows Dr. Cheon Seung-guk much better than I do. She has numerous unpublished papers presented in Germany.
Dr. Cheon?
She may ask you persistently about Dr. Cheon Seung-guks news, so be prepared in advance.
Ssh.
Cupping the water flowing from the faucet in her hands, Song Boyeong sprinkled it on her face, then turned her gaze towards the mirror. Unexpectedly, she didnt anticipate feeling this strange when an attractive woman stood next to Jeong-woo.
She was very beautiful, that person.
Her heart fluttered, but as time passed, the stifling feeling intensified, making her leave the room abruptly.
Whats wrong with me? Am I jealous? Of someone I just saw today?
Shaking her head several times, Song Boyeong denied it, then finally left the restroom. As she walked along the corridor towards the analysis room, she noticed the team leaders eavesdropping on the door.
Having a normal conversation with Dr. Chae? Unbelievable.
They seem quite familiar, dont they?
Who is that guy? Where did hee from?
Approaching the team leaders who were now standing away from the door, Song Boyeong cleared her throat.
Excuse me.
The four team leaders, startled, moved away from the wall and door.
If you have something to say, say it inside.
Oh, no. Its not like that. Huh? Youre the one who was with Han Jeong-woo, right?
Yes, I am. I am an assistant to Special Researcher Han Jeong-woo. If you dont have anything to say, Ill go in.
Song Boyeong pressed the button to open the door to the analysis room, leaving the surprised team leaders behind.
Thud.
Due to the people flooding into the analysis room, Moon Chae-eun stopped speaking. Jeong-woo looked at the team leaders with a puzzled expression. Song Boyeong approached and whispered.
They were investigating outside.
The four team leaders, who were enjoying the view of distant mountains and not paying much attention, approached as their attention was drawn by Jeong-woo and Moon Chae-eun.
Among them, the top-ranking Kim Won-bae chuckled and spoke.
So, Han Jeong-woo, have you grasped the research of Team 5? Its Dr. Moons unique field, and there arent many people at the center who can properly assist in it.
I heard about it, but it seems it will take me a while to fully grasp it.
Customized gene therapy is not something even talented individuals can easily aplish.
Still, despite the slight setback, Kim Won-bae found sce in the fact that Dr. Moon, the hope from the medical field, was not deterred, prompting Jeong-woo to ask as if he had just remembered.
You mentioned improving the beta-blocker. Whats the top priority for side effects? If it weakens the contractility of the heart, one thinges to mind.
The expression on Kim Won-baes face changed as he listened. He turned abruptly to the other team leaders next to him.
Are you guys going to stand around like this? Move quickly to incorporate the improvements Jeong-woo mentioned.
Sir, earlier, we couldnt hear the details from Team 4.
Tsk! We need mutual discussion; isnt that what research is about? Its the first day. Dont burden just one person. Go quickly.
Chasing away the three team leaders, Kim Won-bae raised his phone, pretending to check a message, and then spoke.
Oh my, I got a call too. Dr. Moon, Han Jeong-woo, lets talk slowly. See youter.
Ring.
Suddenly, Kim Won-baes phone rang. Startled, he almost dropped it, but he managed to grab it and answered the call.
Hello?
As Kim Won-bae spoke on the phone, his expression turned serious.
What? A participant in our drug trial has been admitted with unexined pain? What drug?
Surprised by the mention of a trial participant, Moon Chae-eun also listened intently, leaning in to catch Kim Won-baes words.
Lowering his phone, Kim Won-bae turned to Moon Chae-eun.
Dr. Moon, were you in charge of the AF-12 clinical trial in Decemberst year?
Yes.
They say a participant from that trial is hospitalized with unexined pain. Go check it out.
At the mention of AF-12, Jeong-woosplexion also changed. In response to Moon Chae-euns move, Jeong-woo quickly followed her.
Having arrived on the 15th floor, where VIP-exclusive rooms were located, Jeong-woo, feeling uneasy, asked Dr. Moon.
It was supposed to be just a sleep-inducing drug for ordinary people, right?
Yes.
Since Dr. Moons eyes also showed iprehension, Jeong-woos anxiety lingered.
In front of Room 1503, where the patient was, dozens of people had gathered. More people were wearing suits than white gowns, making Jeong-woo curious. Dr. Moon identified herself to a doctor and entered the room.
As soon as they entered the spacious room, Dr. Moon picked up a chart.
Jeong-woo turned his gaze towards the patient suffering from unexined pain. There, he found a pale-faced man.
Oh?
A familiar face.
The man, lying in pain after receiving the injection, looked at Dr. Moons face and, in the midst of it, his mouth curved up.
Dr. Moon came too.
Me too? What does that mean?
In response to Dr. Moons question, the man bowed deeply and let out a sigh.
Well the situation is a bitplicated.
Jeong-woo searched his memory and finally remembered where he had seen the mans face.
On that day, the person who had given various advice to him when he was frozen in ce.
The specialist for clinical trials?
Chapter 118
Chapter 118- Chemical Intelligence(4)
Dr. Moon, having read through the entire chart, looked at the man on the hospital bed.
You visited the emergency room yesterday with symptoms like headaches, dizziness, low blood pressure, seizures and so on.
Dont even mention it. My grandmothers face kepting and going, I thought I was going to die.
The man managed a wry smile. Dr. Moon, cing her palm on his forehead, observed his electrocardiogram and asked.
No fever, and the pulse is stable. Is there any other difort?
It wasnt there just a while ago, but it seems to have just appeared.
Dr. Moon, with a puzzled expression, scrutinized the man once, asking.
Where? Your skin seems dry, but
Thanks to the pretty doctor, I feel like I might have a heart attack. Oh, my heart.
A person in painughs without any hurry. Dr. Moon, who had been silently observing the man, remarked.
It seems to be a typical metabolic disorder.
What is that?
A decrease in the level of consciousness.
At Dr. Moons ice-cold response emphasizing a specific word, the man scratched his chin. Then, he made eye contact with Jeong-woo, who was standing at a distance.
Hmm? Have we met somewhere? Your face looks familiar.
Jeong-woo was caught in a serious dilemma at this moment, whether to pretend not to recognize or to reveal the truth. Although they had only met for a day, at that time, he felt that the man was not an ordinary person.
What a strange connection.
The decision was quickly made.
Well, Im not sure. My memory is not that good
As he mumbled, the man just nodded and returned to admiring Dr. Moons beauty.
Click.
The door opened, and two men in suits entered. The man at the front passed by Jeong-woo and stood in front of the patient.
Mr. Nam Gung-gil, Im Hwang Jin-cheol, a manager at Jongwoong Pharmaceuticals. Youre lying down because of the side effects of our SI-3012R.
Oh, thats right. Its a bitplicated.
Complicated?
Just a moment. It seems like almost everyone who needs to be here has arrived
With a slightly perplexed expression, the patient, Nam Gung-gil, pressed the button to call the doctor.
Dr. Moon.
Jeong-woo approached Dr. Moon.
Is it because of AF-12?
I dont know. His clinical history is unusual. Jongwoong Pharmaceuticals is here, and I think I saw researchers from Jeongmi Pharmaceuticals when they came in earlier.
Jeong-woos gaze shifted to Nam Gung-gil. If the pain he was suffering from was due to the side effects of a specific clinical trial, it meant he didnt even know what medication he was taking and what was causing the pain.
A littleter, doctors and representatives from the pharmaceuticalpany gathered in the VIP room. A handsome man in his mid-thirties, with a stethoscope around his neck, opened his mouth to address the people.
I am Endocrinology Specialist Cho Sang-wook. Here is diagnostics medicine specialist Lee Hee-cheol, who came as an advisor.
After Cho Sang-wooks introduction, the portly Lee Hee-cheol briefly nodded. Then, standing among the people, he winked at Dr. Moon.
Do you know him?
He was my senior during my internship.
Jeong-woo couldnt help but pay attention on Dr. Moons senior.
Was he as strict with his juniors as Dr. Moon Hmm, how should I put it? treated his sessors?
Where do you draw the line for strictness?
Well, almost the same as Dr. Moon treated Cho Seong-hwan?
Did Seong-hwan say something?
Afraid that it might cause trouble for Seong-hwan, Jeong-woo felt embarrassed and shook his head. Unexpectedly, Dr. Moons response was surprising.
Hee-cheol took good care of me, worrying more about my well-being than his own work.
Seeing something warm in her who had always been cold, Jeong-woo was surprised.
Meanwhile, a chart appeared on the wall-mounted monitor. Cho Sang-wook spoke.
Patient Nam Gung-gil participated in a total of five clinical trials in the past year. Jeongmi Pharmaceuticals, JK Bio, Celltree, Jongwoong Pharmaceuticals, KG Chemical. As the attending physician, I suspect that the patients symptoms are rted to the clinical trials he participated in.
The room buzzed with discussions.
Representatives from pharmaceuticalpanies were either surprised by the fact that one person had participated in so many trials in a short period or worried about whether theirpanys drug was causing the issue.
How desperate must he be to participate in five trials in a year
Were on the verge of FDA approval, and whats this chaos? Its not us. There have been no such side effect cases with our drug.
This is ridiculous. We replicated a verified drug, so there shouldnt be any risk in the first ce.
In the midst of the arguments, Jeong-woo turned his head to Dr. Moon.
If the cause is our drug, is there a possibility I could suffer like him?
The likelihood of that happening is slim. If there were side effects, Jeong-woo would have experienced them first since he took the original drug.
As Dr. Moon finished her response, Lee Hee-cheol, who had been examining the chart, stepped forward in front of the officials.
For an urate diagnosis, I ask for your cooperation. Dizziness, abdominal spasms, low blood pressure. If yourpanys drug under development includes these symptoms as side effects, please raise your hand.
No one raised their hand. The room fell into a static silence, filled only with the opposing gazes of those who denied any involvement.
Lee Hee-cheol cleared his throat and surveyed the people.
Arent you here? Arent you experts who know more about yourpanys drugs than anyone else?
Due to the nature of clinical trials where drugs are referred to by code names during the development stage, without individuals revealing the ingredients or effects, there was no way to confirm anything here.
Lee Hee-cheols gaze, suspicious of eachpany, stopped at Dr. Moon. His eyes seemed to ask, Do you know the cause? In response, Dr. Moon bit her lip, tilted her chin, and remained silent.
Its not us!
Where in the world can you find a drug without side effects? Its suspicious.
What? Are you saying our stocks are dropping?
For a moment, the room fell silent, and then there was another argument between thepanies.
Jeong-woo, having no reason to intervene, quietly observed the situation.
The probability that our drug is causing the side effects is low, but
The patients pain was forgotten, and the room continued to echo with statements of responsibility avoidance. Nevertheless, due to a sense of camaraderie from supporting the same clinical trial, Jeong-woo empathized with Nam Gung-gils potential disappointment and cast a discreet nce at him. And then, he swallowed his sigh.
Nam Gung-gil didnt hesitate to direct his frustration towards Dr. Moon, regardless of the ongoing disputes between thepanies.
Phew. Its a relief shes not pretending to know.
People seem to have different standards for thoughts and actions.
Zi-iing.
A text message arrived, and upon checking, it was from Song Boyeong.
[Im here at the pharmacy center with Manager Lim. When are we having lunch?]
Come to think of it, it was almost noon. However, there was no end in sight for this situation.
Please calm down!
Hee-cheol, who couldnt stand the noisy crowd, shouted.
All you do is bicker, but do you realize that this will be a shared responsibility?
Who says? Shouldnt the doctor figure out the cause?
You should cooperate.
The debate continued.
Im hungry.
Since it seemed like it wouldnt end without some consensus, Jeong-woos gaze turned towards the officials.
Wait.
Upon closer inspection, just like when he was examining the project at the pharmaceutical bio center, the molecr world of the drug came to his mind intuitively.
Dr. Moon.
Yes?
If a drug from onepany causes almost all the side effects listed on that chart, what happens?
Its a reasonable question. It would likely be the cause.
Jeong-woo nced briefly at the representative from Jongwoong Pharmaceutical. It seemed necessary to take a step forward to organize the situation.
Can I say something on behalf of KG Chemical?
Are you sure?
In response to Dr. Moons inquiry, Jeong-woo smirked.
Of course. Even though I create sleeping princesses its not the only thing Im good at.
Revealing the use of his special ability, Dr. Moon nodded without saying a word.
Hey, Dr. Lee Hee-cheol.
KG Chemical, which had not expressed any opinions among the fivepanies, finally spoke up, bringing a brief lull. Jeong-woo took advantage of the silence to ask Lee Hee-cheol.
If there is a drug that inhibits the reabsorption of sodium and chloride in the kidney, such as furosemide or ethacrynic acid, could it cause all these side effects?
Isnt that a diuretic?
Yes?
The patients symptoms match those side effects. It seems to resemble low sodium and low potassium levels due to metabolic disorders.
The two representatives from Jongwoong Pharmaceutical flinched upon hearing the term diuretic. After contemting, Lee Hee-cheol looked at Dr. Moon. Dr. Moon intervened on Jeong-woos opinion.
If the kidneys were damaged by a diuretic, we could consider it as a possibility.
Lee Hee-cheol asked Cho Sang-wook.
What do you think?
I think it makes sense. Instead of wasting time like this, lets conduct a detailed diagnosis and confirm.
With the official directive from the attending physician, thepanies quickly started talking.
Our drug is not a diuretic.
Same here!
Not ours either.
Jongwoong Pharmaceuticals response came a beatter.
Well, we
Due to their too easy reaction, the officials from otherpanies snickered.
So that was the issue.
Looks like we caught a big fish.
Busted. Jongwoong Pharmaceutical, focusing only on antibiotics and immunology, are you now aiming to enter the cardiovascr disease market?
Facing the censure from the people, Manager Hwang Jin-cheol of Jongwoong Pharmaceutical sighed deeply. He nced at Nam Gung-gil with a pitiful look, hoping that the confirmation of diuretic side effects wouldnt be revealed.
If it werent for KG Chemical, I would have made a fool of myself.
Thank goodness. Thank you.
Appreciative remarks from otherpanies flew towards Jeong-woo, who found the culprit. It wasnt a bad thing, but the somewhat ufortablepliments continued, and Jeong-woo nodded his head modestly.
Well reconvene at 1:30PM to announce the results.
As people were leaving the VIP room after the diagnosis.
I just remembered!
Nam Gung-gil suddenly looked at Jeong-woo with a bright expression.
Youre Han Jeong-woo!
The specialist in clinical trials finally recalled. Jeong-woo couldnt help but pretend not to know, but he was rendered speechless by Nam Gung-gils words.
We took the drug together. What was it? Ah! Erectile dysfunction enhancer. Thats right, isnt it?
The JK Bio representatives, who hade to convey gratitude, were taken aback by this statement. With a scrutinizing look at his firm lower body at such a young age, Jeong-woos face turned hot.
It was a health supplement called AF-12.
I see. Since it sounds awkward to say its an erectile dysfunction enhancer, you just added that. Even though I may look like this, Im an expert in clinical trials. I even remember the idle chatter by the bedside.
Please, just sleep. Its not like that.
Nam Gung-gil chuckled and lowered his voice as if understanding.
Yeah, yeah, lets say its not. I get it.
Well, um
Okay, okay. I understand.
Jeong-woo continued to deny, but there didnt seem to be a clear way to correct the distorted memory of the other person.
Nam Gung-gil, in his neat suit with a white gown oveid, looked at Jeong-woos appearance and name tag and was surprised.
Now that I think about it, you were a researcher at KG Chemical. No, why did someone doing well like you participate in a clinical trial for an erectile dysfunction enhancer?
I had my reasons.
Patient Nam Gung-gil, were moving.
Nurses and staff approached and pushed Nam Gung-gils bed. Nam Gung-gil waved his hand, leaving a message to see himter.
Jeong-woo sighed as he looked at the closing door.
Anyway, hes a busy person. Dr. Moon, I was going to have lunch
Turning his head, Jeong-woo paused. Dr. Moon, whom he had never seenugh, seemed desperately holding back herughter.
Are you kidding me? Instead of clearing up the misunderstanding, youre just making it worse.
Misunderstanding? What are you talking about?
Dr. Moon, pretending nothing happened, burst intoughter and casually walked out of the VIP room.
Wow
1 PM.
After satisfying his appetite at the hospital cafeteria, Jeong-woo walked down the corridor. Song Boyeong, who had been patting her stomach and making a satisfied expression, asked.
Have you decided on which project to join?
Not yet.
When Jeong-woo went up earlier, everyone pretended not to care, but there was a subtle hope that he would join their team. Right, Director Lim?
Following behind, Lim Kwang-soo nodded.
Upon Song Boyeongs words, Jeong-woo thought of the four team leaders, all former doctors. Honestly, no matter which project he joined, it didnt seem like the work would be too challenging.
Since it doesnt matter much, should I go in the direction that senior find interesting? Youve been working hard as a support for a while.
Oh, really? Whats with this uneasy consideration?
Oh? If you dont like it, forget it. It wont take much time.
Ill do it, Ill do it!
Surprised by the unexpected suggestion, Song Boyeong raised her hand to her cheek, starting a happy contemtion.
How about Team 1? Theyre said to have the best protein structural analysis technology in the country. No, maybe checking the gene vector cultivation technology of Team 3 might be better. No, no. Team 4 deals with the most critical synthesis technology in polymers.
Jeongwoo chuckled at Song Boyoungs amusing indecision, but as she even began to pout, his phone rang. It was a call from Dr. Moon, who had left early after finishing her meal.
-Jeong-woo.
Yes, Im about to go up to the 15th floor. Im in front of the elevator.
-Not there,e to the ICU.
The ICU?
-The patient, Nam Gung-gil, has shown a new symptom he didnt have before. If its a drug interaction, diuretics may not be the only cause.
In that case
-Theres a very low probability but AF-12 is also in the list of potential side effects.
Sudden news. Jeong-woo lowered his phone in surprise.
Chapter 119
Chapter 119- Chemical Intelligence(5)
Upon hearing the news, the pharmaceuticalpany personnel gathered in front of the intensive care unit on the 7th floor and entered, where they found Nam Gung-gil lying down with an oxygen respirator attached.
Oh no
Most couldnt close their mouths, still agape in shock.
Werent the side effects of the diuretic supposed to be manageable with treatment alone?
What happened? Its not critical, is it?
Nam Gung-gil, in a state of unconsciousness, nced weakly at the people. Raising his hand, he whispered something to the nurse next to him after lifting the respirator for a moment.
The nurse, who had been listening attentively, wore a puzzled expression. Unable to contain their curiosity as the nurse continued to focus on their duties without rying any information, one person asked.
What did Mr. Nam Gung-gil say?
It was nothing special.
Still, please tell us.
As people continued to insist, the nurse, looking bewildered at Nam Gung-gil once again, ryed his message.
He wants to know who is the cute female student in the white gown, if shes a new intern. He also asked for her name.
At these words, everyones gaze turned towards the woman standing at the entrance. She hadrge, almond-shaped eyes, with a petite and attractive appearance.
Even though her face was undeniably impressive at first nce, there was no choice but to regard Nam Gung-il, in the midst of his deteriorating state, as a lunatic for asking trivial questions.
Upon seeing everyones attention focused on her, Song Boyeong, feeling flustered, leaned close to Jeong-woos side. Then, she looked up at Jeong-woo indicating she didnt understand the situation.
Whats going on?
Dont worry about it. Its just how he is.
Jeong-woo turned to Doctor Moon, who was standing nearby, and asked.
What are the symptoms exactly?
He was vomiting and now has developed congestive heart failure. His low blood pressure has turned into symptoms of high blood pressure.
Is such a disease possible?
No.
With a grave expression, the attending physician Cho Sang-wook and the diagnostician Lee Hee-cheol stared at the ECG monitor. Lee Hee-cheol turned his head to confirm that all the representatives of thepanies were present.
Youve confirmed the new symptoms. If any of you have a medication in development that could cause such side effects, please speak up.
This was undoubtedly a magical question, as the room suddenly fell silent. Then, Hwang, the deputy manager of Jongwoong Pharmaceuticals, stepped forward indignantly.
What are you people doing! Mr. Nam Gung-gil is suffering like this, and youre just standing here with your mouths shut, worried about potential losses.
Being the only used party, Jongwoong Pharmaceuticals had nothing to lose. Everyone was eager to avoid Hwangs burning gaze, seeming determined to prolong the situation with a strategy of denial.
Having turned the attention from JK Bio to Celltree and back to Jeongmi Pharmaceuticals, Hwang, with confidence, looked at Jeong-woo.
Did you say your name was Han Jeong-woo? That level of luck earlier. Can you do it again this time?
Well, it wasnt a random shot.
What? With thousands of medications causing headaches, dizziness, and low blood pressure on the market.
The representatives of otherpanies nodded as if agreeing. Jeong-woo calmly replied to Hwangs provocation.
I may not know about other drug systems, but for Jongwoong Pharmaceuticals diuretic
That diuretic, diuretic. It doesnt even have an official name yet, its SI-3012R.
Anyway, the side effect that stood out as the top priority was severe electrolyte depletion, despite its short duration.
Hwang blinked in surprise and narrowed his eyes.
Where did you get information about our drug?
From the FDA.
The analysis isnt finished yet, so you couldnt even seen the report.
But its perfect when expertsmunicate. Its akin to a chemical reaction.
The gaze of representatives from otherpanies all turned sharply to Jeong-woo. He racked his brain, but couldnte up with a perfect response out of nowhere.
Oh, that wasnt what you asked about.
Hwang, feeling taken aback, regained hisposure and chuckled. How could he analyze based solely on reports? He asked again, thinking it would be nothing but a show of bravado.
I understand youre eloquent. So, can you tell us which drug caused the side effects to Mr. Nam Gung-gil or not?
Lee Hee-cheol, who had also received help from Jeong-woo, looked at him with slightly hopeful eyes.
Finding the exact cause was crucial. Jeong-woo looked around at the representatives of thepanies and then stopped his gaze on the representative from Celltree.
When stung by a bee, for example. Among the various biomolecules in the bee sting, if histamine or phospholipase oveps and causes hives on the body
As Jeong-woo turned to Lee Hee-cheol, he asked.
You should take allergy medicine, right?
Yes, he should. Corticosteroids or anti-inmmatory drugs
As Lee Hee-cheol was answering, he hesitated. Then, he turned to Cho Sang-wook and said.
Wouldnt it be exined as heart failure due to the side effects of medication that suppress anaphctic shock hypotension symptoms?
Thats right. But wait, Celltree specializes in that.
Cho Sang-wooks gaze fell on the middle-aged man wearing a Celltree badge around his neck that said, Park Byung Geon, Manager. The man looked at Jeong-woo with eyes that expressed disbelief, silently acknowledging the usation.
As if on cue JK Bio and Jeongmi Pharmaceuticals shouted.
We dont use steroids.
Allergy medication? We havent even done market research.
Hwang sighed in relief.
We really found it
Lee Hee-cheol raised his thumb towards Jeong-woo before immediately delving into the diagnosis.
Anyway, with the interaction of two medications, at this point, dialysis seems to be the only solution.
Since his kidneys arent damaged, we should start treatment quickly. Nurse!
About an hourter.
Nam Gung-gil returned to the VIP room. cing his hand on his side and furrowing his brow, he quietlyy down on the bed.
Yourplexion has improved.
Upon hearing Doctor Moons assessment at a nce, Jeong-woo finally felt relieved, thinking the situation was finally over.
Surprisingly, hes not flirting. You didnt be ugly in the past hour, did you? Or perhaps, have you swollen up in the meantime?
Despite Jeong-woos joke, Doctor Moon remained firm.
Are you saying that flirting is a symptom?
Doctor Moon, said he was in a state of reduced consciousness.
If you can still smile right after poking a hole in your side skin, then it might be a symptom.
At the mention of the very painful treatment, Jeong-woo nced at Nam Gung-gil with a wince. Then, he turned his eyes towards Song Boyeong.
Wow, Senior, you really did swell up.
What?
Song Boyeong rolled her eyes at Jeong-woos teasing.
Five minutester, all thepany representatives had gathered. As they waited for the diagnosis, the door opened.
Everyone is here.
A man in his mid-forties, with a perfectly tailored suit that clearly looked top-notch, suddenly walked in. Naturally, everyones gaze was drawn to him.
Standing next to Nam Gung-gil, he began to speak.
Im Harvey Park from thew firm K&P. I want to make it clear that anything you say from now on could be used as evidence in my clientswsuit.
The appearance of thewyer darkened the faces of representatives from Jongwoong Pharmaceuticals and Celltree.
K&P? Thats the leadingw firm specializing in corporate litigation, right? They have an outstanding winning rate.
The representative from Jeongmi Pharmaceuticals said to their colleague with a resigned expression.
Mr. Nam Gung-gil, youve been through a lot for your treatment.
Oh, Mr. Lawyer
Please dont say too much. And
Harvey Park leaned towards Nam Gung-gil, lowering his voice. However, it wasnt a whisper, it was loud enough for everyone to hear.
As a representative, Ill handle appropriate responses to medical malpractice, so rest assured and take a good rest.
Even though it was clear what he was aiming for, both Deputy Manager Hwang and Manager Park were taken aback. Not missing their expressions, Harvey Park continued.
The conversation I had with the attending physician was quite interesting. Theres apany causing side effects not mentioned in the contract. While well need to wait for the precise details after the thorough examination, the evidence is clear. If reasonablepensation for damages is not specified, I believe theres enough reason to initiate medical litigation.
With a resigned expression, Manager Park from Celltree spoke.
Hey, Mr. Lawyer, please consult with our legal team.
The door for negotiation is always open.
Deputy Manager Hwang from Jongwoong Pharmaceuticals, after making a call, with his shoulders slumped said to Harvey Park.
Our legal team is on its way.
Jeong-woo, who had been watching the situation with curiosity, met eyes with Song Boyeong, who was also watching with the same curiosity.
I see.
What is it?
The reason for the Seniors swollen eyes. Youre sleepy arent you?
Song Boyeong squinted her eyes at Jeong-woo.
Crack.
The conversation ceased as Cho Sang-wook and Lee Hee-cheol entered the room.
As you can see, the treatment is progressing well. After flushing out all the remaining drugs and stabilizing the kidneys, most of the pain the patientined of has disappeared.
As it seemed the decision was finalized, Harvey Park asked.
Other than the twopanies you mentioned earlier, could there be side effects from other medications?
Well have to wait for the recovery process to be certain.
Not 100%?
In thewyers persistent pursuit ofpensation, representatives from Jeongmi Pharmaceuticals and JK Bio decided they should leave the room quickly and approached Nam Gung-gil.
Get well soon, and if anything happens, please contact us.
Being in a position to develop new drugs, having undergone five clinical trials and getting this far is already fortunate.
As Nam Gung-gil nodded in agreement while holding his side he suddenlty turned his gaze towards his lower body.
Huh?
His surprised voice made both the attending physician and Harvey Park, who were in conversation, turn their heads.
Why is this happening?
M-My sensation
Harvey Park couldnt continue his words for a moment as he saw the mans tent suddenly popping up from under the nket around the central area of Nam Gung-gils lower body.
Ahhh!
Nam Gung-gil screamed.
Not only did thepany representatives outside, but also Jeong-woo, who had beenfortably chatting, turned his gaze towards the bed.
Whats this! I have an erection, but no sensation!
As the third symptom emerged, the VIP room plunged into chaos.
Mr. Han Jeong-woo, didnt you hear? Its a side effect of Jeongmi Pharmaceuticals erectile dysfunction drug.
But whats wrong with having a proper erection? Its the desired effect.
Is it logical that the effects of an erectile dysfunction drug taken eight months ago are only appearing now?
Jongwoong Pharmaceuticals and Celltree concentrated their attacks on Jeongmi Pharmaceuticals, the suspected culprit of the side effects. It was a conversation of you die, I die. Though JK Bio had not been mentioned yet, its representatives were equally anxious.
Once again, Jeong-woo swiftly identified the pharmaceuticalpanies matching the symptoms, all the while observing Nam Gung-gil lying with a lost expression as if he had lost everything in the world. The pain in his side, which had been so intense, seemed to have been forgotten, judging by the despondency in his eyes.
What could it mean to have an erection without any sensation? Is it paralysis?
As a man, it was a dreadful symptom to even think about. Song Boyeong beside him couldnt bear to look and was staring at the wall as if it could pierce through.
Senior, do you want to step outside?
Id like to, but As a junior researcher, I have to listen to what Mr. Jeong-woo says. Im curious about the situation, too. And Im worried about him.
Looks like youre fully awake now? Your eyes are wide open.
Yeah, I guess so. With that person like that
Unable to bring herself to mention Nam Gung-gils condition, Song Boyeong just blushed. In contrast, Doctor Moon waspletely focused on participating in the differential diagnosis alongside Lee Hee-cheol.
Its known that Viagra and Cialis-type enhancers have almost no side effects. There have been no reports of the genitalia turning into rubber lumps like that.
As Doctor Moon cruelly treated it as a rubber lump, Nam Gung-gil turned his shocked face towards him. Then, he met eyes with Jeong-woo.
Mr. Han Jeong-woo, are you okay?
Im fine.
To have the same symptoms after taking the same medication
Ive told you, its not me.
Nam Gung-gil, with a look of disbelief as if to say what does it matter, reached out and tentatively touched the mans tent on top of the nket.
I cant feel anything. My life is ruined!
Harvey Park quickly approached Nam Gung-gil.
Think positively. With this level of damage, you can still get a substantialpensation.
Would you give up being a man for that money?
A pitiful question that shook Nam Gung-gils heart. Even Harvey Park, who had been outspoken, had to remain silent on this matter.
Its an erectile dysfunction drug.
Jeong-woo didnt want to dwell on it further, but Nam Gung-gil looked too distressed, and this situation didnt seem to be ending anytime soon, so he slowly pondered the action of the medication in his mind.
Even for someone as uncontroble as him, its hard to imagine hes having lustful thoughts in that condition. Then
Jeong-woo turned his gaze towards the mans tent. Despite the thin clothes and nket, a explosively growing molecule from some molecr world was shing like a phantom.
cGMP, a cyclic nucleotide.
That was a biologicalpound that induced erections. However, the enzyme that needed to control thatpound was nowhere to be found.
Doctor Moon.
Yes?
As he called her, both Lee Hee-cheol and Cho Sang-wook stopped their conversation and waited for Jeong-woos next words.
I think the specific enzyme in the body may have been removed during the treatment process, causing this. Since we need to exclude other side effects, conventional drug therapy is not possible. If we could make a customized targeting molecule to reduce the concentration of cGMP, wouldnt that solve the problem?
Before Doctor Moon could answer, Lee Hee-cheol, surprised, interjected.
The phosphodiesterase enzyme? Yes, its possible. But how do you make a customized targeting molecule?
Oh, our pharmaceutical bio team 3 specializes in nucleotidepounds. We just need to go and make it.
KG Chemicals team? Teacher Chae-eun. Is that true?
In theory.
She sent a nce to Jeong-woo, asking if he could do it. Jeong-woo responded with a smirk, indicating it was nothing special.
In that case, may I use theboratory for a moment?
Team Leader Jeong Yong-hoe chuckled as he listened to Jeong-woos exnation. It wasnt until the inexperienced Song Boyeong briefly borated that Jeong-woo intended to attempt a precise assembly operation that he could understand.
Jeong-woo entered the cleanroom, apanied by Song Boyeong to assist.
While the two chemists were conducting the assembly operation, Jeong Yong-hoe, who had been standing outside the ss window, casually asked the tall man next to him as he passed by.
I heard that even the topw firmwyers got involved. We should also call our legal team Oh, youre not from the center. Youre from headquarters, right?
Lim Kwang-soo responded nonchntly as if it didnt matter.
So far, we have no connection to our clinical trials. Mr. Han Jeong-woo seems to be moving to resolve the issue without any mishaps. Since KG Chemical has provided its opinion from the standpoint of diagnosing the patients condition, thew firmwyers cant easily oppose it.
While they were talking, Jeong-woo created something and filled it into a spray bottle, then came out. Jeong Yong-hoe scratched his head as he looked at the spray bottle.
What exactly was that substance you mentioned earlier?
Um If we go by the name, its an erectile inhibition spray.
A forbiddenpound that should never be sprayed on a man. Jeong Yong-hoe was startled and instinctively moved aside, letting out a sigh.
Returning to the VIP room, the confusion was still palpable. Nam Gung-gils face was even more tearful, and thepany implicated in the side effects continued to fight relentlessly.
Mr. Nam Gung-gil.
As Jeong-woo approached, Nam Gung-gil lifted his head.
It should improve if you spray this.
He ced a small bottle on the table next to the bed.
Whats this?
Its a liquid containing a targeting molecule. It has erectile inhibitionponents.
I-Inhibition?
Nam Gung-gils expression showed contemtion, as if considering how to navigate between a numb big club and a sensitive small club. Understanding his dilemma, Jeong-woo quickly interjected.
No, its not like that. Its just meant to keep your blood flowing until we find the exact cause and treat it. Staying with stagnant blood for too long can be dangerous. You have to stay alive to figure things out.
Jeong-woo made this?
Yes. Its temporary, so youll need to spray it periodically.
Wait.
Harvey Park approached from the side.
Is there any evidence to believe that it works? From someone whos part of the group that caused this situation?
If you put it that way, theres no way to answer. I can only provide chemical theories.
Were currently receiving all data on reported side effects during clinical trials from the FDA. Its unlikely that KG Chemical can escape Nam Gung-gil!
Harvey Park stared at Nam Gung-gil in shock, who had grabbed the bottle on the table and stuffed it under the nket, using the spray.
Seeing a client disobeying instructions and behaving foolishly, Harvey Park felt sweat forming on his forehead. The case might be top-notch, but the clients condition was far from ideal.
Nam Gung-gil let out a short groan after spraying the temporary suppressant. Harvey Park asked, concerned.
Where does it hurt?
Its not that, it shrunk. Ahh This is good, but if we cant treat it, itll be a terrible situation like earlier, isnt that right?
Since it was clearly Nam Gung-gils will, Harvey Park couldnt say anything more and silently suffered inwardly.
Upon seeing the expected oue, Jeong-woo stepped back. Hee-cheol approached with admiration in his eyes.
You made a detoxifier that cleanly removes just oneponent. Its almost like surgery. Its amazing.
Its not that impressive. Its just the situation, you know.
Excuse me, but how old are you?
Im twenty-seven.
Wow
Hee-cheol, who had been repeatedly expressing admiration, turned to Dr. Moon and asked.
Is he Chae-euns boyfriend?
Dr. Moon raised an eyebrow.
How did youe to that conclusion?
I was just asking. Everyone is amazing, you know. But KG Chemical did all the diagnosis and treatment for the patient. Im just sitting here waiting for the blood analysis results.
Stop whining. We havent properly identified the cause yet
Dr. Moon, who had turned her gaze to the bed, paused.
Senior. Look there.
Hee-cheol also looked at the bed.
Even in such a noisy environment, Nam Gung-gil slept without a care in the world. At first nce, it seemed like sleep, but to the doctors, it presented as a symptom.
The two of them rushed to Nam Gung-gil upon detecting the abnormality. After shaking him and checking his eyes, Dr. Moon nodded to Hee-cheol.
No response from the sleeper. It was a new symptom.
Sang-wook!
At Hee-cheols call for the attending physician, everyones attention quickly turned to the bed. Harvey Park, who had been on the phone, rushed over in surprise.
Whats going on?
Jeong-woo, seeing Nam Gung-gil exhibiting symptoms simr to those seen in AF-12, was at a loss for words.
All the medications he took in the past are causing side effects. What kind of body does he have?
Having crossed several mountains, it now felt like sinking into a swamp.
Chapter 120
Chapter 120- Chemical Intelligence(6)
The room was eerily silent.
The eyes of the pharmaceuticalpany representatives were focused on the attending physician diagnosing Nam Gung-gils condition.
Despite the efforts of internists and diagnosticians from arge hospital, no one could predict the future anymore, given the patients constantly changing symptoms without any signs of improvement.
Which medication is causing this?
Is it even important? There are hardly anypanies left, and it doesnt seem like the patients side effects will stop here.
Listening to the conversation among the representatives, Jeong-woo briefly nced towards JK Bio.
Chemicalpounds that could calm the body down were discovered in the opponents product, somewhat consistent with the sedative effect of AF-12.
This is getting more ambiguous.
At this rate, it was difficult to determine which medication was the cause. Jeong-woo cautiously brought up what he had just seen to Dr. Moon.
What do you think?
It seems to be from the sedative category. If the drug had an effect, it could exin the loss of consciousness at an anesthetic level, but its not enough to dispel suspicions about AF-12. However
Dr. Moon, with a contemtive expression, watched Jeong-woo for a moment before asking him.
Can you develop a targetedpound to neutralize the ingredients of JK Bios medication?
It might be a bitplicated, but its possible, although it will take some time.
Make it as soon as possible.
It was the first time she had asked for something in this manner, so Jeong-woo nodded and left the hospital room.
Song Boyeong was tidying up the cleanroom when she noticed a man with a cabbage-like head waving at her through the ss window.
Mr. Seong-hwan.
Senior Boyeong?
Cho Seong-hwan opened the door and peeked inside.
Why are you here alone? What about Jeong-woo?
He made the inhibitor in a snap and disappeared. Im just cleaning up.
You shouldve called me. As the youngest in the center, its my duty.
Stepping briskly inside, Cho Seong-hwan started assisting Song Boyeong.
Judging by the mess here, I guess Mr. Jeong-woo was busy again, huh?
Yeah. He was so fast with measurements and everything, I couldnt even assist properly.
Cho Seong-hwan chuckled knowingly, even without looking, as if it was obvious.
When hes fully focused, you cant keep up with him. You shouldve seen him working at the Fragrance Center. Such a master. Well, hes at the level where he should be out there doing something like this.
Right.
Turning her head, Song Boyeong nced at the test tubes on the shelf.
Mr. Seong-hwan, you worked on research with Mr. Jeong-woo for three weeks, right?
Yep~ I was the first member of his team.
How was it back then? Wasnt it difficult to keep up with Mr. Jeong-woos level?
There was a slight hint of concern on Song Boyeongs face as she asked.
It was tough, indeed. But
A grin spread across Cho Seong-hwans lips as he reminisced about a few months ago.
Coming to KG Chemicals and working with him was probably the most rewarding time for me. I didnt even know research could be so fun.
Fun? Even though you couldnt keep up with everything and it was so hectic?
From afar, she had seen and heard a lot. But properly observing Jeong-woos work was overwhelming to the point where just assisting felt burdensome.
She had hoped to feel the same romanticism about chemistry when she first joined KG Chemicals. Gradually growing, she had even inted her hopes to one day research with the same curiosity as Cheon Seung-guk.
However, now, after some time had passed, she keenly felt an invisible barrier.
At the center of it all was him, whom she had even given up on considering a rival.
She couldnt help but feel resentful towards the heavens that had bestowed such talent upon him. Even though she despised his actions, she couldnt help but wonder why her heart raced every time she bumped into him, even after a month passed.
Achievement and skill. Days spent diligently striving to be the best chemist now seemed pale inparison, as everything seemed so effortlessly easy when she looked at him.
Han Jeong-woo, you really
Hm? Whats wrong?
Oh my god!
Startled by the sudden voice, Song Boyeong turned her head.
You almost gave me a heart attack.
Receiving her gaze, Jeong-woo looked puzzled.
Now that I think about it, you usually scream for god when scared.
Should I curse then? Whats with the romanticism? After meeting Dr. Moon, you cant stop joking, Jeong-woo.
Surprised by the chilly muttering, Jeong-woo asked.
Why the sudden low mood? Your eyes seem fine, so you dont seem sleepy.
Never mind that. Is Nam Gung-gils situation over? Why are you here so soon?
Jeong-woo opened the door of the freezer facility and took out a box as he replied.
The situation ended in the direction of him passing out.
Song Boyeongs eyes widened. Meanwhile, Jeong-woo opened thepound warehouse door.
But what are you going to do, Jeong-woo?
Im going to make apound that removes the nerve stabilizing ingredient. The process of flipping the benzodiazepine ingredient isplex, but once you disconnect the nitrogen binding loop, the rest is simple.
As Jeong-woo began to work, calmly exining with his mouth, Song Boyeong, who had been silently observing him, nudged him.
Why do you exin so kindly when youre going to do everything alone? It confuses people.
Im not going to do it alone.
Handing Song Boyeong two beakers, Jeong-woo said.
Ill need your help for personal research in the future. And have you decided where well participate in the main pharmaceutical bio project?
I havent
Hurry up.
As Jeong-woo walked towards the warehouse, Song Boyeong cast a dazed look at his back, feeling her heart pounding at the words Ill need your help.
Snap out of it. What romance is there in the researchb?
What? What did you say?
Nothing, go! Go!
3 PM.
In one side of the VIP area corridor, Harvey Park, who had gathered the legal team of the pharmaceuticalpany, continued to press confidently.
It may be acknowledged that consent forms were signed by my client while exining the side effects of the new drug. However, there was no mention of any life-threatening risks in the consent forms themselves, such as those experienced today. If he knew, he wouldnt have volunteered for the clinical trials.
Harvey Park shook the actual contract Nam Gung-gil had signed.
Shall we delve deeper? Some ces simply handed out 10-page printouts and didnt properly exin the side effects. And in some cases, they even received signatures where participants are solely responsible for the risks, even if side effects ur, in exchange for more money. This clearly cannot be seen as fulfilling the obligation to exin the side effects of the new drug. Since youve dealt with simr precedents, you should know.
Already prepared with a scenario for winning thewsuit, Harvey Parks words left the legal teamwyers swallowing their groans.
Well, what do you say? Would you like to go to the Supreme Court?
Once the courtroom battle begins, sales are dyed. Moreover, if exposed in the media, the negative image umtes, causing significant losses. Therefore, the pharmaceuticalpanyswyers couldnt ignore the possibility of reaching a settlement.
Well give you one hour. Please discuss it and let us know.
As Harvey Park disappeared down the corridor, the remainingwyers nodded their heads.
After hearing the diagnosis process, it was clear that it wasnt just the medication that was the issue.
Yes, dragging it out together and sharing the cost of settlement seems to be the best option.
Come to think of it, whats KG Chemicals ying at? Their legal team didnt show up.
If they dont show up to the end, lets exclude KG Chemicals and consider a settlement.
Ding dong.
Jeong-woo, holding a small vial in his hand, stepped out of the elevator. Passing through the hallway, he opened the door to the VIP room and gestured to Dr. Moon that it wasplete.
Dr. Moon immediately approached Hee-cheol.
Senior.
Oh, Chae-eun.
Its about Nam Gung-gils symptoms. Instead of looking at them separately, how about diagnosing them all together?
With dozens of confirmed symptoms, where in the world would we find aprehensive condition like this? Its as ever-changing as if someone were administering medication in real-time.
I agree with you.
Yeah, thats what Im saying Huh? What?
What if some of the medications the patient has been taking werent properly absorbed and umted somewhere in the body, only to gradually leak out one by one?
Hee-cheol looked at Dr. Moon in a moment of realization.
You mean, instead of individual symptoms, look at the whole picture? If theres only one disease that can store drugponents in the body, then the puzzle fits.
Dr. Moon smiled faintly. Hee-cheol shook his head, seeing that Dr. Moon had already realized this.
Chae-eun, youve helped me a lot by putting up with yourcking senior.
Lets start with the examination.
Of course. Oh, by the way, even if we find the disease, we still dont know the cause of the patient lying there. Its not like JK Bio has opened their mouth.
Dont worry about that.
Hee-cheol, looking at Jeong-woo standing by the door, asked in disbelief.
Jeong-woo, did you make another custom detoxifier? You guys are really something else. Im starting to get scared.
4 PM.
Gathering in front of the VIP room, Harvey Park looked around at the legal teams of pharmaceuticalpanies with a satisfied expression.
From the atmosphere, it seemed that an agreement was imminent. With fivepanies involved, they could also pocket hefty legal fees.
Have you made a decision?
Awyer from Jongwoong Pharmaceutical approached with the question.
Jongwoong Pharmaceutical, Celltree, Jeongmi Pharmaceuticals, and JK Bio have agreed to settle jointly. Since Ill be representing us in matters rted to adjustments, I hope you can propose reasonable terms.
Sounds good. But there are only fourpanies. Are you nning to negotiate separately with the one thats missing?
I dont know. Their legal team hasnt shown up.
With a chuckle, Harvey Park entered the hospital room.
Although it seemed like a disadvantage to be missing, it could actually work out well. By setting a precedent with awsuit and causing damage, they could negotiate more favorable terms with the otherpanies.
KG Chemicals. Where are they?
Huh? Us?
A lone young researcher greeted Harvey Park as the senior seemed to be missing. Remembering the young man who had brought the strange medication earlier made him uneasy.
Since your legal team hasnt shown up, may I ask what your n is?
Oh, that. I think I can tell you once we have the biopsy results.
Biopsy?
Dr. Moon said we need to confirm if Nam Gung-gils symptoms are due to medication.
What on earth are you talking about? Isnt it obvious that its because of the medication? Your name is
ncing at the young mans name tag, Harvey spoke.
Han Jeong-woo. Do you realize how serious this is? Once we initiate awsuit, its irreversible, and the development will be suspended by the Clinical Trials Management Committee. Dont you understand that throwing a few bucks now actually saves money? And shouldnt someone at your level be here for something like this?
Jeong-woo listened quietly, then excused himself as his phone rang, holding it to his ear.
Yes, Dr. Moon. Oh, really? It wasnt our fault after all. Okay, then. Ill just tidy up and head down.
Hearing snippets of the conversation, Harvey furrowed his brow and asked.
The situation is over? So, youre not going to agree to the settlement?
Jeong-woo pulled out a small vial from his pocket and looked back at Harvey Park.
At this moment, Dr. Lee Hee-cheol ising up from the analysis room with the test results, and hell do the confirmation announcement. I dont think I need to exin separately.
Upon Jeong-woos words, the nearby staff members, who had been waiting for the patient to wake up, became restless. Amidst themotion, someone asked.
Whats the cause? Is it because of the medication?
Yes, its because of the medication. 100% certain.
Disappointment filled the faces of thepany representatives. With the investigation period ovepping with the investigation of various interactions between drugs, along with the side effects, it was inevitable that there would be dys in the release of the new drug.
Hey.
Harvey Parks eyes widened in disbelief.
100% certain? Are you kidding me? As soon as we receive data from the FDA, well hold the customer responsible for making such a im and file awsuit
Mr. Lawyer.
What?
Youre working really hard for Mr. Nam Gung-gil.
Suddenly receiving praise from his counterpart, Harvey Parks expression turned to one of confusion.
Jeong-woo spoke as it couldnt be helped.
I may not have insights intowsuits, but I think I should exin for you to prepare.
What do you mean by prepare?
When the resultse out, they wont agree to a settlement. So, you need to somehow get the VIP room fees.
As unexpected words flowed from Jeong-woo, thepany officials murmured with a hint of anticipation.
Harvey Park became wary. From his aggressive approach to now caring about him and even giving him advice on handling the situation, Jeongwoos skill in manipting people seemed like that of a seasonedwyer.
Whats going on? Alright, why dont you exin it to me.
Do you know what Zollinger-Ellison syndrome is?
Do I need to know?
If you dont, Ill exin. Its a disease that causes refractory ulcers in ces like the stomach, pancreas, and duodenum. It affects about six out of a hundred thousand people. Mr. Nam Gung-gil is one of those six.
Upon hearing this, the attending physician, Cho Sang-wook, seemed to realize something.
So, its a rare disease that causes ulcers to develop and heal repeatedly, leaving traces of the medication hes been taking in the tissues. This weakened immune system, which reacts intensely even to substances that would normally not elicit a response, created the condition in his body. Well, that was Dr. Moons exnation.
Unbelievable. Youre saying it coincided with such a rare disease?
Chemically, its not a coincidence.
Jeong-woos gaze shifted towards Nam Gung-gil lying on the bed. Then, he showed the vial in his hand.
This contains a substance that neutralizes the nerve stabilizer from JK Bio.
The eyes of the JK Bio representatives widened. Harvey Park raised a cautionary hand.
Dont administer it recklessly.
No need to worry. Our sensitive clinical trials specialist seems to have a body that reacts even to the slightest smell. I didnt administer anything.
As Jeong-woo spoke, Nam Gung-gil, who had been lying still as if dead, suddenly opened his eyes.
What? Why am I like this?
Yawning and wiping saliva, Nam Gung-gil seemed far from being able to get up. Harvey Park, who had thought he wouldnt even get up if pped, felt cold sweat dripping from his forehead as Nam Gung-gil woke up as if nothing had happened.
Even if he raised the stakes or yed his cards, it wouldnt be to this extent. At this point, he wasnt dealing with a customer but an enemy.
After closing the vial, Jeong-woo handed it to Harvey Park.
Since you like the FDA so much, why dont you request an examination of this too? If you happen to find any unexpected side effects, feel free to file awsuit. Im not versed inw, but I know chemistry well enough to say that youll have a hard time finding anything. I have to stop by the center before 5 oclock. Thats all.
As Jeong-woo confidently left the VIP room, Harvey Park couldnt utter a word.
Chapter 121
Chapter 121- Chemical Intelligence(7)
Kim Won-bae was sitting in the development room, working on the usual task of finishing up the days work performance evaluation.
The development of this new drug, which would be the first beta-receptor blocking agent in the country, had been his long-cherished research project since the discovery of the active ingredient five years ago.
Severe headaches? How on earth is that possible here? Uh, Han Jeong-woo. I cant tell if youre just bluffing or not.
Taking a sip of coffee and ncing at the monitor, his phone rang. It was Cho Sang-wook, the VIP intern at AN Hospital.
-Senior, its me.
Yeah. Have you treated the patient?
-Well, I did, but embarrassingly, its all thanks to yourpanys support, Senior. From identifying the cause to solving the problem, it was all done cleanly. Its no joke.
A smile crept onto Kim Won-baes lips at Cho Sang-wooks praise.
Well, with Moon Chae-eun around, isnt that to be expected? Shes our center ace.
-Thats true, but wasnt it Han Jeong-woo? He was exceptional. Every time he spoke up, it caused a stir among thepanies.
What? Tell me more about it.
Listening to Cho Sang-wooks ount of Han Jeong-woos achievements, Kim Won-bae was left speechless for a moment, unable to close his mouth.
He pointed out the side effects of Jongwoong Pharmaceuticals SI-3012R right then and there? Does that even make sense?
-Hwang Jin-cheol, seemed taken aback too. And
As the conversation shifted to the development of targeted molecules that analyze the active ingredients of Jeongmi Pharmaceuticals and JK Bio and remove them, Kim Won-bae was astounded.
Thunk.
Senior.
Seon Woo-jin walked into the development room. Kim Won-bae, who had just finished the call, turned his head.
Oh, what?
Arent you supposed to make a decision soon?
What decision?
About Han Jeong-woo.
Approaching closely, Seon Woo-jin whispered to Kim Won-bae, making sure it couldnt be heard by the researcher who was sitting in the corner of the development room.
Its only the first day, and rumors are already spreading. They say Han Jeong-woo will overshadow everyone. If hes so talented, how much influence hell have? Does that make sense?
That doesnt make sense.
Personal treatment is one thing, but establishing dominance is crucial from the start. Senior, you need to exert your influence. Otherwise, even the youngest, Cho Seong-hwan, might start to get ideas. This isnt the way to handle it; lets call in other team leaders and gather opinions.
Kim Won-baes expression turned troubled at the seriousness in Seon Woo-jins eyes. The conversation he had just finished with his former junior kept echoing in his ears.
Senior Boyeong.
Walking side by side into the pharmacy center, Jeong-woo asked Song Boyeong.
Have you made a decision? Its almost time to go, isnt it?
What about?
The main project.
Oh, right.
Right?
Song Boyeong smiled apologetically at Jeong-woo and sped her hands together.
Sorry. I was so preupied with reviewing the work we did in the cleanroom earlier. I dont think its a good idea to decide hastily if I want to properly assist you, Jeong-woo. Since its time to leave now, Ill think it over tonight and decide tomorrow morning
Just decidefortably, its okay. I wont ask you to do anything difficult.
How can you say that?
Alright them, Ill give you 10 seconds. One, two
As Jeong-woo started counting, Song Boyeongs expression grew anxious.
Then, Team 2. No, Team 3.
Five, six.
Ah, wait a moment!
Song Boyeong grabbed Jeong-woos arm and shook it, but time kept ticking away. Jeong-woo gestured for her to decide quickly.
Seven, eight.
Is this how its going to be?
Oh my!
As Song Boyeong hesitated and wavered, a person emerged from the development room of Team 5, looking poised and intellectual.
Someone who seemed to have never been flustered in her life Doctor Moon Chae-eun.
With her appearance, a new dilemma arose for Song Boyeong, someone she hadnt even considered when contemting the project participation.
-What romance is there in the researchb?
Why did Seong-hwans wordse to mind?
No, this wasnt right. Was she unnecessarily letting emotions surface, even when Jeong-woo seemed friendly?
Her confidence was just a false pride. She hadnt even understood the concept of the project that Doctor Moon was participating in Team 5.
Ten!
However, in that moment, apletely unrted thought crossed Song Boyeongs mind, to confidently challenge and defeat Doctor Moon, despite it having nothing to do with chemistry.
Team 5!
Jeong-woos gaze followed Song Boyeongs finger. Seeing Doctor Moon approaching, Jeong-woos expression turned puzzled.
Thepetition for the top beauty title. Are you still considering that?
I was serious, you know?
Im serious too. Let me ask you one thing. Are you going to grab each others hair, punch and kick? Even though youre a senior, I cant help you. My nails are too short.
Ah,e on, seriously.
With Jeong-woos joke, Song Boyeong quickly turned her back and reflexively lowered her head when her eyes met Doctor Moons.
Regret flooded her mind as soon as she spat out those words. What awaited her in the future was not romance but embarrassment, yet she had just let it slip out.
Mr. Jeong-woo.
Doctor Moon approached Jeong-woo.
Has patient Nam Gung-gils woken up?
Yes. He seemed quite lively.
Good then. Hes awake and weve identified the cause. Well done.
Oh, Doctor Moon.
After finishing the business at hand, Jeong-woo called out to Doctor Moon, who was about to leave.
The center director asked me to decide on assisting with the main project
Jeong-woo nced briefly at Song Boyeong before continuing.
Could I assist with Doctor Moons research?
The procedure might beplex and difficult. Are you sure? Drugs ssified under the code name AF cant be verified using conventional methods. We need to make new testing reagents from scratch.
Its okay. I like challenges.
Doctor Moons expression turned unexpectedly surprised at Jeong-woos words.
I didnt think you were the type to enjoy hardships.
No, not me. Its Doctor Moons rival.
What?
Jeong-woo firmly grabbed Song Boyeongs arm, who had been turning away, and she stood in front of Doctor Moon, startled.
They say theres animosity between doctors and researchers. Since Senior Boyeong and I are the same age, you can also feelfortable around Doctor Moon. Wheter you use senior or junior titles, its up to you.
Animosity?
Oh, right. Doctor Moon is exempt from that.
Doctor Moon, who was giving him a questioning look, soon turned her gaze to Song Boyeong.
Please take care of me, Miss Boyeong.
Yes, please take care of me.
While the two exchanged formal greetings, the door at the end of the corridor leading to the development room creaked open, and four team leaders walked out in a line.
Wheres Han Jeong-woo?
The sharp and loud voice calling out for Jeong-woo made everyone in the center turn their heads, wondering what was going on.
Oh, there you are. Senior, go ahead.
Seon Woo-jin approached Jeong-woo with a somber expression.
Mr. Han Jeong-woo. The top authority in pharmaceutical bioscience has something to say to you.
To me?
Stepping aside, Seon Woo-jin revealed Kim Won-bae standing behind him, hesitantly stepping forward.
Um well.
Kim Won-bae felt cold sweat trickling down his spine. Of all times, Dr. Moon, the center ace, had to be here. His vision blurred.
Feeling like he was in a dream, Kim Won-bae nced around. Many people were leaving at the end of the day, crowding the corridor.
If he boasted about his knowledge of pharmaceutical research here and got embarrassed in return, that embarrassment would probablyst a lifetime.
Kim Won-baes desperate gaze settled on the centers youngest member, Cho Seong-hwan. He was looking at Jeong-woo with a worried expression.
Mr. Jeong-woo. Didnt you find it surprising when you came to the center in the morning?
Surprised? In what way?
The doctors and chemists were splitting into groups and ignoring each other, talking behind each others backs.
Seon Woo-jin and the other two team leaders, whom had expected for Kim Won-bae to show their true colors, exchanged nces. Something strange was being said.
As the top senior in the center, I cant help but feel ashamed. I have a personality where I dont bother with small things, so I havent paid attention until now, but with the arrival of special researchers, I need to organize things properly.
Kim Won-bae nced at Cho Seong-hwan before raising his voice.
Listen up, everyone! What does it matter where youe from? Just focus on the research. If I catch anyone disrespecting others because of their backgrounds, just watch! Ill turn everything upside down!
Most of the center employees who had been watching were impressed by Kim Won-baes fiery deration.
Having chosen to be a benefactor who corrects the irrationalities within the center instead of attacking Jeong-woo, Kim Won-bae turned around and met the eyes of the three team leaders who had been looking at him.
Senior.
What is this about?
Never mind. You guys should have been better role models among team members! Instead of just thinking about winning inpetition, try being a team leader who can recognize when the system is wed.
Kim Won-bae delivered a stern lecture to the second, third, and fourth team leaders before returning to the development room. Jeong-woo, watching his departure, met eyes with Song Boyeong.
Did you see, Senior? Wow, I didnt expect such a cool person.
Yeah, hes totally admirable.
Lim Kwang-soo had to swallow his groan as he watched the situation unfold from theputer room.
Who was Kim Won-bae? He was a pir of the pharmaceutical bio center, having led KG Life Sciences in the past and being the first to take on a team leader role with the merger of KG Chemistry. Yet, there he was, upsetting the bnce. Whether Han Jeong-woo knew this or not, he was casually chatting with colleagues.
Although it might not have been intentional, due to his actions, the underlying conflict within the center was inadvertently shattered.
Lim Kwang-soo began to mentally organize the contents he would write in the report, issuing an analysis of the chaos as unpredictably executing actions that defy prediction.
First, he needed a phrase to define him.
CI, Chemical Intelligence.
Perhaps this would be appropriate.
The next morning.
Beep.
Jeong-woo opened the door to his private research room and was startled. Song Boyeong was leaning back in her chair,pletely lost in sleep.
Your clothes are still the same.
The desk was piled with gics-rted pamphlets. It seemed like she had stayed up all night studying after being assigned to the Team 5 project and borrowing a bunch of books from thepany library.
Even though he wanted to let her sleep longer, he shook her awake since he didnt know when Lim Kwang-soo, the deputy from the strategic nning office, would show up.
Senior.
A slight twitch was felt on her cheek as she stirred from her dreams. Seeing Boyeong still tired, unable to wake up from a brief dream, Jeong-woo thought it wouldnt be right to treat her seriousness about this matter lightly.
Uhh
With a blink, Boyeong opened her eyes, momentarily pondering where she was, then jumped up in surprise. After confirming it was Jeong-woo, she quickly covered her face with her hands and peeked through her fingers.
When did you get here?
Ive been here the whole time. What are you hiding?
Youre going to tease me.
But I didnt?
Huh? Theres no way. Why?
Jeong-woo nodded at Boyeong lowering her hands.
Right. Theres no way. Just kidding.
Hey!
But, you wouldnt want Manager Lim to see you like this, would you?
With a scowl, Boyeong took out a pouch containing toiletries from the drawer and moved towards the door.
Ill freshen up ande back. Just trying to show some courtesy.
Thirty minutester, Song Boyeong returned after drying her hair with a towel and was surprised to see a thick sandwich and fragrant coffee on the desk.
Whats this? Whats with the consideration?
Its a gesture because your beef grade just went up a notch.
Pfft. Ill enjoy it.
Jeong-woo said as he shook the A4 document he was holding.
Ill read the paper well.
As she ate her bted breakfast, a shadow flickered on the opaque ss of the door.
Knock, knock.
As Boyeong moved to get up at the sound of knocking, Jeong-woo got up first and passed by her side.
It looks like its Manager Lim. Ill go, so please finish eating.
Why are you suddenly being nice? Where are you sending me today?
You catch on quickly.
As Boyeong, who had been biting into the remaining piece of sandwich, paused and looked at Jeong-woo with wide eyes.
Where are you sending me?
Its a joke, just a joke. It seemed like you were cramming even though its not the day before an exam.
Jeong-woo said with a smile as he pressed the button on the ss door.
Click.
Oh, theres our Jeong-woo. Did you have a good time in ska?
Jeong-woo, who had expected Lim Kwang-soo to arrive, was left speechless at the sight of a man in his fifties wearing horn-rimmed sses and smiling brightly as he waved his hand.
Director Jang Tae-seon? What brings you here?
I came because I was worried about you. Arent you so sick that you cant even read text messages?
Its not that I couldnt read them, I just didnt look.
Despite Jeong-woos cold response, Jang Tae-seon continued the conversation persistently.
Phew. I feel relieved after seeing your face. I couldnt sleep because I was worried about you. Jeong-woo, do you like working with me?
Not really, but you probably like me working with you.
Im talking about work this time. This time, with this amazing project
Just stop there. You know Im currently at the pharmaceutical bio center.
But youre a special researcher. You have the authority to start personal projects. If you turn it towards basic materials, support will be abundant. Mutual benefit.
Whatever you say, lets talk about it after the business trip ends in three months.
As Jeong-woo reached for the button on the door, Jang Tae-seon urgently added.
Its amission from the Aerospace Industry Department. Its groundbreaking technology.
I have separate ns for personal research. I want to focus on one thing at a time.
He pressed the button calmly.
Please take a look.
As the ss door began to close, Jang Tae-seons desperate final shout could be heard.
Ill wait! Its me, Jang Tae-seon. Im always on your side!
Jeong-woo sighed and returned to his seat. Boyeong looked at him with a curious expression.
I heard something simr yesterday, are you nning a personal project too?
For now. Ill start once things settle down at the pharmaceutical bio center.
What kind of project is it?
Pointing to the paper in his hand, which had been picked out by Song Boyeong, Jeong-woo indicated it.
Its something thats still a mystery in the German chemical industry.
Really?
As Jeong-woo nodded his head, Boyeong couldnt take her eyes off him.
Flipping through the second quarter profit forecast report, CEO Cha Bon-jun nced at the sales section and let out a hollowugh.
A 30% increasepared tost year? And the pharmaceutical bio center, which was only in the red due to concentrated investments, leading the charge? How can there be such a difference from the first quarter? Are we really running apany like ours? Does Director Park dislike me?
Oh, no, sir.
Director of Strategic nning Park Ho-jin wiped the sweat off his forehead and ryed the conclusions based on Lim Kwang-soos report.
Its anticipated that the market will respond significantly when two generic drugs with improved efficacy, safety, and convenience areunched. The development cost of the beta blocker from Team 1 is expected to decrease by 30% and enter the preclinical stage
So, youre telling me that the projects at our perfectly fine pharmaceutical bio center are all miraculously improving?
Its because of the newly dispatched special researcher.
Special researcher?
Park Ho-jin recounted a recent incident involving side effects in a clinical trial.
His CI disyed during the crisis was exceptional.
Its hard to grasp just by listening, but if that incident is properly publicized, shareholders will likely be pleased.
The report, written over two days, seemed to please Cha Bon-jun. After finishing the review, he looked at Park Ho-jin.
Oh, by the way, Director Park, what was the name of the special researcher that the center directors praised so much?
Han Jeong-woo.
Whenever theres a new trend, please inform me periodically. This quarter is really crucial. If even one major shareholder changes their mind, itll be a headache. Just owning arge portion of the shares wont secure management rights.
I will keep that in mind.
As Park Ho-jin replied, the word major shareholder triggered a memory of a certain youngdys radiant smile.
Thats right. It was Cha Do-jun. Their smiling faces looked simr.
Huh? Why Do-jun?
Dont you know that Director Cha Do-jun had a daughter? I saw her.
Oh, Boyeong?
Cha Bon-juns expression turned to one that said, What am I hearing? Park Ho-jin finally recalled with a snap of his fingers.
After Director Cha Do-jun passed away, didnt his wife inherit all his shares and be the major shareholder? Was her name Song Mari?
Why bring up old stories? Mari passed away too. Seven years ago. Boyeong left everything behind after that shock, changed her name and her religion.
Really?
As a result, Do-juns shares skyrocketed, and the chairman, who is the legal guardian, is managing them.
While Park Ho-jin was surprised by the unexpected news about the royal family, Cha Bon-jun emphasized.
Dont mess with Boyeong. Its the chairmans decree. Just pretend you dont know anything. If she gets mad and delegates her voting rights to someone else, you might get axed.
No way.
I own 10%, and Do-jun, who was originally nning to manage KG Chemicals, holds 13%. Do you understand?
At the mention of the once innocent and cute girl causing turmoil in thepany when angered, Park Ho-jin felt a shiver down his spine.
code: Molecr Composition
case: Erectile Inhibitor Spray
research: A tailored targeting molecule that temporarily lowers the center of a stiffened mans head. Rmended not to be used by anyone, anywhere.
Chapter 122
Chapter 122- 24h of troubles(1)
A few days ago.
50km west of Seonyudo ind in Jeobuk-do.
It was a dark night with no moonlight. A high-speed patrol boat, moving as if guarding the sea, illuminated the front with its searchlight.
Situation room, situation room. Three fishing boats, which were operating, are not responding to inspection and are fleeing.
Beep.
-Detailed report requested.
Currently observing. One 90-ton fishing boat and two transport ships. The names of the fishing boats are confirmed to be in Chinese.
-90 tons? Damn bastards. How much are they nning to scrape this time?
Determined to be illegal fishing viting entry procedures, the patrol boat sounded its sirens. At the same time, the three boats ahead turned in different directions.
Theyre scattering. The Saemangeum Patrol will chase the boat that fled towards the ind.
Creating white foam, the patrol boat also increased its speed.
Escaping the pursuit of the maritime police, the Yoyeong 3031 reached the outskirts of the ind and turned off its engine, dropping anchor near the coast.
Quickly, set thes!
Following the captains orders to minimize any potential fines if caught, the crew members busily moved.
Amidst the crew members indiscriminately throwing illegal fishings and tools along the coastline, a dog with brown fur staggered out.
Whine
The dog whimpered in pain, then copsed in front of the ships water supply system. The captain frowned.
Kung Ming! Havent you thrown that thing away yet? Unlucky.
In the uproar, a young crew member suddenly grabbed the dog in surprise.
With a squeak, along with the noise, a radio signal came into the captains cabin.
-Theyre right behind us. We cant escape.
Damn it.
Upon hearing the news that the transport ship, filled to the brim with catches, would soon be caught, the captain furrowed his brow.
Hurry up, before the maritime police arrive!
While witnessing Kung Ming opening the faucet to give water to the dog, the captain spat and approached.
Are you out of your mind? Youre wasting pity on a dying dog!
The captain grabbed the dogs hind legs and threw it directly into the water. Kung Ming reached out desperately, but it was toote, the dog had already plunged into the dark sea.
No!
Do you want to join it? Throw away the sick ones!
A crew member looking from the roof confirmed distant lights.
Captain! Theyre here!
Lets go!
Ssh
A dog was pushed up onto the shore, whererge and small rocks and gravel were scattered along the coast. The dog, with patches of fur missing,y still as if dead, but opened its eyes wide in surprise at the waves crashing against its body.
Startled by the crashing waves, the dog jumped up as if struck by lightning, shaking off the seawater it had swallowed. After trembling for a moment, it struggled to its feet with a whimper. Upon hearing voices from nearby, it reluctantly got up and disappeared into the trees and bushes on the inner side of the wooded ind.
Sunday, 9 AM
A ck van raced along the costal road that stretched out into the middle of the sea.
Yoon Yi-seol. How does it feel toe out to such an open ce after a long time?
At Ji Seong-jaes voice, Yoon Yi-seol, who was sitting in the back seat, turned her gaze towards the window. The shimmering blue waves were reflected in her clear eyes.
After admiring the scenery for a while, Yoon Yi-seol finally spoke up.
Well its nice.
Upon hearing her unenthusiastic response, Ji Seong-jae inwardly sighed. The past week had been like this continuously.
When the schedule is over, do you want to go on a trip? The weather is nice, and the fine dust isnt that bad now.
Whats the point?
Yoon Yi-seol sighed and murmured softly while stroking the white cat sleeping soundly on herp.
Some people rest only on weekends, and some people have a lot of work only on weekends. And its going to be like this for the next three weeks. If we were in Seoul, we could meet evente at night. Isnt that right, Kiki?
Ji Seong-jae smirked at the voice who wasmenting about their dependency on their pets. The reason was clear as day.
As the van that had been traveling along the Saemangeum Breakwater finally turned towards Seonyudo, the pace slowed down as it began to get crowded. Ji Seong-jae turned his head towards the back seat.
With the gentle May breeze came a salty scent, filling the car instantly.
Meow
Even the cat Kiki lifted her head, sniffing the sea scent. Ji Seong-jae chuckled upon hearing her meow.
Hey there. Did you wake up thinking about fish?
Yawning loudly, Kiki stretched around before raising her pink paw onto the window sill.
Yoon Yi-seol, who was scratching under Kikis chin as she meowed, turned her head towards the drivers seat.
What time do you think well get to Seoul after were done?
Probably around dawn, dont you think?
Ugh.
Yi-seol, your tone has gotten a lot roughertely.
You told me not to hold back my temper and express it openly.
I didnt think Id be the target back then.
As they crossed the bridge connecting one ind to another, the cars speed slowed down as traffic started to build up. Ji Seong-jae turned his head towards the back seat.
Traffic jam. Its a long weekend, so its going to be crowded. We should refrain from sneaking around even after we arrive.
I dont feel like sightseeing. Rather, it would be better for couples toe and just
In a fit of frustration, Yoon Yi-seol cursed, catching the eye of Kiki, who was staring at her intently.
Sorry. Just pretend you didnt hear that.
Meow
Ji Seong-jae chuckled softly at the meow, as if Kiki was understanding the situation.
Oh, did you say your parents areing back on Wednesday?
Yes.
They seem to be enjoying their trip thoroughly.
Ji Seong-jae, who estimated the date, said.
If youre going somewhere during the holidays, Ill take care of Kiki until Wednesday.
Its okay. Since shes my first pet without any conditions, its less lonely with her around. But, Manager Ji, why do you keep trying to send me away? Are you tired of being a manager now?
Anyway, youve be more rough.
Yoon Yi-seol nced at Ji Seong-jae through the rearview mirror.
Its not like being kind will make me like you more.
Who are you saying that to? I dont think its me.
Its you, the one who confuses me.
After the identity was revealed a bit, Ji Seong-jae quickly moved forward and nced at his phone on the cup holder. The message indicator shed, so he pressed the confirm button.
[Ill leave now.]
It was a message from a young man who hadnt shown his face for over a month, putting Yoon Yi-seol in such a state.
Checking on Yoon Yi-seol ying with Kiki, Ji Seong-jae quickly typed a reply with one hand.
Ziiing.
[Surprise events are nice, bute quickly. Its getting harder to handle.]
Reading the text, Jeong-woo couldnt help but smile. He could imagine her face, stern but undoubtedly beautiful.
Park Soo-chan, who was driving, nced at Jeong-woo and asked.
Whats making you smile like that? A message from Yi-seol?
Lets just focus on driving and get going. Will we be able to arrive safely?
Dont worry about that. Our Laura is still strong.
The red sedan merged onto the West Coast Expressway. Jeong-woo, checking the estimated arrival time on the navigation system, felt his excitement rise.
Well be there in three hours.
After driving in silence for a while, Park Soo-chan nced at Jeong-woo discreetly. Jeong-woo, who had been gazing out the window, spoke up.
If you have something to say, go ahead.
Are you dating Yi-seol?
ncing briefly at Park Soo-chans serious expression, Jeong-woo answered calmly.
No.
Damn. Im not really shocked. Youve been doing a lot of unreasonable thingstely, so nothing surprises me anymore.
Thats not it.
Park Soo-chan gave him a look as if to say, Yeah, right.
Ridiculous. Then why are you following her for the shoot?
I have my reasons, so stop asking. Itsplicated.
Are you worried about rumors of a romantic rtionship? Okay, got it. Ill keep quiet as your best friend.
Whatever.
As Park Soo-chan, who had been silently focusing on driving, suddenly sighed.
Hey, Jeong-woo. This is serious.
Whats going on now?
Eun-sil asked me if you have a girlfriend, and I tly said no.
Why is that such a big deal? She probably just asked out of curiosity.
Youre funny. Its obvious shes interested. She didnt even ask me if I had a girlfriend.
Park Soo-chan has no idea that he carries a gic modifier that makes him unable to be close to anyone.
He wouldnt understand even if I exined.
Jeong-woo shook his head and remained silent. But not long after, Park Soo-chan started another question.
I saw on Channel Chemistry that you filmed with a blonde beauty? Shes like a Barbie doll. Are you expanding to the international stage again?
Kaya is the same age as my brother. Are you going to flirt with every female idol you meet at events?
I would if I had the ability, like you.
Not me. I cant handle hurting someones feelings.
Whoa, deep. Whos that about?
Enough. Ill be sleeping, so wake me up when we arrive at Seonyudo.
A van with the mark of Bongbong Animal Hospital on it appeared at the entrance of the ind vige surrounded by the sea on three sides. Traveling up the gravel-strewn newly constructed road, the van stopped in front of a rural house with a small stable and a sheepfold in the front yard.
Veterinarian sir! Over here, over here!
As soon as the director of Bongbong Hospital, Lee Du-seop, got out of the car, he quickly ran towards the urgent voice with his examination bag in hand.
The homeowner stood in front of a cow with a concerned expression and said.
Our Suni hasnt been eating welltely, and she cant even walk properly. Is it a serious illness?
Lee Du-seop put down his bag and put on rubber gloves. He approached the cow slowly and assessed its condition.
Temporary loss of appetite can have several causes. It could be fever, inmmation in the nose or eyes
As Lee Du-seop examined the cows mouth, he paused.
or ulcers in the gums. How long has she been like this?
About a day or two?
Has she been drooling a lot?
Im not sure.
Lee Du-seop, with a slightly serious expression, delivered the diagnosis.
Sir, dont be rmed, but listen carefully. Its suspected to be foot-and-mouth disease, so we need to start with a detailed examination
What, what is it?
Lee Du-seop raised his hand to calm down the rmed homeowner.
Its not confirmed yet. But we still need to close the barn to prevent harm to other animals.
Meanwhile, Lee Du-seop nced at the chicken coop and widened his eyes. There was a chicken with avian influenza. The other chickens were all nodding off.
When did you feed these chickens?
This morning.
The amount of feed consumed had significantly decreased.
Could this be possible? I suspect its avian influenza. We need to report this instead of specting.
The homeowner was shocked when avian influenza was mentioned. Lee Du-seop raised his phone and called the relevant department of the Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs.
After a while, Lee Du-seop returned after exining the symptoms.
Sir, listen carefully. No livestock, humans, vehicles, or waste should leave here until the test results are out.
What on earth is happening
1 PM Crisis Level Attention
Wow, this coastal road is amazing. Is it safe to drive on?
Keep it at 80.
In response to the anxious tone of Jeong-woo, Park Soo-chan chuckled.
Dont get scared.
Im not telling you to slow down because Im scared, okay?
Alright, alright.
After driving on the straight road for a while, the navigation signaled to turn towards Gogunsan.
Its only 1 PM. After dropping you off, I can take a look around, right?
Where did they say the local event was again?
In Jeonju. Right next to us.
It was when they turned the direction following the navigation. Park Soo-chans chin lifted slightly as they saw a long line of cars on the distant road.
Its crazy crowded because of the holiday until Tuesday. No wonder Seoul felt empty.
About 30 minutes of slow progresster, the car finally reached the entrance of the ind.
Whats this? Is it even more congested because of that?
Jeong-woo, who had been texting, shifted his gaze at Park Soo-chans surprised voice.
On one side of the road, a signboard saying [Disinfection in Progress, Drive Slowly] was set up, and people in raincoats were spraying liquid on passing vehicles.
What are they spraying?
As Park Soo-chan wondered, Jeong-woo nced at the transparent liquid.
Its chlorine dioxide. Looks like theyre disinfecting. Be careful because it contains a small amount of chloroform and haloisetonitrile, which are toxic.
Oh, um then is it dangerous for our Laura?
Not for Laura, but for you. Make sure to wash your hands if you touch the underside of the car.
I see.
Understanding only now, Park Soo-chan nodded, then turned his head abruptly.
Why are you looking at me like that? You clearly know my level.
Sorry. I underestimated it.
Maintaining a somewhat serious expression, Park Soo-chan chuckled at Jeong-woos somewhat sulky reply.
Just go to the point. You know Ill believe anything you say.
Im actually three years older than you. Call me hyung from now on.
Youre crazy.
As the car left the designated area, it passed over the bridge connecting the inds. Finally, after passing through Sinshido and Munyeodo, they arrived at their destination, Seonyudo.
Here looks good. Lets stop here for now.
As Park Soo-chan stopped the car on one side of the road, he whistled.
Look at all the people on this small ind. I might need to leave soon in case I get stuck in traffic. Ah, I cant believe I have to go without seeing Yi-seols face.
Ill pass on your regards.
As Jeong-woo got out of the car, Park Soo-chan opened the window.
Truly, thank you for the ride.
I told you anytime. See ya~
Jeong-woo waved his hand to Park Soo-chan, who drove away.
A crescent-shaped, picturesque sandy beach stretched out at Seonyudo Beach, where amemorative photoshoot for the 10th anniversary of the fashion magazine Daisy was in full swing.
Lets change outfits!
At the photographers shout, the staff members hurriedly moved around.
Yoon Yi-seol, who had changed into a new dress inside the van, stepped out and her gaze lingered towards the people strolling along the coast.
Under the spring sun, as she quietly observed the couples enjoying their outing, she let out a short sigh.
Yi-seol, the sunlight is really bright. Lets make some adjustments to the makeup.
Yes.
Makeup director Jeong Soo-yeong sat Yoon Yi-seol down on a bench with various beauty toolsid out.
Why do you look so gloomy when the air is so fresh here?
Who knows.
As Yoon Yi-seol closed her eyes briefly so they could apply pink eyeshadow, she quietly spoke up.
How do I look today?
Well, youre bursting with beauty.
Oh, Im doomed.
Jeong Soo-yeong gave a puzzled look.
Why? Its the 10th-anniversary special, so you should look as beautiful as possible.
In the next three weeks, I need to save up all this beauty.
Jeong Soo-yeong, who was giving Yoon Yi-seols hair a voluminous look to match the elegant dress she was wearing, asked.
Is there a fan meeting or something?
Something simr to that.
A staff member, who was checking the reflection from the mirror, chuckled at the conversation between the two, who treated beauty as if it were an object.
We dont often see Yi-seol shining like this. Its a shame.
With a satisfied expression, Jeong Soo-yeong added a red jewel to Yoon Yi-seols ear for a touch of mour and then stepped back. Then, upon seeing Yoon Yi-seols innocent eyes, quickly changed her words.
Now that I think about it, this isnt the best. Ill definitely take care of your skin for the next three weeks.
Really? You promised.
The photographer approached Yoon Yi-seol.
Ms. Yi-seol, are you ready Oh! This outfit youre wearing today is the best among all. Its perfect for the cover, right? Lets shoot quickly.
The photographer, fully satisfied, adjusted the camera angle. Yoon Yi-seol, who was pointed out by him, turned to Jeong Soo-yeong and asked.
Isnt it the best, ording to Mr. Song?
Hes just being polite. Its not the best. Not at all.
Really?
Before the conversation could finish, a series of admiringments came from the onlookers.
-Wow, her beauty potential. Was Yoon Yi-seol always this beautiful?
-Look at her skin, its unbelievably fair.
As Yoon Yi-seol stood on the sandy beach for the shoot, her shoulders rxed. Of all days, why did it have to be today, when celebrity makeup looks so well? The timing was truly unfortunate.
Ms. Yi-seol, shall we begin?
Yes, Im ready.
With the transparent and fine white sandy beach as the background, the photoshoot continued.
Try flipping your hair over with your right hand. Okay.
Click.
The dreamy look is perfect. Camera focus!
Click.
As the shoot continued without a break, sweat gradually formed on Yoon Yi-seols forehead. It wasnt particrly hot, but the umted heat from the reflectors made it quite warm.
Feeling hot?
Im fine, Mr. Song.
Lets take a 2-minute break. Everyone, rest!
At the photographers deration, Jeong Soo-yeong rushed over. While meticulously fixing her makeup with a makeup sponge, Yoon Yi-seol cooled her flushed face with a hand fan.
Amidst the bustling staff, Yoon Yi-seol wanted to drink water.
Manager Ji, my throat
Here.
A bottle of water appeared unexpectedly before she could even make the request.
Oh, thank you.
Taking the bottle and taking a sip, Yoon Yi-seol realized that Manager Ji suddenly started using honorifics, and she turned her head in surprise, thinking, Whats going on?
And then.
Her eyes met with a young man whoseughter was evident at the corners of his mouth. As if he had seen something Yoon Yi-seol couldnt see, his eyes widened as they met hers.
Jeong-woo?
How have you been?
Jeong-woos voice echoed faintly.
Why are you here
Manager Ji said he had to go somewhere for a moment. You havent forgotten that Im still your manager, have you?
In a firm voice, Jeong-woo continued for her, who couldnt properly articte her thoughts.
The Daejeon SBC interview scheduled for tonight has been canceled, Yoon Yi-seol. Todays schedule will wrap up around 5 oclock.
Manager Ji, who had been insisting that she go out and have fun somewhere, knowing everything but pretending not to, would take care of the details.
Oh, by the way. I heard from Jeong Soo-yeong that you were stunning today. Should I be preparing for something as your temporary manager?
Jeong Soo-yeong, who was applying transparent lipstick to Yoon Yi-seols lips, burst intoughter at this question.
Do you think so? Without any notice.
Seeing Yoon Yi-seol being a bit petnt, Jeong-woo smiled gently.
I came here to do what we talked about as soon as possible. Theres something I need to tell you.
The invitation for a date on that day was not just empty words. Yoon Yi-seol looked at Jeong-woo with a puzzled expression.
Lets resume the shoot!
Despite the signal from the photographer, Yoon Yi-seols gaze didnt leave Jeong-woo.
Me too.
Jeong-woo said as he received a water bottle from Yoon Yi-seol.
With a sudden sense of reality, Yoon Yi-seol looked at Jeong-woo.
What did you say?
I said, work hard.
Chapter 123
Chapter 123- 24h of troubles(2)
Ji Seong-jae, who had been waiting secretly in the makeshift parking lot, revealed himself in front of Jeong-woo.
How was Yi-seols reaction?
I should have just made an appointment ande.
What are you saying?
Maybe she didnt react because shes not feeling well? Im not sure if Im just bothering her on a day she has a proper schedule.
At Jeong-woo concern, Ji Seong-jae turned his gaze towards the coast. Seeing Yoon Yi-seol, who was posing and enthusiastically engaged in the shoot, Ji Seong-jae pointed her out with his finger.
Do you see? Thats a face of pure joy, not a trace of sorrow. By the way, her outfit concept is endearing.
Jeong-woo also turned his eyes towards Yoon Yi-seol.
Under the spring sun, she exuded loveliness to the extent that her bright energy could be felt even from afar, with a refreshing smile on her face as she posed for the shoot.
-Yi-seol, everything okay? The atmosphere seems different from earlier.
-Oh Im sorry, Mr. Song. Am I being too happy right now?
-No, not at all. With emotions this good, theres no need for separate requests. Lets change the lens filter and continue like this.
Her face, whiter than the sandy beach, and her hair fluttering more elegantly than the spring breeze, were captured by the camera.
Click. Click.
Childlike and cheerful, yet feminine and graceful. Each time the camera shutter opened, the ever-changing charm of the top star elicited sighs of admiration from onlookers.
Watching the scene with satisfaction, Ji Seong-jae smiled and looked at Jeong-woo.
Bothering her? I assure you, after this shot, next months cover is confirmed. Just with her face reflected like this, its certain that in the future, well have to pay to have Jeong-woo with us.
Surely not. Yi-seol is a professional, so she must do well.
Having attended the insomnia clinic together, you must have noticed to some extent, that even if being professional was enough to seed, it would have been difficult for a sensitive person like Yi-seol to debut.
Under Ji Seong-jaes serious gaze, Jeong-woo remained silent for a moment.
Jeong-woo, you dont seem to realize how much you contribute to Starpieces sales. If you werent a researcher at a major corporation, I would have proposed to work together as staff long ago. Is the pay from thatpany okay?
Im paid enough.
Thats a shame.
Upon hearing the mention of scouting even here, Jeong-woo scratched his chin awkwardly.
I should really leave now. If I disturb her, Yi-seol will resent me.
Just before leaving, Ji Seong-jae ced his hand on Jeong-woos shoulder.
My wish is to handle the rumors of your love affair. If you decide, Ill support you wholeheartedly.
Thats
With these meaningful words, Ji Seong-jae disappeared.
Jeong-woo once again turned his gaze towards the coastal shooting location.
He buried his thoughts of aplicated and unsettling future somewhere in the snowy mountains of ska. For now, he should just concentrate on spending time with this delicate woman.
Thud.
Jeong-woo opened the vans door and climbed into the drivers seat, where he met the gaze of a white cat lying on the back seat.
Oh, hi, you must be Kiki, right?
As he greeted, Kikis blue-eyed gaze scanned him as if assessing.
Nice to meet you. Ill be your daily manager until the evening. Please dont criticize me for not being a better driver than Mr. Ji.
Seeing only a gruff look despite his attempt to converse, Jeong-woo assumed it was typical cat behavior and smiled once before turning his head away.
He heard there were still two more outfits to shoot. It would be finished in about two hours.
What should I do after its over?
He had only nned a surprise event; he hadnt perfectly nned out the date course. Jeong-woo pondered for a while.
Thinking that exploring this scenic and fresh air-filled ce wouldnt be bad, Jeong-woo was about to turn his attention to the window when he noticed the ce was crowded with outing-goers. Even if they disguised themselves solidly with masks and hats, Yoon Yi-seol was still Yoon Yi-seol. If she got recognized, she might end up just signing autographs all day.
Well, Im somewhat famous on video sites too.
At the sound of a meow, Jeong-woos gaze shifted towards Kiki.
Kiki, who was licking her front paw, sent a slightly pitiful nce his way.
Somewhat famous, huh? Well, somewhat. But youre quite aloof. Yi-seol isnt like that.
Jeong-woo chuckled at his own somewhat stung self-praise.
Just then, a loud Woof! came from outside the car. Involuntarily turning his head, Jeong-woo saw arge retriever happily bounding around.
-Wait, Polly!
Holding onto the retrievers leash was a young girl who looked about six years old.
Jeong-woo quietly admired the consideration shown by the retriever, which hopped around within the range of the leash to prevent its young owner from falling.
-Soo-jin, slow down a bit. You might fall if you go too fast.
-Okay, Mom.
Families out for a walk with their pets soon left the parking lot.
Kiki, thats how you behave to endear yourself to your owner. You should learn from
As he mumbled to himself and turned his head, Jeong-woo was surprised. Kiki, who had been lying in the back seat, was now sitting right beside the drivers seat.
Why are you here?
Her eyes were fixedly staring outside, appearing as if in a trance.
Are you afraid of that dog, so you came here?
There was no reply, but it seemed obvious. When the dog barked again, Kikis pink nose twitched.
Youre easily scared.
As Jeong-woo reached out to stroke her back, she leaned against him quietly. She didnt seem like a cat who enjoyed being alone.
Although he was grateful for the presence of the cat, feeling somewhat acquainted, Jeong-woo began to pet Kiki in earnest.
Tell me. What kind of date course would Yi-seol like? Maybe the university festival where Soo-chan has an event? We could enjoy the youthful atmosphere
Meow
Kiki let out a short meow, catching Jeong-woos attention.
Not an university festival? Got it.
Engaging in such a pointless conversation with the cat, Jeong-woo suddenly felt Kikis fur stand on end.
Huh? Whats wrong?
Kiki suddenly jumped up and crouched low towards the front windshield. Following her gaze, Jeong-woo saw a shadow passing through the bushes.
Whats that?
As tourists walked around nearby, the hiding animal disappeared into the distance.
Only then did Kiki rx and jump down. Right onto Jeong-woosp.
Meow
As if it were her own cushion, shefortably nestled against him, leaving Jeong-woo bewildered.
Hey, youre just pretending to be friendly when youre scared, arent you, cat?
Click.
Ah, its hot.
Amidst this, the back door opened, and Yoon Yi-seol got in.
Ill change my clothes and head out!
As soon as she shouted this towards the outside, Yoon Yi-seol, who had already pressed the lock button, looked at Jeong-woo in the drivers seat with eyes full of words she wanted to say.
You
Is it hot? Here, have some water.
epting the water bottle and reflexively taking a sip, Yoon Yi-seol blinked as if to say, This isnt it, and then spoke.
Whats wrong with you! Coming suddenly like this. I was surprised.
It wasnt nned from the beginning, but Mr. Ji contacted me.
Is that so?
Shouldnt I havee?
As he suddenly questioned this, Yoon Yi-seol immediately replied, No! Then her expression turned heated as she continued.
How should I take this? You call me out, then fly to ska when Im asking you to date. Its fun to tease someone that has a crush on you?
Yoon Yi-seol grumbled softly. Her voice, heard up close, was as lovely as a song in a video message, stirring up excitement in the heart.
I didnt mean to tease you. I just wanted to see you.
Yoon Yi-seol muttered.
Look at me. You said you wanted to see me, so youre trying to appease me. Whats good about a guy who doesnt even like me?
But I like you.
Thats right. Why set a deadline for confessing when its not a life-or-death situation
Yoon Yi-seols pupils trembled in surprise at the unexpected answer.
Who do you like?
I havent been postponing the confession because I didnt like you.
So, thats what you wanted to say earlier?
Yes. And also, that we should date.
Yoon Yi-seols frozen lips barely moved, and her cheeks reddened.
Knock.
The sound of knocking on the car door caught Yoon Yi-seol off guard, and she looked outside. Jeong Soo-yeong was peering inside.
Yi-seol, can we help? We have only 5 minutes left.
Oh, no. Im almost done putting them on!
Yoon Yi-seol, feeling desperate, looked at Jeong-woo and said.
Close your eyes!
Huh?
Im going to change clothes.
In that case, Ill step out.
No. One person has to zip up the back.
At this, Jeong-woo involuntarily coughed.
Inside the car, there was only the sound of clothes rustling. Imagining a certain scene even from the sound alone, Jeong-woos ears turned red.
Its done now.
Jeong-woo cautiously opened his eyes. When he faced the snowy white nape and back, his heart pounded. Unable to bear looking until the end, he turned his head away while zipping up, feeling embarrassed.
Is it done?
Yes.
Yoon Yi-seol, now in the right posture, looked at the stiff Jeong-woo and gave a faint smile.
I didnt n to make it awkward like this. Thank you, Jeong-woo.
I have a question. Does a manager usually handle these kinds of tasks?
I doubt it. Usually, wouldnt a lover handle such things?
As Yoon Yi-seol was answering, she quickly stole a kiss from Jeong-woos cheek.
Smack.
?
Gosh. Do I have to say such a simple thing? Dont you know that I like you, Jeong-woo?
With a yful peck, Yoon Yi-seol quickly opened the door and disappeared outside.
4 PM Crisis Level Attention
On the bridge leaving Seonyudo.
The cars that had been stuck on the road were finally moving as if they could breathe now.
We finished shooting so early
Yoon Yi-seol, who had been sitting in the passenger seat for almost 30 minutes in the same spot, sighed at the situation that required her to stay there.
Every minute feels precious. Whats going on? If I knew it would be like this, we should have filmed on an ind essible only by boat.
Wouldnt such a ce also be crowded if there were many people?
Exactly my point. If were going to do this, might as well be alone on an ind.
At her bold response, Jeong-woo let out a groan.
Dont feel burdened and just like me, thats what you said just a month ago.
Oh? Whos pressuring you? What burden, especially when youve clearly fallen for me?
I never said Ive clearly fallen for you.
But thats what it implies.
Yoon Yi-seol lowered her gaze to the cat leaning on her knee.
Kiki, close your ears for a moment. Unnie is about to reveal a very important wish.
Meow
Why? Thats enough. Keep such wishes in your heart.
And then? What should a mature young man and woman do in a dark, cold, lonely, deserted ce where no one can see?
Why are you suddenly adding conditions?
Ugh.
Yoon Yi-seols hand intertwined with Jeong-woos hand, which was resting on the steering wheel.
I only said I would hold hands back then, didnt I?
Yoon Yi-seol smiled brightly at Jeong-woo. Just in this brief moment of warmth exchanging between them, Jeong-woo thought he had made the right decision.
A whileter, the van arrived near the embankment road.
Oh? What are those people doing?
Yoon Yi-seol pointed to the front, where people in protective clothing were disinfecting vehicles.
There are a lot of them there too.
At her gesture, Jeong-woos gaze turned to the left.
A spacebeled Saemangeum Rest Area was filled with trucks and machinery carrying disinfection equipment. Above all, many people in white gowns stood out.
I saw them when we came earlier, but I dont know the exact reason.
The van arrived at the disinfection site. A police officer controlling traffic saluted and approached, signaling for the window to be rolled down.
Excuse me, driver?
In response to the police officers call, Jeong-woo quickly rolled down the window.
Whats going on?
Were taking initial measures to prevent the spread of livestock diseases in the area.
Livestock disease?
For a moment, Jeong-woo recalled diseases like foot-and-mouth disease that he had seen on TV a few times.
While inspecting suspicious livestock that came out from Seonyudo, simr symptoms were found in livestock in Shinsido as well. If youre traveling with animals, please receive a safety confirmation from the temporary quarantine headquarters before leaving
The police officer, exining in a professional manner, looked at Kiki on Yoon Yi-seolsp.
You need to receive a safety confirmation from the temporary quarantine headquarters. Officer Kim! Theyre going to park in the parking lot!
The police officer shouted ahead and left after asking for cooperation. The traffic police officer at the intersection raised his hand, stopping the moving vehicles.
Faced with the sudden need to go to a rest area, Jeong-woo turned to Yoon Yi-seol. Yoon Yi-seol also looked at Jeong-woo with a puzzled expression, not understanding what was happening either.
A medium-sized bus with the National Veterinary Research and Quarantine Institute emblem raced across the Saemangeum embankment.
Mr. Park.
Veterinary researcher Yoo Kang-seok opened his mouth with a serious tone to Park Chung-sik, who was yawning.
Both cattle and chickens were infected simultaneously at the same time. Its not something to take lightly.
What are you talking about? Didnt it happenst year in Yeongdong? The swine fever came with the H5N8 avian influenza near the migratory bird habitat.
Have you seen the report? Isnt the transmission speed unusual?
Ah, forget it. If you investigate, youll find out. You tend to make a big fuss over nothing. What if the news gets out of control because of a misstep?
Yoo Kang-seok examined the initial report. The more he looked, the more uneasy he felt.
If these were different diseases, Mr. Parks words would be correct. If early detection was followed by thorough quarantine measures, the problem wouldnt escte.
But if, by any chance, it was a novel zoonoticmon infectious disease
Failing to deal with it properly would bring a storm no less severe than the MERS outbreak a few years ago.
Ding.
Amidst his worries, a text message came on his phone.
[Senior. Is there an investigation?]
It was a message from a veterinarian affiliated with the Animal Protection Association and also a junior at the university.
[How did you know?]
[Its written on the emergencywork here. Investigator Yoo Kang-seok. Im currently collecting blood samples from the pets that visited this neighborhood.]
Yoo Kang-seoks expression brightened at this message.
Oh, our pretty one passed the safety inspection.
Pretty one?
Mr. Park in the adjacent seat turned his head.
Who are you talking about?
Someone Im interested, my junior.
If your prediction is correct, something serious is unfolding, and youreughing?
Disease is disease, and love is love, isnt it?
Have you confessed?
Seeing Yoo Kang-seok hesitate to answer, Mr. Parks expression turned sympathetic.
You didnt, huh.
I didnt exactly say that.
Poor guy.
In front of the makeshift tent where veterinarians wereing and going.
Yoon Yi-seol was waiting while tightly holding Kiki. Due to wearing a mask and a hat pulled down, nobody could recognize her, but she couldnt hide her anxiety for a different reason.
Itll be okay.
As she stroked Kikis fur, Kiki whimpered softly, seemingly anxious too. Inside the van was a familiar space for Kiki, but being in a ce she had never been before, surrounded by strangers, made her look scared.
When will Mr. Jeong arrive?
Turning her head towards Jeongs side, where there was a parking war due to the crowded cars, Yoon Yi-seol suddenly perked up her ears at the sound of a childs cryinging from the tent.
-No! I want to go with Polly!
-Soo-jin. The vet will finish the examination and take her home.
Peeking into the tent, she saw a little girl holding a gentle-looking dog, crying uncontrobly.
Number 19, pleasee in.
Yoon Yi-seol took out the ticket she had received earlier from her pocket. Number 19. It was Kikis turn.
Inside the makeshift tent, there were cages to protect small animals and examination tables. As she cautiously passed through the entrance, a staff member seeing Kiki said.
The cat is handled by the veterinarian over there with her hair tied up.
Yoon Yi-seols gaze lingered on the woman in a white gown. She was a veterinarian with a captivating beauty.
Good girl, Navi. Dont be so feisty.
As she approached, a voice filled with affection could be heard. But the veterinarians actions were bold.
Grabbing the front leg of a dog with striped fur, she immediately injected the needle into the vein. As soon as the needle was inserted, the veterinarian finished collecting the blood cleanly and said.
See? It doesnt hurt that much, does it? Im famous for giving injections well. Do you think peoplee to find me even from Seoul?
At the veterinarians action offorting the crying dog, Yoon Yi-seol felt relieved somehow. The love for animals was conveyed wholeheartedly.
Next, please.
Yoon Yi-seol ced Kiki on the examination table. The veterinarian, seeing Yoon Yi-seol wearing a mask, asked.
Looks like you caught a cold.
Ah yes.
Whats her name?
Her name is Kiki.
What a pretty name.
Feeling familiar with the veterinarians touch, Kiki soon rxed and stretched out on the table.
Were you surprised to be examined suddenly?
The veterinarian started exining kindly while examining Kikis body.
If there was only one disease outbreak, we wouldnt have mobilized emergency measures like this, but there are two. Cattle and chickens. Because theyre different species, theres almost no chance that something will be transmitted to Kiki.
It was a reassuring statement. After finishing the initial physical examination, the veterinarian turned to Yoon Yi-seol.
Her nutritional status is good, and shes grown well. It will take about three hours for the results toe out after the blood collection. If youre busy, we can deliver the results to your home
While speaking, a retriever on the examination table suddenly cried out loudly as the needle was inserted.
Kikis head, which had been still, turned towards the dog. Her eyes widened like saucers, and instinctively, she bristled her fur and then leaped under the table.
The veterinarian, startled, reached out her hand.
As Kiki stealthily moved away from the retriever, Yoon Yi-seol felt a sense of relief in the veterinarians action offorting the crying dog. It was because the veterinarians love for animals was clearly conveyed.
Kiki!
Yoon Yi-seol hurriedly ran after her.
Fortunately, Kiki didnt run too far.
Ah, you scared me.
Yoon Yi-seol approached Kiki, who was lying t on the ground, and met Jeong-woo, who walked from the opposite side.
Huh? Yi-seol, why is she acting like this?
Because of the dog.
Again?
Since he was closer, he approached Kiki first, knelt down, and hugged her.
She usually acts cool, but shes actually very afraid, right?
As Jeong-woo approached with a smile, he nced at the entrance of the tent, but his eyes widened as he saw someone inside.
The veterinarian, who was taking good care of Kiki, also looked at Jeong-woo with a surprised expression.
Go Eun-sil?
Han Jeong-woo?
Why are you here?
Youre the one to talk.
Yoon Yi-seol giggled at their conversation.
Go Eun-sil. It sounded like a name she heard for the first time, yet it was very familiar. As she thought quietly, she remembered something she heard from Jeong-woos friend a while ago.
She must have been his childhood friend and his first kiss target, probably.
Yoon Yi-seols eyes sparked into life.
Chapter 124
Chapter 124- 24h of troubles(3)
Three people were sitting on stic chairs in front of the convenience store. Jeong-woo quickly went inside, bought some drinks, and ced them on the table.
It takes three hours? We only need to check the antibody reaction after separating the serum. Dont they have a centrifuge here?
In response to Jeong-woos question, Go Eun-sil turned her gaze towards the tent protecting Kiki.
There are more than one or two standard antigens we need topare.
Standard antigens? You dont even know exactly what disease it is?
Go Eun-sil looked surprised at Jeong-woo, who was asking crucial questions.
Weve only had suspicions so far, no confirmations. Theres a livestock quarantine officer at the initial outbreak site, so well be contacted. Then we can also use specific diagnostic kits.
So, youre saying rushing isnt the answer.
Jeong-woo turned to Yoon Yi-seol sitting closely beside him.
Are you okay waiting here longer?
As Yoon Yi-seol quietly nodding, Go Eun-sil asked him.
Youre not going to introduce me? Why arent you saying anything?
Well, you see
Because she was a well-known celebrity whose face was recognizable to anyone, he hesitated to answer. But Yoon Yi-seol spoke first.
Oh, maybe Jeong-woo oppa didnt mention me.
Jeong-woo shot Yoon Yi-seol a look as if to say, Why suddenly call me oppa? but her gaze was fixed on Go Eun-sil.
I heard about you.
Go Eun-sil met Yoon Yi-seols sparkling eyes peeking through the mask and hat with a puzzled expression.
Do you know me?
Yes.
How Oh, the forest fire? It was on the news a lot, right? Thanks to Jeong-woo, I survived.
No. When you were younger um.
Jeong-woo, feeling ufortable, grabbed Yoon Yi-seols arm and pulled her aside. With a gesture asking for a moment to Go Eun-sil, he whispered to Yoon Yi-seol.
What are you doing? Why are you revealing everything in such a crowded ce?
Thats up to Jeong-woo. Before, we werent supposed to know each other, but now were suddenly so close. I like you, really. Such a beautiful girl, being your first love.
As he listened, Jeong-woo realized that Yoon Yi-seol was jealous of Go Eun-sil.
Was that it?
Yoon Yi-seol red fiercely at Jeong-woo, who chuckled softly.
Then Ill introduce you as I please, so be prepared.
Whatever.
With a disgruntled sound, Yoon Yi-seol sat back down. Jeong-woo spoke to Go Eun-sil, who was drinking her beverage.
Eun-sil, sorry. My friend isnt in a good mood today.
At this remark, Yoon Yi-seol immediately turned to Jeong-woo, saying, What!
But at that moment, Jeong-woo grabbed Yoon Yi-seols hand and ced it around his left arm, as if putting his arm around her.
Sorry for thete introduction. Say hello. This is the girl Ive fallen for. Finally we came out for a date, but were dealing with this mess.
Go Eun-sils eyes widened.
Youre dating her?
Ill refrain frommenting on her name. I have to look out for this friend for personal reasons.
Yoon Yi-seol stared nkly at Jeong-woo. Go Eun-sil, who had been watching them with a surprised expression, smiled faintly and stood up.
I guess it wasnt an open ending.
Huh? What?
Oh, nothing. Seems like I shouldnt disturb your date any further. Lets quickly go and separate the serum, and start with Kikis test.
You can do that?
I should provide such convenience to my lifesaver. Nice to meet you.
Go Eun-sil, who greeted Yoon Yi-seol, disappeared towards the temporary tent. Jeong-woo, seeing Yoon Yi-seol nowpletely silent, quietly said.
You can let go of my hand now.
I dont want to.
Yoon Yi-seol, leaning her head against Jeong-woos shoulder, opened her mouth petntly.
Its weird. Why are you making my heart flutter like this today?
Im just returning what Ive received.
What did I do?
Various things.
Be specific. That way, youll get it back like this again.
The cool sea breeze elerated the soft energy flowing between them.
Just stay as you are now. Ill make the approach.
Gee.
Yoon Yi-seol hugged Jeong-woos arm tightly.
Despite theck of conversation, over 30 minutes passed in the blink of an eye. Jeong-woo thought that if there hadnt been any interruptions, they could have sat like this for hours.
Ring.
His phone buzzed, and it was from Go Eun-sil.
-Hey, where are you? Can youe over here now? Your date partner too.
It was a quite urgent tone.
Jeong-woo entered the tentbeled Examination Area and found two men engrossed in a heated debate.
How can you be so sure its the unvinated type?
As symptoms have appeared in even the cats, this must be a zoonotic disease.
A man in histe fifties wearing a suit sighed towards a man in his early thirties wearing Level D protective gear.
Hey, Kang-seok. I ended up on the cklist of the Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs due to overreaction. You said the same thing back then.
Since weve taken the trouble toe here, lets take action without burden
Shh!
The man in the suit looked at the man in protective gear as if he couldnt believe it.
Make sure to conduct the tests and let me know the results. I wont ept anything without facts.
Then itll be dyed.
Then make sure you dont dy the results!
The man in the suit pointing towards the table with testing tools vanished. The man in protective gear sighed deeply and then saw Jeong-woo and Yoon Yi-seol entering.
Who are you? Except for authorized personnel, no one is allowed in here.
Before Jeong-woo could answer, Go Eun-sil, who approached from behind, said.
Senior. I called him. Hes one of the cat owners.
Oh, is that so? Um, well dont take it to heart too much.
The man in protective gear clicked his tongue and disappeared inside.
Sensing an uneasy atmosphere, Jeong-woo asked Go Eun-sil.
Why is he like that?
One of the cats showed symptoms of hemorrhagic sepsis. If this continues, the cats cant leave the quarantine zone until the situation is resolved.
Yoon Yi-seol, surprised by this news, asked.
Is Kiki okay?
No symptoms have appeared yet.
Where is she?
Shes in the clinic. We put her in our sterilized room, so you dont have to worry about the risk of additional infection.
In the clean room of the analysisb, Jeong-woo saw people busy with examination work.
Eun-sil. Are they searching for the virus gic information from the blood collected from the cat?
Oh? Um, yes. The senior I just saw is a PCR specialist.
With just that equipment, itll take several hours for genome sequencing alone.
Really? Im not familiar with that field.
As someone who had dealt with thetest devices in KG Chemistrysb, Jeong-woo predicted that it would take at least 12 hours to urately identify the gic information of the target virus.
Looks like the date is off.
Despite trying to create a good atmosphere, something came out of the blue. Jeong-woo, reaching the conclusion that this couldnt go on, asked Go Eun-sil.
Eun-sil. Can I observe the analysis work in theb for a moment?
You?
I think I might know what virus it is.
How?
Unable to simply say he knew by just looking, Jeong-woo pondered and then answered.
Didnt I tell you? Im currently developing personalized gene therapy at the biomedical center.
Werent you making fire extinguishing agents?
I do everything back and forth. Thepany is a bit big. It might sound boastful, but Im quitepetent.
As it didnt seem like a lie, Go Eun-sil nodded.
Then put on protective gear and go in. Im just assisting anyway, so I wont be much help.
After getting permission, Jeong-woo looked at Yoon Yi-seol.
Go to Kiki. Dont worry too much.
Got it.
Yoo Kang-seok sat in front of hisptop, searching through the virus database. asionally nodding his head while sighing deeply, he was approached by an employee from the Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs.
Do you know what it is?
With symptoms alone, the scope is too broad. Well need to analyze the information from the PCR results to get a sense of it.
It shouldnt be a big deal.
Yoo Kang-seok felt the response Its already a big deal rising up to his throat, but he held it back. Park Chung-sik, the manager, was watching from behind with a stern look.
Mr. Park. If this is a new strain, itll be toote just to wait for the results.
And if its not?
Then itll be another climb up the cklist.
As Manager Park red at him, Yoo Kang-seok coughed awkwardly and turned his head to the monitor.
Ding.
A text message came to his phone ced next to theptop. Seeing Go Eun-sils name, he hurriedly checked it.
[Senior. The reinforcements have arrived. Make good use of them.]
Huh? What does this mean?
Excuse me. Are you the investigator who handles PCR?
Yoo Kang-seok turned his head abruptly at the sudden call. And there he found a young man he had seen at the entrance earlier.
How did you get here?
I have detailed information about the cat symptoms. I came in with permission from veterinary Go Eun-sil.
Eun-sil? Are you the reinforcement?
Uh Am I?
Yoo Kang-seoks eyes urged him to say something to Jeong-woo.
Jeong-woo nced towards the freezer where reagents and specimens were kept. He found the container holding the blood extracted from the cat with sepsis and examined its contents with molecr vision.
Among the numerous proteinplexes floating in the expanded world, there was a specific bacteria tormenting the cats body.
It seems to be caused by dermolytic protein toxins or pathogenic factors due to internal toxins.
Pardon?
Seeing Yoo Kang-seoks eyes widen at the specific information pointing to a certain condition, Jeong-woo pointed at the monitor where gic analysis results were sporadically appearing.
I recognize that DNA structure because Im familiar with it.
That cant be true
It was as if he had identified what a book was about just by reading one sentence. Yoo Kang-seoks expression turned incredulous. Moreover, that book hadnt been released to the world?
If youre doubtful, can I write out the structural form in advance?
The proposal from the other party was so absurd and unreasonable that Yoo Kang-seok epted it on the spot.
Sure, go ahead.
Thank you.
Jeong-woo approached quickly and tapped on theptop keyboard as he spoke.
The part currently being analyzed is just a regr nucleotide sequence, and in about 3 minutes? Some of the virus parts Ive written wille out then.
You predict the sequence of the analysis equipment?
Because Im familiar with it. Well, this should be enough.
Yoo Kang-seok turned his gaze to theptop monitor.
A screen filled with a continuous array of four nucleic acids A, G, C, T. It was unreasonable to say that this was urate, but the arrangement of the bases seemed very neat to be just scribbled.
Beep, beep.
Yoo Kang-seok turned his head to the analysis screen inside the PCR equipment and had to blink once. A unique nucleotide sequence appeared three minutester. It was exactly as Jeong-woo had written.
W-what do you do?
Im a researcher at KG Chemistry. My name is Han Jeong-woo.
Yoo Kang-seok double-checked the PCR analysis results and Jeong-woos DNA structure and marveled.
It cant be true This is
It was beyond the level where one could write exactly the same even knowing what the virus was.
Mr. Han Jeong-woo. Do you really know what this is and wrote it down?
Uh The exact name is blurry, but I remember the DNA structure vividly. I work in pharmaceuticals, so Ive seen it here and there.
You make vines. No wonder
Jeong-woo didnt mention that the actual research would start next week.
After gaining trust, the work progressed in no time.
Later, Yoo Kang-seok who was concentrating on the monitor, spoke.
I found it. It seems to be a variant of Pasteure multocida that was recently epidemic in China. Nothing unusual.
Can it be treated?
Usually, with antibiotics is possible. Since its a pathogen that causes opportunistic infections, it doesnt affect healthy individuals. In this case, healthy animals should be able to receive a safe diagnosis.
Thats a relief.
Yoo Kang-seok, who finished organizing thetest information on the pathogen, looked at Jeong-woo again with a face full of admiration.
Thanks to you, this process has been shortened by at least half a day. How do you memorize and carry around information about a pathogen reported only in China?
I just happened to
Jeong-woo smiled slightly and avoided the question.
Yoo Kang-seok nced at Jeong-woo with curious eyes, then looked at the quarantine officer and Mr Park, who were chatting.
Mr Park would be delighted if its not a new dangerous pathogen.
Ah, Investigator. But
Jeong-woo pointed out a slight difference between the nucleotide sequence in the gic information bank window and the one he had written.
This part is slightly different from the original one, isnt it?
Uh, Mr. Jeong-woo, you wrote it based on your memory, so its natural to have some errors, right? I took that into ount and searched.
Errors?
Since it was copied directly from the cats blood, there couldnt be any mistakes.
Jeong-woo asked just in case.
If were talking hypotheticals, what kind of ripple effects would ur if such mutations ur in the pathogen?
Just by analyzing, theres a possibility that mutations have urred in the cell receptor sites. Predictions beyond that are more difficult. If this mutagenic factor evolves by crossing species, it could increase infectivity or even disrupt the immune system of healthy individuals.
In that case
It would be a novel virus without a vine.
Jeong-woo internally swallowed a groan at Yoo Kang-seoks response.
Although he couldnt be sure without seeing the original infecting agent of the initial outbreak, he felt it wouldnt be something to take lightly.
Jeong-woo pondered how to convey the fact that this was an urate gic analysis without any errors. Then he saw Go Eun-sil running towards the clean room from outside.
Senior! The second outbreak cat has appeared!
Now?
Yoo Kang-seok immediately rushed out.
Instead of following Yoo Kang-seok, Go Eun-sil turned her head towards Jeong-woo. Surprised by the anxiety in her eyes, Jeong-woo asked.
Is it Kiki?
No, but the chances have increased since two cats have been infected. Its evidence of infectivity.
Where are the blood samples collected for antigen testing?
In the examination room.
Jeong-woo decided he needed to confirm visually first and stepped outside.
7 PM Crisis Level Alert
Hurrying into the makeshift clinic tent after a month-long absence, Jeong-woo spotted Yoon Yi-seol standing with a worried expression and quickly approached her.
Yi-seol.
Yoon Yi-seol pointed towards a kitten on the examination table, meowing weakly.
It seems very sick. The vet says it has a high fever.
Jeong-woo turned his gaze towards the blood vialsid out for serum analysis. Numbered vials, each carefullybeled. As he checked each one, he noticed that vial number 7 contained a significant amount of the virus.
Yi-seol, whats Kikis number?
Its number 19. Why?
No reason.
Jeong-woo took a deep breath.
Number 7 was the kitten currently being treated on the examination table, and Yoo Kang-seok had just taken it away to the analysis room.
Please, let it not be there.
Taking a deep breath, Jeong-woo focused his gaze on vial number 19, Kikis blood. The top part was clean, but the bottom part showed some signs of mutagenic factors.
Kiki
Chapter 125
Chapter 125- 24h of troubles(4)
Jeong-woo turned his gaze to Kiki, who wasying inside a transparent cage with an air purification device attached.
Though she didnt seem to be in pain yet, her expression was considerably downcast.
Where could she have contracted it from?
ording to the gic information of Pasteure bacteria, infection was unlikely unless there was direct contact, so the possibility of Kiki contracting the disease after being in the car all day was almost nonexistent.
However, what was circting in Kikis body at the moment was not the entire pathogen but a mutated portion of the gic material.
Its so small that it could easily be carried by air and wind at any time.
Suddenly, a scene from the daytime shed in his mind.
Jeong-woo, after briefly closing his eyes, saw a kitten on the examination table.
The temperature was as vividly red as the other animal during the day. The first-infected cats receiving antibiotics in the enclosed area was equally reddish.
Turning his eyes, he saw Kikis temperature.
Orange. But there was a subtle difference from the surrounding cats. It was because her immune system was fighting against the activated mutant pathogens.
I cant just sit idly by.
As the culprit became clear, so did the immediate action that needed to be taken.
After thoroughly examining all blood samples, Jeong-woo approached Go Eun-sil, who was monitoring the condition of the cats in her care.
Eun-sil, can I have a moment?
Yeah?
Number 26. Shes going to get sick soon.
What do you mean?
At Jeong-woos words about the sick cat she was about to handle, Go Eun-sil blinked her eyes with a puzzled look.
Check her temperature again. Itll be 0.1 to 2 degrees higher than the other cats.
When did you check her temperature? Still, thats within the margin of error
If the temperature of cat number 26 gets worse, tell the other vets to prioritize cats with rtively higher temperatures. In my opinion, itll be numbers 26, 5, 13, and 19.
What, Kiki too?
Go Eun-sils gaze, confirming cat number 19, turned to Yoon Yi-seol, who was sadly watching over the kitten from the side.
Jeong-woo also looked at Yoon Yi-seol and then spoke softly.
Keep it a secret until the outbreak. I came to make sure that my friend doesnt cry anymore, but the situation isnt helping.
She seems to be really special to you.
Is that so? Ive received a lot from her without doing anything special.
Whether then or now, you still trying to be cool, Han Jeong-woo.
Go Eun-sil lightly tapped Jeong-woos side.
Ouch, that hurts.
Stop being a baby.
You still have the strength of a man in your fists. Youve only a woman because of your face, thats all.
While Jeong-woo grumbled, Go Eun-sil, who had been watching him with a smirk, pointed to Yoon Yi-seol.
Even if I dont know her, she seems kind. Her voice is pretty too. She doesnt seem to have a cold so I dont understand why shes covering her face. Is her name still a secret?
Sorry.
Got it. Ill cooperate, so do your best.
After ending the conversation, Jeong-woo approached Yoon Yi-seol.
I think I need to go back to the examination area. Yi-seol
Dont worry ande back safely.
Just as Jeong-woo was about to leave the tent, Yoon Yi-seol grabbed his hand.
Seeing you today alone is enough to make me happy, so dont be disappointed that the date failed. Im satisfied enough.
It seemed that the angelic Yoon Yi-seol hadnt gone anywhere. As he held her warm hand and looked into her eyes, which were even warmer, his goal became even clearer.
Save Kiki and continue the date.
Even if the obstacle is a new infectious disease without a vine.
Investigator Yoo. These are the samples collected from the initial outbreak in cows and chickens.
Yoo Kang-seok turned his head at the sound while observing a portion of cat number 7s blood under the microscope.
Noh Sang-ik, a livestock quarantine officer from the Ministry of Agriculture, had ced the sample box next to the experimental table.
Quarantine officer. Considering that there was no positive reaction with the rapid test kit, it doesnt seem to be foot-and-mouth disease or avian influenza, right?
Im not sure. Its my first time encountering this type. Oh? Were you running PCR first?
Symptoms appeared in the cats. We found the causative bacteria.
When Noh Sang-ik saw the Pasteure variant on the monitor, his face turned surprised.
Its of Chinese origin? As expected from the National Veterinary Research Institute. They found it at once.
It wasnt my doing. It was a friend of my junior that called for help.
Yoo Kang-seok looked around for the unseen reinforcements from earlier. Meanwhile, Noh Sang-ik, who had beenying out the sample specimens on the experiment table, asked.
By the way, if cats are infected, how should we conduct the epidemiological investigation? Have there been outbreaks reported in other areas?
Not yet, but its not a reassuring stage. The level of transmission is different from whats been reported. Its odd that only two cats out of all the animals, including dogs, rabbits, and hamsters under temporary protection, are sick.
What level are you considering?
We should go up to the caution level. Establish a quarantine headquarters for more sophisticated analysis
Yoo Kang-seoks words stopped abruptly as someone had hit him on the back of the head. Park Chung-sik, ring, looked at Yoo Kang-seok.
We havent even finished running PCR yet, and youre talking like this?
I just have a bad feeling about it, thats all, a hunch.
Oh, a fantastic hunch? What did you sayst time when the emergency was dered by the relevant ministries, and you were about to give a government briefing? Didnt you say something like it might not be necessary to evacuate since the infectivity seemed weaker than expected? Huh?
Um, Im not sure when that was.
Shut up and bring evidence. Oh, its been a while, Director Noh.
Noh Sang-ik alternated his gaze between the confident Park Chung-sik and Yoo Kang-seok, who had his head down, then continuedying out the sample specimens.
Investigator, I have something to tell you
Into the gap between the three, someones voice interjected.
A fairly young man entered the testing room, and Yoo Kang-seok, who had been scratching his head, weed him with a friendly face.
Oh, Han Jeong-woo. Come here,e.
Jeong-woo bowed his head when a man standing next to Yoo Kang-seok looked at him sharply.
Park Chung-sik asked, looking at Jeong-woo.
Who is this?
Hes part of the support team.
What?
Hell help find evidence, or are you just going to stand there doing nothing?
After pushing Park Chung-sik aside, Yoo Kang-seok gestured to Jeong-woo.
Do you have any opinions?
Could you please pull up the gic sequence information I wrote earlier?
Manipting theptop, Yoo Kang-seok turned the screen.
Is this it?
Yes. Please remove the ovepping parts with the previously reported Pasteure variant.
He ovepped two pathogens and removedmon gicponents, leaving only the short gic sequences on the screen.
Yoo Kang-seok frowned reflexively when he saw the remaining portion.
Ugh, it looks like a horrible piece of DNA virus.
Noh Sang-ik, who had also been interested in the screen, widened his eyes at his words.
Jeong-woo pointed to the screen with the mutated genes from Kikis blood and said.
I wonder if this sudden activation of dormant bacteria is the cause.
Whats the basis for that judgment?
Pasteure is not easily transmitted through airborne routes like respiratory diseases. So, there must be a separate source of infection.
Even though the final diagnosis hasnt been confirmed, youre already thinking that far ahead, Mr. Jeong-woo. Youre quite quick. Alright, lets see.
Yoo Kang-seok started searching the gic information bank for the mutated genes.
After a while, something popped up on the screen amidst the ongoing search.
[No Data]
Yoo Kang-seok paused. When he expanded the search to simr ones, one appeared shortly after. He read it aloud as it was.
Its of the Leptospira genus. It has the property to prate tissues through blood vessels Oh? Its simr to the Q strain, isnt it?
Whats the Q strain?
Its a disease where infection urs even if you absorb just one pathogen. If this is simr to that, then it could be a new infectious disease that hasnt been reported before. Moreover, its highly contagious.
Yoo Kang-seok, looking at the still-operating PCR machine and said to Park Chung-sik.
If its a mutation that hasnt been reported to academia yet, we might need to escte it to serious instead of just caution.
Park Chung-sik sighed.
Whats all this fuss over two cows and four chickens sick?
We need to add two more cats.
As Jeong-woo added, Park Chung-sik gave him a look as if to say, Whats he up to now? Then he turned to Yoo Kang-seok and said.
If its not foot-and-mouth disease or avian influenza, we cant just raise them all at once. Finish the tests quickly and confirm it. Dont waver at the words of an unknown outsider.
Park Chung-sik, even you should have recognized Han Jeong-woos ability to find the bacteria based on just the initial PCR analysis.
Since when did you trust what others say? Please look at my words the same way. Follow the procedure, follow the regtions, and start with the evidence!
With that, Park Chung-sik left theb. Yoo Kang-seok sighed deeply and turned to Noh Sang-ik.
Do you also share Park Chung-siks thoughts?
Im neutral. But I can see that the probability of this being more likely than foot-and-mouth disease or avian influenza is higher. When will the PCR results be out?
Itll be around 11 oclock at the earliest.
We have about four hours left. Will anything significant happen if its dyed by that much? Weve already set up the quarantine line.
Yoo Kang-seok turned to look at Jeong-woo, who was standing quietly.
Im sorry. Even if Han Jeong-woos opinion is correct, were all civil servants, and we have to abide by the rules.
If its confirmed, what will happen next?
Aprehensive epidemiological investigation will begin. We need to find the culprit who spread the new infectious disease to prevent it from spreading to other livestock in the future. Thats our job.
Following that exnation, they would focus on capturing various wildlife around the first outbreak area, collect blood, feces, and saliva samples, and conduct thorough examinations.
Through the considerable time and effort put into this process, finding the initial culprit was the only way to end the situation.
And if antibodies are detected in a specific wildlife group, they will be designated as natural hosts.
What about treating animals already infected?
Without a vine, we stabilize them with general antibiotics and expect about ten days to two weeks until they receive a safe diagnosis. Of course, assuming its not a deadly pathogen.
Two weeks?
Realizing how long Yoon Yi-seol would have to wait anxiously, Jeong-woo felt it was a problem he couldnt back away from.
Investigator, I have one more question.
What?
If we bring hosts with antibodies, can you make a customized vine right away?
Well
If you cant, Ill do it myself, but can you assist?
Yoo Kang-seok swallowed a groan at Jeong-woos confidence. From initial diagnosis to vine production, if what the young man dered could be achieved, it would be resolved as soon as they discovered the new infectious disease. It was an oue thats logically impossible.
If everything goes as Han Jeong-woo said, Im willing to help regardless of what Park Chung-sik says. But normally, finding hosts takes several days.
Dont worry. I think I saw it earlier.
Excuse me?
In any case, you promised.
As Jeong-woo left theb, Yoo Kang-seok could only watch him nkly.
Noh Sang-ik approached Yoo Kang-seok.
What did that guy just say? Hes going to find the culprit who spread this disease? Does that make any sense?
It doesnt make sense, but I have a feeling he might find it.
What kind of feeling is that?
Yoo Kang-seok looked at the samples on the bench, pondering.
Come to think of it, the gic information he provided was the most up-to-date and unrecorded in the database. He identified the mutation from the unfinished gic information analysis.
As Yoo Kang-seok deliberated with a vial in hand, he realized this wasnt right and handed it to Noh Sang-ik.
You know how to handle this, right? It seems more profitable to follow him than standing here waiting for the results for hours. I have a strong feeling about it.
Just following your gut will lead Park Chung-sik to scold us.
Please!
In front of the medical tent.
Jeong-woo called Go Eun-sil outside and began to exin the tasks ahead.
This animal is about this size. It didnt seem aggressive.
Do you even know how dangerous wild animals can be?
Thats why I asked for an animal anesthetic. And Ive had experiences narrowly avoiding being hunted by gray wolves.
Stop joking around.
Jokes dont fly in the skan wilderness, friend.
Go Eun-sil clicked her tongue and shook her head.
Still, I cant give it to you. You need a permit to use animal anesthetics.
Really? Then do we need to arrange it separately?
Ill apany you.
Yoo Kang-seok, carrying a bag, suddenly appeared, widening Go Eun-sils eyes.
Senior Kang-seok.
Oh, Eun-sil. Since Ill be apanying Han Jeong-woo, you handle the work inside.
Do you also trust what he says, senior? Hes going to find the host or whatever.
Notpletely, but to some extent. I have an anesthetic gun, so just give me some xzine.
Seeing Yoo Kang-seok toss his luggage aside, Go Eun-sil shook her head and disappeared into the tent.
Jeong-woo asked Yoo Kang-seok.
Investigator, are you reallying with me?
Why, afraid Ill get in the way? Ive been on many capture missions. When we find the culprit, youll feel relieved.
Jeong-woo was worried that Yoo Kang-seok might hinder their progress, as he nned to search quickly through the molecr world and infrared vision. However, he couldnt refuse Yoo Kang-seoks help because they might need it when they returned after finding the host.
While pondering, Go Eun-sil emerged from the tent carrying a few vials of medicine. Surprised to see her without the white gown and wearing a coat, Jeong-woo asked.
Are you alsoing?
Kang-seok, you dont have a veterinarian license. So, you cant carry an anesthetic gun.
Yoo Kang-seok coughed at her words and turned his head away.
To safely bring them back, you need at least one veterinarian. Judging by what youre doing, it seems like youre trying to solve this quickly and leave. I said I would help earlier, didnt I?
Thats
Thepany unexpectedly increased. Jeong-woo thought it would be better to start moving than dy further, so he gestured towards the parking lot.
The car is over there. The ck van. Wait there while I move first.
Yoon Yi-seol ced a bag filled with food on a secluded bench. She got food from the convenience store to have dinner with Jeong-woo. Thinking of this as a kind of meal date somehow lifted her spirits.
Seeing no one passing by, she quickly took off her mask and hat and tidied up. Wanting to look pretty, she even checked herself meticulously with the phones front camera.
He said hed be here soon
While waiting, her phone rang. She pressed the call button as Oh Sora was written on the screen.
Hi.
-Whats up? You sound cheerful?
Well, you know~
-Since we have a day off tomorrow, lets hang out together.
I cant.
-Why not? Your schedule is pretty clear.
Spotting Jeong-woo approaching from afar, Yoon Yi-seol hurriedly replied.
K-Kiki is in danger, and I have other work too
-Why are you stuttering like that? Did you happen to meet that jerk who doesnt answer your calls?
Ah no.
Yoon Yi-seol.
-Oh?
Yoon Yi-seol hung up abruptly and gestured towards the bench.
I bought sandwiches and other things. Jeong-woo must be hungry, right?
We should leave for Seonyudo now. Will you stay with Kiki, Yi-seol?
As the manager requests
Yoon Yi-seols gaze lingered on one of the two people standing next to the van in the parking lot.
Is Doctor Go Eun-sil going too?
It turned out that way.
Then Ill go too.
You might get scratched by branches in the dark forest.
Rising from her seat, Yoon Yi-seol stood in front of Jeong-woo, her eyes flickered with determination.
Youre nning to go into that dark forest alone with your first love.
Its not just the two of us. Investigator Yoo Kang-seok will be there too.
Anyway!
With her cheeks puffed out, Yoon Yi-seol looked cute, and Jeong-woo couldnt help but smile softly.
Dont just smile like that, give me a clear answer. Im getting mad.
Well, if you define love the way most people do
Jeong-woo reached out his hand towards Yoon Yi-seols forehead, which was tousled by the sea breeze, and gently tidied it up, saying,
then my first love is you.
Thump.
Yoon Yi-seols eyes widened in disbelief.
F-First, what?
If youre uneasy, lets go together. Hold hands tightly and have a date in that dark ce.
As Jeong-woo grabbed her hand like a lifeline, Yoon Yi-seol was taken aback. Holding her breath, she nced at Jeong-woo, then closed her eyes tightly and raised to her tiptoes.
The feeling of their faces gradually getting closer. However, even as time passed, the anticipated collision of their lips did not happen.
What are you doing?
At this sound, Yoon Yi-seol opened her eyes slightly. Then she looked at Jeong-woo, who was standing with his head slightly turned back.
Why? That was the mood, wasnt it?
Why? Havent you forgotten what happenedst time in a simr mood?
I dont remember.
Avoiding Jeong-woos gaze, Yoon Yi-seol, with a shy smile, softly said.
Im still not fully recovered. If I cant keep that promise, itll be hard for us to go on a date.
Ugh. I know, I know. Holding hands is the only thing possible for the next 7 months, right?
Im trying my best, so maybe itll get faster.
Trying?
Well talk about thatter. Theyre waiting for us.
Youre trying to kiss me? Wow~
Seeing Yoon Yi-seols happy smile, Jeong-woo couldnt help but make a helpless expression.
Standing in front of the van, Yoo Kang-seok wore a surprised expression.
Doesnt this look like a car celebrities ride in? Quite luxurious. Eun-sil, what does your friend do?
I told you he works at a chemicalpany.
No way, are you two dating?
Yoo Kang-seok inwardly shouted Please no as he waited for her response.
Hes just a childhood friend.
Huh.
Hes also my first love.
What?
Go Eun-sil pointed towards the two approaching from the direction of the breakwater bench.
Theyreing. By the way, thedy next to her is the one Jeong-woo is interested in.
Ohe on! Stop teasing me.
Why? Senior, you dont have feelings for me anymore.
Thats true.
Yoo Kang-seok, who hastily replied, sighed and shook his head. Then he turned his gaze to the woman approaching with a mask and hat on.
Although her face was covered, her well-built figure and the aura of elegance emanating from her appearance gave him a strong premonition that she might be quite a beauty.
Anyway, Han Jeong-woo isnt a celebrity, right?
Muttering to himself, Yoo Kang-seok recalled the tabloid article he had seen beforeing here.
[Transformation into a beautiful ind girl, a sketch of Daisy photo shoot location]
Yeah, theres a photo shoot for Yoon Yi-seol on Seonyudo today.
So, thatdy is Yoon Yi-seol?
At Go Eun-sils inquiry, Yoo Kang-seok smirked.
Isnt that too coincidental? The nations little sister suddenly appearing in this countryside setting.
In the meantime, Jeong-woo and the masked woman arrived.
Youve been waiting, right? Lets go now.
Jeong-woo pressed the button with the smart key, and the cars lock mechanism was released.
Get in, Investigator. Eun-sil, you too.
Go Eun-sil sat in the back seat first. Yoo Kang-seok hesitated at the back door and asked Jeong-woo.
Who is thedy next to you?
Shes my friend. I left my cat with her.
Oh, I see
Earlier, you seemed to feel sorry for her as well.
Oh, earlier. I remember. She was next to Han Jeong-woo. Nice to meet you, Im Yoo Kang-seok.
The masked woman nodded politely.
Hello, Im Yoon Yi Ah.
Yes?
Im Yoon. Seo-yoon.
I see.
Yoo Kang-seok nodded and got into the car.
In a split second, the masked woman, Yoon Yi-seol, came up with a pseudonym, scratching her chin, then exchanged nces with Jeong-woo.
Seeing her gesture of sping both hands and showing remorse, Jeong-woo signaled her to be careful with her words.
As Jeong-woo and Yoon Yi-seol took their seats, Yoo Kang-seok spoke excitedly.
By the way, her voice sounds familiar. Are you perhaps a celebrity?
No.
Really? Anyway, its a familiar voice. Very charming.
Yoon Yi-seol in the passenger seat lowered her head.
The car, with the four upants, left the parking lot and disappeared onto the bridge leading to Seonyudo.
Chapter 126
Chapter 126- 24h of troubles(5)
9 PM Crisis Level Alert
From the summit of a mountain, overlooking the area in silence, Jeong-woo scanned the Gogunsan Inds, consisting of around 30rge and small inds grouped together.
Where are you?
During the hike up the trail, Jeong-woo hadnt encountered any animals with unusually high temperature.
Considering the closed environment with only one exit leading outside, it was unlikely that the creatures had traveled far from this vicinity.
With his eyes gleaming, Jeong-woo surveyed the area beneath the mountainside and spotted a red aura from the coastline on the outskirts of the ind.
There it is.
After roughly an hour of exploration, he finally found it, letting out a sigh of relief.
Whew, Im out of breath.
Following him, Yoo Kang-seok approached Jeong-woos side.
Seriously, how keen are your night vision skills to climb up here alone without antern? I almost died trying to follow you.
We might have to go back down. To the coast over there.
Wiping sweat off his forehead, Yoo Kang-seoks legs wobbled slightly.
Did you found it?
Yes. If youre tired, take a rest.
Im fine, but what about Seo-yoon and Eun-sil?
Jeong-woo turned his gaze to Go Eun-sil and Yoon Yi-seol walking up from below. They were chatting animatedly, seeming to enjoy themselves immensely.
There was no trace of jealousy, as if they were the closest of friends.
Sit down here for now. Ill bring them.
Leaving Yoo Kang-seok behind, Jeong-woo approached the slope and addressed Go Eun-sil, who wasing up.
Eun-sil, watch your step. The rocks here are slippery.
Oh, thanks. Seo-yoon, Jeong-woo says to be careful.
Yes, unnie!
After sending off Go Eun-sil, Jeong-woo reached out his hand to Yoon Yi-seol, who was following behind.
Hold on. Dont fall.
Taking her hand and climbing the stone steps, Jeong-woo casually asked.
Unnie?
Ive decided to call her that way.
Why do you talk so much? What if we get caught?
I didnt talk about myself. I was talking about my friend, you know.
Yoon Yi-seol looked up at Jeong-woo with sparkling eyes.
You used to get beaten up by Go Eun-sil?
Did I?
As Jeong-woo stumbled in confusion, Yoon Yi-seol grabbed his hand in return and chuckled.
Wow, the air up here feels great.
Watching Yoon Yi-seol walk ahead, Jeong-woo called out to his childhood friend, who revealed his childhood secret.
Go Eun-sil! What did you just say?
Shortly after, the group sat on a spacious rock at the summit and took a break while sharing the sandwiches Yoon Yi-seol had prepared.
After finishing thest bite of his sandwich, Jeong-woo stood near the cliff. The target on the coast remained in the same spot.
It doesnt seem to be asleep.
At the rustling sound, Jeong-woo turned his head. Yoon Yi-seol approached with a water bottle, and he quickly reached out to support her.
Its dangerous here.
Then hold onto me tightly so I dont fall.
She pulled her mask down below her chin and stood next to Jeong-woo with a warm smile.
Here, water. I deliberately left just enough for you to drinkst. Eun-sil said youre sensitive to saliva and such.
Then why did you do it knowing that?
To attempt an indirect kiss.
As Jeong-woo drank the water, he choked at her words. Yoon Yi-seol, as if expecting that, patted his back and asked.
What were you looking at?
Over there.
Jeong-woo pointed to a spot with his finger, but Yoon Yi-seols gaze remained fixed on his eyes without moving.
What?
Your eyes shine so beautifully. Its fascinating.
Stop it.
Its not like its wearing out. What are you so shy about?
Her contours, transmitted through body heat because of infrared vision, were so clear. Jeong-woo had no choice but to shift his focus to the sky.
These eyes can actually see through everything. Eventually, everything will be exposed.
Try it then. What am I thinking?
With a provocative look, Yoon Yi-seol lifted her chin and challenged him. Jeong-woo closed his eyes for a moment, then opened them and replied.
A very sinister thought to have in a dark, cold, lonely ce.
Uh-oh.
I was talking about holding hands, why is your face so red?
Jeong-woo grabbed Yoon Yi-seols cheek and forcibly turned her gaze forward. She leaned her head against his shoulder.
You said Yoon Yi-seol was your first love. Specifically, what do you like about her to call it love?
There was a hint of excitement in her questioning tone. Jeong-woo, who had only intended to resolve the situation quickly and leave, found this time together not so bad after all.
When she sings, shes quite beautiful. I just cant resist.
I see.
Suddenly, Yoon Yi-seol hummed a tune and closed her eyes. Jeong-woo gently covered her forehead with his hand as she leaned in to offer her lips.
Stop. If you fall asleep here, theres no way out, you know?
What if I cant resist?
Maybe because I mainly see her on screen. I think I can resist.
Yoon Yi-seol sighed, her eyes turning resentful.
Its unfair. Some people just looking at the face feels like they cant breathe, like their bodies float, so their minds are all over the ce. If its going to be like this, why did you confess I was your first love? Just to make my heart flutter?
Looking at her with a pouting face, Jeong-woo asked.
Im suddenly curious. Am I your first love?
Wow, look at that lighthouse. The light is so beautiful.
Even if your mind is preupied, the night scenery still catches your eye.
Any, anyone could have someone they admire, right? What matters is the emotions of the present moment.
I understand, Seo-yoon.
The emotions of the present moment.
Yes, yes.
I love you.
Park Chung-sik paced in front of the tent while talking on the phone with a senior official, his eyes widening in shock.
People are falling ill?
-Thats right. While the Chinese individuals engaged in illegal fishing were detained by the Gogunsan Coast Guard, over half of them are currently hospitalized at Donggunsan Hospital due to high fever.
The Chinese vessels are the main culprits in this situation? When were they detained?
-Its been a few days.
Unexpected news from the head of the Animal and nt Quarantine Agency made Park Chung-sik swallow hard, his mouth suddenly dry.
The hygiene conditions of these Chinese individuals are not great, are they? Its not somon for diseases to spread back and forth between humans and animals.
-That may be true, but even the hospital staff cant figure out the cause of the infection. These individuals fled from the Coast Guard and the first ce they docked was Seonyudo. Its hard to believe this is just a coincidence.
The possibility of a new type of zoonotic infectious disease kept echoing in his mind. The words uttered by Yoo Kang-seok came back to him. Park Chung-sik wiped his sweaty hands on the edge of his shirt.
-When will we know the results?
Around 11 oclock.
-The mayor of Gogunsan will personallye to the situation room, so report even the smallest details promptly. Strengthen the on-site quarantine efforts.
Yes, sir.
After ending the call, Park realized there was no time to lose. He hurried into the inspection tent.
Kang-seok! Tell me more about what you mentioned earlier Huh?
As he peered inside, he saw only quarantine staff and employees. Park Chung-sik locked eyes with Noh Sang-ik, who was standing in front of theb bench.
Where is Kang-seok?
He went to Seonyudo to find the cause.
What?
He immediately dialed Yoo Kang-seoks number on his phone. The signal connected, and then his voice came through.
-What? Why are you calling at this hour?
At this hour? Where did you go, leaving your post?
-Im in the middle of a forest. Ill tell you when I get back.
-Be careful with the branches.
-Ouch!
After a while of rustling sounds, Yoo Kang-seoks voice continued.
-Ah, it hurts. This isnt a ce to walk while talking on the phone. If its not urgent, lets talkter.
Its urgent! Gogunsan is forming a joint government support team. Everyone is in a panic, saying it could be a disease affecting people too.
-What?
Park Chung-sik quickly briefed him on the information he heard from the head of the Animal and nt Quarantine Agency.
So, hurry back.
-Then I wont be able toe back even more.
What? Are you out of your mind?
-Indeed, my excellent intuition in choosing Han Jeong-woo seems to be right on point. Just wait. Ille back with surprising news.
After hanging up the phone, Park Chung-sik turned to Noh Sang-ik.
What do you think, Inspector? Does this seem like a new infectious disease?
As someone who mainly deals with foot-and-mouth disease, I cant be sure. However, if we assume the information left behind by that young man is urate, its clear that management at the level of handling high-risk groups infectious diseases is necessary.
Park Chung-sik raised his hand to his temple, suppressing a headache, and asked hesitantly.
Does it make sense that that young man knew everything about an unidentified infectious disease? Is that usible?
Noh Sang-ik smiled faintly.
Given the situation, it seems usible.
Then we need to dere a state of emergency immediately. You might not be able to go home for about two weeks.
Whats interesting is that this young man was even thinking about vine production.
At this remark, Park Chung-sik let out a bitterugh.
If it were that easy to solve, why would we have the Animal and nt Quarantine Agency, why would we have vinepanies? Just wait for Kang-seok toe back.
Thud
asionally, thenterns light flickered along the rugged coastline where the waves surged.
I smell something ahead
Just a moment, Mr. Jeong-woo. Let me reload the tranquilizer gun.
The ears of the brown dog, which had been gazing into the dark sea beyond, perked up. As it crouched down, the bright light flooded into the deeper crevice, illuminating the inside of the rocky cave.
A hand, holding an object that seemed threatening to the dogs cautious gaze, was revealed.
Woof
The intention to attack if someone approached closely was made clear, the opponent hesitated.
Senior, hold your fire. Hes seems to be a trained dog that responds to human voices. Friendly. Not here to harm.
The dog ceased barking at the stable voiceing from the rtively less threatening human.
Wanna eat this? I have some sausages left.
Amidst this, a soft and warm voice was heard.
He responds better to Miss Seo-yoon. Slowly take that off and toss it towards the front.
Like this?
Sniffing the scent of something that had fallen at his feet, the dog hastily put it in his mouth.
Seems quite hungry. Keep giving him that and gradually lead him towards our side.
With his tail wagging, the dog took steps forward, meeting the gaze of four humans.
My, look at how skinny he is.
One human, casting a pitiful nce, put down everything he was holding on the ground.
Instinctively drawn by the fragrant scent, the dog approached. As he consumed the food, the four people surrounded him.
He has a cor. I dont really know Chinese characters. Senior, do you know how to read?
Mingming? Something like that?
The dogs head shot up.
Is your name Mingming?
Woof!
Hum
A ck van came to a stop in the parking lot of the Saemangeum Rest Area.
The back door opened, and Go Eun-sil and Yoo Kang-seok, holding a nket wrapped around a dog, hurriedly jumped into the medical tent.
Just before getting out of the drivers seat, Jeong-woo nced back at Yoon Yi-seol.
Ill go in to wrap things up and thene out. We should be able to leave before 12 oclock.
I heard from Eun-sil that its not an easy problem to solve.
Our Seo-yoon has been trusting only her Eun-sils words since earlier, and doesnt believe me much. Its frustrating. If you happen to see Yoon Yi-seol, please tell her to wait for just an hour here. Seo-yoon, take care.
Jeong-woo cut the conversation short and left. Yoon Yi-seol, who had been watching his retreating figure, couldnt help but smile bitterly.
Hes quite cool saying it so coldly, isnt he? No. Pull yourself together, Yi-seol. If you fall for everything like this, theres no room for ying hard to get. Well But still, hes cool.
11 PM Crisis Level Serious
Park Chung-sik was startled as he stepped out of the tent after receiving the PCR test results.
The sight of reporters beyond the control line. It wasnt just local newspapers, but major media outlets as well. How they caught wind of it was a mystery.
There was no tension quite like the tension before the initial media announcement. With information still sparse, if they answered incorrectly, the whole country might be in turmoil by tomorrow morning.
Sigh Kang-seok hunch was right.
An outbreak of an unreported novel zoonotic infectious disease.
If it turns out to be linked to illegal Chinese fishing vessels, the epidemiological investigation surrounding it will be overwhelming.
Park Chung-sik!
Kang-seok, who had been sticking to the medical tent without bothering to look at the test results, rushed over.
We seeded.
What?
The vine. The affected cats are now entering the recovery phase.
What vine have you been talking about all this time? Are you going to keep bothering me with that nonsense? I have to report to the mayor now, you know?
Ugh. Come with me.
As they opened the door to the makeshift tent housing the animals and stepped inside, they saw a crowd of people gathered around the examination table.
Park Chung-sik pushed through them and went further inside.
A female veterinarian was tickling a kitten on the examination table.
Hey? Isnt that the second outbreak cat?
Yes. The first batch is here. The third and fourth batches are over there.
They looked around as the veterinarian pointed, but there were no distressed animals in sight.
What kind of harmony is this
However, Park Chung-siks attention was caught by a young man holding a white cat.
Realizing it was Han Jeong-woo, Park Chung-sik nudged Kang-seok, who was smiling beside him, as if to say, Exin.
Exin it so I can understand. A novel infectious disease is sweeping through Gogunsan, yet the atmosphere here is so peaceful?
It may be dangerous for rats, chickens, and cats, but it should be covered by the vine.
Is that what that guy said?
Yes. I agree with him.
Again?
What more do you want to know? Ive already told you everything. Ask him directly if youre curious. Before Han Jeong-woo leaves.
Park Chung-sik made a confirming expression towards Kang-seok but quickly softened his expression as Han Jeong-woo approached.
Are you Han Jeong-woo? If its okay, could you spare a moment to talk with me?
Right now?
ncing at his watch, Jeong-woo replied.
I have to leave by 12. I have an appointment.
Waiting for Jeong-woo, who said he woulde in an hour, Yoon Yi-seol, feeling bored, turned on the DMB in the car.
Turning the channels back and forth, she nced at the news that happened to be airing while searching for something to pass the time.
The breakwater behind the podium at the press conference looked very familiar.
Huh? Isnt this right in front?
Yoon Yi-seol increased the volume of the screen.
Park Chung-sik. You mentioned earlier that this sudden mutant virus originated from a dog abandoned on a Chinese fishing vessel. In 2002, during the SARS outbreak, Chinese authorities culled 10,000 civets when civets were identified as the culprit. Will you not do the same thing again?
-Since the vine already exists and the infection route is clear, it is expected that such a wave will not ur.
Smart.
Turning her head at the sound of knocking on the passenger seat door, Yoon Yi-seol saw Go Eun-sil standing in front.
Yoon Yi-seol put on her mask and immediately lowered the window.
Unnie.
Jeong-woo asked me to bring Kiki.
Meow
Kiki, who was in Go Eun-sils arms, gracefullynded on Yoon Yi-seolsp through the window.
Is Kiki safe now?
Yes, thanks to someone.
He did something again.
At Yoon Yi-seols familiar reaction, Go Eun-sil let out a silentugh.
Oh, Jeong-woo will be a littlete.
Late? Where is he?
Go Eun-sil pointed to the monitor showing the news.
There.
Huh?
Next to the podium where journalists were bombarding with questions, Jeong-woo was standing.
It seems like the head of the Epidemiological Investigation Department asked him to assist with the press conference.
Is that so?
Im going to take care of other cats. Have a safe trip back to Seoul, Yoon Yi-seol.
Surprised by this statement, Yoon Yi-seol turned her head.
How
Kang-seok senior is oblivious. How could he not recognize that beautiful voice? Im a big fan of Yi-seols songs.
Yoon Yi-seol lowered her mask, greeted with a shy nod, then bowed deeply.
Lets meet again when Soo-chan and the alley members gather.
Yes, definitely.
Watching Go Eun-sil walk away and wave her hand, Yoon Yi-seol muttered quietly, Im sorry.
How could she not realize she had feelings for Jeong-woo. But in front of love, one must remain firm.
Love is fate and timing, after all.
How do you guarantee the safety of the vine?
Well
Park Chung-sik turned his gaze to Jeong-woo. It was a moment that required a professional discussion. Upon receiving the signal, Jeong-woo nodded.
It would be quicker to hear an exnation from the researchers who actually developed the vine.
As Jeong-woo stepped forward, the attention of the journalists focused on him.
I work at KG Chemical Pharmaceutical Bio Center.
Since you developed the vine, but how can you guarantee that it will be effective against this cross-species epidemic?
We were able to find neutralizing antibodies that effectively block this mutant gene from the natural host. We mass-produced it in culture vessels, and currently, all the animals infected with the disease have been treatable.
As soon as the answer ended, questions flew one after another.
Due to the potential risks posed by the natural host that first disseminated this pathogen, should it be culled?
If we can produce the vine inrge quantities, shouldnt we now exclude the contamination medium?
All the questions were aggressive and sharp.
Seeing that it was almost 12 oclock, Jeong-woo quickly continued to answer.
Mingmings immune system was greatlypromised due to poor nutritional status. Nevertheless, antibodies were produced. Oh, and it seems he listens to people quite well.
TVC Reporter Shim Tae-san here! What does that have to do with the risk?
I mean, if Mr. Shims immune system is better than a dogs, then its definitely not dangerous.
At this response, some nearby journalists chuckled. Shim Tae-san, feeling embarrassed, asked in a slightly louder voice.
If my immune system is better than a dogs
Of course, it would be safe. Youre stronger than a dog.
At this point, even Park Chung-sik, who stood nervously at the podium, couldnt help but cover his mouth andugh.
The press conference, filled with questions and answers, continued frantically for a while. Time passed, and it was already past 12 oclock.
I dont have anything more to say about the vine. Oh, what did you say earlier? Culling? I dont think its necessary. Since its a disease that can be treated cleanly.
Jeong-woo added as a final remark.
Once Mingmings health improves, he can return to being an ordinary dog. By then, he will have enough immunity to push out all the mutant genes in the body. Its a problem where animals in pain cannot speak. Isnt it something humans can bear this level of risk for?
Jeong-woo nodded politely and stepped back, leaving the press conference room. As he walked towards one side of the control line, he met Yoo Kang-seok.
Wow, Jeong-woo, the more I see you, the more interesting you are. Id be too nervous to even stand in front of the journalists, let alone speak well. Youre really good.
Oh,e on.
Its fortunate youre not an enemy.
Huh? What
Yoo Kang-seok extended his hand for a handshake to Jeong-woo.
Can we meetter? I have so many questions to ask.
Thats fine.
It was almost 1 AM before Jeong-woo could get into the drivers seat of the van.
Sorry, Im a bitte
Yoon Yi-seol, while holding Kiki, was sound asleep. She seemed very tired, probably from being busy since morning with the photo shoot or something else.
Jeong-woo chuckled and switched the screen from the news to the navigation. After setting it to Seoul, Yoon Yi-seols house, he started the car.
Monday, 7 a.m. Crisis Level ?
Yi-seol.
Feeling a gentle shake, Yoon Yi-seol raised her head groggily. Yawning and stretching, she nced at the familiar parking lot scenery.
Oh.
I let you sleep in.
Feeling the warmth of Jeong-woos gaze from the drivers seat, Yoon Yi-seol felt her cheeks flush.
Normally, her body, which would wake up every two hours due to insomnia or whatever, had to choose today to do this!
I was nning to stay with you, but something urgent came up at work.
Youre going to work on a holiday?
Yeah, the person who doesnt care about such things is my senior for the next three weeks. Oh, Yi-seol, you know Dr. Moon Chae-eun, right?
I know her, but
With a disappointed look, Yoon Yi-seol watched Jeong-woo and then said.
Do you want to have ramen before you go?
Jeong-woo froze in the midst of unfastening his seatbelt.
Yi-seol We havent properly dated yet, we havent even properly defined our rtionship, and on top of that, you know my situation.
Seeing Jeong-woo flustered, Yoon Yi-seol couldnt help but burst intoughter.
I just meant it as a checklist. Doing something nice for a friend by making delicious food.
Huh? Ramen for that?
I dont know how to cook many things.
After hearing the reason, it made sense.
Hooruk.
Jeong-woo, with a mouthful of steaming ramen, raised his thumb.
Its delicious.
Is the broth okay?
Its a bit nd, but its ramen, after all. If you mess up making this tasteless, thats quite a feat.
As Yoon Yi-seol was about to put a piece of kimchi in Jeong-woos mouth, she widened her eyes at his response.
In the blink of an eye, Jeong-woo finished his bowl and wiped his mouth with a towel. Meanwhile, Yoon Yi-seol looked under the table, watching Kiki nodding off.
Thank you.
For what?
For everything.
Yoon Yi-seol found herself twisting her hands and feet inexplicably while speaking. Jeong-woo got up from the table.
I need to head to work now, so Ill just quickly wash up and leave.
You dont have to leave.
A momentter.
Jeong-woo roughly dried his hair and came out of the bathroom.
I guess well have to postpone our date. When will you have time?
Yoon Yi-seols eyes widened at his words.
Thats right. If you go today, we wont see each other for three weeks.
Youre that busy?
Geez. Am I the only busy one?
As Jeong-woo headed towards the door, Yoon Yi-seol urgently grabbed his arm.
I cant let you go like this.
Yi-seol.
I need you to take responsibility for letting me sleep deeply at night.
Yoon Yi-seol pointed to her lips and leaned in.
If you dont do this, I wont let you leave.
No, we cant. Its not the right mood for that. Whats with you since the morning
But with Yoon Yi-seols determined eyes closed, she aggressively attacked Jeong-woos lips.
He could have raised his hand to stop her, but instead, Jeong-woopromised by giving her a kiss on the forehead.
Yoon Yi-seol gave him a nce.
Ill do more research for next time.
Do we need research for just a kiss?
True.
Putting on his shoes, Jeong-woo looked back at Yoon Yi-seol.
I may not be your first love, but Im the one who gave you your first kiss. See you next time, Ill call you.
The door clicked shut, and Jeong-woo disappeared.
Yoon Yi-seol watched the door for a while, then dashed to the living room sofa and plopped down. When Kiki approached, she hugged her tightly.
So, what did you think of that guy earlier?
Meow.
You think hes cool? I think so too.
code: Broad-spectrum clone antibodies
case: Mingming virus perfect blocker
research: Developed around May, when the spring breeze was blowing, it is a rbined vine that mixes artificially mass-produced natural antibodies possessed by dogs like a cocktail.
Chapter 128
Chapter 128- Beautiful Genius(2)
A small car drove through the main gate of Gangbuk Police Station.
Song Boyeong, sitting in the back seat, nced out the window and gasped. Her eyes locked with a rugged-looking manwho was being led away in handcuffs by the police.
The rugged man looked at her and winked at Song Boyeong.
Oh my.
When Song Boyeong let out a small cry, Jeong-woo turned his head towards her.
Whats wrong?
That person
By the time Song Boyeong raised her finger, the rugged man had already passed by.
There was a scary person
Hey, senior.
Trying to lighten Song Boyeongs somewhat frozen mood by the atmosphere of the police station, Jeong-woo asked.
Did you know that if you cant answer the sudden questions from the detectives within 3 seconds, you could be taken into custody?
Really?
In case you didnt know, this is because of espionage.
With a suspicious look, Jeong-woo asked Song Boyeong sharply.
Age? One, two
Twenty-seven?
As Jeong-woo abruptly counted, an answer popped out from Song Boyeong.
upation?
Chemical researcher.
Excellent. Then, thest question. What injection did you receive yesterday?
Song Boyeong snapped out of it and opened her eyes wide.
Ah,e on. There cant be detectives who would take you in for such jokes, right?
As the car stopped in the parking lot, a man with a firm, muscr sports build approached the drivers seat.
Tap, tap.
At the sound of knocking on the window, Moon Chae-eun rolled down the window.
I was the the detective on the phone. Who is Miss Moon?
To the detective who showed his police ID with the name Im Gyeong-hwan, Moon Chae-eun replied.
Thats me. These are mypanions.
Please step out for now. Follow me.
Walking into the detective division, Jeong-woo turned his gaze towards the victims sitting side by side in front of the Homicide 2 desk.
Seven men, each wearing bandages and protective gear on their arms, heads, and necks. From what he heard from Im Gyeong-hwan earlier, they were high school students.
I can definitely sense a bad vibe about them. They seem like they would be good at fighting.
The men, who looked like they should be called old men, continued to re fiercely towards the detention area.
Im Gyeong-hwan, who had entered earlier, spoke up.
The victims have been giving their statements for the past hour. They are all demanding strong punishment for Seo Jeong-gu.
Moon Chae-eun nced at the victims.
Orbital fractures. Hand fractures and ligament damage. Shoulder dislocations. Most have wounds ranging from 6 to 8 weeks.
You seem to know your medical terms well. With injuries of this extent, it usually results in fines or settlements, but because they are minors and there are many of them, it will likely lead to heavier punishment.
Im Gyeong-hwan lowered his voice as he spoke.
The bigger problem is that the perpetrator isnt saying a word that could justify any leniency.
Not a word?
No. Hes exercising his right to remain silent. Weve temporarily detained him because theres only one side of the story, but logically, it doesnt make sense to subdue all seven of them without a scratch.
When Seo Jeong-gu was described as unharmed, Jeong-woo became curious about his condition and nced towards the detention area. However, it was hard to see who was inside due to pirs and lockers blocking the view.
If you have are acquaintances, please persuade him to say something. If this statement goes up as it is, I might lose my job too.
After Im Gyeong-hwan gestured for assistance, he pointed towards the detention area. Just as they were walking through the detectives office.
-You punk! Are you not gonna answer properly?
Suddenly, a loud voice echoed, startling Song Boyeong, who flinched and leaned closely to Jeong-woos side.
-Ah, geez. You really dont know?
Jeong-woo turned his gaze briefly towards the rugged man being interrogated in the corner before saying to Song Boyeong.
With so many detectives around, why have you been so jumpy since earlier? Are you trying to subtly cling onto me pretending to be scared?
Ridiculous.
Despite being teased, Song Boyeong didnt let go of Jeong-woos arm. With her hand trembling, Jeong-woo didnt say anything and just walked away.
When they arrived in front of the detention area, Im Gyeong-hwan spoke.
Mr. Seo Jeong-gu, Miss Moon Chae-eun is here.
A young man in his early twenties, who had been looking out the window in the depths of the detention area where suspects were sitting around, turned his back.
Moon Chae-eun nodded politely.
Nice to see you again. Do you remember me?
There was no response, just a vacant stare that revealed nothing about what he was thinking. After a while of looking at Moon Chae-eun, Seo Jeong-gu turned his gaze back to the window.
Uh-huh.
Im Gyeong-hwan sighed deeply.
Hey, Mr. Seo Jeong-gu. Are you really not going to say anything to the only person who can vouch for your identity?
With no response at all, Im Gyeong-hwan smirked.
See that? Thats been his attitude the whole time.
-Gyeong-hwan! Wheres the investigation file for the robbery at Yeongnam Apartments? This guy keeps stalling.
At the shout from inside the detectives office, Im Gyeong-hwan turned his head.
Ill be right back.
Even after Im Gyeong-hwan disappeared, Seo Jeong-gu remained motionless. Jeong-woo quietly asked Moon Chae-eun.
Was he like this when you saw him before?
Simr. He seems passive andpletely devoid of motivation.
Whether hes involved with delinquents or not, if he remains unresponsive like this, we cant conduct an investigation. What about the professor you met with?
Hes not answering his phone.
Thinking they couldnt just waste time like this, Jeong-woo focused his gaze on Seo Jeong-gu.
The assault incident that urred around 7 AM today. It had only been about 4 hours, so he wondered if there would be any traces left.
As Jeong-woo scrutinized with his molecr vision, he couldnt find any traces on his body, let alone his hands, that hade into contact with the victims.
Fighting usually involves punches, but did they use weapons? That would make the crime much more serious.
It was when he was trying to examine closely, he found something on the tip of his fingernail.
Instead of bloodstains or scraps of skin from the victims, there was a substance that stood out.
It was apound with aplex structure. It was the first time Jeong-woo couldnt intuitively recall information to this extent, excluding universal factors, so his interest was piqued.
Theres only one thing that stands out clearly.
Jeong-woo asked Moon Chae-eun, who was attempting to make a call.
Have you reached the professor?
Not yet.
Can I try talking to him?
Moon Chae-eun nodded as she lowered her phone.
Jeong-woo looked at Seo Jeong-gus back. He raised his voice slightly and asked.
Carbon 11, hydrogen 17, nitrate. Do you know what this is?
Seo Jeong-gu, who hadnt moved at all in response to the voices, reacted. With a swift turn, he stared silently at Jeong-woo.
3,4,5-trimethoxyphhmine. Commonly known as mescaline. One of the known effects is to suppress coughing and pain. Its an ingredient extracted from nts. But
Seo Jeong-gu, who had been by the window, walked closer.
its more famous as a psychedelic drug in the west. Like feeling pictures as sound or confusing smell and touch.
Youre wrong.
As Seo Jeong-gu spoke, the eyes of Moon Chae-eun and Song Boyeong widened.
Just that alone wouldnt cause genuine confusion.
Considering this response, Jeong-woo pondered before speaking.
Its probably difficult for me to guess what else was mixed in. Anyway
Before he could finish speaking, Seo Jeong-gu, who had approached closely, turned away again. Jeong-woo sighed and fiercely examined Seo Jeong-gus fingertips.
Do you have any medicinal herbs at home? Licorice lets see, white atractylodes?
Seo Jeong-gus footsteps halted.
By suppressing the additional effects of mescaline, such as euphoria and hallucinations, with the glycyrrhizin from licorice, and covering the side effects of glycyrrhizin with the cytochrome from white atractylodes. Thats sophisticated and ingenious.
You figured that out by smell?
Im quite proficient in this field.
In the end, Jeong-woo realized that Seo Jeong-gus ability tobinepounds was exceptional, as he had analyzed all traces on Seo Jeong-gus fingertips.
Moon Chae-eun.
Im Gyeong-hwan, who had finished his task, approached.
The victims school teachers areing now. They want to meet separately
When Im Gyeong-hwan saw Seo Jeong-gu standing there, he hesitated.
Do you have the intention to talk?
Not with you.
Veins bulged on Im Gyeong-hwans forehead. Seeing the way Seo Jeong-gu treated the detective in the situation where he was brought in for assault was frustrating. Jeong-woo inwardly shook his head.
Moon Chae-eun said to Jeong-woo.
Ill meet with the detective and the guardians over there for now.
Sure. Ill try talking to him. It might not work, though.
Before Moon Chae-eun and Im Gyeong-hwan disappeared, Seo Jeong-gu looked at Song Boyeong and said.
Not you either.
M-Me?
Song Boyeongs eyes showed confusion, but when Jeong-woo nodded, she quickly followed Moon Chae-eun.
Jeong-woo was left alone facing Seo Jeong-gu.
Theyre all gone.
Whats your identity?
Identity? Im Han Jeong-woo. A chemist.
He took out his employee card from his pocket and showed it. Seo Jeong-gus cold gaze scrutinized Jeong-woo, showing no signs of sociability.
Phew.
It reminded Jeong-woo of a moment from a thriller movie where a rookie detective interrogated a vicious criminal alone in a prison cell.
In that movie, when the rookie lost momentum, he was beaten recklessly. Jeong-woo thought he couldnt let that happen and spoke first.
I heard youre twenty-two, but your words are unusually brief. I dont know where you learned your manners
Ive never learned them.
Oh, never?
At theck of response, Jeong-woo had to cough awkwardly. He couldnt afford to lose momentum. Smiling slightly at Seo Jeong-gus stern face, Jeong-woo continued.
Well, Mr. Jeong-gu. Manners are something you slowly learn from intellectuals.
What about the drugs? Did you do a background research on me?
Its chemical inference following observation. Im capable of that.
Seo Jeong-gus expression remained dry, but there was a slight disturbance in his thought process, as if there was a slight overload in his mental calctions.
Even a genius cant predict molecr vision.
Jeong-woo seized the opportunity to bring up the main point.
I dont know why you got into a fight with them, but if youre guilty, you should take responsibility. If not, shouldnt you speak up instead of just sitting there?
Thats not your concern.
I feel the same way. However, were the ones tasked with collecting the gic samples, analyzing them, andmunicating. If you just go to jail like that, saying well investigate, we cant just go to jail with you.
Ill take care of it tomorrow.
Someone who ims to take care of things but only exercises their right to remain silent, what good is that? You may have a strong personality, but think logically.
Seo Jeong-gu fell silent again.
-What about the kids!
Jeong-woos head turned momentarily at the raised voice from inside. A middle-aged man was seen berating Moon Chae-eun.
Im sorry for you.
Jeong-woo nced at Moon Chae-eun with a stern face, then shifted his gaze to the seven teenagers standing stiffly as if paralyzed.
Huh?
Realizing something, he looked at Seo Jeong-gu.
That boy with the ck eye over there. The area he was hit matches with the one where he was punched on the shoulder, right?
Even skin fragments stood out in the molecr world.
No matter how you look at it, it feels like theyre the same. Thatpound, could it be?
Yeah.
Seo Jeong-gu admitted coolly.
Itllpletely disappear from their bodies in about an hour.
Chills ran down Jeong-woos spine at Seo Jeong-gus act of inducing the seven men to hit each other with a peculiarpound.
Itll disappear?
Since it wont be detected, I can just say I didnt hit anyone and leave.
Do you have any evidence to prove that?
There were many vehicles with dashcams and also security cameras.
Everything was already in ce. And the conclusion was that everyone else, except for himself, would be considered fools.
Such psychopathic thoughts.
Seo Jeong-gu looked at Jeong-woo in silence.
Whats the reason?
Guess. With your strange chemical inference.
No, I dont want to guess.
Jeong-woo stepped back subtly.
At this point, if the opponent sneered, it would be like a scene from a thriller movie, but Seo Jeong-gus expression remained unchanged.
What is he
Jeong-woo hesitated for a moment. Not knowing the circumstances and meddling in would be unwise. He thought retreating was the best option.
Well, since it seems everythings been said and done, Ill take my leave. Nice meeting you. Oh, since youve already made ns to get away, can I pluck a hair for the gic patch? I forgot to bring it in a hurry.
Wrapping Seo Jeong-gus hair in a handkerchief, Jeong-woo put on a face that had endured for ten years and left the detention area.
Look here, Detective. Can you imagine how upset they will be my brothers when they see this?
Please calm down.
Im supposed to calm down when theyve been beaten up by some thug!
The teachers arrow was aimed at Im Gyeong-hwan, who was talking to Moon Chae-eun. Song Boyeong, observing the situation from a distance, clicked her tongue at the teachers behavior of losing his temper even towards unrted people.
Senior.
As Jeong-woos voice was heard, Song Boyeong quickly turned her head.
That teacher is really mean. What did Dr. Moon do wrong?
If you speak loudly, the settlement amount goes up. Hes probably doing it to make it to the headlines.
How do you know that?
My father used to get beaten up a lot.
Oh. Why?
Because he did things that warranted it.
What? Why would he do that?
Dont pry too deeply.
When Jeong-woo smirked, Song Boyeong guessed there was a reason and changed the subject.
What did you hear from Seo Jeong-gu?
Nothing much. If I say it out loud, Ill be called crazy.
What do you mean?
Its just that we dont need to worry about our mad scientist.
Not knowing the circumstances, Song Boyeong widened her eyes.
Dr. Moon.
Jeong-woo walked over to Moon Chae-eun and whispered some brief information.
Shall we go?
Yes.
But
He said hell handle it himself ande find us. Theres no need to waste more time.
ncing towards the detention area, Moon Chae-eun saw Seo Jeong-gu still staring at Jeong-woo.
Okay. The professor called. He said helle here.
Thats good. Lets go back to theb. Ill exin more on the way.
Nodding, Moon Chae-eun exined the situation to Im Gyeong-hwan.
Understood. Ill contact you if anything elsees up.
Im Gyeong-hwan, who was losing his grip on this violent incident, appeared deted. The teacher, who had been assertive, was now standing on one side, talking to a high school students parents on the phone.
Hmm
Thinking about the shock that would happen in about an hour, Jeong-woo sent his condolences to them in advance.
Walking out of the detectives office, a rough-looking man smirked at Song Boyeong.
Prettydy. What crime did youmit?
Song Boyeong was startled and tightly grabbed Jeong-woos arm.
Calm down.
I, Im trying to.
Jeong-woo nced at the man briefly before his gaze lingered on the sleeves and the bottom of his pants.
When they reached the corridor, Jeong-woo called out to Im Gyeong-hwan.
Detective.
Yes?
I have a sensitive nose, so I react to things like dog hair due to allergies. When we passed by the person inside with a tattoo on their face, I saw it there. Yellow dog hair on the sleeve and the left shoce.
Why suddenly
I just dont think theyre someone who kindly raises a dog at home. It seems like they got it somewhere else.
Recognition shed in Im Gyeong-hwans eyes.
Do you know the way down the stairs?
After exchanging greetings, Im Gyeong-hwan rushed to the detectives office. Seeing him go, Song Boyeong turned to Jeong-woo.
What was that just now?
I briefly channeled Sherlock Holmes.
Oh.
Impressive, right?
Not really.
But why were you holding onto my arm?
Song Boyeong blushed and quickly let go of his hand.
On the way back to the pharmacy center, Jeong-woo recounted the conversation he had with Seo Jung-gu to the two of them.
Really? How could they not know?
Song Boyeongs body trembled even more, seeming even more scared than when she was in the detectives office.
Jeong-woo asked Moon Chae-eun.
Are you really considering researching him? Isnt that dangerous?
If someone can handle toxic substances to that extent, they could have done even worse. Having emotional deficiencies still means they have standards, and its not toote to conduct in-depth interviews and make judgments.
Youre bold.
Jeong-woo nced out the window. The three unusual individuals he had met today were geniuses, but not a single one of them had an attractive side.
I might have be in a bind on my own, but thankfully, theres still Dr. Moon.
That night.
Moon Chae-eun finished showering andy down on her duty room bed when her phone rang.
The screen showed Caller ID Restricted.
Doctor?
-Its been a while, Dr. Moon.
Dr. Cheon Seung-guks voice. But it wasnt his usual tone, devoid of any worries or concerns.
Are you not feeling well? Your voice
-My bodys fine. Im flying to Geneva in two days. Its going to be a tough trip, so I need an assistant.
An assistant? Do you mean Han Jeong-woo?
-No, its you. Theres no other doctor in this world whom I trust as much as Dr. Moon.
At Cheon Seung-guks request to fly to Europe on the spur of the moment. Moon Chae-eun looked at the calendar on the wall and asked.
How long will it take?
-About 2 to 3 weeks?
I guess Ill have to take a long vacation.
-Youve never taken a break since you started working at thepany. Take this opportunity to take a break from research and clear your head. If you chase two rabbits, youll end up losing both.
Can I handle work from there?
-Ah, since youre taking a vacation anyway, why not take 4 weeks? You must have umted a lot of vacation time from the sessful projects youvepleted.
After the call ended, Dr. Moon hesitated for a moment beforeposing a text message.
Jeong-woo was wandering through dreand under his nket when he suddenly snapped back to reality upon receiving a text message.
[I need to go on a business trip for 3 weeks. The tasks for the other teams can be postponed, but the schedule for the unique gic analysis is fixed. I need you to take over for me. Theres no one else capable of handling this task alone but you, Jeong-woo. Lets discuss the details in the morning.]
What?
Like a bolt from the blue, Jeong-woo felt momentarily blinded.
An annoyingly mature kid with two missing front teeth.
A boy whose responses take forever when you ask him anything.
The eerie face of a young man living with unfathomable thoughts shed in and out of his mind.
Chapter 127
Chapter 127- Beautiful Genius(1)
His feet felt heavy as he went to work on a holiday.
Jeong-woo entered the gic analysis room within AN Hospital and found Dr. Moon staring intently at the monitor.
Her face was without makeup and her hair still damp. Clearly, it seemed like she hadnt left the hospital for days.
Dr. Moon, if someone looks closely, it seems like this is your home.
Covering her mouth and yawning softly, she turned her head at Jeong-woos voice.
Yourete.
Dragging a chair over, Jeong-woo sat next to Dr. Moon, his eyes lighting up.
Usually, when someone is suddenly called in during such a golden holiday, shouldnt they apologize first?
If you would like to receive less pay, I will dly respect that.
Why do you take such a light joke so seriously? Haha. Where should we start?
Still facing the thick contract he hadnt finished reading, Jeong-woo couldnt help but feel infinitely small in front of Dr. Moon.
Dr. Moon stretched her fingers forward and straightened her body, then pointed to the documents on the table.
Im in the final stages of work, so please start with those.
She turned her gaze back to the monitor. Jeong-woo took the documents in his hand and slowly skimmed through them.
Its a request for gic analysis Three subjects. Are Dr. Moon and I supposed to divide these individuals?
Lets proceed with the meeting first and well revisit that questionter.
Why?
Because your thoughts might change about going to another team after we meet.
Huh? Why would that happen?
Dr. Moons fingers, which had been tapping on the keyboard, stopped.
If youre just going to ask me, Ill read it myself.
No, please continue.
Today, Dr. Moon seemed even colder than usual. Jeong-woo had a feeling why. She was human too, and being stuck in the hospital since early in the morning on a holiday couldnt have put her in a good mood.
As Jeong-woo was reading through the documents, the door to the analysis room creaked open. With a somewhat swollen face, Song Boyeong peeked in.
Her heavily swollen eyes nced at the wall clock, which showed past 9:20. Sensing the atmosphere of focused work, Song Boyeong immediately bowed.
Im sorry, Imte.
Dr. Moon is concentrating, so just sit here for now.
Jeong-woo gestured to the chair next to him. Hurriedly approaching, Song Boyeong whispered.
Im sorry. I turned off my phone because the ringtone was too loud Oops.
Instinctively covering her mouth while burping, Song Boyeongs face turned crimson. Jeong-woo waved his hand at the strong smell of alcohol wafting towards him.
Oh, the smell of alcohol. Did you paint murals at the hotel again?
In front of someone who knew about her asional secretive drinking habits, Song Boyeongs ears turned bright red.
I didnt drink much yesterday.
Its a holiday, you should rest. I told you there was no need for you toe.
As your assistant, Im here to learn anytime you need me, so Ill stick around Oops.
Caught off guard, Song Boyeong hastily covered her mouth again as something rose up from her stomach.
Phew. Your hangover seems quite severe. Take care of yourself.
Jeong-woo patted her back while Song Boyeong looked grim.
Alright, thats enough now. Ugh, embarrassing.
Fortunately, looks like youve sobered up. You realize how embarrassing this situation is.
Without waiting for Song Boyeongs response, Jeong-woo sighed deeply.
Dr. Moon, who had been typing, nced at the two for a moment.
Their casual conversation seemed like a break from the intense work in the quiet room. It reminded Dr. Moon of something from a distant memory. She couldnt remember when she had stopped caring so much about her colleagues.
Sorry, Dr. Moon. Are we disturbing you?
Dr. Moon waved it off and focused back on her work.
If you can stand it, go ahead and read.
Jeong-woo handed her the documents he was holding. As they discussed work, Song Boyeong, with her curious eyes, began reading through the documents.
Wow. A joint research between Seoul National Universitys Gic Engineering Institute and AN Gic Center?
Song Boyeong, amazed, nced at Jeong-woo after reading the research outline.
The n is to conduct a detailed analysis of the gic factors of the three candidates? Being only three, it allows for one-on-one care. With Dr. Moon, Mr. Jeong-woo and me?
Jeong-woo looked at Song Boyeong with eyes full of ambition.
At that momennt the signal that the DNA sequencing, which had been worked on until overtime, had finally finished came. Dr. Moon stood up from her seat.
The meeting is scheduled for 10 oclock. You dont need to prepare anything separately, just rx and get ready.
Jeong-woo immediately asked the question that had been on his mind since earlier.
Are these three candidates really people who could change their minds just after meeting them? There are no names in the documents, only chromosomal information.
They are geniuses beyondmon sense.
If thats the case
They have a frustrating personality that matches their ability to defymon sense.
Dr. Moons face as she pronounced frustrating contained a colder atmosphere than any other state seen today.
Jeong-woo finally realized. The source of Dr. Moons current stress was not overtime work, holiday duties, or even the just-finished DNA sequencing, but solely because of this meeting.
AN Hospital Medical Gics Center Lounge.
A chubby six-year-old girl with two missing front teeth turned to the man next to her and spoke.
Uncle. The disinfectant smell here is awful.
Just bear with it for a bit more.
Its awful.
You think Im here just to enjoy myself with you on a holiday?
Thirty-two-year-old job seeker Kim Jeong-hwan sighed deeply,menting the duty of babysitting his niece.
A day off is a day off. Whats a day off for? Do you know the characters for work?
I dont know!
His niece, Kim Bona, was more mature than her peers. While her older brother and sister-inw boasted about her as a genius, to her uncle, she was simply a tiring presence.
Where did you pick up such things? At kindergarten?
Kim Bona pulled her face out of her cute little bag and showed her uncle only her phone.
Everythinges up if you search for it. You know Wikipedia, right?
Wiki? Not really, it was so cute when you couldnt speak properly.
Kim Jeong-hwan absentmindedly took out a cigarette from his pocket and put it in his mouth. Kim Bonas eyes widened, silently asking, Surely youre not going to smoke? with her gaze.
You can be fined up to 100,000 won for smoking in public ces. Uncle, youre unemployed, so you dont have that kind of money.
The wordsing out of her small mouth were quite intense. Kim Jeong-hwan sighed deeply and asked.
Pass me the lighter. I must have left it at home.
Im only six years old!
Dont think you can use your age as an excuse forever.
Uncle you should act your age.
Kim Jeong-hwan found it ridiculous to argue with such a young child and shook his head.
As he put the cigarette back into its case, someone walked into the lounge. With her striking beauty, the woman inevitably made the mans heart flutter.
Wow
She must have been around her early twenties? d in a white gown with a petite figure, she was like an angel incarnate. Kim Bona, the adorable niece, could confidently assure herself that she would never grow up to possess such beauty.
Kim Bonas guardian?
Was it a sign from heaven? She happened to be looking for them. Kim Jeong-hwan raised his hand eagerly.
Here, here!
There you are. Im Researcher Song Boyeong. Since the meeting is not at the gics center but at the pharmacy center, will you follow me to the fourth floor?
Yes, we should go. Bona, get your bag.
Kim Bona hopped off her chair and pointed to Song Boyeong.
Shes different from the doctor we sawst time.
Are you talking about Ms. Moon? Shes downstairs.
Song Boyeong slightly bent her waist and met eyes with Kim Bona. With her hair neatly braided into two strands, a chubby little girl stared at her silently.
Youre really cute.
Ew, you smell like alcohol.
Oh my, sorry. I drank too much yesterday.
Until howte?
Um until 3 in the morning?
As Song Boyeong chuckled at the inadvertently revealed truth, Kim Bona spoke up.
It seems like you have ack of ALDH. Koreans have 30% less alcohol dehydrogenase than people from other countries. If you keep drinking like that, your lifespan,
Kim Jeong-hwan quickly covered Kim Bonas mouth andughed.
Bona, stop! Thats enough. Lets go, teacher.
For a moment, Song Boyeong had to doubt the unbelievable knowledge of a six-year-old mentioning acetaldehyde dehydrogenase.
As the ss door opened, Kim Bona walked in and smiled at Moon Chae-eun.
Hello!
Wee. Please have a seat here.
Moon Chae-eun gestured towards the sofa in one corner of the research room, and her expression turned puzzled when she saw Kim Jeong-hwan following behind.
You arent the guardian I metst time.
Im her uncle. My brother and sister-inw had a couples gathering.
Moon Chae-eun nodded and pointed to the sofa.
Please, take a seat. Ill exin how the analysis will proceed. You can convey it to Bonas parentster, right?
Yes, of course.
Kim Jeong-hwan nced briefly at Moon Chae-eun and once again wore a slightly awkward expression. It felt like this hospital was popted only by women with angelic looks, making him feel like he was in a paradise for the eyes.
Song Boyeong, who had enteredst, walked towards the corner of the room.
-Mr. Jeong-woo. That girl is really smart.
-Oh, really?
-I feel like you might have been like that when you were young.
Kim Jeong-hwans gaze stopped on the young man conversing with Song Boyeong.
He seemed to be in his mid tote twenties, with an average appearance and height. He looked somewhat like a researcher with his white gown, but he definitely didnt match the angelic appearance of the two women in the room.
-Me? I wasnt a genius.
-Is that so? I was a bit of a genius, you know. I memorized the periodic table before the alphabet.
-Impressive.
-Heh.
They seemed to be getting along quite well in their conversation. At that moment, when Kim Jeong-hwan felt jealousy and frustration bubbling up inside him as a male, Kim Bona, who had been observing him closely, called out to him.
Uncle.
Yes?
Normally, people lose 80 to 100 hairs a day. But you lose 130.
What are you talking about? How do you know that?
I counted them all. ording to some survey results, women dislike men with less hair more than anything else Uh.
Kim Jeong-hwan hurriedly covered his nieces mouth.
No, thats not true!
5 minutester.
Jeong-woo stood at the back, observing the meeting.
The first subject for the precise analysis requested by the Gic Center was a six-year-old child diagnosed with high intelligence disorder by a specialist.
Dr. Moon stood closely beside the child, examining the condition thoroughly. The child, who had been quietly observing Dr. Moon, asked.
Why does your skin have so many freckles? And there are two more lines of wrinkles.
Huh what?
Thats right. I even remember the number of freckles on Annas nose from Frozen. I also remember that yesterday, my uncle lost 128 hairs.
Both of them swallowed their groans in one gulp.
Maintaining herposure, Dr. Moon finished the examination and began collecting samples using a tapebeled gic patch attached briefly to the childs skin.
After each precise analysis result, we wille here for personalized tests.
Why do I need a test if Im not sick?
In case Bona bes unwell, the treatment designed for ordinary people might be harmful.
So, Im not an ordinary person?
Although you are the same as others
An outcast?
No, Bona.
Even the esteemed Dr. Moon seemed unsettled in front of the child.
Jeong-woo realized that Dr. Moon couldnt remain indifferent to the childs inquiries.
She doesnt seem capable of beingpletely indifferent even to a childs questions, let alone giving a sharp scolding.
A child who knew as much as an adult, constantly throwing unpredictable questions and poking at sensitive areas without hesitation during the examination.
Are you going to research my genes and make a clone baby just like me?
We dont have such intentions.
Many test tube babies are made. I was also born through artificial insemination.
Thats
Though possessing intelligence and memory far superior to the average person, Kim Bonas relentless questioning left Jeong-woo feeling dumbfounded, as her social skills were virtually non-existent.
If this meeting were just a one-time urrence, they could handle it with kindness. However, considering the need for closermunication after each analysis, it became a daunting challenge.
Dr. Moons patient exnation continued for another ten minutes.
See you next week then.
Kim Bona waved her hand and disappeared.
After the child left, Dr. Moon remained silent, furrowing her brows.
Jeong-woo approached Dr. Moon after storing the collected genes in the storage box.
Should I exin to the next one if youre tired?
Will you do that?
If its at Bonas level of understanding, I think I can manage it to some extent.
Still, be prepared mentally.
Dont worry. Im quite ustomed to getting to the heart of the matter.
Dr. Moons mouth slightly curved up at Jeong-woos assurance.
The second subject for examination was a fifteen-year-old boy who was studying at home.
His name was Yoon Cho-won.
He was also a child with a developmental disorder called Aspergers syndrome, which was unfamiliar to Jeong-woo. As soon as Yoon Cho-won entered theb, he bowed his head forward and started dotting the canvas.
Sitting next to him, his mother listened to Jeong-woos exnation with a face full of worry, gently stroking the boys head.
We also conduct neurological tests to see how specific genes respond. At this time, the mother should assist.
Our Cho-won is very shy, so Im not sure if he can undergo the examination properly.
He doesnt speak much, does he?
Yes. He only says a few words a day.
Jeong-woo looked at Dr. Moon in response to this answer, sending a nce that questioned how research could proceed when there was hardly anymunication.
Besides, he doesnt seem like a genius.
Dr. Moon quietly pointed at the canvas Yoon Cho-won was holding.
Hmm?
For five minutes, the canvas was dotted silently. In the middle of the canvas, Yoon Cho-wons figure, raising his hand and opening his mouth as if saying hello, was depicted.
Wow
Despite being the size of a finger, the shading and contours were so intricate that it felt like they would jump off the canvas.
Wait. He didnt draw it; hepleted it by just dotting.
Yoon Cho-won suddenly looked up at Jeong-woo, blinking as if questioning, Did I respond to your greeting first?
Asking this, he started dotting again.
Are you trying to draw a yes?
Without a response, Yoon Cho-won diligently continued to dot the canvas. Jeong-woo finally understood the second subjects characteristic.
Yoon Cho-won was an artist of taciturnmunication, different from ordinary people.
Five minutester, a drawing of a smiling face appeared on the canvas with a cheerful yes.
You could have just nodded, Cho-won. Cho-won? I didnt ask you. Please, Im sorry.
The second meeting endedmunicating only with his mother, and after carefulmunication every five minutes.
As Song Boyeong went to escort thest participant, Jeong-woo slouched on the sofa. To him, dealing with the silent child was more challenging, to the point where he thought the talkative child would be preferable.
Dr. Moon offered Jeong-woo a cup of water. After epting and gulping it down, Jeong-woo asked.
What if thirty questionse up during Cho-wons gic analysis?
We should refrain from unnecessary questions as much as possible.
Just meeting these two kids seems like a challenging research. Everyone seems to have their peculiarities.
Analyzing gic information is a long battle. Considering the medicine you took, Jeong-woo, this research started from such investigations.
Jeong-woo had somewhat anticipated this.
Collecting unique genes seemed to be the most crucial part among numerous factors forposing a universal element.
Now that I understand why you said I may go to another team after the meeting, please tell me about thest subject. What kind of preparation do I need?
Seo Jeong-gu is not young; hes twenty-two. He shows symptoms of emotional deficiency, but he hasnt received an official medical opinion.
What kind of genius does he possess?
We cant be sure due to the insufficient data received from the Gic Engineering Research Institute, but he might have a condition simr to yours after taking AF-12. He seemed to have an eye for what ordinary people couldnt see.
Simr to mine?
It was a somewhat heart-pounding question.
I only briefly saw him with the professor who introduced him, so Im not sure either. But dealing with him felt much more challenging than the previous two.
If dealing with him is more difficult than the other two
A momentter.
Song Boyeong entered theb alone and opened the door.
Seo Jeong-gu is nowhere to be found. I checked everywhere, even the lobby on the first floor, but hes not there.
It was a scheduled appointment as there was no separate time for meetings on weekdays. Dr. Moon, with no news whatsoever, picked up her phone, stating that she couldnt afford to miss the time.
After dialing a separate contact, it took a while for the signal to ring before a voice came through.
-This is Chief Inspector Im Gyeong-hwan from Gangbuk Police Station.
Who is this?
-Were currently detaining the owner of this phone due to a physical assault case. Are you his guardian by any chance?
Dr. Moonsplexion changed abruptly. After ending the call with the police, she prepared to leave. Seeing her getting ready to go out, Jeong-woo asked.
Whats wrong?
Seo Jeong-gu is in juvenile detention. Hes involved in a physical assault case. They say theres no one to provide personal information, so I think I should go see him for now.
Then Ill go with you.
Jeong-woo and Song Boyeong also took off their gowns and left the pharmacy center with Dr. Moon.
As they walked down the corridor, Jeong-woo asked.
Who did he hit?
It wasnt just one person.
Then?
Seven. And they were severely injured from being beaten up unterally.
Wow.
Jeong-woos mouth fell open. Even for an athlete, it wouldnt be easy to subdue seven people at once. He became curious about who this person was but also felt a sense of dread.
Like me? Nah, it couldnt be. Im the type who should be on the side of the seven when a fight breaks out.
Chapter 129
Chapter 129- Beautiful Genius(3)
Wednesday morning.
Standing in the hallway, adjusting his tie, Jeong-woo checked his outfit and shouted towards the inside.
Im leaving first. Do well on your midterms.
His younger brother, who was eating in the kitchen, nodded in response. As he opened the door, he saw his mother, Hong Ji-sook, hanging up shirts on theundry line.
Mom, Im heading to work now.
Youre leaving early today.
I have to attend the weekly meeting as a substitute, so I have a lot to prepare in the morning.
Passing by Hong Ji-sook while waving his hand, Jeong-woo suddenly stopped and turned his head back as a sudden question popped up.
By the way, Mom.
Yes?
Remember when I waspletely lost and wandering around aimlessly? How did you manage to get me to focus and study?
Why are you asking about that?
I need to meet kids who seem to have lost their minds in a different sense. Its been over 8 years, and I cant remember well.
Hong Ji-sook, who was rummaging through theundry basket, suddenly straightened her back and stood next to Jeong-woo. Then, she lightly tapped his back.
Oh! It hurts!
Jeong-woo, rubbing his sore back, suddenly realized something.
It was tough love, wasnt it?
What are you talking about, you crazy kid? Didnt I tell you to separate theundry by color?
A blue shirt emerged from theundry basket, which should have only contained white clothes. Seeing the white shirt also turned bluish due to the mix-up, Hong Ji-sooks sharp gaze fell on Jeong-woo.
Stepping back hastily, Jeong-woo tried to remedy the situation.
I know the people in the department that develops bleach to make that thing snow-white. Ill get you some of the exciting new products.
Seeing even the group t-shirts from the womens association tainted with blue, sparks flew in Hong Ji-sooks eyes.
This eldest son knows how much Mom loves
Enough of this!
Jeong-woo dashed out into the small yard and mmed the door shut.
From the start, clothes that lose color are bad.
Grumbling to himself, he descended the hill and boarded the subway.
It was 7 AM, but the subway was packed. Being pushed around amidst the crowd at each station, Jeong-woo somehow found himself missing the pristine snowfields of ska.
Seems like theres no time to rx these days.
From the side effects incident at the pharmacy centerst week to the animal epidemic on the ind during what was supposed to be a restful holiday, and now dealing with a potential headache handed over by Dr. Moon.
As he practically embarked on his first day at the pharmaceutical bio center, Jeong-woo fervently hoped that only minor idents typical of office life would ur.
Ding dong.
Walking into the elevator just as the doors opened, Jeong-woo sees someone rushing towards it and presses the open button. The person who dashed in hastily bowed deeply.
Ah, thank you.
Youre early today, Jin Mi-so.
Huh? Senior Jeong-woo?
Jin Mi-so, from the spring recruitment, had a dimple on her cheek. Jeong-woo pressed the button for the 25th floor and turned to look at Jin Mi-so. Since the office for the recruits was on the 2nd floor, she usually didnt take the elevator.
Where are you heading?
To the 25th floor.
As she mentioned the same floor, the conversation continued.
What training are you attending these days?
Im on a period of touring the projects. Im following Senior Lee Dong-gil.
I see.
I was nning to apply to Senior Jeong-woo if you had been involved in a project.
As Jin Mi-so looked at him with shining eyes, Jeong-woo cleared his throat. It was because he remembered making her cry on their first day at work due to a bet.
Song Boyeong finished brushing her teeth in the bathroom and walked out into the corridor, only to be surprised to see Jeong-woo and Jin Mi-so walking amiably.
What? Why am I hiding?
Although she thought so, her body didnt detach from the wall it was pressed against. With only her head slightly tilted, Song Boyeongs eyes followed the two.
Jeong-woo looked particrly neat today. Jin Mi-so, who was always slender and tall, looked quite nice standing next to him. The two of them stood at the entrance to the private research building as they walked down the corridor.
Lets go in. Im in Zone C. Good luck with your nning evaluation.
Um Senior.
Yes?
Youre the only special researcher in the research institute. I really want to work as your assistant after the training ends.
Song Boyeongs eyebrows twitched.
Theres already someone from Research Lab 1 who applied.
But its your choice, Senior. I personally have a lot of interest in you
Interest?
Yes, very personal.
Seeing the tail end of the conversation, Song Boyeong found herself absentmindedly chewing her lips.
Scratching his head, Jeong-woo spoke.
Im sorry, but please refrain from such interest. Im currently preparing to date someone.
D, date someone?
Oh, if anyone hears this, theyll misunderstand. Im still preparing.
While Jin Mi-so was at a loss for words at the unexpected answer, Jeong-woo gestured towards inside.
Its gettingte. Youve got to make it worth your while since you came in early. Please, go in.
Jeong-woo disappeared into Zone C. Jin Mi-so watched him coolly walking away, her heart racing, while Song Boyeong chuckled.
Wait. Preparing to date?
Feeling her heart pounding, Song Boyeong ced her hand over her chest.
Surely not me?
Beep beep.
Holding his ess card, Jeong-woo entered the researchb and sat down at his desk, turning on hisptop.
This weeks meeting at the Central Research Institute was the turn of the Pharmaceutical Bio Center.
As someone who had been delegated by the team leader, Jeong-woo feltpelled to prepare at least a brief presentation, despite most of the ongoing work being postponed.
Jeong-woo sighed softly as he sifted through the materials he had received in his mailbox.
Customized gene therapy research using DNA samples obtained from geniuses. Advice on clinical trials from other teams. Dr. Moon was truly doing a lot alone.
Continuing to read, he clicked on the analysis data for AF-12 side effects.
Im the only case so far. With so much work, the analysis seems to be slow.
As he skimmed through other materials, he noticed scattered references to universal factors. Molecr substances with the AF code name were undoubtedly Dr. Moons specialty.
Observing Dr. Moons meticulous scheduling and methodical approach to work, Jeong-woo concluded that assisting her as much as possible for the next three weeks would ultimately be beneficial to himself as well.
Alright. Lets give it a shot.
As he organized parts where he could contribute, the door opened and Song Boyeong entered.
Wee, Senior.
Is that something I should be saying?
Surprised to see Song Boyeong putting her towel and toothbrush into the drawer, Jeong-woo asked.
Did you work overnight at thepany?
I used thepany library and ended up falling asleep in the duty room.
Carrying the suit jacket hanging on the chair, Song Boyeong entered the cleanroom and came out.
Perhaps because she had just finished washing her face, her bright face revealed a dignified and luxurious demeanor, leaving Jeong-woo momentarily stunned.
What? Is something wrong?
Flustered, Song Boyeong smoothed out her clothes.
It feels weird to see you in your normal state after so long.
Oh, really. Its the weekly meeting. How can I go in looking like a clown?
Why not? You will look like a source of vitality for the research institute.
Ha, funny. If I want to look this pretty in the morning, I cant drink water at night.
As Jeong-woo chuckled, Song Boyeong waved her hand.
Shut your mouth. Stop teasing me. Im going for coffee, do you want a fresh fruit juice?
Sure, thanks.
As Song Boyeong left, Jeong-woo refocused on his work.
The sound of typing echoed throughout the researchb.
Song Boyeong, who had been looking at her monitor, briefly turned her head towards Jeong-woo, unable to take her eyes off him as he concentrated on preparing for the meeting. She couldnt tear her gaze away for a moment.
-Preparing to date someone.
As her gaze kept drifting back, she closed her eyes altogether, and this time, the voice from earlier floated in her ears.
Ugh.
Senior.
Im not ready either.
Are you feeling unwell?
Lost in her thoughts with her ears covered, Song Boyeong suddenly sprung up from her seat.
Its nothing. Oh, its almost 10 oclock. Ill go to the meeting room first.
Uh, shall we
With hurried steps, Song Boyeong dashed out of the researchb, sighing in relief.
If I keep this up, Ill be in trouble if I get confessed to. I promised myself not to date until I settled down. Pull yourself together, Song Boyeong.
pping her cheeks lightly, Song Boyeong walked towards the elevator.
10 AM.
Researchers gathered inside the Pharmaceutical Bio Center conference room.
Jeong-woo moved around until he arrived at a spot where the four team leaders he had encounteredst week were sitting side by side.
Did you have a good holiday?
As they were chatting, the team leaders turned their heads in surprise at Jeong-woos greeting.
Dr. Moon went on a business trip, so Im filling in for her. Can I sit with you?
Uh, sure.
Team leader Seon Woo-jin hesitated and gestured to the seat next to him.
Hey, Woo-jin, you speak on behalf of us.
Why me?
Youre the youngest.
Seon Woo-jins face turned awkward as he exchanged nces with the other team leaders. Seeing Kim Won-bae quickly gesturing for him to speak, Seon Woo-jin reluctantly opened his mouth.
Jeong-woo,st week.. do you remember giving us an advice? You suggested including alpha-lipoic acid in personalized obesity treatment.
I remember, why?
Were nning to reflect that point in todays meeting presentation. Is that okay?
Of course. No problem.
Seon Woo-jin nced at the other team leaders and sighed in relief.
And besides our teams matter, other teams are also reflecting on
Jeong-woo roughly guessed the situation as he saw the team leaders anxiously waiting for his response while tightly sping their hands.
I was wondering why you hesitated so much. You dont need to mention my name. Im not helping properly because Im on Team 5.
As Jeong-woo epted it more generously than expected, all the tense faces of the team leaders turned relieved. Team leader Kim Won-bae apologized to Jeong-woo with a remorseful expression.
I know this might seem disgraceful, but if we put your name on everything just for helping with setting the research direction
In a very low voice, Kim Won-bae added, we wont be able to face the center director.
We all know. Your words about bing a team leader who knows how to criticize this wed system, rather than just thinking about winning inpetition, really impressed me.
Jeong-woo smiled lightly. Kim Won-bae turned his head with a slightly embarrassed expression.
A littleter, the conference room filled with researchers.
Center Director Yoon Donghwi, sitting in the front row, pressed the microphone button.
It seems like everyones here. Before we begin, Id like to introduce todays special guest, Professor Lee Sang-joong from Seoul National Universitys Gic Engineering Research Institute. He expressed his wish to feel the atmosphere of our institute and even attended our meeting.
The man in his early fifties sitting next to Yoon Donghwi bowed his head in greeting. Kim Won-baes eyes widened.
This professor? Why?
Do you know him?
I went to the Tokyo University Gene Therapy Symposiumst year. He participated then, and he was a genius at intimidating people with a smiling face. Nobody dared to argue. It was fortunate that the participants were Japanese professors.
Jeong-woos head instinctively turned back to the front at this conversation.
Lee Sang-joong, whose mouth seemed to be tinged with a smile, met eyes with Jeong-woo. Jeong-woo bowed his head, too, as he was too embarrassed to greet them separately.
Whats this? Does he know me?
Whirr
As the electric screen descended on the wall, the meeting began.
Well start with the presentation on the progress of the project.
At the moderators words, Kim Won-bae stood up from his seat and stood at the lectern. The progress of Team 1s development of the Beta Blocker immediately appeared on the beam projector screen.
As you know, conventional beta blockers have been contraindicated for heart failure patients and rtively contraindicated for type 2 diabetes patients. However, the improvement points we have reflected this time are
As the presentation, whichsted for five minutes, wasing to an end, Kim Won-bae addressed everyone.
If anyone has any questions or opinions regarding the research progress, please speak up.
What about the lipid solubility?
Its lower than that of propranolol or atenolol. We aim to minimize central nervous system side effects.
When will the clinical trials begin?
If we receive positive evaluations in the preclinical trials, we expect to start in the fall.
As the Q&A session was nearing the end of Team 1s presentation, Lee Sang-joong, who was sitting in the front row, raised his hand.
Kim Won-bae, with a slightly stiff expression, looked at Lee Sang-joong.
Yes, Professor Lee Sang-joong.
Its quite surprising that a hypertension treatment of this level is being developed in Korea.
Ah, thank you for thepliment
But
As expected, it wasnt merely about praising the achievements.
The first and second rank side effects are persistent problems with antihypertensive drugs. Its hard to understand how just changing theposition of the drug can improve it.
At Lee Sang-joongs questioning on the difficult part to answer, Kim Won-bae sighed inwardly.
Its still in the preclinical stage, and were only validating the newly added chemical structure through simtion, so there are some shorings.
Just by looking at the chemical structure, it seems like the decrease in natural peptides in the brain could worsen headaches.
Thats unlikely.
Furthermore, Ive analyzed the transformed cells of sudden cardiac death patients, and the protein included in the current chemical structure was simr to those cells. Those transformed cells had a very fatal gic trait that weakened the hearts contractility.
The researchers buzzed with discussion after two consecutivements.
Especially, Center Director Yoon Donghwis expression changed when serious drawbacks of a drug under development, which the Pharmaceutical Bio Center was investing the most in, were mentioned. He looked at Kim Won-bae.
Team Leader Kim.
Yes, Director Yoon.
It was much more stable when we discussed itst week. Why did you suddenly change the chemical structure?
Well, thats
Kim Won-baes eyes became sorrowful as he looked at the spot where Team 1s members were sitting. None of the team members could offer a suitable opinion on the situation.
Why arent you answering, Team Leader Kim?
With sweat forming on his forehead, Kim Won-baes stern gaze turned towards Jeong-woo. Sensing the desperate plea in his eyes, Jeong-woo examined the chemical structure on the PT carefully and discovered a horrifying w.
So, it was this that Professor Lee found?
Jeong-woo raised his hand, surprised by the fact that Lee Sang-joong, just by looking at the chemical structure, could understand its effects to that extent.
Team Leader Kim. I think I made a slight typo in a hurry when I sent it. Here, let me correct it for a minute.
Oh. Is that so?
Im sorry, but please give me a minute to make the correction.
Jeong-woo quickly corrected the chemical structure on theptop next to the lectern and waved his hand.
There. I apologize for the inconvenience.
Lee Sang-joongs eyes sparkled as he looked at the corrected chemical structure. Kim Won-bae cautiously spoke to Lee Sang-joong.
It was originally an idea from Researcher Han Jeong-woo, and we applied it because we judged it to be feasible, but there seems to have been a slight mistake in the process.
Now that I see the chemical structure, it doesnt seem to be very stable. It has be quite different from the gic traits I researched. And as you know, substances involved in the human body can be toxic or medicinal with just one molecr difference, right?
Im well aware of that.
When Lee Sang-joong acknowledged, Kim Won-bae sighed deeply, his shoulders sagging.
After finishing the presentation and returning to his seat, Kim Won-bae said to Jeong-woo, seemingly without any face-saving intentions.
It was obvious that it was hastily prepared. Im sorry, and thank you.
Dont mention it.
When Team 2 leader Jeon In-gu dered that he would develop generics into improved new drugs, Yoon Donghwi opened his mouth in surprise.
How am I supposed to ept it if you suddenly change the direction of the project like that?
Weve alreadypleted verification in the database. If you look, dizziness has been significantly improved, and even symptoms of blurred vision ur much less frequently than with the original drug.
Who conducted the cross-validation?
Under Yoon Donghwis pressure, Jeon In-gu felt as if his feet were being swept from under him and pointed to Jeong-woo, who was in conversation with Kim Won-bae.
Special researcher Han Jeong-woo conducted the validation.
Is that so?
Yoon Donghwi, who had been probing rigorously, suddenly softened. By firmly establishing that it was entirely Han Jeong-woos idea, Jeon In-gu built up the center directors trust before concluding the presentation.
As soon as Team 3 leader Jeon Yeong-ho disyed the presentation slide with improvement points, Yoon Donghwi raised his head and asked with a smirk.
Using gene retroversion technology to shorten processing time? Isnt it unrealistic to expect simtion results to match real-world values? Have you actually tried making it?
Well Well bring in the process proposer to hear directly from them.
Jeon Yeong-ho immediately called Jeong-woo to the tform.
Director. This isnt primarily focused on retroversion but rather on optimizing at the gic level using catalysts before protein cultivation. I think there might be a mistake in the notation of the catalyst chemical form during the transmission process. Please wait 30 seconds.
Team 4s Seon Woo-jin started the presentation with Jeong-woo from the beginning.
Lc with spinach and broli. The key to natural fat breakdown lies in thebination of ingredients. Precision is essential to match the antioxidantwork. Team Leader Seon Woo-jin.
Yes?
Alpha-lipoic acid and glutathione should be included in the same structural form, but this seems too disconnected Its my fault for mimunication. It can be corrected quickly
As each presenting team pointed to a specific researchers, responsible researchers from other centers attending the meeting couldnt help butugh at the absurdity.
Chapter 130
Chapter 130- Beautiful Genius(4)
¡°With this we conclude the announcement on the progress of obesity treatment.¡±
Sweating profusely, Seon Woo-jin nced at the center director and then turned to Jeong-woo after turning off the microphone.
¡°Phew, thanks to you, I survived.¡±
¡°If you run into trouble againter, feel free to ask.¡±
¡°With what dignity?¡±
Seon Woo-jin chuckled bitterly and nced briefly at where the other team leaders were seated before speaking.
¡°I¡¯d like to say I¡¯d take the shot, but with three or more team leaders over there preparing to do just that, I have nothing to say.¡±
¡°Don¡¯t worry too much. Research isn¡¯t something you do alone.¡±
Seon Woo-jin experienced a kind of cultural shock at this statement. To have helped to this extent and still maintain such a modest attitude. It made him wonder if this wasn¡¯t the epitome of good leadership.
¡°I¡¯m not doing this alone. It¡¯s nice to hear that.¡±
¡°That wasn¡¯t me talking. It¡¯s something the senior researchers keep saying.¡±
¡°Please take care of us for the next three weeks, Mr. Han Jeong-woo.¡±
¡°Of course.¡±
Seon Woo-jin nodded politely and stepped down from the podium.
Jeong-woo, being next in line, remained at the microphone and took his position facing it without stepping down.
¡°The main task of Team 5 is customized gene therapy. Since the team leader, Moon Chae-eun, is away on a business trip, I, as the deputy, will briefly report on the progress.¡±
Song Boyeong clicked on the data she had prepared that morning on herptop. With a click, the data screen appeared.
¡°We are researching a total of three rare gic disorders treatment drugs, and the top priority is the ADA severebined immunodeficiency gene correction therapy, which involves collecting cells from individual patients¡.¡±
Throughout the brief overview, Center Director Yoon Donghwi, seated at the top, did not take his eyes off Jeong-woo.
-So, he¡¯s Han Jeong-woo. I thought he was just a parachute, but his skills are impressive.
-I heard from someone I know that the CEO even received a separate report.
A smile crept onto Yoon Donghwi¡¯s lips at the conversation next to him. It felt rewarding to have actively supported the designation of a special researcher when Jang Tae-seon pushed for it.
Amidst the admiration and jealousy of many, Han Jeong-woo¡¯s presence shone alone, even more than expected.
Finding this level of improvement within the first week was surprising. They could understand the desire of the two center directors who wanted to keep him by their side.
¡°¡ Unlike UniCure¡¯s lipase deficiency treatment drug, this wide-ranging treatment offers the potential for gic therapy for many more deficiencies. It is expected to seize the overseas market as soon as it ispleted.¡±
As Jeong-woo finished his report, Yoon Donghwi promptly took the mic as if he had been waiting.
¡°Did Han Jeong-woo researcher take charge of the Gic Engineering Research Institute¡¯smission starting this time?¡±
¡°Yes. I will be in charge and proceed ordingly.¡±
¡°This sample analysis is a research project that should be approached from a long-term perspective. It¡¯s also a great opportunity to showcase KG Chemical¡¯s gic analysis capabilities to the outside world.¡±
Yoon Donghwi¡¯s gaze briefly turned to Lee Sang-joong sitting next to him.
¡°I can give you my full support if you make it a personal assignment for a special researcher instead of just three weeks. What do you think?¡±
¡°Well¡¡±
The conference room buzzed with excitement at the center director¡¯s straightforward proposal. People leaned forward in their chairs, eagerly awaiting Jeong-woo¡¯s response.
Jeong-woo couldn¡¯t help but feel pressured. Director Jang Tae-seon had made a simr proposal before. However, with infinite trustes a proportionate amount of risk.
¡°I have something else in mind for a personal research project.¡±
¡°Is that so?¡±
A sigh tinged with disappointment escaped from Yoon Donghwi.
¡°In that case, there¡¯s nothing we can do.¡±
Jeong-woo met the center director¡¯s gaze with a calm smile.
After the weekly meeting concluded, everyone headed back to their respective researchbs.
¡°Han Jeong-woo.¡±
Jeong-woo was walking down the corridor when he ran into Professor Lee Sang-joong. Lee Sang-joong extended his hand with a friendly smile.
¡°The meeting was quite impressive.¡±
¡°I was also surprised by your ability to spot the ws in the structural form at a nce.¡±
¡°Well, it¡¯s my bread and butter. Did you know that I¡¯m the one who ordered the gic analysis requests for Seo Jeong-gu, Yoon Cho-won, and Kim Bona to you?¡±
¡°I had a rough idea.¡±
Lee Sang-joong immediately brought up the matter at hand in response to Jeong-woo¡¯s answer.
¡°I heard you met Jeong-gu from the police station.¡±
¡°Oh, about that¡.¡±
¡°I can tell from your hesitation that you know who Jeong-gu is.¡±
¡°Well¡ he seemed a bit eerie. I even suspected he might be a psychopath.¡±
¡°I have my doubts as well.¡±
¡°Really?¡±
¡°Of course, I don¡¯t think he¡¯s at the level of criminals you see on TV. It¡¯s just that his ability to empathize is lower than usual.¡±
Jeong-woo felt even more disheartened by Lee Sang-joong¡¯s frank acknowledgment.
¡°I didn¡¯t go into detail with Professor Moon Chae-eun, but I had initially assigned the analysis of Seo Jeong-gu to several schrs within our Gic Engineering Research Institute.¡±
¡°Is that so?¡±
¡°All the results were failures. The biggest issue was that there was no researcher capable of normalmunication. That¡¯s when Professor Moon Chae-eun, as ast resort, considered someone with autistic tendencies for the research.¡±
Listening to the background of the research, Jeong-woo felt puzzled.
¡°I¡¯m sorry to interrupt, but shouldn¡¯t Dr. Moon handle this research exclusively? I don¡¯t have experience with this type of analysis.¡±
¡°Haven¡¯t you already handled it excellently?¡±
¡°Me?¡±
Jeong-woo widened his eyes. Lee Sang-joong lowered his voice as he replied.
¡°Jeong-gu mentioned you to me. He said he really wants to meet you. It¡¯s the first time he¡¯s been so clear about his intentions.¡±
Jeong-woo felt a shiver run down his spine at the sound of it.
¡°Of course, trusting you isn¡¯t solely based on this fact. I¡¯ve also talked to Professor Moon Chae-eun and Center Director Yoon Donghwi. Hearing about your research achievements so far, I believe you¡¯ll take care of not only Jeong-gu but also Bona and Cho-won.¡±
With an expectant look in his eyes, Lee Sang-joong grabbed Jeong-woo¡¯s hand.
¡°As the potential of this research project bes apparent, I¡¯ll provide all the resources I have to support it to the fullest.¡±
¡°¡Does that support include things like life insurance?¡±
¡°If you want it.¡±
¡°No, don¡¯t worry about it.¡±
Though said half in jest, Lee Sang-joong was serious. Jeong-woo chuckled inwardly as he smiled awkwardly.
¡°Han Jeong-woo, if it¡¯s not too much trouble, can my colleagues and I observe during the testing?¡±
¡°That¡¯s fine. I¡¯ll contact you as soon as the analysis is done.¡±
After Lee Sang-joong left, Song Boyeong, who had finished tidying up after the meeting, walked out into the corridor. She looked at Jeong-woo as he seemed a bit strange.
¡°Why the long face? You wrapped up the meeting well. Don¡¯t you know the seniors inside are just talking about you, Jeong-woo?¡±
¡°It feels like my life is on the line.¡±
¡°What are you talking about?¡±
¡°Senior, are you good at fighting¡ no. Seeing how terrified you were at the police stationst time, it wouldn¡¯t be a good idea.¡±
¡°I didn¡¯t look terrified, did I?¡±
Jeong-woo raised an eyebrow, observing Song Boyeong pretending to be confident.
¡°In that case, should Senior be in charge of the testing Seo Jeong-gu? A one-on-one interview.¡±
¡°Well¡.¡±
¡°You seemed so eager to answer right away. Fighting.¡±
Giving his shoulder a pat, Song Boyeong walked off towards the elevator. Song Boyeong stared at Jeong-woo in confusion.
¡°Wait up! I¡¯m just the assistant here.¡±
Song Boyeong regained herposure and hurriedly followed after him.
¡°So, I¡¯ll handle two, and senior will handle just one. Nice and fair.¡±
¡°Hrious!¡±
Two dayster.
In the researchb, amidst the quiet sound of breathing, the sound of a phone rm echoed. Jeong-woo lifted his head with bleary eyes.
It had been drizzling outside since the morning.
A short nap at thepany after working overtime. He had spent the day focusing solely on work for the first time in a long time due to today¡¯s meeting with Kim Bona.
¡°Ugh, stiff.¡±
After thoroughly showering in the shower room next to the second-floor dormitory, he returned to the researchb.
Thud.
As he entered, Song Boyeong, who had arrived for work, waved her hand.
¡°Good morning~¡±
¡°Wee, senior.¡±
¡°Ta-da. I brought breakfast again today. Hurry up and join me with your chopsticks.¡±
cing two lunch boxes on the desk, Song Boyeong sang a tune while Jeong-woo sat down and nodded gratefully.
¡°Thanks as always.¡±
¡°What¡¯s with the formal thanks? As the assistant researcher maintaning the condition is also part of my job. Take what you want, give what you can.¡±
¡°What? Money? My body?¡±
¡°It¡¯s research expertise! Including those gics analysis jargons.¡±
¡°Oh, that. I¡¯ll exin it in detail after the meeting.¡±
Song Boyeong chuckled and poured water into a cup, smiling at Jeong-woo¡¯s words.
¡°Senior Boyeong, you look quite good today even though there¡¯s no meeting.¡±
¡°Oh, really? Why? I usually look better on Wednesdays¡.¡±
¡°I didn¡¯t say you looked pretty.¡±
¡°¡Well, then. I slept well after eating yesterday, but why do my eyes still feel heavy?¡±
Jeong-woo chuckled and opened the lunchbox. Looking at Song Boyeong, who was as lively as always, he felt a surge of energy he hadn¡¯t felt before.
¡°I¡¯ll enjoy this.¡±
Jeong-woo started to fill his te with chopsticks, while Song Boyeong picked up some meat stir-fry from her lunchbox and put it into Jeong-woo¡¯s side dishpartment.
¡°Try this too. It¡¯s Jjangu¡¯s new menu.¡±
¡°Oh, looks good.¡±
¡°Right? The scent while stir-frying is amazing.¡±
Watching Jeong-woo enjoy the food brought by Song Boyeong, she couldn¡¯t take her eyes off him for a while.
Thinking that she felt like a newlywed because she kept taking care of him, her face turned red, and she quickly took a bite of her food.
¡°Chew slowly, senior.¡±
¡°Ouch.¡±
¡°Here, have some water.¡±
After finishing the meal, Song Boyeong took out a notebook.
¡°I received a call from this professor yesterday. He said there will be five people observing today.¡±
¡°Five people?¡±
Jeong-woo nced towards the cleanroom.
¡°The interview itself should be done with just the two of us to keep it quiet and smooth. That ce is too exposed.¡±
¡°I¡¯ll arrange for a suitableb.¡±
¡°Can you? During Bona¡¯s visit, I¡¯ll review some data.¡±
Jeong-woo nodded in agreement.
Inside the pharmaceutical bio center¡¯s secondboratory, where one wall was entirely made of mirrors.
Jeong-woo sat in the middle of the room, meticulously examining the chromosome information written in hisptop, which wasbeled as chromosome 22.
At first nce, it appeared to be just a simple sequence of A, C, G, T, but it was also the 22nd chapter of arge autobiography that constituted a child named Kim Bona.
In terms of words in the book, it was roughly around 15.5 million. It was almost impossible to find specific factors just by reading, given the immense number.
Typically, researchers would need to collect all the phrases stating that the characters in this autobiography exhibited genius, then gather them to findmonalities and conduct research to formalize them. However, Jeong-woo, who could intuitively understand molecr structures just by looking at them, simply explored the world that unfolded before him and organized it in his mind.
Even so, after two sleepless nights, he had only managed to find one important page.
At the end of the long arms of the chromosomes he had been digging into for the past two days, there were genes with unique DNA sequences.
Nicknamed KBN-22. In Jeong-woo¡¯s view, this gene seemed to produce a veryplex protein found only in a small part of the prefrontal cortex of the brain.
It was spected to affect the development of abnormal reasoning abilities and memory. Today, he nned to focus on observing this part in detail.
Ding.
A message arrived, and upon checking, it was from Song Boyeong.
[The professors have all arrived.]
Although it was a mirror on this side, Jeong-woo greeted the professors on the other side of the ss window.
As he spread the testing tools on the table, the door opened, and Kim Bona and her uncle entered.
¡°Doctor, hello.¡±
A six-year-old girl without her front teeth greeted with a grin. Jeong-woo greeted her brightly, reminding himself not to be enchanted by that cute face.
¡°Wee. Doctor Moon Chae-eun went on a business trip, so I¡¯m filling in for her.¡±
¡°You looks much younger than my uncle, do you do this kind of research?¡±
The questions began. Jeong-woo smiled and replied.
¡°I¡¯m trusted in my own way. Please, Bona.¡±
¡°What are we doing today?¡±
¡°We¡¯ll do various fun activities you like. Let¡¯s start by putting this on.¡±
Pointing to the brainwave measuring device, Kim Bona frowned.
¡°When I put it on, the electricity will sting.¡±
Sitting next to her, Kim Jeong-hwan poked Kim Bona¡¯s shoulder.
¡°Come on, it¡¯s an important test. Cooperate a bit.¡±
¡°Itchy.¡±
¡°Just a little. Can¡¯t you endure it a bit?¡±
¡°Is this really important? It could take years to find a single line among 3 billion base pairs.¡±
¡°How would you know it takes years? Even if you¡¯re smart, are you an expert?¡±
Kim Jeong-hwan looked at Jeong-woo.
¡°Doctor. Is that true?¡±
¡°Uh¡ it could take that long.¡±
¡°See, uncle? If you didn¡¯t know, just be quiet when the doctor is here.¡±
Kim Jeong-hwan sighed heavily, clenching his fists.
Sitting on a bouncy chair, Jeong-woo scratched his chin as he looked at the confident six-year-old in front of him.
Chapter 131
Chapter 131- Beautiful Genius(5)
In a room where the situation inside was visible through the ss window.
Song Boyeong ced green tea on the table for the five professors and stepped back.
-Bona, can you wear this?
-Itchy.
-Well, then. Let¡¯s just start without wearing it for now.
As Song Boyeong watched the test, Lee Sang-joong spoke up.
¡°Who was in charge of Bona before?¡±
¡°That was me.¡±
¡°Oh, Professor Shim.¡±
Upon the solemn reply of the man in his fifties, Lee Sang-joong continued to ask.
¡°I saw the data, Jeong-woo was digging into chromosome 22, what do you think?¡±
¡°I suspected the function of the hypothmus too, but it won¡¯t be easy to detect this. The child¡¯s age is a factor, and the measurement method for the hypothmus sensory signal is inherently subjective. Above all¡¡±
Professor Shim raised his hand and pointed to the test tools on the table.
¡°The child absolutely detests the intelligence test involving those geometric shapes.¡±
-I don¡¯t like it!
Bona threw the toy on the table aside.
-Tsk, what kind of behavior is this!
-I said I don¡¯t like it!
Watching the scene through the ss, Professor Shim sighed.
¡°We even tried to involve child psychologists to make it as cooperative as possible, but it was futile. Although Jeong-woo¡¯s analysis from KG Chemistry seems sensible, with the test subject behaving like that¡ Tsk.¡±
As the professors exchanged negative remarks, Song Boyeong, feeling supportive of Jeong-woo, sped her hands together.
¡®It¡¯s still tough.¡¯
With his lips pursed, Jeong-woo sighed as he looked at the child sitting as if she wouldn¡¯t do anything no matter what he asked. Despite analyzing thoroughly, he still couldn¡¯t get the child to take the test.
¡®I¡¯ll have to do it even if it¡¯s by force. Can¡¯t waste any more time.¡¯
Feeling like he had no choice but to borrow the molecr perspective for the reaction test, Jeong-woo¡¯s actions quickened. He gathered the dust stars and ced them around the child¡¯s head.
¡°Bona.¡±
¡°Yes?¡±
¡°The gic information we collectedst time. I¡¯ve been studying it closely for the past two days. Do you happen to know your level of resistance to mria? What¡¯s the likelihood of you getting diseases like ALS, MS, or NF?¡±
Kim Jeong-hwan looked at Jeong-woo with an incredulous expression. It was a look that said, ¡®Why bother asking the child about things they wouldn¡¯t understand.¡¯
However, Bona¡¯s answer waspletely opposite to her uncle¡¯s expectations.
¡°Did you also evaluate health risk factors? Then maybe you can even tell me my expected lifespan?¡±
¡°And whether your son will be bald too.¡±
¡°Wow.¡±
As they conversed, stimted by the adult conversation, the dust stars ced around the child¡¯s head reacted.
¡°As long as you don¡¯t marry a bald man, your son will be fine.¡±
As Jeong-woo discussed his analysis, Bona¡¯s eyes sparkled.
¡°Mister, this is really important. Something I can know when I grow up. Can you tell me that too?¡±
¡°What?¡±
¡°Women¡¯s thing. Breast cancer.¡±
The dust stars reacted even more strongly to the curiosity expressed by the child¡¯s brain waves. Jeong-woo swallowed a futile sigh but had to answer, so he opened hisptop and searched for the chromosomes.
¡°Based solely on gics, it¡¯s roughly around 12%.¡±
¡°Hey! There are some things you can¡¯t talk about with a kid.¡±
Kim Jeong-hwan interjected awkwardly. In response, Bona gave him a stern look.
¡°Just stay quiet, uncle. Do you know how much it costs to analyze gic information like this? You couldn¡¯t afford it even if you worked and paid your whole sry.¡±
¡°What are you talking about?¡±
Continuing to stimte the brain through direct conversation, Jeong-woo subtly gestured to the brainwave measurement device on the table.
¡°If we use this while talking, uncle might even be able to predict how tall you¡¯ll grow.¡±
¡°Really?¡±
¡°Yep.¡±
The professors were amazed by the scene unfolding behind the ss.
¡°Are they cooperating?¡±
¡°Well, what Jeong-woo is talking about, the gic information¡ Do you think it¡¯s true?¡±
¡°The ¡¯23 & Me¡¯ group actually sold disease and trait-rted information in that manner for high prices. Although most of their business models were shut down due to FDA regtions in the US.¡±
¡°How long has it been since we did that kind of analysis¡¡±
¡°Could you give us the data that Jeong-woo provided?¡±
¡°I want it too.¡±
With the professors¡¯ admiration, Song Boyeong, who had been feeling uneasy, smiled with relief.
Three dayster.
Jeong-woo rubbed his stiff neck and looked away from theptop monitor. It was dawn outside. Even a short nap would help him proceed with today¡¯s meeting with Yoon Cho-won in a decent mental state.
He pushed his chair back andy down deeply.
After narrowing down the range of unique genes in Kim Bona¡¯s first test, the research made significant progress. Although there was still a long way to go, the most encouraging result was the cooperation they achieved.
¡®Treating them like an adult paid off.¡¯
What started as an attempt to stimte intellect became the catalyst for smooth progress in the second and third tests as well.
¡®I hope to finish Yoon¡¯s part smoothly with this momentum.¡¯
While he had his trump card ready, its effectiveness remained uncertain. Hoping for the best, Jeong-woo drifted into a two-hour nap.
How long had he been asleep?
Jeong-woo¡¯s senses sharpened as someone shook him.
¡°Mr. Jeong-woo.¡±
Turning his head, he found Song Boyeong staring at him with big eyes.
¡°I¡¯m awake, senior.¡±
¡°Aren¡¯t you pushing yourself too hard these days?¡±
Seeing her worried expression, Jeong-woo yawned and replied.
¡°It just happened. Have you seen Dr. Moon?¡±
¡°If my skills can help, I can stay up with you.¡±
¡°That would be inefficient. External preparation is also important.¡±
¡°I won¡¯t ask you to teach me today, rest well at home after Yoon¡¯s meeting ends.¡±
Song Boyeong looked sternly at Jeong-woo, who was working all weekend, then ced a shopping bag on the table.
¡°I brought your suit.¡±
¡°Thank you.¡±
¡°By the way, I received a call from the professor on my way to work. They said 20 more people areing to observe today. In addition to the previous guests, 15 more research faculty members are joining.¡±
¡°Why did the number increase so much?¡±
¡°I¡¯m not sure, but the professors separately requested a lot of data from Bonast time.¡±
Seeing Jeong-woo reaching for hisptop with the intention to turn it on, Song Boyeong grabbed his arm.
¡°Lunch is over there.¡±
¡°I¡¯m not feeling well right now, so I¡¯ll pass on lunch.¡±
¡°Force yourself to eat. It¡¯s for your own good.¡±
At Song Boyeong¡¯s firmmand, Jeong-woo chuckled bitterly. Whether it was her providing him with clothes or her attitude, it reminded him of how he might feel if he had a wife.
Tap, tap, tap.
Watching the fifteen year old boy sitting quietly, dabbing dots on the canvas, Jeong-woo gestured towards the door. Soon enough, it opened, and Deputy Gong Gyeong-ho and Cho Sung-hwan from KG Industries pushed in a sizable machine.
¡°Thank you, Deputy Gong. I thought you wouldn¡¯t lend us the machine easily.¡±
¡°I put in some effort since it was a rare request from Jeong-woo.¡±
Deputy Gong chuckled as he spoke.
¡°There¡¯s a bunch of people waiting outside seriously, so what project are you working on this time?¡±
¡°If I were to sum it up, it¡¯s a research on analyzing geniuses.¡±
¡°You mean¡?¡±
¡°Our friend Cho-won, here.¡±
Pointing to Yoon Cho-won, who was diligently drawing, Jeong-woo was about to introduce him when Deputy Gong attempted to greet him. Jeong-woo quickly intervened.
¡°We¡¯ll return it by lunch.¡±
¡°Well then. Take your time. ¡°
Five minutester after Deputy Gong left.
Jeong-woo pointed the machine towards Yoon Cho-won, who was showing his drawing saying ¡°hello!¡± on the canvas.
¡°Cho-won, this is an advanced machine that can dot more than a hundred times per second. Would you like to try drawing something quickly?¡±
The innocent eyes of Yoon Cho-won, seeing the nano-secondser microprocessing device for the first time, sparkled with curiosity as he observed the intricate mechanism used for precise machining.
Inside the room beyond the mirror.
Seeing Yoon Cho-won standing in front of the machine with the pen down, Lee Sang-joong turned his surprised gaze towards him.
¡°Wasn¡¯t it Professor An¡¯s team that handled Cho-won before?¡±
¡°Yes.¡±
¡°ording to the data provided by Han Jeong-woo, he delved into the D4DR of chromosome 11, so it seems like he¡¯s looking for Cho-won¡¯s talent manifestation in the dopamine receptor.¡±
Professor Ahn alsomented while scanning through the data.
¡°Communication was nearly impossible, so there was no room to consider tests rted to neural signals. Even though Cho-won¡¯s situational awareness may be different from ordinary individuals, introducing unfamiliar tools¡¡±
Thunk, thunk, thunk, thunk!
A loud noise echoed in theboratory, interrupting their conversation momentarily.
-Hey, Cho-won. Feeling good?
Thunk, thunk, thunk¨D
-It was really fast, huh? From now on, I need you to help me with about fifty neurotransmitter tests, okay? Will you help?
Thunk, thunk, thunk¨D
As the boy, who usually took five minutes for regrmunication, started responding every five seconds, Professor Ahn fell silent, his mouth hanging open.
¡°Goodbye, Cho-won.¡±
As Yoon Cho-won, apanied by his mother, exited after the test, he nced at Jeong-woo and managed an innocent smile.
¡°Fun¡¡±
¡°Hmm?¡±
¡°See you again¡¡±
Jeong-woo waved back with a touched expression at Yoon Cho-won¡¯s rare words, who usually spoke no more than a few sentences a day.
¡®Thankfully, it ended without any issues. Just the results¡¡¯
Jeong-woo cast his gaze at the 2-meter square steel teid on the table. It was filled with numerous dots meticulously marked by Yoon Cho-won, resulting in aplex pattern.
¡°Well, it¡¯s not hieroglyphics.¡±
Hundreds of drawings that required a magnifying ss to discern. Though the paper was expensive, it was well within the research budget to cover the cost.
Knowing that subsequent analysis would be based on this, Jeong-woo took out his phone to take pictures.
Thunk.
Theb door opened, and Song Boyeong walked in.
¡°Mr. Jeong-woo, please wait for a moment. The professors has something to say.¡±
¡°Oh? Please tell them toe in.¡±
Upon hearing Jeong-woo¡¯s response, Lee Sang-joong, who was outside, pushed his head in.
¡°I was worried it might be a disturbance. Thank you for your hard work, Mr. Han Jeong-woo.¡±
Approaching, Lee Sang-joong examined the steel te on the table with interest.
¡°We couldn¡¯t have imagined this method ofmunication.¡±
¡°After analyzing it, I can somewhat empathize with Cho-won¡¯s thoughts.¡±
¡°Geniuses understand each other, is that the feeling?¡±
¡°I wouldn¡¯t say that.¡±
Lee Sang-joong took out a document from his bag and ced it on the table.
¡°Are you familiar with the Beijing Genomics Institute?¡±
¡°I¡¯ve been focused on other research, so I¡¯m not familiar with external matters.¡±
¡°The institute recently published the DNA analysis results from hundreds of geniuses within China in Nature Gics. This is a copy of the paper.¡±
¡°Hundreds?¡±
As someone about to embark on the analysis of only the third subject, Jeong-woo couldn¡¯t grasp the magnitude of that number. As he received and skimmed through the paper, Lee Sang-joong continued speaking.
¡°As you can see, most of the samples are from individuals with high IQs, typical geniuses.¡±
¡°I see.¡±
Jeong-woo, who was reading, paused.
¡°Hmm? Do you feel like the results of this paper are vague? The issue of human intellectual ability isn¡¯t determined by a specific gene.¡±
¡°As expected, you noticed right away. The academicmunity shares a simr view. There¡¯s a greater likelihood that hundreds of genes collectively y a role. That¡¯s why these results haven¡¯t received global recognition yet.¡±
Lee Sang-joong cautiously examined Jeong-woo before asking.
¡°I understand if this is impertinent, but there¡¯s a symposium hosted by Seoul National University¡¯s Department of Life Sciences next week. Could you possibly attend?¡±
¡°A symposium? What¡¯s the topic?¡±
¡°Your current research, Mr. Han Jeong-woo. Genius genes. That¡¯s why I received an email from a Beijing Genomics Institute representative. Feeling that one person¡¯s argument isn¡¯t enough in thispetitive situation¡¡±
¡°So, they need more opinions. I¡¯ll attend then.¡±
Relieved, Lee Sang-joong retrieved an envelope from his pocket and handed it to Jeong-woo.
¡°Here¡¯s the invitation. It¡¯s reassuring that you¡¯ll be attending, Mr. Jeong-woo.¡±
¡°Not at all.¡±
¡°Oh, when are you nning to conduct the first analysis for Seo Jung-gu¡¯s initial test?¡±
¡°The scope is broad, so I think it will take about five days for the initial analysis.¡±
¡°Then, I¡¯ll see you then.¡±
With a polite nod, Lee Sang-joong left.
Song Boyeong, who had been quietly listening to the conversation, nudged Jeong-woo¡¯s side.
¡°Oh, feeling secure, huh?¡±
¡°It was just a polite remark.¡±
¡°Acting so humble secretly makes you feel good, doesn¡¯t it?¡±
¡°I don¡¯t dislike it.¡±
Jeong-woo opened the envelope and was surprised. Song Boyeong gave him a puzzled look. Jeong-woo quietly handed her the invitation.
¡°It¡¯s being held at the senior¡¯s backyard.¡±
The Conrad Hotel within the International Financial Center.
As memories of past incidents in the room surfaced, Song Boyeong lowered her head deeply.
One dayter.
Jeong-woo headed to the researchb for his meeting with Seo Jung-gu. It was essentially the most crucial day. For today, he even made sure to take care of his condition without working overtime yesterday.
¡°Seo Jung-gu will arrive in about 20 minutes.¡±
Jeong-woo nodded in response to Song Boyeong words and asked.
¡°Are you ready to meet him, Senior?¡±
¡°Me? Why?¡±
¡°I¡¯ve got life insurance, so I feel free to proceed with the test without worries. I suddenly have a stomach ache¡¡±
Jeong-woo chuckled as he saw her eyes widen as if about to pop out, and he pressed the elevator button.
¡°Don¡¯t joke. I thought you were really in pain for a second.¡±
¡°We¡¯re all citizens within the boundaries ofw and society, is it that scary?¡±
¡°I¡¯m not scared at all?¡±
Song Boyeong puffed up her cheeks and shook her head.
Descending to the 10th floor and entering the Pharmaceutical and Bio Center, Jeong-woo found it noisier than usual. He couldn¡¯t even make it into theboratory across the hallway as he noticed the crowd gathered outside.
¡°Are all these people here for the observation?¡±
Professor Lee Sang-joong, who was controlling the crowd, approached Jeong-woo with a bright smile.
¡°Jeong-woo.¡±
¡°Professor. Why are there so many people?¡±
¡°Today, graduate students from the Department of Biotechnology who are conducting research are also here. They begged so earnestly after hearing the rumors.¡±
¡°That¡¯s a lot.¡±
¡°Seventy people.¡±
¡°Wow¡¡±
¡°Your analytical methods and the intuitive inference process of tracking specific factors have be the main discussion topics among our graduate studentstely.¡±
Lee Sang-joong turned to the crowd and shouted.
¡°This is Jeong-woo. Everyone, treat this as a special lecture and listen attentively.¡±
¡°Understood!¡±
Jeong-woo was startled by the thunderous response from the seventy people.
Presenting in front of Seoul National University graduate students as a graduate of a provincial university¡¯s business administration program was daunting enough, and now the pressure was even greater.
Chapter 132
Chapter 132- Beautiful Genius(6)
The high-definition camera was set up to illuminate theboratory table. After finishing the video call setup, Cho Sung-hwan asked into the microphone.
¡°Can you hear me?¡±
-Yeah, it¡¯s good.
Cho Sung-hwan nced at the screen of the other person.
¡°How many people are there over there? Aren¡¯t they all busy?¡±
The conference room at AN Hospital Pharmacy Center was so crowded that there was barely any space for chairs.
-I¡¯m not exactly sure. A lot of doctors from the Gics Center came over.
¡°There are so many observers here too. Not everyone can fit in, so about 70 people will watch via video in the conference room.¡±
-If this research had received this much attention earlier, I wish I could have observed it at headquarters.¡°Senior colleagues even struggle to find a seat. You have to be at the level of a professor at Seoul National University to watch.¡±
-Seoul National University?
Seeing Jeong-woo, who had just walked in from outside the door, Cho Sung-hwan gave a faint smile and covered the camera.
¡°Team leader Han. I received a call from the Pharmacy Center and added him to the connection.¡±
¡°Oh? He¡¯s there too?¡±
cing hisptop on the table, Jeong-woo nodded at the people on the screen.
As Cho Sung-hwan adjusted the audio settings for thest time, a question came from the other side.
-Sung-hwan, why is everyone making such a fuss about Seo Jeong-gu¡¯s genes?
¡°Do you think it¡¯s because of that that everyone¡¯s making a fuss?¡±
-What?
Cho Sung-hwan nced at the image of Jeong-woo captured by the camera.
10.30 AM.
Jeong-woo, upon receiving a notice that the test subject would soon arrive, turned his gaze to the gic analysis report disyed on theptop screen.
Seo Jeong-gu had a track record of receiving top grades in almost all categories in past tests evaluating gifted individuals.
While his overall intelligence was outstanding, he exhibited symptoms of antisocial personality disorder. A schr at the Seoul National University Institute of Gic Engineering had even conducted research under the project title ¡®Gics of Psychopathy.¡¯
¡®If someone wanted to study my personality for such reasons, I might just hit them.¡¯
As Jeong-woo observed the analysis data, he turned his head as the door opened.
¡®He¡¯s here.¡¯
A young man in his early twenties entered. His gaze, almost devoid of emotion, fell upon Jeong-woo. Despite being observed by many, the room was empty except for the two of them, which made Jeong-woo slightly nervous.
¡°Wee, Mr. Seo Jeong-gu.¡±
¡°Turn off the mic.¡±
The blunt voice came unexpectedly. Such brusqueness was within the expected range.
¡°Just audio? What about the camera?¡±
With no response, Jeong-woo decided it was okay to disconnect only the microphone cable connected to the outside.
¡°Before we start, you need to use this brainwave analysis device.¡±
Seo Jeong-gu silently looked at Jeong-woo, then reached into his pocket. He ced a small ss bottle on the table.
¡°What¡¯s that?¡±
¡°That drug.¡±
Jeong-woo flinched. He couldn¡¯t predict the intention behind producing the hallucinogen that had caused seven delinquents to fight each other.
¡°If you can solve the problem with that strange chemical reasoning of yours, then I¡¯ll wear that.¡±
¡°What?¡±
It was a proposal where one gives and takes. Jeong-woo turned his gaze to the bottle.
¡®No wonder. He said he really wanted to meet me.¡¯
Upon examining it with molecr vision, he saw much denserponents than those seen on the ingredient from Seo Jeong-gu¡¯s fingertips before.
¡°Are you imposing exchange conditions for research cooperation?¡±
¡°That¡¯s right.¡±
¡°But that¡¡±
Observing Seo Jeong-gu¡¯s attitude, seemingly indifferent even to the onlookers, Jeong-woo found himself in a dilemma.
¡°What problem are you trying to solve?¡±
¡°Half-life.¡±
It was a chilling answer. He couldn¡¯t even imagine what kind of mischief someone would attempt with a hallucinogen that leaves no evidence behind.
¡®Leaving aside hisck of manners, he¡¯s really a tough nut to crack.¡¯
While Seo Jeong-gu¡¯s personality itself was burdensome, researching the traits his genes possessed unexpectedly intrigued Jeong-woo.
Perhaps, he could even empathize with the thought process unfolding in his mind.
¡®Cho-won¡¯s rough estimate was roughly correct, but was I mistaken about this person?¡¯
Five days of effort would go to waste, but he couldn¡¯t assist in creating a hallucinogen.
¡°Are you aware of what kind of criminal carries around such substances? Why do you think I would assist Mr. Seo Jeong-gu in his crimes?¡±
¡°You¡¯re a strange chemist.¡±
Jeong-woo let out a hollowugh and shook his head.
¡°You¡¯re mistaken. Call me a chemist who maintains a level ofmon sense.¡±
¡°Is that a refusal?¡±
¡°Of course.¡±
¡°You¡¯ve wasted my time.¡±
Seo Jeong-gu attempted to grasp the bottle again.
Jeong-woo raised his left hand and pushed a bunch of dust particles into the bottle. With a crackling sound and a static charge, Seo Jeong-gu reflexively let go of the bottle.
Casually filling the bottle, Jeong-woo said.
¡°I¡¯m sorry, but I can¡¯t ignore something this dangerous.¡±
¡°You¡¡±
¡°It seems there¡¯s a misunderstanding. If you think I¡¯m holding back because I¡¯m weak, you¡¯re mistaken. I don¡¯t particrly expect anything from you, like Professor Lee Sang-joong or others. If you want to leave, leave. If you want to stay, stay.¡±
Jeong-woo took out bottles disyed on one side of theboratory wall and spread them out on the table.
¡°This is a chemicalpany. My own backyard. Even though it may be different outside, there¡¯s almost nothing chemically forbidden here. Extracting theseponents from licorice and peony would have taken a lot of effort, it¡¯s a shame.¡±
Jeong-woo dropped the bottle into a metal cup filled with mixed liquid.
Ssh.
He held a battery in one hand and concentrated the lightning particles into the cup.
Fizz¡ª
As the reaction elerated, the bottle melted away, and its contents were destroyed in an instant.
The professors observing widened their eyes and looked inside the ss.
¡°What is that?¡±
¡°It seems like it¡¯s from the hydrochloric acid family, but¡¡±
¡°By the way, why are they having such a serious conversation? And Mr. Seo Jeong-gu¡¯s face. Isn¡¯t he flustered right now?¡±
The professors, who seemed to sense emotions from Seo Jeong-gu¡¯s response, all leaned in closer to the ss, but they couldn¡¯t hear the conversation inside.
Seo Jeong-gu couldn¡¯t take his eyes off the cup where only a transparent liquid left.
It was a bizarre phenomenon. Apart from melting, the remnants of the medicine didn¡¯t spread as if it knew the antidote, perfectly neutralized.
¡°How is this possible?¡±
¡°Let¡¯s call it magical chemistry.¡±
At the chemist¡¯s peculiar answer, Seo Jeong-gu turned his head. The world contained within Jeong-woo¡¯s clear gaze seemed extraordinarily special.
¡°I¡¯m going to turn on the mic now. I¡¯ll inform Professor Lee Sang-joong myself that I won¡¯t participate in the research. If I have to talk about the reasons, I¡¯ll have to detail everything up to the incident where you were detained. So, you can handle it on your own. Oh, this isn¡¯t a threat, it¡¯s a request.¡±
Jeong-woo reconnected the microphone cable and stood in front.
¡°As someone who has meticulously observed Mr. Seo Jeong-gu¡¯s genes, I¡¯ll say one more thing. The predispositions you¡¯ve inherited aren¡¯t like this. They¡¯re perfectly normal. I don¡¯t know why you¡¯re so off track, but your parents gave you a bright and healthy body, so you shouldn¡¯t me anyone.¡±
Seo Jeong-gu, who had been staring at Jeong-woo with a mesmerized gaze, pointed to the device on the table.
¡°If I wear this, will the test proceed?¡±
Jeong-woo hesitated at this question.
¡°Why all of a sudden?¡±
¡°I¡¯m curious about the chemistry you¡¯ll show.¡±
The students inside the conference room doubted their ears as the microphone turned on and voices were heard.
-I¡¯m sorry, but I¡¯m not curious.
-What do you want?
-How about a trade?
-If it¡¯s possible.
After pondering, Jeong-woo spoke briefly.
-Courtesy.
-What?
-Don¡¯t say you don¡¯t like it.
Those gathered at the pharmacy center were equally surprised.
-Don¡¯t you know mutual respect?
Jeong-woo gestured with his mouth and hand motions, urging Seo Jeong-gu to repeat the words. Hesitantly, Seo Jeong-gu followed along.
-If I wear this¡ will the test¡ proceed¡?
-Hey. You can do it if you want to.
-Then let¡¯s get started.
When Jeong-woo warned, ¡°Be careful,¡± Seo Jeong-gu immediately added, ¡°Please¡±.
The professors in the opposite room couldn¡¯t utter a word at the events unfolding.
¡°Wait, was Seo Jeong-gu always this cooperative?¡±
¡°He never wanted to solve a single problem with me.¡±
¡°A stress test right away? That¡¯s quite painful.¡±
Especially the professors who had been in charge of Seo Jeong couldn¡¯t close their mouths.
-Doesn¡¯t it sting your ears?
-Why ask when you already know?
-Perhaps because you seem indifferent even to pain. We suspect that Seo Jeong-gu¡¯s remarkable intelligence may be due to the ¡®SJG-8¡¯ variant gene. Do you see the gic structure here?
All the professors took out the analysis data presented by Jeong-woo.
¡°Isn¡¯t this a mutation gene that hasn¡¯t been reported in academia?¡±
¡°If this factor is involved, we may need to redefine what constitutes a genius.¡±
¡°Since not all tests have beenpleted yet, let¡¯s observe.¡±
With each voicing their opinions, the professors became engrossed in discussion.
Watching from the sidelines, Song Boyeong smirked at the scene.
-Mr. Han Jeong-woo, may I ask a question?
Jeong-woo turned his head at the voiceing from the video monitor. It was a doctor who was observing from the pharmacy center.
¡°What is it?¡±
-You mentioned that the ¡®SJG-8¡¯ variant gene is located within the non-coding DNA. Isn¡¯t this part ssified as a meaningless section in the process of gic design?
Seeing Seo Jeong-gu memorizing the order of the Trump cards, Jeong-woo turned his head to the video monitor and replied.
¡°Some parts of non-coding DNA have been fragmented and abandoned over generations. This is abination of those.¡±
-Interesting. Do you have any rted papers or evidence to support that opinion?
¡°There probably aren¡¯t any, since it¡¯s just my thought.¡±
-Excuse me?
-I have a question too!
This time, it was a graduate student from the Department of Biotechnology in the conference room.
-You said you analyzed for 5 days, but did you really examine all 35,000 base pairs? Or did you search for target genes in existing gic databases? Both seem impossible considering the time.
¡°You¡¯ve seen my data, right? If you consider the DNA sequence in there as the chemical blueprint that initially constituted the human known as Seo Jeong-gu, it was a method of distinguishing between what parts were sophisticated and what parts were simplebinations.¡±
-How could you¡
¡°You probably memorized a substantial portion of the databases in your head, right?¡±
After answering, Jeong-woo found himself curious about the limitations of Cheon Seung-guk¡¯s vast knowledge in chemistry.
When the questioner stopped speaking, the graduate students in the conference room eagerly raised their hands.
-Mr. Han Jeong-woo!
-I have a question too!
-Me too!
¡°I¡¯ll stop taking questions now. Mr. Seo Jeong-gu seems to have already memorized everything.¡±
30 minutester.
Jeong-woo, who recorded the final results of the cognitive test, sent an okay sign to Seo Jeong-gu.
¡°This should be enough. You can take that off now.¡±
While Seo Jeong-gu was removing the device, Jeong-woo unplugged the microphone cable and approached.
¡°Before you go, let me check one more thing informally. Back in high school, where you bullied Seo Jeong-gu? Is that why you sought revenge?¡±
¡°You don¡¯t need to know.¡±
¡°I do need to know. If that¡¯s the method you used due to being bullied, I might find myself in a difficult situation if you decide to recreate it. While I can¡¯t exactly condone it, if the method was seeking revenge because you were bullied, then I can at least understand it.¡±
¡°What¡¯s important about your understanding?¡±
Jeong-woo replied as he scanned the DNA information disyed on theptop.
¡°You¡¯re not the type to act on whim or mood swings for no reason.¡±
¡°I thought you were a chemist, not a psychoanalyst.¡±
¡°That¡¯s what your genes seem to be implying.¡±
¡°Weird analysis. Weird reasoning. It doesn¡¯t make sense.¡±
¡°The words might not, but to conduct in-depth analysis and continue research, one must urately grasp your thoughts.¡±
Seo Jeong-gu, who had been looking at the cup where the bottle had melted, quietly spoke up.
¡°A will.¡±
¡°Yes?¡±
Seo Jeong-gu continued speaking with a dry voice. Jeong-woo had to suppress a groan after hearing it all.
¡°If you understand everything, can you tell me how to reduce the half-life?¡±
Jeong-woo hesitated for a moment before replying.
¡°I¡¯ll need a signed agreement stating you won¡¯t use it again.¡±
¡°A proposal with more cons than pros is a rejection.¡±
¡°There are more pros than cons. It¡¯s a win-win proposal that satisfies intellectual curiosity and gains conscience.¡±
¡°So, do you know the answer?¡±
¡°Have you been deceived?¡±
Upon hearing that, Seo Jeong-gu nodded. Jeong-woo was surprised by this reaction and asked.
¡°You really won¡¯t use it again?¡±
30 minutester.
Jeong-woo remained in theboratory, resting his chin on his hand lost in thought.
Thunk.
Entering the room, Song Boyeong grinned as she approached Jeong-woo, who seemed so absent-minded that he didn¡¯t notice her until she was close.
After waiting for about three minutes, Song Boyeong finally spoke up.
¡°Jeong-woo.¡±
¡°¡Oh, you¡¯re here?¡±
¡°Why the worried look? Did you receive a threat or something?¡±
Jeong-woo chuckled as he closed hisptop.
¡°I did, from myself.¡±
Looking puzzled, Song Boyeong asked him.
¡°What about Professor Lee?¡±
¡°He¡¯s gone to supervise the students. He said he¡¯d visit before the follow-up analysis.¡±
As Jeong-woo began tidying up the table, Song Boyeong joined him.
¡°Remember how the professors who used to mentor Seo Jeong-gu used to write down everything you said as if they were studying? They thought you were such a studious student. Theyined about not being able to ask real-time questions because the videomunication wasn¡¯t working.¡±
¡°Is that so?¡±
¡°And Seo Jeong-gu suddenly bing polite. It¡¯s because opinions were divided, leading to fights.¡±
¡°There¡¯s no special reason. If he doesn¡¯t feel the need, he won¡¯t do anything. Courtesy is one of those things.¡±
Answering almost absentmindedly, Jeong-woo¡¯s mind seemed elsewhere. Unable to hold back, Song Boyeong asked.
¡°After a sessful test, why are you like this again? Is it a secret you can¡¯t tell me? Is it more serious than the prison talk?¡±
¡°Senior.¡±
¡°Yes?¡±
¡°Can a person really exist who never breaks a promise?¡±
Song Boyeong felt a sense of disbelief as she cautiously asked.
¡°Is that what Seo Jeong-gu said?¡±
¡°Probably.¡±
Jeong-woo began a rough exnation based on what he had heard from Seo Jeong-gu.
¡°You heard about Seo Jeong-gu¡¯s family background, right? His parents passed away, leaving behind only one younger sibling. It seems those delinquent kids we saw at the police station extorted money from his sibling. They were from the same school.¡±
¡°So, he used the fighting drug against each other because of that?¡±
¡°In essence, yes.¡±
¡°The intention itself wasn¡¯t scary. But what does that have to do with keeping a promise?¡±
¡°Seo Jeong-gu¡¯s mother¡¡±
Jeong-woo was caught off guard by the weight of the memory of his mother¡¯s dying wish.
¡°Jeong-gu, take care of your younger sibling until they can stand on their own. Your mother raised you, so you should at least do that much, right?¡±
¡°Did she really leave such a will?¡±
¡°That¡¯s why I don¡¯t know if he has the heart to truly care for his sibling.¡±
Jeong-woo felt the need to meet Seo Jeong-gu¡¯s sibling before the follow-up analysis.
Chapter 133
Chapter 133- Beautiful Genius(7)
The final week in the pharmaceutical and bio center department.
Monday morning began in the protein culture room.
As the beep echoed, Jeong-woo woke up with a yawn. Then, he turned his gaze to the cell culture dishes containing the peculiar factors he had been examining for the past two weeks.
Jelly-like transparent protein clusters.
Jeong-woo picked up a dishbeled ¡®KBN-22¡¯ and concentrated on the molecr world.
As a vast universeposed of neuralworks within the brain emerged entirely before his eyes, theboratory transformed into a new space entwined withplex ion channels and synapses.
Jeong-woo freely surveyed the surroundings and fixed his gaze on the area where nerve cells were dancing. It was the ce that had the greatest impact on Kim Bona¡¯s cognitive abilities.
¡®Between the area of the brain associated withnguage and the perception area, there¡¯s quite an active movement of free electrons rted tonguage. However, the transmission of nerve impulses in response to external stimuli has slowed down rtively. So, there¡¯s desire, but could it be that emotional judgment is immature?¡¯
He recorded what he saw directly onto hisptop for further analysis.He witnessed information rted to exceptional observation skills in the dish where Yoon Cho-won¡¯s ¡®D4DR-11¡¯ was cultured.
While the ability to form concepts and instantaneous cognitive abilities were outstanding, the neural circuits needed for expressing them innguage were very delicate and weak.
¡®Bona¡¯s strengths and weaknesses are clear.¡¯
The influence of Seo Jung-gu¡¯s peculiar factor ¡®SJG-8¡¯ was much moreplex. While a high level of intelligence was evident, it was difficult to make urate judgments because it was intertwined with various neural circuits.
Notable neural connections indicative of tendencies toward criminal impulses, sensitivity, or susceptibility to addiction were apparent, but there were also neural pathways exhibiting characteristics of calmness, introversion, and creativity typical of an artist.
¡®It seems like the analysis of thought processes isn¡¯t urate.¡¯
After working in the molecr world for a while, Jeong-woo closed his eyes tightly and then opened them.
¡°Ah, dizzy.¡±
The aftereffects of exiting virtual reality came over him. Even though such technology hadn¡¯t yet be widespread, Jeong-woo could experience that feeling very vividly.
Heposed an email to Professor Lee Sang-joong to summarize the follow-up analysis and sent it.
[¡I heard that Seo Jung-gu has a younger sibling. I would like to meet this person as well. Could you please provide me with their contact information?]
Two dayster, at the AN Hospital Gics Center.
Kim Bonay in front of the MRI machine and spoke through the connected microphone.
-I looked at the statistical analysis data. People with particrly higher IQs are more likely to experience undesirable symptoms like depression or delusions. Am I one of them?
Jeong-woo, who was watching Kim Bona from the monitoring room, swallowed a groan at her words. Then, he turned to Professor Lee Sang-joong, who was sitting beside him, and asked.
¡°What was Bona¡¯s IQ measurement?¡±
¡°By the standards for under 10 years old, it was 183. By adult standards, it was 150. It was a Mensa top-tier membership level.¡±
¡°Wow, that¡¯s high.¡±
Jeong-woo pondered how to respond, then nced at the gic center doctors who were observing from behind for help.
However, the doctors, who had been harshly criticized before, only sent apologetic nces.
Pressing the microphone button, Jeong-woo said.
¡°Let me take a quick look.¡±
In response to the unexpected question from the 6-year-old, Jeong-woo began to quickly search through gic information.
Kim Jeong-hwan, who had been apanying her as her guardian, standing beside his niece, suddenly looked bewildered.
-So, you think you have depression? Always saying things to uncle that you can¡¯t say to others. You¡¯re not that delicate. You have a steel mentality.
-It could develop as you grow.
-Do you know what depression is?
-Crying andughing when uncle fails an interview. That¡¯s an early symptom of depression.
As usual, Jeong-hwan¡¯s sighs, pushed aside by his niece¡¯s logic, could be heard even in the monitoring room.
Some doctors covered their mouths and chuckled, but Jeong-woo couldn¡¯t help feeling sorry. Then, his gaze fell on a certain chromosome.
¡°Bona.¡±
-Yeah?
¡°I see a mutation on chromosome 6, ¡®IGF2R¡¯. This is amon phenomenon seen in people with an IQ of 160 or higher.¡±
-So, does that mean I¡¯ll be strange?
¡°No. This is called a smart gene. In my view, it seems to signify someone with a great curiosity about the world. All the associated parts seem to act in that way.¡±
As Jeong-woo finished addressing Bona¡¯s curiosity, he exhaled silently.
¡°Now let¡¯s proceed with the examination. It¡¯ll be over soon. Can you do that?¡±
As the device started up and they waited for the scan information to appear on the screen, the doctors in the background conversed quietly.
¡°If the active cells that Researcher Han Jeong-woo is looking for are indeed influenced by the peculiar factor, wouldn¡¯t this be a huge deal?¡±
¡°Yeah, it would be. If a paper is published, it¡¯ll cause a stir. What¡¯s with someone who didn¡¯t even have a name in academia conducting research like this at lightning speed?¡±
¡°Didn¡¯t KG Pharmaceuticals set up a backup team just to groom him? Realistically, you can¡¯t be proficient in molecr biology, cell biology, physiology, and neuroscience all at once. He¡¯s only twenty-seven.¡±
¡°I heard from a colleague at the pharmacy center. Instead of trying to analyze a mediocre genius and failing, why not just let Han Jeong-woo analyze him?¡±
¡°Should we really consider that?¡±
As the results appeared on the monitor, Jeong-woo, who had been closely examining the brain region, pointed to a certain point.
¡°Excuse me, Professor. The nerve cells seem to¡ Oh. They don¡¯t seem to be moving vigorously, unlike in ordinary people.¡±
The doctors at the gic center quickly turned their heads toward the monitor. Their eyes, confirming the initial sess of the peculiar factor research and objective evidence, turned to Jeong-woo.
1:00 PM, Pharmacy Center Team 5 Room.
¡°Other disease factors are at the average level, but you inherited the alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency gene from your mother. It¡¯s benign, so Bona isn¡¯t at risk.¡±
After Kim Bona¡¯s follow-up analysis waspleted, it was time to exin the research results so far. Kim Jeong-hwan listened to Jeong-woo¡¯s exnation with wide eyes and a puzzled expression.
¡°Doctor, can you tell meter about¡¡±
¡°Ah, I¡¯ll give you the summarized data before you go.¡±
¡°Phew, thank you.¡±
As Kim Bona muttered ¡°fool¡± from the couch, Kim Jeong-hwan turned his head sharply, starting an eye duel.
Ring ring.
Kim Jeong-hwan¡¯s phone in his pocket rang. Looking at the screen, he stood up abruptly.
¡°Excuse me, it¡¯s from the ce where I had the interviewst time.¡±
Hurriedly, Kim Jeong-hwan dashed out into the hallway. Kim Bona, with her arms folded, shook her head.
¡°Fool.¡±
Kim Bona hopped up and down, then climbed onto the chair where Kim Jeong-hwan had been sitting.
¡°Teacher, by the way, about the hospital gene I have. Is that okay?¡±
¡°For you, Bona, it is. But if a future spouse you choose has the same gene, then the next generation might be at risk. It¡¯s a gic disease that manifests when inherited from both sides.¡±
¡°Then my future husband should definitely get tested.¡±
¡°Yes, he should. Can you exin this to your parents?¡±
Kim Bona nodded.
Exining to oneself rather than to a guardian turned out to be so easy. Jeong-woo couldn¡¯t help but feel amazed by the 6-year-old¡¯s intellectual maturity in this regard.
¡°Bona.¡±
¡°Yeah?¡±
Thinking of the neuralwork he had seen a few days ago, Jeong-woo spoke.
¡°This is my personal opinion, but I think you should work on being less selfish to satisfy your strong curiosity. That way, you¡¯ll make more friends.¡±
¡°Selfish?¡±
Jeong-woo brought out a more direct statement for the genius little girl, who absorbed adult knowledge like a sponge but remained immature in empathizing with others¡¯ emotions.
¡°Even if you¡¯re influenced by the peculiar factor, I believe you can do it, Bona. What you¡¯re born with is important, but what you learnter is also important. It¡¯s not just about knowledge.¡±
¡°What am I supposed to do about being born like this?¡±
¡°I¡¯m not saying what you¡¯ve inherited is everything. People have potential, and they have the right to be respected in most cases. Bona, you like your uncle, right?¡±
After pondering for a while, Kim Bona asked.
¡°How do you practice consideration?¡±
¡°It¡¯s a skill of gently unraveling and returning urate facts. It¡¯s about understanding and respecting the other person¡¯s feelings.¡±
Looking around at Jeong-woo, Kim Bona said.
¡°So, are you being considerate to me right now?¡±
¡°I guess so.¡±
¡°Then do you like me, Doctor?¡±
¡°Um¡ I suppose?¡±
To an unexpected question, Jeong-woo let out a nervousugh.
Thud.
Kim Jeong-hwan, who had been outside, came back in with a deeply thoughtful expression, causing Jeong-woo to pause their conversation, wondering what was going on.
¡°Doctor Han Jeong-woo, could I ask you for a favor?¡±
¡°What favor?¡±
¡°I was supposed to watch Bona all day today, but I just got a call saying I have an interview for an additional position at the ce where I appliedst time. As you know, she¡¯s just¡ too clever with her words, so I can¡¯t leave her at the usual yroom. It¡¯s not suitable for her.¡±
As Kim Jeong-hwan pleaded, Jeong-woo¡¯s gaze shifted to Kim Bona.
¡°Uncle, going for an interview?¡±
¡°Huh?¡±
¡°The tinypany where you said it¡¯d be hard work, and that it was good you didn¡¯t get in?¡±
¡°Ha ha. Did I say that?¡±
Kim Jeong-hwan mentally prepared himself for another onught of his niece¡¯s factual violence. About to say something, Kim Bona nced at Jeong-woo.
¡°Make sure you get in.¡±
¡°Huh?¡±
Surprised by his niece¡¯s unexpected encouragement, Kim Jeong-hwan¡¯s eyes widened.
¡°Bona, what¡¯s gotten into you? You¡¯re unusually optimistic today?¡±
Kim Jeong-hwan,ughing, was then met with Bona¡¯s thoughtful next words.
¡°Inpanies with low wages and tough jobs, bosses often make it mentally difficult for employees. That¡¯s why the turnover rate for new hires leaving within three months is high. So, even if they finish one round of interviews, they often recruit again. But uncle, you¡¯ll be okay.¡±
¡°¡Where did you hear that, and why would I be okay?¡±
¡°Dad and I are used to you always being insulted about why you act like that. So, I think you can handle that much.¡±
¡°¡¡±
Feeling oddly worse despite theforting words, Kim Jeong-hwan was at a loss for words.
¡®This isn¡¯t right¡.¡¯
Jeong-woo swallowed a sigh and quickly approached the distracted Kim Jeong-hwan, patting him on the back.
¡°Mr. Kim Jeong-hwan, go prepare for your interview. Call me afterwards.¡±
Turning his head, Jeong-woo nced at Kim Bona with eyes asking, ¡°How was I?¡± and quietly clicked his tongue. Where should he start exining this and how?
30 minutester.
¡°Bona.¡±
Bona¡¯s round eyes turned towards Jeong-woo.
¡°Uncle came in with his shoulders slumped. So, what should we do?¡±
Bona ced the juice pack on the table and replied.
¡°Uncle didn¡¯t get the additional interview, right? It¡¯ll be fine. If he had graduated from a local business school, he should have lowered his expectations, but he picked and chose where to interview. If he understands the subject, there¡¯s still a long way to go. ¡ Like this?¡±
¡°No! The phrase ¡®understand the subject¡¯ has apletely negative tone.¡±
¡°Why is knowing the subject negative? Socrates once said¡¡±
¡°Forget it! Just do whatever you want!¡±
Jeong-woo, who had been listening attentively, burst out, immediately apologizing. Cho Sung-hwan, who hade to visit 5th team room for a moment, finally managed to suppress hisughter and said.
¡°Mr. Jeong-woo, from my perspective, this is Bona¡¯s charm.¡±
¡°Charm?¡±
¡°It gives off a Doctor Moon vibe.¡±
¡°Ugh, that¡¯s scary. If she goes to medical school, she¡¯ll save lives with her hands, but with her words, she¡¯ll probably kill several people.¡±
Considering the perspective of the other person, Jeong-woo couldn¡¯t help but smile bitterly at Bona¡¯s style of consideration, which threw even stronger factual violence.
¡°If I see her today, it¡¯ll probably be thest time. I guess this is as far as I can go.¡±
As Jeong-woo muttered disappointedly, Cho Sung-hwan asked him.
¡°Where¡¯s senior Boyeong? You¡¯ve been inseparable for weeks.¡±
¡°Shes with Mr. Seo Jeong-gu¡¯s brother. It shes with Bona¡¯s schedule.¡±
¡°He has a brother too?¡±
On a whim, Jeong-woo sent a text to Song Boyeong to ask how things were going.
Zi-iing.
A reply came immediately.
[I think Mr. Jeong-woo should judge for himself, so I¡¯m on my way to the hospital now, would you like to join?]
¡®Huh?¡¯
Ding dong.
After Song Boyeong pressed the elevator button for the 4th floor, she nced at Seo Jung-gu¡¯s younger brother. When their eyes met, he shyly lowered his head, so Song Boyeong gave him a light smile and looked away.
¡°It¡¯s this way.¡±
Guiding the brother to the pharmacy center, Song Boyeong opened the door to the 5th team¡¯s researchb and was slightly taken aback. Kim Bona was sitting in a chair, spinning around.
¡°Hello, doctor.¡±
¡°Oh, Bona. You haven¡¯t gone home yet? The test was at 1 o¡¯clock.¡±
¡°I have to wait beacuse uncle went to an interview.¡±
Song Boyeong turned her gaze to Jeong-woo. Despite spending time with Kim Bona, he didn¡¯t seem to be in such distress.
¡°I¡¯m here, senior.¡±
¡°Mr. Jeong-woo, this is Seo Jung-gu¡¯s brother, Seo In-gu.¡±
¡°Hello.¡±
After a brief exchange of greetings, Jeong-woo said to Song Boyeong.
¡°Please watch over Bona while I talk to In-gu. Don¡¯t get too hurt by what the kid says.¡±
¡°Why are you like this? I¡¯m mentally strong.¡±
¡°Please, just do it. I feel like I¡¯ve created a monster.¡±
¡°What?¡±
With a serious expression, Jeong-woo patted her shoulder and disappeared into the internal experimentalb with Seo In-gu.
Song Boyeong smiled brightly when her eyes met Kim Bona¡¯s.
¡°Bona, what were you talking about with Mr. Jeong-woo?¡±
¡°He was teaching me how to be considerate.¡±
¡°Considerate?¡±
Song Boyeong¡¯s eyes widened at the unexpected topic.
¡°How?¡±
Thud.
Entering the nearly soundproofedboratory, Jeong-woo gestured for Seo In-gu to take a seat.
¡°Please sit here.¡±
¡°Oh, okay¡¡±
Seo In-gu¡¯s slightly tense appearance resembled his brother¡¯s, but from his eyes to his expression, he gave off a very introverted teenage vibe.
¡°I¡¯ll confirm what I vaguely heard from Senior Boyeong. There were delinquent students who bullied you, right? You saw them fighting each other, right?¡±
¡°¡Yes.¡±
¡°Were you there with them?¡±
Seo In-gu nodded and handed Jeong-woo his phone. Jeong-woo watched the video file with a grimace.
It was a video of seven high school students staggering drunkenly, engaging in a chaotic brawl.
¡°Why¡¡±
¡°My brother¡¯s way is a bit like that. It was my birthday that day.¡±
¡°Birthday?¡±
Jeong-woo couldn¡¯t close his mouth after listening to the subsequent exnation.
¡°My mother used to say that she always wanted to see me smile on my birthday, to my brother. But he took the money he gave me for my birthday. He thought that if he gave me the same amount of money again, I wouldn¡¯t smile. So he called me to that spot. He said this video was his birthday present.¡±
It was an incident and action that went two or three steps beyond just hitting those who tormented his younger brother. Jeong-woo couldn¡¯t utter a word as he listened to Seo In-gu¡¯s exnation.
¡°And this¡¡±
Seo In-gu took out two transparent bottles from his pocket.
¡°My brother gave me these yesterday. The sister who just came by asked to see them because she thought they were dangerous. He said to spray this one if someone tries to bully me, and drink this one.¡±
¡°Wow.¡±
Jeong-woo recognized the contents of the vials and asked.
¡°Do you know what this is?¡±
¡°Yes.¡±
¡°So¡¡±
¡°No, I didn¡¯t use them. There are a few more of these, but if I use them, my brother gets into trouble.¡±
Having delved into the molecr world of hallucinogens, Jeong-woo shook his head inwardly. The half-life was perfectlyplemented as he advised. There was enough leeway to avoid legal issues.
In the end, he hadn¡¯t broken his promise not to use them. He was just foolishly deceived.
¡°My brother is not¡ strange. He has never done anything bad to me while we¡¯ve been living together. He only makes these things for me.¡±
Jeong-woo sensed a feeling of understanding and affection from Seo In-gu, who didn¡¯t fear his brother like others did.
¡®Seo Jung-gu at least cherishes Seo In-gu. Moreover, he knows how to empathize with his younger brother¡¯s feelings. The method may be sinister, but¡¡¯
From the tangled interactions observed in the neuralwork cultivated from SJG-8, there were electric pulses that felt not numb, but delicate emotions. If this wasn¡¯t a misunderstanding due tock of information, the direction of the research would change.
¡°Please don¡¯t tell Professor Lee about this. He¡¯s currently sponsoring the two of us.¡±
As Jeong-woo had heard that Professor Lee was currently sponsoring them, he waved his hand and said.
¡°Don¡¯t misunderstand. I just want Seo In-gu¡¯s brother to live well with people and, if there¡¯s any gic problem, I want it treated. That¡¯s why I¡¯m saying this¡¡±
Since siblings share simr genes, perhaps Seo Jung-gu¡¯s subsequent analysis would be more urate.
When Jeong-woo asked if he could collect gic samples, Seo In-gu nodded.
¡°¡And about the experiences I¡¯ve had with my brother. Can you listen a little more?¡±
Chapter 134
Chapter 134- Beautiful Genius(8)
Sitting on the sofa and dealing with Kim Bona, Song Boyeong repeatedly clenched and unclenched her fists at the ceaseless chatter of the six-year-old child.
¡°You¡¯re the same age as Mr. Han Jeong-woo?¡±
¡°Yeah.¡±
¡°Wow, it doesn¡¯t seem like it.¡±
Even though it seemed like a typical admiration.
¡°The workload at bigpanies tends to be high on average. I saw that you drink a lot too. You know, the more you¡¯re overwhelmed with work, the faster you age. That cute and adorable style that looks like it¡¯s in its early twenties will plummet in value as it ages.¡±
¡°Wait, plummet in value?¡±
The use of the piercing word made her tongue tingle.
¡°If you¡¯re not ambitious about promotion, you could spend that time enhancing your fitness and makeup skills to show off your feminine charm. Statistics show that those who put in such effort seed in getting married¡¡±Although she didn¡¯t know where the information came from, the more credible it felt, the more shocking it became.
¡°Bona.¡±
Song Boyoung shook her head to regain herposure and then spoke calmly.
¡°You¡¯re telling me all this to help me prepare for the future, right? Thank you.¡±
Showing maturity, she moved on from the topic. Hoping she would stop talking, Song Boyeong looked at Kim Bona, who was staring at her with great curiosity.
Song Boyoung sighed deeply and asked.
¡°What¡¯s on your mind?¡±
¡°Does Mr. Han Jeong-woo show a lot of concern for you?¡±
¡°Well, I guess he does?¡±
¡°He must like you.¡±
At this, Song Boyeong¡¯s face turned bright red.
¡°H-How did you, how did you know?¡±
¡°Teacher Han Jeong-woo said so.¡±
¡°What? Did Jeong-woo say that to you?¡±
The sound of Jungwoo¡¯s voice saying they were preparing to date hit Song Boyeong¡¯s mind like a ton of bricks.
Her heart started pounding, unsure of what to do, Song Boyeong was startled when theb door opened.
¡°Huh? Senior Boyeong, what¡¯s wrong?¡±
¡°That¡¯s¡ um¡¡±
¡°Oh no. Bona got you good. Be firm, okay?¡±
As Jeong-woo approached tofort her, Song Boyeong remained silent, avoiding eye contact. Following behind, Seo In-gu quietly walked to the entrance of the room.
¡°If your brother makes something again, bring it to me. It¡¯s dangerous to just throw it away.¡±
¡°Thank you.¡±
¡°Oh, and this¡¡±
Jeong-woo handed Seo In-gu a generous amount of money for a good dinner, and In-gu bowed his head in appreciation.
Creak.
As he left, Song Boyeong approached.
¡°He¡¯s so kind, isn¡¯t he?¡±
¡°Yes. And he cares deeply for his brother.¡±
¡°Professor Lee asked when Mr. Seo Jeong-gu¡¯s follow-up research will be.¡±
¡°Tell him there¡¯s no need for that. The reason to call him separately has disappeared.¡±
¡°Why?¡±
Jeong-woo shook the stic container where he collected Jeong-gu¡¯s genes.
¡°His brother¡¯s will suffice.¡±
¡°Are you going topare and analyze the genes of siblings? Isn¡¯t that more difficult? Only 3 days left until the dispatch date.¡±
¡°Do you avoid work just because it¡¯s hard? You do your best.¡±
Looking at Kim Bona, Jeong-woo silently sought her agreement.
¡°It¡¯s not because you don¡¯t want to face him again?¡±
¡°Well, it¡¯s not like that. We¡¯ll focus only on the interview tomorrow, and after that, we¡¯ll organize the data to be handed over to Doctor Moon.¡±
During their conversation, Jeong-woo received a text message on his phone. After checking it, he nced at Kim Bona.
¡°Your uncle said he¡¯ll be here soon.¡±
¡°Did he get in?¡±
¡°He didn¡¯t say. Ask him directly and go easy on him.¡±
Jeong-woo silently added ¡®please¡¯ in his mind.
Friday , 9 AM.
Wearing a suit for the first time in a while, Jeong-woo entered the lobby of Conrad Hotel. Although he hadn¡¯t been there many times, he walked confidently inside as if he knew the ce very well, heading to Dynasty Hall on the third floor where the symposium was being held.
A signboard with the title ¡°Genius Gene¡± was ced at the entrance. Checking the program order, he saw that there was a lecture by a professor from the Life Sciences Department, followed by a speaker discussion.
¡®So they wanted me to attend the first part, right?¡¯
As he was about to present his invitation and enter, he spotted a familiar face inside.
¡°Mi-hee?¡±
Surprised to see Jeong-woo, Song Boyeong¡¯s friend and the hotel¡¯s managing director, Seo Mi-hee, turned towards him.
¡°I see you¡¯re here. Seoul National University symposium?¡±
¡°Yes.¡±
¡°And Boyeong?¡±
¡°She¡¯s busy organizing materials at thepany.¡±
After gesturing to an employee to adjust the lighting, Mi-hee turned back to Jeong-woo.
¡°I heard Boyeong is working under you?¡±
¡°Is that what senior said? She¡¯s not working under me, she¡¯s just helping out. Seems like she¡¯s stressed because of that. And you seem to know about it too, Mi-hee.¡±
¡°Stress? Last time we met, she got really drunk. She kept saying she wanted to get to work soon and was jumping around singing about how much she loved working with you¡ Oh my.¡±
Mi-hee covered her mouth as if realizing she was saying too much.
¡°Keep it a secret. If Boyeong finds out, I¡¯ll get my head chopped off.¡±
¡°She has a few drunken habits I already know about. It¡¯s not really news.¡±
¡°Even if she was only in her underwear? If I didn¡¯t stop her, she would¡¯ve stood in front of you like that.¡±
Jeong-woo coughed ufortably.
¡°I¡¯ll pretend I didn¡¯t hear that.¡±
Bowing slightly, Jeong-woo tried to enter, but Mi-hee approached him. She brushed the dust off his shoulder and whispered softly.
¡°Boyeong only talks about work with youtely. It¡¯s boring to listen to, so can you change the topic to something more exciting?¡±
¡°Huh? That¡¯s¡¡±
¡°Director Seo! The head chef says we might need to change the dessert for lunch.¡±
¡°Oh, okay. I¡¯ll be there.¡±
Nodding to the employee¡¯s call, Mi-hee looked back at Jeong-woo.
¡°Please, Boyeong gets very lonely. She¡¯s rich, but you know what that means, right?¡±
She winked and disappeared inside. Jeong-woo could only click his tongue at the overly proactive suggestion of Boyeong¡¯s friend, while Boyeong herself remained unaware.
¡®Seriously, she leads quite a dramatic life.¡¯
Finding a seat and moving around, Jeong-woo¡¯s eyes widened when he saw two people he had met a few days ago sitting nearby.
¡°Mrs. Cho-won. Cho-won.¡±
¡°Doctor, you¡¯re here?¡±
Seeing Jungwoo¡¯s questioning look, wondering how they got here, Cho-won¡¯s mother smiled and exined.
¡°Professor Lee Sang-joong asked if we could bring Cho-won¡¯s case for this presentation.¡±
¡°Oh, really? Wow, Cho-won might be famous in the media.¡±
Seeing Yoon Cho-won, who was just dotting points on the canvas as usual, Jeong-woo suddenly remembered something and spoke up.
¡°There¡¯s a machine that prints dots quickly, though it¡¯s not as advanced as the one we use at the office. It¡¯s a bitrger than aptop, so you can carry it around. I got the purchase details from Deputy Gong, so I¡¯ll send you the address. It works on paper, wood, and metal.¡±
¡°Thank you so much for your consideration.¡±
Jeong-woo smiled calmly, omitting the fact that of the three weeks of research, Cho-won¡¯s case was the cutest.
¡°Oh, doctor.¡±
¡°Yes?¡±
Suddenly remembering something, Cho-won¡¯s mother rummaged through her bag. Then she pulled out a sketchbook and handed it to Jeong-woo.
¡°This is something Cho-won drew for you. I brought it thinking you mighte today, and I¡¯m d I did.¡±
¡°To me?¡±
Jungwoo took it and sat down. He turned a page.
¡®Is it me?¡¯
It was a detailed depiction of him talking in theb, with the scene formed by tiny points more precise than a photo. The picture was so vivid it could have been framed.
¡°Wow, Cho-won. Thank you!¡±
Jeong-woo raised his thumb, catching Cho-won¡¯s gaze, who had been looking at the canvas. Although he smiled brightly before lowering his gaze again, themunication was enough.
After expressing admiration, Jeong-woo hesitated when he flipped through another page.
It was a close-up of a face. The peculiar arrangement of points in the pupils caught his attention. It seemed as if the detailed structure of the points reflected in the eyes resembled the molecr world.
¡®No way? Did he express how I see things in the molecr world? Even with exceptional observational skills¡¡¯
Just in case, he turned to the next page. And the next. In every one of them, the expression of being deeply immersed in the molecr world was depicted in the eyes.
¡®Wow. Cho-won is not just an ordinary genius. It gives me goosebumps.¡¯
Jeong-woo nced sideways for a moment.
The fifteen-year-old boy, who seemed to have prating eyes, was showing the drawn pictures to his mother.
Looking at Cho-won¡¯s mother affectionately patting his head, Jeong-woo couldn¡¯t help but smile at a passing memory.
Back in high school, when he was battling for thest ce in ss, he had barely managed to focus and study for the finals of his second year, and his grades were far from good.
¡®Mom cooked pork belly that day.¡¯
It wasn¡¯t anything special, not even a punishment born out of love. As Jeong-woo boasted about moving up ten spots from the bottom and tried to eat more meat than his brother, Hong Ji-sook gave me a smile just like the one Cho-won¡¯s mother was giving now.
The only reason he had put so much effort into the past eight years, saying he would somehow be a socialite, was that.
¡®Damn. I¡¯m really just an easygoing eldest son.¡¯
Reflecting on his concerns from three weeks ago about researching the three unusual subjects, Jeong-woo felt humbled.
Kim Bona, who coolly admitted when asked if she liked her uncle, and Yoon Cho-won, who, though not saying anything, had deeper thoughts than anyone else, and Seo Jung-gu, who seemed to be mentally healthy but emotionally absent. To someone, they are all equally simple and genuine family.
One hourter.
On the stage where five panelists sat side by side, a discussion in English was in full swing.
-I would like this technology to benefit our society. However, if gic research crosses the line to infringe upon the dignity of human beings, there¡¯s no guarantee that we won¡¯t end up in a society like those in science fiction novels, where gic mandatory tests are conducted, standardizing society.
-I agree that the initiation of a biological chain reaction could have massive implications on the entire ecosystem. But where is the human who wants to be born with one short hand, a crooked nose, or born with deformities?
As Jeong-woo watched the discussion, he began to yawn as the conversation continued to focus solely on policy issues rted to gic research. About 30 minutes had passed.
The time came for the panel discussion where the audience could ask questions, and the panelists would respond.
¡ºWe have a question for Professor Lee Sang-joong from Seoul National University¡¯s Gic Institute.¡»
A person holding a wireless microphone stood up from their seat.
¡ºYou presented research findings on children with genius traits earlier. You mentioned discovering a group of intelligence-rted variants, ¡®D4DR-11¡¯, correct?¡»
¡ºYes, we¡¯re currently conducting a corrtional study by analyzing different gic factors in three cases.¡»
¡ºDo you have sufficient evidence to confirm your research findings with such a small sample size?¡»
From the sharpness of the question from the get-go, Jeong-woo could tell that the person was a researcher from the Beijing Genomics Institute. Lee Sang-joong calmly responded.
¡ºThe analysis method attempted by the lead researcher of this study was not about statistically analyzing numerous genes, but rather a tailored analysis that posttes target molecules and verifies their associative effects.¡»
¡ºThe saying ¡®finding a needle in a haystack¡¯es to mind. Is there really anyone capable of finding that needle?¡»
Lee Sang-joong gestured towards Jeong-woo. Understanding the signal to answer, Jeong-woo nodded slightly.
¡ºWhy don¡¯t you ask him directly? He¡¯s sitting nearby.¡»
The audience¡¯s attention gathered where the finger on the podium pointed. Jeong-woo took the microphone handed to him by the hotel staff and turned to the questioning researcher.
¡ºI¡¯m the researcher who dug through that haystack. Are you one of the authors of the genius gene research paper published in Nature?¡»
¡ºYes, but¡¡»
¡ºAh, I see.¡»
Recalling the contents of the paper, Jeong-woo pondered before speaking.
¡ºIt seemed like a grand n to create a superhuman race based on IQ tests. I wondered, if you define inferiority and superiority so coldly, how is it different from the eugenics ideology that promotes racial superiority? It¡¯s just without the mass extermination like those who caused the Holocaust.¡»
¡ºWhat?¡»
As he aggressively brought up the Nazis, the expression of the other person changed abruptly.
¡ºYour ¡®D4DR-11¡¯ or whatever it is, you im it just improves observation skills? So what? Our cognitive genome team has clearly defined the MAOA gene variant with non-violence and the AVPR1A mutation with loyalty. We can edit and apply these.¡»
¡ºAnd what would you do with a generation of standardized perfect children?¡»
¡ºWhat do you mean? Even raising the average IQ by just 5 points can significantly enhance economic productivity, nationalpetitiveness, patent holdings, and economic innovation. Do you think it¡¯s reasonable to challenge national research with a single gic line?¡»
Scratching his chin at this logic, Jeong-woo¡¯s gaze lingered on Yoon Cho-won.
¡°Ma¡¯am, can I see the drawing that Cho Won just made?¡±
Cho-won¡¯s mother nodded and handed the canvas to Jeong-woo. Jeong-woo then showed it to the other person.
¡ºDo you know Yoon Cho-won? The child who was mentioned in the presentation earlier. This is the picture he just drew.¡»
As one camera focused on the drawing, it appeared on therge monitor on the podium.
It was a drawing of a Beijing Genomics Institute researcher, depicted as they were, holding a microphone and expressing their opinion passionately. Some of the audience members eximed in admiration at the lively portrayal.
¡ºIsn¡¯t it well-drawn? Look closely here, at the left side, there¡¯s a pimple. And around the mouth¡¡»
Jeong-woo continued, scanning the drawing.
¡ºHe even captured the red pepper powder spilled from the food you had in the morning.¡»
The startled researcher wiped his mouth with his hand.
¡ºAnd this expression, the wide eyes, the exposed whites, the bulging veins, and the clenched teeth¡ªdoesn¡¯t it perfectly capture your current look?¡»
¡ºSo what if he can draw angry faces well? We have plenty of talented samples like that.¡»
¡ºI¡¯m not asking for praise for drawing well. Can the camera focus here?¡»
Jeong-woo emphasized the eye area in the drawing. As the camera zoomed in and focused, the audience eximed even more than before. It was because within the pupils, there were tiny dots depicting another scene.
¡ºThe reflection in your eyes includes us, conveying a sense of confrontation and hostility. This is what he perceived and depicted in just 0.1 seconds. Amazing, right?¡»
¡ºThat¡¯s absurd. Did you bring him here to trick me?¡»
¡ºIt¡¯s not absurd. ¡®D4DR-11¡¯ is a unique factor thatplexly influences such cognitive abilities.¡»
The researcher couldn¡¯t take his eyes off the picture on the podium. Jeong-woo handed the drawing back to Cho-won¡¯s mother and asked.
¡ºDo you know that even ordinary people can have some cells in their bodies in a state of ¡®microchimerism¡¯ with slightly different DNA sequences?¡»
¡ºOf course I know that.¡»
Staring at the opponent as if seeing through them on a molecr level, Jeong-woo said.
¡ºThen you must also know that you could have gic variations, right?¡»
¡ºMe?¡»
¡ºording to the database, it would probably be called ¡®ABCC11¡¯.¡»
¡ºThat¡¯s a mutation associated with less body odor. How can you tell without a sample?¡»
¡ºBecause I have a sensitive nose. Most Koreans have that gene, but it¡¯s rare among Chinese. Lucky you. Ah, the time.¡»
ncing at the clock, Jeong-woo continued.
¡ºI¡¯ll finish with this. Hundreds of geniuses? It would be great if we could study them. But even if I study just one person, I believe I can achieve significant results. Even if it¡¯s just you.¡»
After the designated question time ended, the discussion resumed.
-¡That concludes Session 1 of the discussion. The second session will begin after lunch. Speakers, please gather 30 minutes beforehand.
The Beijing Genomics Institute researcher, who had been mostly unable to counter the arguments and had been tossed around, hastily disappeared from the venue as soon as it ended.
¡®Skipping lunch? There¡¯ll be lots of good food.¡¯
Jeong-woo looked up at the podium. Professor Lee Sang-joong nodded politely. After exchanging nods, Jeong-woo patted his full stomach and walked out.
¡°The discussion was impressive.¡±
Then he met a twenty-two-year-old young man standing in front of the door.
¡°Oh? Why are you here, Seo Jung-gu?¡±
¡°They said I¡¯d be mentioned in the second session presentation.¡±
It seemed Lee Sang-joong had called for him. Jeong-woo understood and just nodded, about to say goodbye.
¡°I heard you took the drugs my brother had.¡±
Jeong-woo¡¯s movement abruptly stopped.
¡°Speak properly. That¡¯s something Seo Jeong-gu got from me by trickery, isn¡¯t it?¡±
¡°It¡¯s an item necessary in a situation where thew cannot protect.¡±
¡°But your brother has different thoughts, doesn¡¯t he? The child has grown up very well. Kind and righteous.¡±
Seo Jeong-gu, acknowledging this, said nothing. Then, he nced at Jungwoo.
¡°Do you have something to say?¡±
¡°I heard that you¡¯re no longer doing research in this field.¡±
¡°I¡¯m busy. But Doctor Moon will continue. Don¡¯t worry, she¡¯ll do better since she¡¯s more of an expert than me. Since it seems we won¡¯t see each other again, let¡¯s say our farewells in advance.¡±
¡°Farewells?¡±
¡°Let¡¯s shake hands as a way to forget all the misunderstandings and events that urred during the research, that¡¯s what I mean.¡±
Seo Jeong-gu quietly asked while looking at Jeong-woo¡¯s extended hand.
¡°KG Chemicals. Will you still be there in four years?¡±
¡°Why are you asking that?¡±
¡°Let¡¯s talk about it then.¡±
With these words, Seo Jeong-gu disappeared into the venue.
¡°What?¡±
Jeong-woo shuddered at the thought that he might show up for recruitment in four years. That felt like aplete thriller.
The next day.
Entering his personal researchb to organize handover materials, Jeong-woo became puzzled when he saw a fruit basket on his desk.
¡®Did Senior Boyeong buy this?¡¯
It felt too old-fashioned to attribute it to her taste. As he began sorting through it, the door opened, and Song Boyeong walked in carrying a box of health drinks.
¡°Wee, senior.¡±
¡°Good morning. Here.¡±
Song Boyeong ced the box on Jeong-woo¡¯s desk.
¡°It¡¯s a gift from the Information Electronics Center director. The fruits are from Director Jeon.¡±
When Kim Seong-bo and Heo Il-jeong were mentioned, Jeong-woo chuckled.
¡°A gift at such an unexpected timing.¡±
¡°It¡¯s probably because of the next dispatch order. They probably want to impress you, Mr. Jeong-woo. Last time when 70 graduate students came to observe your research, Director Yoon Donghwi was bragging a lot. It¡¯s rare for corporate research to receive attention from academia in itself.¡±
From basic materials, material science, pharmaceuticals, to bio, only two centers remained. It felt like the end was nearing for the instruction to learn through rotating between centers.
Jeong-woo took out an apple from the fruit basket and wiped it clean. With a gesture asking if she wanted to eat, he offered it to Song Boyeong.
¡°No, thank you. I prefer the caffeine-rich drinks here.¡±
Song Boyeong opened the health drink and took a sip before sitting down.
¡°Senior, is your schedule free next week?¡±
¡°Yes, I haven¡¯t received any separate instructions.¡±
¡°In that case, stay in Research Lab 1. We¡¯ll see when Dr. Moon returns.¡±
¡°What about you, Jeong-woo?¡±
¡°I have some personal matters to attend to.¡±
Song Boyeong looked curious, but Jeong-woo just smiled and left it at that.
Jeong-woo, entering Dr. Cheon Seung-guk¡¯sb, approached the secret safe inside the cab. Inside the partially open safe door were dozens of sealed containers, each containing protein hybrids of varying opacity and color.
These were reanalyzed and cultured from Jeong-woo¡¯s own genes, altered by taking ¡®AF-12¡¯ and ¡®AF-5¡¯.
¡®Let¡¯s stay calm.¡¯
He retrieved five containers with protein structures simr to those seen in Kim Bona, Yoon Cho-won, and Seo Jeong-gu.
¡®Since weck information, we can only dissect it in reverse.¡¯
It was a series of processes to study unique genes of those who think and reason differently, trying to infer the action of the universal gene. So far, there had been no significant results.
Thus, he spent his timeparing gene activities in the molecr world.
¡®Huh? This is identical.¡¯
The molecr structure of the reanalyzed container number 8 showed the exact same gic code as the unique factor. He checked it two, three times again.
¡®Really?¡¯
As if a ray of light shone in the dark investigation.
Understanding the entire structure of the universal gene would enable its production. Even after the contract ends and everything disappears, if something equivalent to ¡®AF-12¡¯ is created, he could continue living as a chemist.
¡®These troublesome ones. They could at least treat me to a meal¡ No, dealing with one is hard enough, let alone three. Let¡¯s think about it by next year.¡¯
Humming a tune, Jeong-woo affixed a newbel to the container and picked up a pen.
Clues obtained from the entric trio.
He pondered over the code name and quickly jotted it down.
[BG-1]
Beautiful. Exceptional, iparable.
Genius. Prodigy, talent, unique ability.
It felt fitting for the name of the factor that would need to be filled in with information in the future.
Code : BG-1
Case: Proteinplex sample of Han Jeong-woo
Research: (Currently undergoing gic code analysis.)
Chapter 135
Chapter 135- Bomberman(1)
¡¸Berlin, 07:34 PM¡¹ ¨C CIA Mobile Outpost
Inside a food truck adorned with images of Germany¡¯s famous currywurst, the space was filled not with food but withmunication equipment and monitors.
-Unidentified individual entering the 6th floor. Please confirm.
A radio crackled, and one of the monitors switched to a hacked CCTV feed of a hotel hallway. As the man passing through the corridor was scanned, the adjacent monitor disyed information: ¡®Aziz¡¯, Hamas weapons supply operative.
CIA Europe Division Chief Nathan watched Aziz¡¯s face and asked.
¡ºHave we tapped room 603 yet?¡»
¡ºMillis signaled it will take one minute.¡»
David, who was operating themunication devices, connected another CCTV feed. An agent disguised as a hotel staff member pushing a room service cart was shown walking down the hallway. The agent knocked on the door of room 603, and the door opened to let in the cart.
-Deliveryplete.Through the tiny camera on the end of the cart, the scene inside the room began transmitting to the monitor.
Ssshhh.
-Wee. Was your flightfortable?
-The goods?
The man approaching Aziz was a sleek-looking white male in his forties. The analysis monitor automatically scanned his face and disyed information: ¡®Robert Ofron¡¯, arms dealer.
-In a hurry, are we? Well, let me ask quickly. Is the money ready?
-Swiss ount. Three million.
Aziz waved his phone disying the transfer screen, and Robert smiled, nodding to his subordinate. The subordinate ced a ck box on the table.
-This is a unique new material. It wasn¡¯t easy to smuggle out.
The box, made of thick metal, opened to reveal a sophisticated sealed container, about the size of two fingers.
¡ºZoom in.¡»
Nathan adjusted his sses and scrutinized the sealed container as it appearedrger on the screen.
¡ºLet¡¯s see. What material are you selling this time? Your finances must be tight if you¡¯re dealing with the notoriously dirty Hamas.¡»
¡ºDoes Robert know he¡¯s a famous CIA intelligence-gathering tool? We¡¯ve uncovered several arms deals thanks to him. Maybe we should draft a contract for him.¡»
¡ºDon¡¯t joke. If we shove a contract in his face, he¡¯ll disappear. This level of distance is just right¡¡»
At that moment.
A loud crash and the sound of shattering ss came from the surveince camera in room 603. Nathan and David flinched.
-Intruders! Who the hell are¡!
Robert¡¯s scream echoed as the cart with the surveince device toppled over, sending the screen into a dizzying spin before settling on the wall.
Loud bangs and shes followed, and then the room went dark.
¡ºMillis!¡»
The agent disguised as a hotel employee was seen running urgently down the hallway on the CCTV. Pressing his ear against the door of room 603, he listened intently.
-I hear nothing.
¡ºHold on. External cameras?¡»
Adjusting the screen, Nathan switched to a CCTV feed from a building across the street, showing the window of room 603.
Two shadowy figures were lowering an unconscious Robert down the window with a rope.
¡ºWhat the hell is that?¡»
Another CCTV caught a waiting vehicle. People jumped out to receive Robert and the two shadows rappelled down.
Screech¡ª!
The vehicle sped into the darkness.
¡ºSend a pursuit team. Millis, check inside.¡»
The agent entered room 603 and immediately radioed back.
-Everyone¡¯s unconscious. This looks like the work of professionals. The goods are gone too.
¡ºWhat?¡»
An unknown group had intervened in the weapons deal between the arms dealer and the terrorist, skillfully evading CIA surveince. They were not ordinary operatives.
¡ºWhy did they kidnap Robert?¡»
A momentter, the operations team pursuing the vehicle reported back.
-We found the car, but no one was inside.
¡ºThey executed the escape perfectly. Report the discovery of an illegal arms deal to the German authorities. Millis, clean up the scene and get out.¡»
The video signal from the surveince device in room 603 cut out.
Nathan turned his attention to the central screen disying the sealed container.
¡ºDavid, what do you think that is?¡»
¡ºNot sure. Biological weapon? Poison? Nuclear?¡»
¡ºSend this video to the analysis team.¡»
David followed the order but asked quietly.
¡ºWith all due respect to the team, can they urately identify the substance just from the video?¡»
Nathan shared the concern, his expression heavy.
¡ºThat chemist¡¡»
¡ºSir?¡»
¡ºA year ago, a doctor participated as a consultant in the ¡®Mass Destruction Nerve Agents¡¯ discussion at the Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons. He might be able to.¡»
¡ºJust by looking?¡»
¡ºHe humiliated two of our experts in that session. Find the records and track him down.¡»
David, quickly gathering information, looked up in surprise.
¡ºChief, Dr. Cheon Seung-guk is currently in a hospital in Genoa. He¡¯s in critical condition on a venttor.¡»
¡ºWhat?¡»
¡¸Seoul, 03:05 AM¡¹ ¨C A Chemist¡¯s Private Laboratory
Jeong-woo¡¯s hands paused over the keyboard. He had just finished typing the final period of thest paragraph for the materials to be sent to Dr. Moon. Stretching, he let out a sigh of relief.
¡°Ah, it¡¯s done.¡±
It was already early Monday morning. While he could have taken his time, he had sacrificed his entire weekend to finish early, hoping to have a more rxed week ahead.
In addition¡
Jeong-woo picked up his phone and opened his message inbox.
[I¡¯m super free after finishing my solo activity interview. Have you done a lot of that ?research? you talked about?]
[Not yet.]
[Che.]
[I think I¡¯ll be free next week too. I can take a day off during the week. If Yi-seol says to continue with that research, I¡¯ll just do it.]
[!!!]
The date had been set for Wednesday. Feeling excited about his uing meeting with Yoon Yi-seol, Jeong-woo closed hisptop.
He debated whether to sleep in the chair or in the on-call room until morning, deciding thetter for its spaciousness. Just as he stood up, his phone vibrated suddenly.
¡®Hmm?¡¯
Seeing a familiar name, he quickly answered the call.
¡°Dr. Moon, I just sent you the materials via email.¡±
-You¡¯re not busy right now, are you?
¡°Uh, no.¡±
-Who was it? ISTC?
-Yes, we are.
An English conversation could be heard over the phone.
-Jeong-woo, the International Science and Technology Council? They need some consulting.
¡°From me?¡±
-They came to see Dr. Cheon Seung-guk, but he¡¯s not in a condition to talk.
¡°Dr. Moon, were you with Dr. Cheon?¡±
-I¡¯ll exin in detail when I return. For now, about the consulting. What do you want to do?
¡°What kind of consulting? If I can help, I will.¡±
-They¡¯ll send you a video via email. They want to know if you can identify what¡¯s in it.
Jeong-woo reopened hisptop. A few secondster, an email arrived. Clicking it, a high-resolution video began ying. It showed a meticulously sealed container with a glowing red liquidpound inside.
¡®Hold on.¡¯
Jeong-woo narrowed his eyes and focused on the molecr structure in the video. The interior of the container revealed a vastwork of glowing molecules, forming aplex web. However, due to the video¡¯s limitations, much of it was obscured, appearing foggy.
¡°The bonds are very strong, especially in terms of heat resistance. It seems like apound designed to maintain its form even in moltenva.¡±
Dr. Moon¡¯s voice could be heard tranting Jeong-woo¡¯s exnation over the phone.
-Jeong-woo.
¡°Yes?¡±
-They¡¯re asking if it has any explosive or toxic properties.
Peering through the foggy molecrwork, Jeong-woo identified a circr molecr structure within. The molecules appeared hollow, like a ball.
¡°I don¡¯t see any explosive or toxic properties. It looks like a structure that could bond with something inside the liquid. In a way, it seems iplete. Hold on a moment.¡±
He input the partial data into KG Chemical¡¯s material library database. After adjusting the parameters, he narrowed down the simrpounds to about ten.
¡°It¡¯s in the nano-structure materials category. It¡¯s different from what we have in our library, but there¡¯s a simrpound developed by the chemical engineering team at MIT. The identification number is¡¡±
Dr. Moon continued tranting for a while before asking.
-They want to know if you¡¯re sure it¡¯s not a dangerous substance.
¡°Defining ¡®dangerous¡¯ is subjective, but tell them it would be more effective to hit someone with a stick than to use this to harm them. Anyway, that¡¯s all I can tell from what I see.¡±
-Thanks for your help, especially sote.
¡°I¡¯m nning to stop working night shifts after tonight. Dr. Moon, are youing back this week?¡±
-Not sure yet. I¡¯ll keep you posted.
After the call ended, Jeong-woo turned his attention back to hisptop.
¡°Huh?¡±
The video had disappeared. Clicking through his email, Jeong-woo was puzzled. The email itself was also gone.
¡®Auto-delete?¡¯
He yawned widely and, deciding it didn¡¯t matter much, closed hisptop.
¡¸Seoul, Two Days Later¡¹ ¨C Gangnam KG Photo Studio
QBS Entertainment reporter Kim Rina stood in front of the camera.
¡°Returning from a delicate girl to a musician who recites evocative lyrics, Yoon Yi-seol.¡±
Under a parasol on the rooftop of a building, bathed in the warm afternoon sunlight, Yoon Yi-seol, dressed in a fresh fruit-patterned dress, took her seat.
¡°Today, we¡¯ll talk with her about her life as a singer in her third year since debut, as she wraps up her first-half activities. Hello, Yi-seol!¡±
As Kim Rina greeted her, all cameras focused on Yoon Yi-seol.
¡°Hello.¡±
Yoon Yi-seol, waving her hand, wore a beaming smile. After Kim Rina sat down across the table, the interview officially began.
¡°Yoon Yi-seol is a hard-to-meet star. You¡¯re known for your mystique, right? Don¡¯t you hear a lot ofints from fans who wish to see you more often?¡±
¡°Everyone, a new video was recently uploaded to Yi-seol TV.¡±
After addressing the camera, Yoon Yi-seol answered with a serious expression.
¡°Offstage, I have many shorings. I rarely do variety shows and focus only on music shows and radio because of that.¡±
¡°Shorings?¡±
¡°If you saw how tired and picky I am during song production, Reporter Kim, you¡¯d shake your head too. When I¡¯m stuck on a melody, our staff usually avoids talking to me.¡±
¡°Oh my. Yi-seol¡¯s staff, is that true?¡±
At Kim Rina¡¯s question, Manager Ji, standing to the side, nodded vigorously.
¡°You¡¯re known for always smiling brightly while singing. One media outletmented that you seem like someone who transcends trivial emotions. Soft and gentle on the outside, and probably the same on the inside. What do you have to say about that?¡±
¡°I¡¯m a person too, so how could I only smile all the time? But on stage, I feel like a fool. Just holding the guitar and sitting there makes me happy without any thoughts. If you want to see me frown, I can try.¡±
Yoon Yi-seol forced a serious expression, but it still looked bright, causing the cameramen to smile.
¡°¡®In a Dream,¡¯ hailed as the best song of the first half of the year, also made waves as the first love song you¡¯ve sung in two years. Did you write it thinking of someone in particr?¡±
At the question, Yoon Yi-seol nced at a new staff member next to Manager Ji, her temporal manager, Han Jeong-woo. Shaking hands with Manager Ji and exchanging greetings, Jeong-woo turned his eyes to Yoon Yi-seol with a warm smile.
With a faint smile, Yoon Yi-seol answered.
¡°I tend to include a lot of personal experiences in my lyrics. You know, if you think about someone right before falling asleep, it means you really like them.¡±
¡°It sounds like you have someone like that.¡±
¡°Who knows~¡±
At this, Jeong-woo paused and took a deep breath. Yoon Yi-seol, amused by his reaction, continued the interview.
¡°I thought I had someone like that until I realized it was a dream. That¡¯s why it¡¯s ¡®In a Dream.¡¯ Now, I think I need to find someone I miss and think about even when I¡¯m awake.¡±
¡°Viewers, Yoon Yi-seol is looking for that person. Now, the next question is about fans¡¯ curiosity regarding you as a singer-songwriter. When writing such emotional lyrics¡¡±
The interview, whichsted an hour, ended, and Jeong-woo opened the waiting room door. Yoon Yi-seol, who had been cooling her sun-warmed skin, waved at him.
¡°If I had known you¡¯d be here so soon, I would have skipped the photo shoot schedule.¡±
Jeong-woo quickly closed the door, worried someone might overhear, and handed her a cold bottle of water.
¡°Was it okay to be so candid during the interview?¡±
¡°What part?¡±
¡°You¡¯re a celebrity with an image to maintain. Saying things that could be misunderstood like that¡¡±
After taking a sip of water, Yoon Yi-seol pouted.
¡°Since when did you start thinking like that? If you were so worried about my entertainment career, you shouldn¡¯t have confessed.¡±
¡°You confessed first.¡±
¡°Anyway, I¡¯ll take care of my image, so just make sure to keep showing up on time like today.¡±
¡°That¡¯s why I came early.¡±
Unable to hide her happiness, Yoon Yi-seol¡¯s lips trembled slightly as she stood up to face Jeong-woo. She looked him up and down.
¡°You¡¯re all dressed up.¡±
¡°Just trying to look nice.¡±
¡°For whom?¡±
¡°Hmm, let me think about that.¡±
Expecting him to say ¡°you,¡± Yoon Yi-seol shot him a gentle yet sharp look. Jeong-woo chuckled and asked.
¡°How have you been?¡±
¡°Good.¡±
¡°What should we do today?¡±
¡°Well, since you said your research failed, unfortunately, let¡¯s start with this.¡±
She reached out and gently hugged Jeong-woo around his waist, looking up at him. Her bold move took him by surprise.
¡°I think about you every day, why is it so hard to meet you? Are you ying hard to get?¡±
Yoon Yi-seol¡¯s eyes, filled with a moist shine, made Jeong-woo¡¯s heart race.
Although he had dressed up, he couldn¡¯tpare to her professional polish. Even up close, her face radiated as if sprinkled with ground jewels.
Looking at her as if mesmerized, Jeong-woo asked.
¡°Shall we spend the night together?¡±
He felt her flinch at his words as she held him.
¡°Remember, we didn¡¯tplete our all-night talk checklistst time.¡±
¡°Oh¡¡±
¡°What were you thinking?¡±
¡°That too.¡±
¡°Ah. Like hugging without permission?¡±
¡°Yes, like that¡¡±
Yoon Yi-seol, who seemed to have been caught off guard, burst into a smile and pointed to her lips.
¡°Then let¡¯s do this too.¡±
¡°To do that, I need to go back to my research.¡±
¡°Forget it. You¡¯re not going anywhere today.¡±
Yoon Yi-seol hugged him tighter, making it clear she wasn¡¯t letting go.
¡°Yi-seol, it¡¯ll be hard to exin if someonees in. Let go of my arm first.¡±
¡°Be quiet. The only one who mighte in at this moment is Manager Ji¡¡±
At that moment, the door clicked open.
¡°Jeong-woo, there¡¯s someone¡ Oh, I¡¯m sorry!¡±
Yoon Yi-seol quickly let go and sat down, muttering, ¡°So hot¡± while Jeong-woo awkwardly lifted his phone, pretending to struggle with the Wi-Fi.
Manager Ji chuckled at the sight before speaking.
¡°Jeong-woo, you have a visitor.¡±
¡°What? A visitor for me?¡±
¡°They¡¯re from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, along with a foreigner.¡±
Jeong-woo looked puzzled, wondering how they knew he was here. He nced back at Yoon Yi-seol.
¡°I¡¯ll be right back.¡±
Yoon Yi-seol nodded slightly, her head down.
Chapter 136
Chapter 136- Bomberman(2)
Jeong-woo walked towards the two men standing at the studio entrance. One was a mid-forties Korean man in a suit, and the other was a foreign man with striking brown hair and impressive muscles. The foreigner stood out even in a ce frequented by handsome and beautiful models.
¡°Are you Han Jeong-woo?¡±
¡°Yes, I am.¡±
The suited man immediately got to the point.
¡°I¡¯m Hwang Jeong-myung, a secretary from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs¡¯ UN Division. We¡¯ve received a request from the ISTC, a UN-affiliated organization, to meet with you, so we¡¯ve brought this gentleman here.¡±
¡°ISTC?¡±
The abbreviation sounded familiar, and Jeong-woo recalled his recent conversation with Dr. Moon about an organization.
¡°Are you referring to the International Science and Technology Council?¡±
¡°Exactly. I¡¯ll trante for you if needed¡¡±¡°If it¡¯s in English, I can handle it myself.¡±
Hwang Jeong-myung nodded and stepped back. As Jeong-woo turned to the foreign man, thetter greeted him immediately.
¡ºMr. Han. I¡¯m Vince Rebb, head of the ISTC Special Investigation Team.¡»
¡ºAre you here because of the consultation from two days ago?¡»
¡ºYes. The MIT research paper you mentioned ¨C we need to discuss it. Can you spare some time?¡»
¡ºNow?¡»
Considering the presence of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs official, Jeong-woo figured it must be important and nodded.
¡ºGo ahead.¡»
¡ºWe can¡¯t discuss it here. It involves confidential matters.¡»
¡°There is a ce set up at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs office.¡±
Feeling he had no choice, Jeong-woo nced back towards the second floor where Yoon Yi-seol was waiting.
¡®She¡¯ll be busy with the photo shoot soon, so I¡¯ll just leave a message. Reviewing a paper shouldn¡¯t take too long, right?¡¯
¡¸Seoul, 04:34 PM¡¹ ¨C Ministry of Foreign Affairs Secure Meeting Room
In a tightly secured room with a ¡®No Unauthorized Entry¡¯ sign Jeong-woo carefully examined theptop on the table before him. He looked up at Vince and spoke.
¡ºBased on the recent research findings, I¡¯m certain. The high-frequency sma nanostructure developed by Professor Jordan Stansfield matches thepound in the video.¡»
¡ºYou¡¯re sure about this?¡»
¡ºYes.¡»
Jeong-woo nodded, and Vince opened another document file.
¡ºThis is data from Dr. Natalia at the Moscow Institute of Physics and Technology. We only managed to obtain a portion of it, and we haven¡¯t been able to analyze it properly. Can you identify what this research is about?¡»
Jeong-woo scrutinized the partially burned document images on the screen before turning to Vince.
¡ºExcuse me, Team Leader Vince.¡»
¡ºYes?¡»
¡ºIs it typical for the UN to call random people and give them endless tasks like this?¡»
¡ºNo, it¡¯s not typical, but¡¡»
¡ºNow that I think about it, it¡¯s strange. If you know who created it, shouldn¡¯t you be asking them directly instead of me?¡»
Vince nced at Hwang Jeong-myung, who smiled and addressed Jeong-woo.
¡°Of course, we don¡¯t ask just anyone. When goodwill continues, it might be seen as a right. These gentlemen willpensate you for the consultation.¡±
¡°How much are we talking about?¡±
¡°It varies depending on the nature and oue of the work. Last year, I think it was? A professor fluent in Uruk made $30,000 for three days of interpreting.¡±
Jeong-woo¡¯s mind raced at the thought of earning approximately $10,000 per day. Even when divided by 24 hours, it was a significant amount. Seeing Jeong-woo¡¯s contemtive expression, Hwang added.
¡°You work at argepany, so your sry must be considerable, but this fee is tax-free, so you¡¯ll receive the full amount.¡±
¡°Wow¡¡±
Thinking about the potential renovations for his mother¡¯s restaurant, Jeong-woo turned his attention back to theptop screen.
¡ºWell, given the circumstances, I guess you had a reason to ask me instead of them. Give me a moment, Vince.¡»
With a soft smile, Jeong-woo memorized the chemical forms from the fragmented document and began constructing arge molecr structure in his mind.
He envisioned a universe of metal particles, filling the gaps with predictablepounds for about 20 minutes.
¡º¡Okay, this substance has an incredible diffusion rate when heated. If we set the level of water boiling and turning into gas at 100, this would be around 2,000 to 3,000.¡»
Vince, listening intently, flinched and asked.
¡ºAre you talking about a thermal pressure bomb?¡»
¡ºA bomb? The missing data doesn¡¯t allow for such high heat output. Is Dr. Natalia a bomb maker?¡»
¡ºNo, she¡¯s not. Lastly, please confirm this. It¡¯s research material from Professor Amit at Nanyang Technological University in Singapore.¡»
This time, most of the images were photographs¡ªsyringes, test tubes, and sealed containers filled with yellow liquid. Jeong-woo examined them closely before speaking.
¡ºIt appears to be a substance that affects the nervous system, with properties that could block sensations.¡»
¡ºSo, it poses a lethal threat to humans?¡»
¡ºI can¡¯t confirm that definitively. Overdosing on sedatives can be fatal, right? You¡¯d need proper measurements for this. Besides, just from these¡¡»
After nearly an hour of focusing on the molecr world, Jeong-woo¡¯s head began to spin as the variouspounds jumbled together, causing him to wince.
¡ºMr. Han, are you feeling unwell?¡»
¡ºNo, just a slight headache. I need a minute to rest.¡»
Hwang approached Jeong-woo at this.
¡°Jeong-woo, would you like some coffee?¡±
¡°I¡¯m avoiding caffeine. Could you get me a ss of water, please?¡±
ck.
Stepping out of the meeting room, Hwang Jeong-myung ran into a high-ranking official from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs who was passing by in the hallway.
¡°Oh? Director Hwang, it¡¯s rare to see you back in the country.¡±
¡°Ah, Counselor. I¡¯m currently on duty, so please refer to me as Secretary instead of Director.¡±
¡°Oh, an investigation. Who is it? Don¡¯t tell me we need to prepare for North Korean provocations?¡±
¡°You know I can¡¯t disclose that.¡±
The counselor nodded and walked away. Hwang Jeong-myung turned his attention back to the meeting room.
The reason why he, a NIS overseas operative active in Europe, had suddenly returned to Korea was particr. The CIA had bypassed national channels and contacted him directly. They even disguised it as a request from a UN agency to arrange a meeting with a chemist.
¡°All the owners of those documents seem to have encountered trouble, but we don¡¯t know the details. There¡¯s no way they would share the information just because we ask. It¡¯s definitely unusual.¡±
In such uncertain situations, protecting nationals was the priority. Hwang Jeong-myung walked to the break room, filled a ss with cold water, and returned to the meeting room.
¡°Here you go.¡±
Jeong-woo, massaging his temples, epted the cup of water and nodded in thanks. As he looked at the rippling surface of the water, he was reminded of the liquid from the video he had seen two days ago.
¡°Huh?¡±
¡°What is it?¡±
¡°Hold on.¡±
A sudden idea struck him. Jeong-woo opened the materials from the MIT professor, the documents from the Moscow Institute of Physics and Technology, and the research from Nanyang Technological University on the same screen, scrutinizing them in silence. He then gestured for Vince toe closer.
¡ºWhen viewed separately, these are just unique new materials. But whenbined, their reactivity bes apparent.¡»
¡ºWhat kind of¡?¡»
¡ºLook here. You have a nanostructured material that can encapste something,bined with a neural stabilizer, and then condensed to collide with a particle diffusion substance.¡»
Jeong-woo¡¯s hands moved quickly, writing and adjusting the structural forms. After several revisions, he stepped back from theptop.
¡ºLook at this.¡»
Vince¡¯s eyes scanned the long chemical form on the screen.
¡ºThis is¡¡»
¡ºAh, I suppose you¡¯re not the chemical expert at ISTC? What this is, in theory, is a miraculous substance. It has incredible expansiveness, enough to spread throughout this entire building with just a fingernail-sized amount, while maintaining its properties. Of course, this is theoretical.¡»
Vince¡¯s expression changed.
¡ºA new biochemical weapon?¡»
¡ºThe neural stabilizer in its expanded form functions almost like an anesthetic. Essentially, it¡¯s a biological EMP, not stopping machines but stopping people.¡»
¡ºA biological EMP?¡»
Pale-faced, Vince pulled out his phone and ran outside. Hwang Jeong-myung, who had been listening quietly, looked rmed and asked.
¡°Does something like that really exist?¡±
¡°How would I know?¡±
¡°What¡¯s with that alien-like form?¡±
¡°It¡¯s a hypothesized chemical form. I filled in the gaps with educated guesses. But if these three materials exist in one ce, they could potentially create this. The process would beplex and the sess rate low.¡±
¡°Could you create it?¡±
¡°Well, maybe, but¡¡±
Jeong-woo looked away from the screen and turned to Hwang Jeong-myung.
¡°It would be much easier if the three scientists who developed these materials worked together.¡±
¡¸Berlin, Local Time 10:37 AM¡¹ ¨C CIA Secret Base
A reconnaissance satellite monitoring the Ministry of Foreign Affairs building in the heart of Seoul transmitted a signal to the other side of the globe.
-¡It could be developed into a biological EMP.
The CIA base receiving this information plunged into confusion over the news ryed to Vince.
¡ºThis is driving me crazy. Contact the analysis team and have them verify if the process proposed by that chemist is feasible.¡»
David, who was sending encrypted orders per Nathan¡¯s instructions, shook his head as he spoke.
¡ºVerify it with the analysis team that didn¡¯t even realize it was a study by a professor from MIT? And it¡¯s been over 20 hours since they received all the data.¡»
¡ºAre our analysts idiots, or is that chemist just exceptionally brilliant?¡»
¡ºI think it¡¯s both.¡»
¡ºHmm¡¡»
Nathan sighed deeply and turned his eyes to another monitor.
On the screen was information about individuals who had been missing since two days ago. There was Robert, the initial subject of the information gathering. The MIT professor uncovered during the investigation of his case. And two doctors who had met with that professor but had been unounted for in thest 48 hours.
¡ºDirector, we found a record of Dr. Amit checking into a hotel in Hong Kong.¡»
Nathan quickly asked in response to David¡¯s report.
¡ºWhen?¡»
¡ºThis morning.¡»
David, typing rapidly on the keyboard, even found a CCTV image showing Amit.
¡ºThank goodness. Send a tactical team to approach him as quickly as possible given the risk of kidnapping.¡»
¡ºThe only team currently in Asia is Vince¡¯s, but he¡¯s supposed to stay with that chemist, isn¡¯t he?¡»
¡ºDidn¡¯t you hear? All three of these studies are connected. Ask him to bring the chemist along. Come up with a good excuse so he doesn¡¯t panic. If this chemist is smarter than our analysis team, he can meet Dr. Amit and conduct an urate verification. ke.¡»
At Nathan¡¯s call, a woman sitting in front of a monitor near the entrance turned her head. She was a young agent with sharp blue eyes and a keen look.
¡ºYes?¡»
¡ºTake a backup agent and head to Hong Kong.¡»
¡¸Seoul, 05:38 PM¡¹ ¨C Ministry of Foreign Affairs Secure Reception Room
¡ºHong Kong?¡»
Jeong-woo was taken aback by Vince¡¯s sudden request.
¡ºWe are nning to meet Dr. Amit. We need your expertise there.¡»
¡ºEven if you say so, I have workmitments. I need to be at the office tomorrow.¡»
¡ºWe will pay you a consulting fee of $500 per hour.¡»
Jeong-woo, a man easily swayed by money, began to think quickly.
¡ºWhat¡¯s the schedule like?¡»
¡ºWe¡¯ll go immediately and meet, so it will take at most a day.¡»
$12,000 for 24 hours. After doing the math, Jeong-woo spoke up.
¡ºSorry, but I can¡¯t break mymitments for just that amount¡¡»
¡º$1,000 per hour.¡»
¡º¡Should I just give you my bank ount number? Lump sum payment?¡»
10 minutester.
Seated in the back of a ck sedan driven by Hwang Jung-myung, Jeong-woo picked up his phone and called Yoon Yi-seol. However, the call went unanswered, likely because she was in the middle of a photo shoot.
[Ms. Yi-seol. The UN International Science and Technology Council has invited me to participate in a special investigation as a consultant. I¡¯ll be back by tomorrow¡ I¡¯m the kind of guy who works well enough to take a lot of time off, so I¡¯ll definitely make time when I return. Call me when you see this message.]
Jeong-woo sent the text first. As he waited for Yoon Yi-seol¡¯s reply, he gazed at the recedingndscape of Seoul.
Hwang Jung-myung nced in the rearview mirror and then turned his eyes towards Vince in the passenger seat.
¡ºYour organization seems quite busy. Can my team and I offer any further assistance?¡»
¡ºYour cooperation today is sufficient. We will express our gratitudeter.¡»
¡ºI¡¯m curious about what kind of gratitude that will be. Please ensure our chemist¡¯s swift and safe return after the consultation.¡»
¡ºDon¡¯t worry. The best talents in the world will do their utmost.¡»
Jeong-woo, who had been staring nkly out the window, tilted his head as the car took an outer road heading towards Seongnam instead of Incheon Airport.
¡°Where are we going? Aren¡¯t we flying out from Incheon Airport?¡±
¡°Oh, we¡¯re using the transport service from the air force base.¡±
¡°What?¡±
¡°Have you seen the presidential ne on TV? It takes off from here. Vince¡¯s organization has considerable authority within the UN, so this is possible. It might be a bit inconvenient, but the travel will be quick.¡±
¡°Oh.¡±
Soon, Jeong-woo saw the barbed wire fences marking a military facility. As they entered, the car stopped not at a Korean military area but at a hangar for the U.S. Army Air Corps.
A military aircraft was visible on the runway.
As he stepped out, threerge men in suits approached. One of them handed a bag to Vince.
¡ºMr. Han.¡»
Vince pulled out an ID card from the bag and handed it to Jeong-woo.
¡®What?¡¯
Jeong-woo¡¯s eyes widened when he saw the card, which had his photo and the title ¡°UN ISTC Special Advisor¡± written beneath it. It was astonishing how quickly they had processed this ID.
¡°Mr. Han Jeong-woo.¡±
Hwang Jeong-myung, rolling down the driver¡¯s side window, gestured to Jeong-woo.
¡°Provide as much consultation as you can, but don¡¯t act too smart.¡±
¡°Act too smart?¡±
¡°You¡¯ve been in the military, so you know. If you do a good job¡¡±
¡°They¡¯ll give you more work?¡±
¡°Exactly. Make sure to secure a generous consultation fee. If the schedule is tight, ask for more. They have plenty of money.¡±
Jeong-woo nodded with a smile. Hwang Jung-myung waved and drove off.
Vince approached and pointed to the C-130 transport ne on the runway.
¡ºWe¡¯ll depart once refueling isplete. Please board ahead.¡»
¡ºOh, sure.¡»
Watching the airmen connect the refueling hose from the truck, Jeong-woo climbed aboard the transport ne.
Chapter 137
Chapter 137- Bomberman(3)
¡¸South China Sea, 08:03 PM¡¹ ¨C 20,000 Feet Above
As the transport ne banked sharply, a heavy pressure pushed to the left. Jeong-woo instinctively grabbed his seatbelt, reacting to the sudden force that almost flung him out of his seat.
¡°Ugh.¡±
After sitting ufortably on a makeshift seat for three hours, his body was in bad shape, mixed with a rising bout of nausea.
¡ºAre you alright?¡»
Jeong-woo nodded weakly in response to Vince¡¯s question, who was sitting across from him.
¡ºWe¡¯ll bending in ten minutes.¡»
¡ºThat¡¯s good to hear.¡»
While every jolt and shake felt like chaos to him, Vince and his four colleagues showed no signs of difort.The hydraulic whirring noise was followed by a shuddering impact that reverberated through the ne¡¯s interior. Startled, Jeong-woo looked to Vince, who smiled and exined, ¡°Landing gear.¡±
A short whileter, the transport ne touched down on the airport runway.
As the ne stopped in a line of gray hangars, airport staff approached. The tail door opened, and the Chinese transportation officer looked surprised when he saw Vince disembark first.
¡ºThe cargo manifest only listed UN supplies. What¡¯s going on?¡»
¡ºWe have an urgent meeting, so we skipped some formalities.¡»
Jeong-woo followed behind, feeling slightly tense as he faced the stern-eyed officer.
¡ºHow many of you are there?¡»
¡ºSix in total.¡»
¡ºLang-wen, check their IDs.¡»
At the officer¡¯smand, a man holding a device approached.
¡®Oh no, I didn¡¯t bring my passport.¡¯
Jeong-woo felt a wave of panic. He had boarded the ne lured by the $1,000 per hour consulting fee, but entering another country without going through immigration seemed impossible. Returning to Korea without aplishing anything would be the worst oue.
However, Vince handed the staff member a stic card instead of a passport. The staff scanned the card, and a green light shed with a photo appearing on the screen.
¡ºConfirmed. Next.¡»
Each ISTC team member followed, and finally, it was Jeong-woo¡¯s turn. He awkwardly handed over the ID he had received before.
Beep.
¡ºConfirmed.¡»
¡®What?¡¯
It was the fastest immigration process he had ever experienced.
The transportation officer turned to Vince.
¡ºAre you visiting the UN Secretariat?¡»
¡ºThe schedule is confidential.¡»
¡ºUnderstood. Have a safe mission.¡»
After a brief conversation, two SUVs with UN gs pulled up in front of the hangar.
¡ºMr. Han.¡»
Vince, opening the driver¡¯s door, gestured for Jeong-woo to get in. Jeong-woo nodded and got into the passenger seat, ncing back at the airport staff standing a distance away.
¡®How can things move so smoothly? Is this like a free pass?¡¯
Examining the UN ID from different angles, Jeong-woo thought it was just an ordinary stic card, yet it granted him instant entry from Seoul to Hong Kong. With only a meeting with Dr. Amit left, he felt much lighter.
The two vehicles left the airport and merged onto the highway heading into Hong Kong city.
¡¸Hong Kong, 09:23 PM¡¹ ¨C Golden Mile Hotel, 7th Floor
Knock, knock.
Vince knocked on the door of room 712. With a click, the door opened slightly. The manual lock remained engaged, and a voice came from within.
¡ºWho is it?¡»
¡ºISTC investigator, Dr. Amit.¡»
When he showed his ID through the gap, the person inside flinched.
¡ºHow did you find me?¡»
¡ºWe need to discuss the neurostabilizing agent you¡¯re researching¡¡»
¡ºGet lost!¡»
The door mmed shut, and Vince cleared his throat, turning to look at his team. One of them shrugged.
Knock, knock.
¡ºDoctor.¡»
¡ºI¡¯ll call hotel security if you don¡¯t stop bothering me!¡»
The voice, tinged with anxiety, suggested the speaker knew something had happened to Professor Jordan, with whom they had been in contact. Vince spoke calmly.
¡ºIf you distrust the authorities enough to hide here far from Singapore, you should definitely talk to us. If you want, you can call the UN Secretariat to verify our identities.¡»
There was a long silence, followed by the sound of the manual lock being undone. The door opened to reveal a thin, gray-haired Indian man facing Vince.
¡ºIf you were with those guys, you would have broken down the door. ISTC? Have youe to ssify my research as hazardous?¡»
¡ºWe did initially.¡»
¡ºInitially?¡»
¡ºFor more details, please speak with our special advisor.¡»
Vince gestured to Jeong-woo, who had been standing back.
¡º¡What the hell is this crazy reaction equation? My research isbined with Professor Jordan¡¯s research.¡»
¡ºIt¡¯s somewhat spective, so it¡¯s not entirely urate.¡»
Dr. Amit, staring at hisptop, looked at Jeong-woo with a puzzled expression.
¡ºSpective?¡»
¡ºWasn¡¯t your research initially aimed at creating abined effect?¡»
¡ºNo. My neutralizing agent was just a national project supported by some countries for non-lethal riot control weapons. I discussed more effective dispersal methods with Professor Jordan, whom I knew well.¡»
Amit¡¯s eyes never left the chemical form Jeong-woo had devised.
¡ºWhat¡¯s this diffusion form?¡»
¡ºThat¡¯s¡¡»
Jeong-woo looked at Vince, remembering that this was ssified information from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Vince gave a small nod, allowing Jeong-woo to answer.
¡ºIt¡¯s from a research project at the Moscow Institute of Physics and Technology.¡»
¡ºNo, this can¡¯t exist. This goes beyond the scope of non-lethal weapons.¡»
Amit¡¯s expression grew serious as he scrutinized the long reaction equation. He pointed to a specific part of the equation and turned to Jeong-woo.
¡ºHere. You reced thepound with one that has the same effect but different properties from my neutralizing agent. Why did you use a D3 dopamine receptor instead of a benzodiazepine derivative?¡»
¡ºUh, I just filled it in because the data was iplete. Benzodiazepine was the base, I see.¡»
Amit paused.
¡ºWhat? What do you mean, ¡®just filled it in¡¯?¡»
¡ºThe dopamine receptor?¡»
¡ºDidn¡¯t you have my research data? You said it was spective. Are you using other people¡¯s work too¡?¡»
¡ºThere weren¡¯t many pages avable.¡»
Amit looked at Jeong-woo in shock as he smiled sheepishly.
¡ºWho exactly are you?¡»
¡ºI¡¯m a chemist from Korea¡¡»
In the middle of his exnation, Jeong-woo noticed something glinting outside the window.
¡®Huh?¡¯
Crash.
The window shattered, and a small cylinder dropped inside.
Vince¡¯s eyes widened in horror, and he shouted.
¡ºshbang¡!¡»
Boom!
The explosion came faster than his words. A deafening noise and a blinding light temporarily blinded everyone in the room.
Jeong-woo staggered and fell, ovee by the piercing pain in his eyes and ears. Amit also screamed and copsed. The overhead lights shattered from the explosion¡¯s shockwave, plunging the room into darkness.
¡®Ugh.¡¯
Jeong-woo forced his eyes open despite the persistent ringing in his ears. The shbang had temporarily blinded his vision, making the world appear as a realm of sound waves.
Through the echoes of movement, he saw Amit writhing in pain. Vince was lying protectively beside him, and another team member was copsed near the broken window.
Thunk.
Something else flew in through the broken window. By the time Jeong-woo realized it was two people, they had already entered.
One of them struck Vince forcefully on the back of his neck as he struggled to recover from the effects of the shbang. The team member near the window was also hit on the head and rolled to the side.
Jeong-woo, startled, moved sideways, crawling to avoid being seen. A shadow passing by Vince¡¯s unconscious body stopped in front of Amit.
Just before another shadow could turn around and scan the area, Jeong-woo managed to hide in a blind spot behind the bed.
¡®What the hell is going on?¡¯
His heart pounding, he listened to the low murmur of the shadows¡¯ conversation, using his phone to try and capture the sound waves.
-We got here first. How did they find the connection?
-Hurry up. Their backup is on the way.
He caught the faint mosquito-like sound of their voices.
Watching their movements, Jeong-woo felt his vision start to return. He blinked and saw them through an infrared filter, able to discern their forms in the darkness.
¡®Kidnapping?¡¯
The two shadows were tying Amit with a rope. Even though they wore hoods that covered their entire heads, Jeong-woo could see through to their features.
Thinking he needed to remember their faces, he tried to memorize their features. As one shadow dragged Amit towards the window, the other turned towards theptop.
-Should we take it?
A sudden realization hit Jeong-woo, he couldn¡¯t let them take the form inside theptop. He reached out and focused all avable free electrons into theptop¡¯s battery.
With a violent hiss, the battery overheated and exploded. The shadow recoiled in surprise.
-Did you see that? It just blew up.
-It must have had an automatic detonation device. We don¡¯t have time. Securing the doctor is our priority.
Amit, hanging by the rope, disappeared through the window, followed by the two shadows who quickly jumped out. Secondster, heat emanated from the corridor.
The three employees who hade on the transport ne appeared. Relieved, Jeong-woo tried to stand, but the dizziness hadn¡¯t subsided, and he copsed onto the bed.
The door burst open as the three men rushed in.
¡ºFreeze!¡»
One of them pointed something at Jeong-woo, who, even in his disoriented state, could tell it looked like a gun.
¡ºDo UN employees carry weapons like that¡?¡»
¡ºMr. Han?¡»
With the tension easing, Jeong-woo, sweating profusely, passed out.
Another employee shone a shlight, revealing the scene.
The burningptop. The broken window. A missing person.
¡ºThis is base. We¡¯ve been attacked. Dr. Amit has been kidnapped.¡»
¡¸Hong Kong, 04:02 AM¡¹ ¨C UN Safe House
Jeong-woo awoke with a terrible headache. He found himself in a sparsely furnished office space, lying on a field bed.
¡º¡We need to assume they have informationparable to ours.¡»
-What about Vince?
¡ºHe¡¯s out searching. They found some traces at the harbor. It seems their escape route wasn¡¯t perfect.¡»
Turning his head towards the voices, Jeong-woo winced as pain shot through his skull.
¡°Ugh, this is killing me.¡±
Hearing movement, someone approached him, ending their conversation. Jeong-woo slowly sat up, meeting the eyes of a foreign woman for the first time.
¡ºAre you awake?¡»
The woman, with reddish-brown hair, wore a UN ID badge around her neck that read ¡°ke¡±.
¡ºYou were hit by the shbang at close range, so you might have some aftereffects. Here, take this.¡»
ke examined his face before offering a cup of water and a pill.
Jeong-woo, still disoriented from the chaos he had endured, realized that neither ke nor Vince seemed like typical UN employees.
¡ºIs this something I can take?¡»
¡ºIt¡¯s aspirin.¡»
Her exotic blue eyes looked gentle, and Jeong-woo, squinting at the pill, recognized the familiar painkillerponents in the molecr structure and swallowed it. He finished the water and ced the cup on the table.
¡®I feel a bit better.¡¯
Jeong-woo sighed in relief and then faced ke.
¡ºWhere am I, and what happened earlier?¡»
¡ºThis is a safe facility within the UN headquarters. Before we discuss what happened earlier¡¡»
ke brought a satellitemunicator and ced it on the table.
¡ºSomeone wants to see you.¡»
¡ºMe?¡»
On the monitor, a middle-aged foreigner wearing sses raised his hand.
¡ºThis is Director Nathan of ISTC.¡»
¡ºSo¡ ISTC is a real organization?¡»
ke smiled subtly.
¡ºKnowing that will be helpful to Mr. Han in the future.¡»
¡ºThat¡¯s a bit scary. Though what happened earlier was scarier.¡»
¡ºBack to that. We suspect they are a multinational mercenary group targeting new weapons. All the substances Mr. Han analyzed in the photos yesterday were stolen by them.¡»
¡ºThey¡¯re really going to make those? Why?¡»
¡ºWeck information to determine their exact purpose. However, the value of thepleted product you suggested is far greater than an ICBM with a nuclear warhead. That kind of value can mobilize almost any criminal or terrorist organization.¡»
Not knowing the price of an intercontinental ballistic missile, Jeong-woo could only nod.
¡ºDo you know why theptop exploded? Vince said he didn¡¯t know. If they had taken it when they kidnapped Dr. Amit, it would have been much more troublesome.¡»
¡ºWell¡¡»
There are worlds that normal people don¡¯t need to know about. After what had happened, Jeong-woo decided it was best not to get involved any further and chose to remain silent.
¡ºIndeed. It¡¯s unlikely you would have focused on that while being hit by a shbang. Don¡¯t worry about it. We justcked clues, so I asked.¡»
¡ºCan they be caught?¡»
¡ºOur team is working hard on it.¡»
The conversation ended with ke¡¯s smile. Jeong-woo felt the effects of the aspirin easing his headache and asked cautiously.
¡ºSo, is my job done? I think I¡¯ve done all I can.¡»
¡ºOf course. We¡¯llpensate you sufficiently for your help. However, until this matter is resolved¡¡»
Jeong-woo, fearing she would say he couldn¡¯t go home, listened anxiously as ke continued.
¡º¡ISTC¡¯s Charlie team will provide close protection.¡»
¡ºOh, protection.¡»
Relieved that he could return to Korea, Jeong-woo then hesitated.
¡ºProtection? Why?¡»
¡ºCurrently, you are the only chemist in the world who can make EOW.¡»
Seeing Jeong-woo¡¯s puzzled look, ke kindly exined.
¡ºOur analysis team named it ¡®End of War¡¯ because they believe it can end a war with a single shot. Even though theyck Mr. Han¡¯s analytical skills, they have a knack for naming weapons.¡»
EOW, ¡®End of War.¡¯ The meaning was so grand that Jeong-woo swallowed hard.
¡ºI need to return to Korea¡¡»
¡ºYou¡¯re free to go wherever you want, Mr. Han. We will just follow you.¡»
¡ºH-How many of you?¡»
¡ºInitially, there will be three of us, including myself. The three who went to support Vince will jointer.¡»
Wondering how his mother would react when he returned home with six foreigners, and how he would manage work, Jeong-woo¡¯s mind was tangled.
¡ºSo, this ends only when you catch them?¡»
¡ºYes.¡»
Suddenly, he remembered Hwang Jeong-myung¡¯s advice about not acting too smart.
¡®Don¡¯t do it, Han Jeong-woo. You saw what happened earlier. Those guys broke into a seventh-floor window and kidnapped someone.¡¯
As Jeong-woo pondered, ke looked at Nathan on the satellitemunicator with a questioning expression.
¡ºYou don¡¯t need to worry too much about the protection. We¡¯re all trained personnel, and with proper preparation, the issues you faced at the hotel¡¡»
¡ºI saw their faces.¡»
ke¡¯s eyes widened.
¡ºI didn¡¯t get a detailed look, but I could recognize them if I saw them again. And if you take me back to the hotel, I can help you find traces.¡»
¡ºHow?¡»
¡ºThey may not realize it, but Dr. Amit had a distinctive scent. My nose is quite sensitive.¡»
Jeong-woo said tapping his nose.
¡ºBut it won¡¯t be for free. Since I¡¯m sacrificing my personal schedule to help, the consulting fee will be doubled from this time. If you agree, we can go right away. If not, arrange a flight back to Korea for me.¡»
Chapter 138
- Bomberman(4)
¡¸Hong Kong, 04:30 AM¡¹ ¨C Tuen Mun Cargo Terminal
Eight shlight beams were moving through the container-filled port.
¡ºHow long until the recon drone backup?¡»
-Three minutes. Be careful not to get hit by shbangs in the meantime. Did you bring your sunsses and earplugs?
Vinceughed bitterly at David¡¯s lighthearted message over thems. The word ¡°embarrassed¡± perfectly described Vince¡¯s current feelings.
Losing the doctor in the same manner despite knowing the method from the Berlin kidnapping incident was a disgrace for the operation team leader.
¡ºWho do you think it is?¡»
Vince pondered Peter¡¯s question as they searched together.
¡ºNot sure. The kidnapping style doesn¡¯t match Imic extremists.¡»¡ºJudging by the method, it seems they¡¯re trying to avoid casualties.¡»
¡ºIf their goal isn¡¯t to provoke international agencies, they would minimize unnecessary actions.¡»
¡ºI heard the Moscow doctor was also taken. SVR must be involved, right?¡»
Vince shook his head at Peter¡¯s mention of the Russian intelligence agency.
¡ºUnlikely. They don¡¯t even know about the existence of the biochemical weapon. At most, local police are investigating Dr. Natalia¡¯s disappearance.¡»
Vince had been the same until yesterday. He assumed it was a crime by a terrorist group targeting dangerous materials.
A clue found by a Korean chemist Vince happened to talk to had suddenly turned this issue into a new weapon problem that could stir international politics.
-Vince.
A voice came through Vince¡¯sms as he inspected an old, partially open container. It was ke, who was protecting the chemist.
¡ºHey, ke. Is Mr. Han awake?¡»
-Yes. I¡¯m on my way from the hotel to the location where the getaway vehicle was found.
¡ºWhat do you mean?¡»
-He offered to help find Dr. Amit.
David¡¯s voice came through anotherm channel with a beep.
-Bravo team, can you hear me? Ta-da~ We¡¯ve arrived. Not wearing your sunsses? Could you wave towards the southeast sky?
Vince gave the finger to the distant sky and then spoke to ke.
¡ºI acknowledge his chemical knowledge, but this is about tracking criminals.¡»
-He said he saw their faces.
¡ºWhat?¡»
Vince recalled the situation from a few hours ago. It meant he identified the suspects despite being overpowered by shbangs. It was hard to believe that the feeble Mr. Han could recover his vision faster than the trained agents.
¡ºWhat could he have seen in that pitch-ck ce? He¡¯s not specially trained. Stop doing unnecessary things and return to the safe zone. David will scan and give us results.¡»
-We¡¯re almost there, so I¡¯ll just check this. Mr. Han¡¯s protection is now Charlie team¡¯s responsibility anyway.
After ending thems, Vince clicked his tongue. ke, who was transferred from an intelligence analyst to field duty, sometimes acted like a rookie.
Despite knowing that the CIA¡¯s cutting-edge recon drone was tracking the area, she still sought a civilian¡¯s help. Even if Han Jeong-woo was a local who lived here all his life, he couldn¡¯t understand the area better than the multi-million-dor device in the sky.
-Vince, there¡¯s a bio-signal in the northeastern container. Not our agent. Distance is 270 yards.
¡ºGot it.¡»
A SUV came to a stop in front of the road leading to the port. Jeong-woo, sitting in the passenger seat, nced at the abandoned van on the roadside.
¡ºThey escaped in this car, right?¡»
¡ºYes. Vince is currently searching the front dock.¡»
Jeong-woo stepped out and examined the nine-seater vehicle with its license te torn off, then pulled out a handkerchief from his pocket. Inside was a swab with Dr. Amit¡¯s scent, found in room 712.
As he searched for traces in the world magnified by molecr vision, ke stood next to him.
¡ºCan you detect the scent?¡»
¡ºI¡¯m trying.¡»
Jeong-woo brought the swab to his nose and gave ke, who stood there skeptically, a brief smile. In this ce, the smell he could actually detect was more likely to be the clean soap scent emanating from ke rather than Amit¡¯s scent.
It was much easier to wave the swab around as an excuse than to exin how he was tracking the molecr structure of the scent.
After a while, Jeong-woo found traces of molecules lingering in the air.
¡ºI think it¡¯s this way?¡»
The direction Jeong-woo pointed was the opposite of the road leading to the dock. ke looked at him with doubting eyes.
¡ºHold on a moment.¡»
Jeong-woo walked a bit further and found another trace on the roadside.
¡ºYes, this way. I can smell it. Shall we continue?¡»
ke looked at Jeong-woo with a contemtive face. He had confidently promised to track down the mysterious criminals for the CIA agents. Here, where proper support was hard toe by, field decisions were solely her responsibility.
¡ºLet me ask you one thing.¡»
¡ºUh¡ sure.¡»
¡ºIn the room with all the lights broken, how did you identify the intruder¡¯s features?¡»
Jeong-woo scratched his chin. If he was going to bluff, he needed to do it convincingly. After all, this was a consulting job worth $2,000 an hour.
¡ºI have very good night vision.¡»
He closed his eyes tightly and then opened them, looking around ke.
¡ºI can see the newspaper at your feet says ¡®Weekly Hong Kong, May 16.¡¯¡»
ke, looking down in the dim light, spotted the paper and shone her shlight on it. Seeing the title ¡°Weekly HK¡±, she looked at Jeong-woo with surprise.
¡ºWe need to hurry before all the traces are blown away by the wind. The scent will also evaporate with the heat once the sun rises. What should we do?¡»
ke, meeting Jeong-woo¡¯s somewhat mysteriously sparkling gaze, made up her mind.
ke retrieved a bag from the backseat of the SUV and slung it over her shoulder, then spoke to Jeong-woo.
¡ºLead the way.¡»
The two started walking towards a small vige lined with shops.
Shortly after.
Jeong-woo, who had been walking as if taking a morning stroll in the dawn breeze, suddenly stopped.
¡ºThe trace is strong at the entrance.¡»
¡ºWhere?¡»
¡ºOver there.¡»
ke¡¯s gaze followed the direction Jeong-woo¡¯s finger pointed.
It was a six-storymercial building at the end of a dirty alley. Except for the tangled electric wires on the rooftop, it was a nondescript gray building.
¡ºMr. Han, stay hidden and wait.¡»
ke crouched and pulled something out of her bag. It looked like binocrs but had intricate mechanical devices attached. She began scanning the building with it.
Jeong-woo, pressed against the wall, watched her actions.
¡®Is that some kind of night vision?¡¯
It was fascinating to see these secretive individuals actually using something, but Jeong-woo decided not to just wait around and used his infrared vision to scan the building.
¡ºThere are people on the fifth and sixth floors only. One person on the roof.¡»
¡ºOh, I see.¡»
¡ºExcuse me?¡»
ke, muttering the results from her surveince equipment, turned to look at Jeong-woo. He quickly covered up his slip.
¡ºI mean, I saw someone on the roof, just barely.¡»
¡ºCan you identify the exposed individuals¡¯ appearances? This button is for thermal surveince, and this one is for light amplification.¡»
Jeong-woo took the device ke handed him. The image was blunt and low-resolutionpared to the infrared wavelengths he was used to seeing.
¡®The telephoto lens is actually a hindrance.¡¯
Nevertheless, he could make out the face of the person exposed on the roof. Jeong-woo groaned quietly. It was the same person who had struck Vince on the back of the neck.
¡ºIt¡¯s the person who kidnapped the doctor.¡»
ke, startled by this, took back the surveince equipment and rechecked the roof.
¡®That device can see too.¡¯
Jeong-woo closed and reopened his eyes to check for sound waves. He reached out his left hand to the faint waves emanating from a phone on the roof.
The forcibly drawn sound buzzed in his ear like a mosquito.
-They¡¯re almost here.
Jeong-woo¡¯s ears perked up, wondering if ¡°they¡± from the other side meant ¡°us¡±.
-Get closer, hurry!
¡®Get closer? Have they noticed our approach?¡¯
Meanwhile, ke connected the surveince device to hermunication unit, transmitting the screen and opening a channel to Vince.
¡ºVince. We found someone who looks like an intruder.¡»
Since he was absorbing sound waves, ke¡¯s voice from the smallm device in her ear also rang in Jeong-woo¡¯s ears.
-You must be joking.
¡ºI¡¯m sending the picture to David. We¡¯ll know once it runs through the database.¡»
-I¡¯m right in front of the container they¡¯re hiding in. There are three people inside.
¡ºReally?¡»
ke looked at Jeong-woo. In the dim alleyway, his sharp eyes darted around, and he suddenly shouted at ke.
¡ºIt¡¯s a trap! Get out of there¡ª¡»
-BOOOOOM!
A sharp yet dull explosion echoed from ke¡¯sm device. She clutched her ears and ducked, while Jeong-woo shuddered from the piercing shock that struck his eardrums.
ke lifted her head and pressed themunication button.
¡ºVince! What¡¯s happening?¡»
There was no response from the team at the dock.
Panicking, Jeong-woo focused on the voices he had heard from the roof.
¡¸Hong Kong, 04:59 AM¡¹ ¨C Container Dock
A powerful infrasound attack echoed from within the fallen door, causing all the operatives hidden within a 50-meter radius to clutch their heads and copse to the ground.
Vince saw the dock workers tied up and unconscious inside the container and realized they had been duped. He grasped his throbbing head and sank to the ground.
¡¸Hong Kong, 05:01 AM¡¹ ¨C Gray Building
Hiss.
-How did it go?
The man surveying the dock with night vision goggles grinned with satisfaction.
¡ºAll taken down.¡»
-Their heads will be ringing for a while. I told them not to follow us. We were nice enough to let them live.
¡ºWhat about Dr. Amit? Did he reveal the location of the agent?¡»
-Not yet. He definitely took it from theb, but for some reason, he refuses to talk. And he keeps saying strange things.
¡ºStrange things?¡»
-He says you will never be able to create the biological paralysis weapon you want.
¡ºWhat?¡»
The man¡¯s expression changed, and he rushed down to the room where Dr. Amit was being held. He burst through the door.
Dr. Amit, tied up and slumped against the wall, flinched when he saw the man.
¡ºDoctor, how do you know what we¡¯re trying to make?¡»
Sweat beaded on Amit¡¯s forehead as he mped his mouth shut, refusing to speak. The man drew abat ripcord knife from his belt, spinning it before bringing it to Amit¡¯s neck.
¡ºThink carefully. We gave you seven hours because your colleague is supposed toe by then. And that time ended one minute ago. No one will care if I leave a few knife marks before we leave.¡»
As the de grazed his skin, Amit shuddered and began to speak, trembling.
¡ºI-I don¡¯t know anything! I just saw a crazy form proposed by some consultant at ISTC!¡»
¡ºA consultant?¡»
At the same time.
Jeong-woo flinched as he collected sound waves at the alley¡¯s edge.
¡®That sounds like Dr. Amit¡¯s scream.¡¯
The sound waves, vibrating and breaking through the thick building walls, were difficult to discern clearly. However, he could precisely determine their position in the fourth room on the sixth floor.
¡ºMr. Han.¡»
ke pulled a walkie-talkie from her bag and handed it to him along with car keys.
¡ºI¡¯m really sorry, but could you bring the car up to the front?¡»
¡ºIt¡¯s not something to be sorry about. What about you?¡»
¡ºThey probably don¡¯t know about my presence, so I need to carry out a solo operation.¡»
¡ºAre you going in to fight?¡»
ke shook her head with a faint smile as she saw Jeong-woo¡¯s wide eyes.
¡ºGoing in without knowing the enemy¡¯s identity or weapon level is reckless. I¡¯ll monitor them until the support team arrives and then follow them when they move.¡»
¡ºSupport team?¡»
¡ºUsually, in these situations, we call in Delta Force.¡»
¡ºOh.¡»
It seemed that the lone-wolf spies like 007 didn¡¯t exist in reality.
¡ºAnd don¡¯t open the car door for anyone other than me. It¡¯s bulletproof, so you¡¯ll be safe.¡»
¡ºGot it.¡»
As Jeong-woo was about to retrace his steps, he decided to share the information he had overheard from the rooftop.
¡ºIt seems Dr. Amit has hidden the agent. They haven¡¯t left because they¡¯re still searching for it. I vaguely heard this before getting hit by the shbang, but it just came back to me.¡»
¡ºReally?¡»
ke resumed scanning the building with the surveince equipment, and Jeong-woo raised his hand to point to the fourth room on the sixth floor.
¡ºWhen the wind blew, I could strongly smell Dr. Amit from that direction.¡»
¡ºThis direction?¡»
¡ºA bit to the side.¡»
¡ºWhat? You mean those three in that room?¡»
When ke received no response, she turned her head to see Jeong-woo walking back down the alley.
He was an odd man. Like a scent-tracking dog used in explosive detection, he had found this ce solely by scent. The process of confirming the rooftop man as the culprit also had many inconsistencies. And he had predicted the trap that had caught Vince.
Yet, instead of suspicion, ke felt a sense of trust. Why was that?
¡¸Hong Kong, 05:13 AM¡¹ ¨C Tuen Mun Cargo Terminal Entrance Road
Jeong-woo sprinted at full speed, his breathing in gasps, but he didn¡¯t stop. He pressed the key to unlock the car and only after sitting in the driver¡¯s seat did he let out his suppressed, ragged breath.
¡°Phew, this is exhausting.¡±
He had been a bit dazed when he woke up, but now he felt the reality keenly. He was currently chasing down bad guys with a beautiful agent. It was dangerous, but his heart was pounding with excitement.
As he started the car and quickly reversed, he noticed someone staggering out from the dock, supporting a colleague.
¡®Team Leader Vince?¡¯
BEEP¡ª
Reversing to a stop in front of Vince, Jeong-woo rolled down the window.
¡ºAre you okay?¡»
¡ºMr. Han?¡»
Vince recognized Jeong-woo and looked puzzled. With a nce asking where ke was, Jeong-woo quickly exined the situation.
¡º¡The ones you and ke are chasing are really the main kidnappers?¡»
Vince¡¯s face showed disbelief, and Jeong-woo shrugged. Vince sat his injured colleague down by the roadside and climbed into the passenger seat.
¡ºPeter. Tend to the wounded and stand by formunication at the base. Send support immediately for anyone who seems fit.¡»
¡ºUnderstood.¡»
After issuing instructions to his colleague, Vince signaled Jeong-woo to start driving.
Screech.
The SUV came to a stop on the road atop a hill overlooking the gray building on the sixth floor. Jeong-woo picked up the walkie-talkie and pressed the transmit button.
¡ºke, we¡¯ve arrived.¡»
-Roger that. Stay put there. The target has started moving. They¡¯re not in a vehicle yet, so follow them slowly from behind.
Hearing the voice over the walkie-talkie, Vince turned his gaze out the window.
¡ºWhere is she?¡»
Jeong-woo squinted and scanned the surroundings, then adjusted Vince¡¯s head.
¡ºke is over there.¡»
¡ºAh.¡»
¡ºDr. Amit is this way. Wait, no. They just passed that street? Keep looking ahead, they¡¯ll show up.¡»
Although dawn was breaking, it was still dim between the alleys. Vince was impressed by Jeong-woo¡¯s ability to pinpoint their location in the shadows.
¡ºThere they are. Do you see them?¡»
Vince spotted the two men quickly moving with the tied-up Amit and watched them intently.
Jeong-woo noticed blood trickling from Vince¡¯s right ear and asked.
¡ºYou look hurt. Shouldn¡¯t you get treated?¡»
¡ºIt¡¯s a ruptured eardrum, nothing can be done for now.¡»
¡ºOh.¡»
Vince pulled a silenced Glock 26 from his inner pocket and chambered a round, then spoke to the tense Jeong-woo.
¡ºWe need to go after them.¡»
¡ºRight now?¡»
¡ºWith only two of them, there¡¯s no better time for an ambush. Park the car on the road ahead of their direction. Give me the walkie-talkie. Myms are broken.¡»
Vince took the walkie-talkie and instructed ke to cover the rear.
Shortly after.
The SUV came to a stop on the coastal road with a view of the sandy beach. As Vince jumped out of the passenger seat, Jeong-woo watched in admiration.
¡®So there really are people like 007.¡¯
¡¸Hong Kong, 05:30 AM¡¹ ¨C 500m West of the Coastline
A sleek boat cut through the sticky sea air as it sped forward. The boat was in vition of internationalw and numerous other treaties, but the dozen mercenaries on board didn¡¯t care at all.
A bronze-skinned man sitting on the boat¡¯s edge picked up a walkie-talkie.
¡ºWe¡¯re almost there. Can you see us, Wace?¡»
-You¡¯rete!
¡ºCouldn¡¯t be helped. There was traffic.¡»
The man grinned as he watched the twin engines churn up a spray of water.
-Do you know the CIA has caught wind of this?
¡ºWe had to take a detour to avoid their pursuit.¡»
-You better get here fast. The boss just found out something you¡¯re going to find very interesting.
¡ºInteresting?¡»
-There¡¯s a chemist who has figured out the n tobine the three items.
¡ºAre you kidding me?¡»
-Even more surprising, Dr. Amit and Professor Jordan. The work they were pressuring Dr. Natalia toplete has already been done by this guy.
¡¸Hong Kong, 05:31 AM¡¹ ¨C Coastal Road
ke, who had been tailing the kidnappers, couldn¡¯t help but feel a surge of anxiety as she arrived at the deserted coastline.
Supporting Vince¡¯s solo operation.
The recon drone had to be withdrawn due to a sensor failure, and satellite support alone had its limitations. Luckily, she was in a position where she could observe the enemy while remaining hidden, but executing an operation with uncertain factors required caution.
Beep.
A signal came through thems, followed by David¡¯s voice from the situation room.
-ke, we¡¯ve got results from running the picture you sent through the database.
¡ºReally?¡»
-Wace Ditto. Retired military with a record of operations in Afghanistan and Iraq. He¡¯s skilled with firearms and mechanical devices, and seems to do anything for money.
¡ºNot affiliated with any specific group?¡»
-It appears he¡¯s a hired hand.
ke¡¯s gaze shifted to the SUV parked on the distant coastal road as she realized that Jeong-woo¡¯s tracking had been 100% urate. Without him, they would have fallen into the trap set by the enemy, ending the situation in disgrace.
-Mantainposure.
¡ºAny additional support?¡»
-The nearest carrier is in the Philippine Sea.
Deploying elite US forces would take at least three hours. With that timeline, they would have to do their best on the ground for now.
Crackle.
-You¡¯ll make contact soon.
Came Vince¡¯s voice over thems.
¡ºLet¡¯s go.¡»
Jeong-woo, keeping a close watch from inside the car, swallowed hard.
Vince was pressed tightly against a trash bin, lying in wait.
The two kidnappers and Dr. Amit were emerging from the residential area across the way.
ke was quietly following them from behind.
A confrontation was imminent. Just watching from the bulletproof vehicle made Jeong-woo¡¯s heart race.
¡®Gosh, this is nerve-wracking.¡¯
As he hoped for the operation to go smoothly, Jeong-woo nced to the side and raised an eyebrow.
A boat was approaching from beyond the sea, kicking up a low spray. It was too suspiciously timed to be an early morning boating excursion.
As he watched, Jeong-woo was startled. The people disembarking near the coastal cliff were dressed ominously. The masks especially gave them away as associates of the kidnappers.
¡®¡What should I do?¡¯
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