Media & Journalism !

The Free City of Lindel's media landscape was far from being a proper press.

This realization had dawned upon Jung Hayan and me alike.

Lindel, despite its democratic ideals, was a place where wielding a pen was a perilous endeavor. Freedom of the press was an ideal concept, yes, but it was clear that media companies couldn't churn out articles with abandon.

"That's because it's too terrifying," I remarked.

In this dominion, might prevailed. One could forfeit their life by merely offending a powerful or high-status individual.

As a result, every piece was methodically produced, every word was analyzed, because a slight misstep in wording may result in death. Passive readers were transformed into bloodthirsty murderers at the least provocation.

My initial optimism waned as I perused a local newspaper. Legitimate journalism seemed a rarity; the closest semblance was gossip about guilds' breakfast choices.

It was a letdown, as I had been on the lookout for a true journalist.

Still, I empathize. Survival and wealth were paramount in Lindel, and no one dared court controversy, especially within the media sphere.

The question loomed: Could I find someone daring enough to break this cycle? I needed a genuine journalist who could adapt to the times.

Lindel was still in its early stages, but its system had been in place for some time. As a result, it was critical to document the economic, political, and social changes that occurred since its founding. Culture also played a role. What was the perfect way of living now? How could smaller guilds compete on an equal footing with larger ones? These themes would undoubtedly pique the public's curiosity.

In some ways, I considered myself fortunate. Had I arrived when Lindel was still developing, I might have sought my fortune elsewhere. What the city lacked was a touch of controversy—a human inclination that this place yearned to satisfy. Many shared my sentiments, which gave me hope that my plan might succeed.

"Kee Miyoung, I believe most of them have arrived." Jung Hayan said.

"Really?" I replied.

"Yes, they'll be expecting you in a few minutes. What else should I do?"

"You've already done more than enough, Hayan."

"It was no trouble at all."

"I'll definitely repay you when all of this is over."

"I trust you, Kee!"

She deserved every ounce of gratitude. My plan's viability hinged significantly on Jung Hayan.

I planted a kiss on her lips before stepping into the adjacent room, where a crowd of people awaited. The room fell silent as I entered, curiosity and apprehension etched on their faces. With a smile, I addressed them.

"I'm delighted to see you all."

"Ah... It's nice to meet you."

"It's my pleasure. I'm Kee Miyoung from the Blue Guild."

A quick assessment of their expressions revealed their keen interest in what I could offer rather than what I had to say. In Lindel, money was scarce unless one belonged to a guild.

Their meals arrived, temporarily diverting their attention. I knew it was essential to get to the main point quickly, but this distraction was necessary.

"The reason I've gathered you here today is to request a small article from each of you."

"Ah, I've been expecting this. I'd be honored to write. Isn't the Blue Guild's stock price at its peak? Promoting your guild would be my pleasure."

'Promotion, what nonsense,' I thought. Even if they wrote a promotional article, it would likely amount to nothing. Media companies held little sway in this world.

"I've heard that four of you set a record in the tutorial dungeon and successfully conquered the Garden of Terror. That's a great article right there."

Suppressing the urge to roll my eyes, I continued. Yes, our backstory was compelling, but at this rate, even the Blue Guild would promote the article better than these individuals.

"Hahaha, I agree. Just give us the word, and we'll write it however you want."

I leaned back slightly, shifting my demeanor. This was the response I had been seeking.

"In reality, the article I want you to write differs from your expectations."

"Oh?"

"I'd like you to focus on a woman named Jung Yura from the Black Swan Guild. Here are the specific details..."

I began to outline the article's details methodically. I provided only what was necessary, avoiding embellishments. I made it clear that I wanted the events within the dungeon expedition to be the focal point.

The reporters' hesitant expressions revealed their reservations about my proposed article. Fear was etched on their faces, as if they were thinking, 'I'm not seeking a death wish,' and 'I want to live longer.'

"It doesn't matter if you simply write what I've told you. Of course, you're free to expand on it as you see fit. I'd appreciate it if you made it a bit more provocative. The public enjoys stimulating content. The compensation you'll receive won't disappoint."

Silence settled in the room as expected.

"Well, this seems like a challenging proposition..."

"You think?"

"Yes, I can understand your intent, but the content..."

"Oh no, I'm not asking you to write about the Black Swan Guild as a whole. I want the focus to be on Jung Yura as an individual."

"Yes, but still..."

I observed them exchanging uncertain glances, discomfort growing in the room as they contemplated my request. Had I been from a less influential guild or an unknown figure in the city, they might have outright refused and hurriedly left.

"I know what's troubling you."

"O-Oh..."

"You're concerned for your safety. You understand that publishing such an article comes with definite consequences. However, this article isn't for my benefit..."

"Whose is it for?"

"It's Cha Hee-ra's will."

I knew I had to lie—this lie was necessary.

"I understand that you'll be afraid. Jung Yura's personal retaliation is frightening. Even with the Mercenary Queen's protection, it won't be easy."

"If you write the article, you'll have to use your real name."

"Ah..."

"I know some of you are worried about the article's impact once it's published. Criticizing large guilds never ends well. However, people will wonder why such an incident occurred. Your sales will skyrocket, and you'll earn more than your regular salaries."

"Ah, but it's not about the gold..."

"The more people read your article, the safer you'll be. The more articles bear your name, the more influence you'll gain—making you safer."

"And as you are threatened, I'll ensure you receive even greater rewards."

"That..."

"You'll receive an abundance of gold."

"And, most importantly..."

"You'll gain the power you seek."

Of course, this was an illusion. At the very least, their sales would indeed increase, and they would acquire some semblance of influence. But influence wasn't synonymous with power.

Looking at their faces, I knew I had them on the hook.

I bowed.

"Thank you for listening."