The Pivotal Moment!

The proposal from the Azure Alliance held an enticing promise, akin to hitting the jackpot without even scratching the surface. Credit was due to them for constructing an offer so compelling that refusing it seemed almost absurd.

Admittedly, it was a clever move to leverage the surprising outcome of the tutorial dungeon challenge. Only four individuals emerged as the swiftest conquerors, a fact the Azure Alliance promptly seized upon.

I mused, "Their strategy isn't lacking in intelligence." Their actions exhibited a strong competitive spirit.

Transitioning back to reality, I noticed Park Deokgu engrossed in reading. Arching an eyebrow, I inquired, "Are you perusing the brochure?"

"Indeed, I thought it would be wise to acquaint ourselves with their offerings, given the likelihood of us spending more time here. The guild's dining establishment does sound intriguing!"

"Is that so?"

"Yes, back on Earth, my grandfather, the renowned chef Rayman Park, was at the helm of our family's restaurant... The mere sight of his culinary creations would make my mouth water."

"I understand."

"That's why the guild's accommodations appeal to me. Perhaps I could match the success of my culinary lineage. I believe my grandfather would be proud..."

Although I pondered if this was an appropriate aspiration, I sensed that Park Deokgu's grandfather wouldn't envision his grandson residing in such a world.

"The guild does possess an aura of fascination... How sizable are the other guilds?"

"Comparing the Blue Guild with the others likely won't yield significant distinctions. Although they claim it's not the same as before, even if a wealthy individual loses their enterprise, they can endure for three years. Accumulating resources over an extended period implies a certain degree of survival instinct. I can't be certain whether they intend to recruit us for the sake of reclaiming their former glory..."

"I share that sentiment. I find myself in a peculiar position, and surprisingly, it doesn't trouble me, Hyung."

"In due time, you'll earn even greater respect."

"Really?"

"Absolutely."

In this, Park Deokgu was accurate. The wait wouldn't be prolonged.

After all, we were latent talents akin to unscratched lottery tickets. Anyone with insight recognized the high likelihood of success if they enlisted us. That was the primary rationale behind their willingness to compensate us generously.

"I didn't expect Hayan to be held in such esteem here, nor did I anticipate her attachment to you. It seems wherever you go, she's inclined to follow."

"Even without stating it, you're faring remarkably yourself. I'm merely adhering to guild protocols out of necessity."

"Nevertheless."

"No need to articulate it in that manner..."

Even without Park Deokgu's words, I was well aware of Jung Hayan's significance. She substantially contributed to our desirability as a team.

In the future, as Jung Hayan ascended to the status of an Archmage with legendary magical aptitude, and I transformed into a returner without any reservations, our potential would stretch beyond limits. Potential wasn't a fixed gauge of capability; those with unwavering determination could transcend their established boundaries by venturing further.

This is where intelligence and luck intersect.

For Jung Hayan, her second profession was already on the horizon, given her astonishing magical potency. The title of "Elemental Magician" resonated with me, and I presumed Kim Hyunsung would share my endorsement.

Jung Hayan's affinities spanned all elemental domains, making even the alchemist profession irrelevant in her case. From the outset, her potential as a Magician was undeniable.

Considering our shared experiences and her unwavering support throughout the tutorial dungeon, her progress was commendable.

All she required was a slight opening, and her abilities would soar.

I couldn't ascertain whether the dungeon experience had left a lasting impression, but I was committed to exploiting this and cultivating her attachment to me. I'd formulated an unspoken covenant solidifying the bond between us, ensuring that I'd partake in the rewards she reaped.

Undoubtedly, its impact exceeded my expectations.

Commencing with simple accolades, I gradually intensified my efforts to deepen our connection. Initially limited to head pats and handholds, my endeavors advanced to meticulous scrutiny of her performance.

In time, it became evident that her desire for my approval surpassed her pursuit of pure strength or notoriety. My withholding of endorsement during her idle moments fueled her determination.

Park Deokgu's commentary might have been prompted by our current circumstances. Given his scarce interaction during the demonstration, he likely sensed an incongruity.

Among us, it wasn't Park Deokgu, Kim Hyunsung, or even me who dedicated the most time to individual training; it was Jung Hayan.

"I'm probably the one responsible for mishaps, burdening everyone."

"Not at all..."

"This demonstration, where our standings influence the perception of the Blue Guild and others, holds significant weight. If I undermine our standing... Anyway, I'm relieved they opted to accept us as a unit."

"Oh, come on. You're excelling on your own."

"In scenarios like these, setting oneself apart is vital. I can't remain stagnant. This is an opportune juncture to discuss this."

"Why, then, are you participating in this demonstration?"

"It's akin to athletes' routine evaluations. They must determine our value to set the right price. It's somewhat regrettable, but... It'd be worse if my missteps impacted everyone."

"Indeed, the more I contemplate it, the clearer it becomes why Hayan holds you in high regard."

I stifled a chuckle; Park Deokgu's guilelessness was oddly endearing. He was unaware that Jung Hayan's sentiments extended beyond mere admiration. Much of that was due to Park Deokgu's active intervention.

I couldn't help but speculate whether Park Deokgu's innocence was genuine or a façade concealing his astuteness.

I shook my head and urged, "Let's begin."

"Sure, Hyung."

"Pick up the pace."

"Huh? Wait..."

We set out, surveying our surroundings. The verdant panorama contrasted starkly with the monotonous tutorial dungeon.

This setting exuded opulence, safety, and recognition.

Through the window, I spotted the rescued shelter residents congregating and engaging in activities. Presumably, they were undergoing compulsory orientation mandated by this new world.

Lee Jihye glimpsed us momentarily but swiftly shifted focus. Following her line of sight, I discerned the source of her interest: an internal smokehouse.

Several individuals had gathered around it.

The attire of these individuals exuded opulence, regardless of their rank or stature. Evidently, the extravagant dressing extended beyond just the Blue Guild's leadership.

Others with distinctive banners resembled corporate executives, overseeing the training hall as if managing a major enterprise.

"Scouts?"

Indeed, they were probably scouting for exceptional talents.

Upon scrutinizing their expressions, I reaffirmed what I suspected. These individuals were eager to uncover promising assets to augment their guilds.

It had been a week since the demonstration, and the Blue Guild held the prerogative to select individuals suitable for recruitment. Except for my occasional checks on Jung Hayan's progress, I hadn't seen her for three days.

While I was relatively unperturbed due to my preoccupation with other matters, it was apparent that the interim was a struggle for Jung Hayan.

"Doesn't she appear somewhat... despondent?"

"To a degree."

Yet, her demeanor seemed more fatigued than melancholic.

She had mentioned attending the day of my demonstration, but her own state wasn't robust.

"Perhaps it's a touch of nerves. After all, it hasn't been long since we left the dungeon, and she's still uncertain about what lies ahead."

"Don't let nerves overpower you. I believe everyone comprehends the traumatic nature of the dungeon experience, so they won't be overly harsh."

It was unclear who responded to Hayan's remarks, but I appreciated the understanding present among the group.

"However, the rest of these folks..."

People seemed visibly restless wherever I glanced.

While I pondered if anyone possessed unwavering confidence, I doubted such individuals existed here. With a shrug, I raised my hand high. In an instant, Jung Hayan spotted me.

"You can't falter," this was a pivotal moment.

"Indeed. When you're prepared, Jung Hayan, give the signal."

With a nod, Jung Hayan assented.

Demonstrating any attempt to pre-memorize spells would likely arouse suspicion, thus jeopardizing the plan.

Amidst the crowd, I discerned raised eyebrows as I performed the gesture. My strategy seemed destined for failure.

"Is it too complex...?" As doubt crept in, a cascade of unimaginable magical power enveloped me.

"Huh?"

It appeared ludicrous, but an aura of dust emanated from Jung Hayan as she shifted her magical energy within her body. The simple act produced an astonishing effect.

Awestruck, I watched the unfolding scene as Jung Hayan commenced an extensive incantation. The executives of major guilds gazed upon her in utter disbelief.

Among the hushed murmurs of the crowd, urgent voices emerged.

"Report this immediately!"

"Quick! Retrieve her profile posthaste!"

Everything unfolded as planned, and surprisingly, even surpassed my original expectations. While I anticipated some level of success, I never fathomed its extent.

As the spell's duration lengthened, the resonance amplified.

Lee Sang-hee and other Blue Guild members seemed dumbfounded. Their expressions betrayed their thoughts. Jung Hayan had never displayed this level of power to them.

Not to the extent witnessed today.

"Could this really be...?"

My incredulity mirrored the sentiments shared by those observing.

In this fleeting instant, Jung Hayan concluded her elaborate chant.

"Materialize, elemental bomb!"

A deafening roar reverberated from her hand, prompting me to shield my ears. I fortified my magical defenses to safeguard against potential eardrum damage.

Jung Hayan's creation, a mysterious and potent spell, surged toward a target at the heart of the combat sector.