7:49 pm Busan International Port.

Night gradually falls on the pier. Export preparation work also took place enthusiastically. The 5,000-ton auxiliary ferry clearly shows its majesty under the flickering light of street lights. This is a scheduled train that operates once a day and will arrive at the port of Shimonoseki, Japan tomorrow morning.

The doors close after boarding time ends. The crane finished loading the goods and finally quietly withdrew. As expected, the lights in the station went out. The surrounding area was quiet, buried in the stillness of the night, only the ferry tied to its rope was still floating on the black, rippling sea.

But the atmosphere inside is completely different. A man entered the room arranged early and put down his luggage. Passengers around him were busy looking everywhere on the train with excited faces. Everyone gathered in small groups at a drinking table in the village hallway, some people also recorded every moment with cameras in hand. Boisterous laughter echoed everywhere, even on the cold, windy deck of the ship was filled with a typical

atmosphere of excitement and anticipation for the journey about to begin.

Kwon Taek Joo is present in that crowded place. He wore a normal suit with a jacket, looking no different from the people present except for his extremely depressed expression. That was clearly not the look on the face of someone staying in the most expensive room.

He occasionally lifted his sleeve to check the time. Kwon Taek Joo followed every movement of the second hand on the watch. Exactly 8 o'clock. The whistle signaling the departure of the ferry split the night sea. Kwon Taek Joo followed suit and walked out onto the balcony.

The deck below appeared clearly in his vision. Tourists are still busy taking photos. It would be difficult to get a decent photo in this darkness but they kept pressing the shutter button. He was indifferently observing those constant movements when a small mechanical sound suddenly came from his left ear. Next, someone's voice rang out.

-How are you? Are you enjoying the romantic atmosphere of the night sea?

"Not bad. Noisy but also quite boring."

Light laughter came from the communication device in my ear. Meanwhile, Kwon Taek Joo's eyes were still directed towards the deck. He carefully looked at each person passing by, but no one particularly stood out.

"Report it."

* Contact person Kim Young Hee and National Security Agency official Lee Cheol Jin were both confirmed to have boarded the plane. Lee Cheol Jin is disguising himself as a Chinese citizen. He will probably leave China as soon as he arrives in Japan, and Kim Young Hee has booked a ferry leaving from Shimonoseki tomorrow night.

"Then I'll have to reach them before the ship docks."

Kwon Taek Joo muttered to himself and quickly left the balcony. "Are you going to start acting now?", he asked. Kwon Taek Joo just walked out of the room and answered while walking through the empty hallway.

"When playing hide and seek, good players are those who like to take risks."

If the targets are to contact each other, a chaotic scene like 2 this is the best time, because meeting in a place with few people will only attract more attention. Kwon Taek Joo jumped down two spiral stairs. He passed by a group of people gathered in front of the 2nd floor restaurant and examined each face one by one. This time there are no outstanding characters either. Kwon Taek Joo went straight down the stairs leading to the first floor lobby and gave

brief instructions.

"Call me."

The phone rang immediately. Kwon Taek Joo let the sound vibrate continuously twice and took the call when he reached the middle of the stairs. "Hello", he spoke up to continue the serious conversation with the silent person on the other end. No one seemed suspicious when Kwon Taek Joo was talking on the phone and walking around.

Not long after, a woman passed by. The collar of her coat stood up looking very awkward. Kwon Taek Joo's black eyes quietly watched that woman.

She passed the information desk and approached the vending machine next to the elevator.

She stood there for a long moment as if choosing a drink. Other people came and then left one by one.

The woman took out the 1,000 yen bill again after the surroundings became quiet again. After a long period of hesitation, what she chose was green tea. Change poured out of the machine, and the drink also fell down with a slight sound. She picked up the green tea quite naturally, then gathered the change and returned to the 2nd floor. Kwon Taek Joo pretended not to pay attention to the woman, and she did not pay any special attention to him.

* The target is approaching.

The voice ringing on the intercom caught Kwon Taek Joo's attention after the woman disappeared upstairs.

"Okay. Let's talk later."

He pressed the button to end the call after greeting. At that moment, a man walked out of the living room at the back of the lobby. He was wearing a navy blue beanie and was striding towards the vending machine.

The man rummaged through his pocket and took out a few coins but only glanced around, not at the drink. An overly cautious attitude. After a while, the man put a 100 yen coin into the slot.

At that moment, an arm suddenly reached over his shoulder. Then a cheerful clicking sound was heard. That familiar sound was like the sound of a coin rolling through a narrow groove. The blue beanie was still holding a hundred yen coin in his hand. That arm suddenly entered the vending machine, chose a drink and pressed a button.

"What's up?"

At this point, the navy blue beanie realized the current situation. The heavy can of water fell with a clatter. The beanie quickly grabbed Kwon Taek Joo's hand as he walked towards the place to receive the can of water. He shouted in confusion at the unexpected situation.

"Ah you bastard, what are you doing?"

"It seems like you're hesitant to make a decision. If I keep waiting, I'll probably have to stay up all night."

Kwon Taek Joo held his hand tightly and brazenly responded. The tone was whispery but provocative. There was no sign of remorse in the faint smile on his face, as if the conflict that was happening was what he wanted.

An unfortunate premonition and a creepy feeling. Instinct was one step ahead of the mind in recognizing the danger, the blue beanie's eyebrows furrowed. Under the light, the anger was pushed away and replaced by an expression of anxiety. His breathing also became rougher, and at some point, cold sweat also formed on his forehead.

"Damned."

Immediately, the blue beanie suddenly swung his hand towards the vending machine. He quickly lifted the lid of the vending machine and picked up something inside. Kwon Taek Joo did not hesitate to step on the lid.

"Ah!"

A loud scream came from the man whose hand was caught in the vending machine. Kwon Taek Joo was calm as if nothing had happened.

"Ah this crazy guy!"

The man grabbed Kwon Taek Joo's collar in response to the recent provocation. His eyes widened as he stared at him. But Kwon Taek Joo didn't flinch, he just looked from his shirt to the man's face. His eyebrows furrowed even more because of this strangely leisurely attitude.

Kwon Taek Joo grabbed the wrist of the man holding his collar. His leisurely movements seem to be engraving each of his actions into the other person's mind. The skin under the man's eyes twitched. The eyes that had been glancing at Kwon Taek Joo now looked down at his wrist. Even when the man tried to ignore it, an unbearably cruel force began to spread, what was happening was definitely not good.

Kwon Taek Joo looked at the people gathered around and muttered.

"It's true. Getting too much attention is very troublesome. Lee Cheol Jin-sshi also understands, right? Everyone in the industry is like that."

As soon as his name was called, he was able to guess Kwon Taek Joo's identity. The man's already angry face suddenly turned pale.

Passengers continued to rush out and quickly surrounded the two people. The most curious thing is always watching a fight, and the strange expectations of people running to watch a noisy action movie arise. There's no benefit to continuing like this. A cornered mouse will bite the cat back. Kwon Taek Joo didn't know what unexpected actions Lee Cheol Jin would take if he put more pressure on him. If civilian casualties occur, a letter or two of apology will hardly calm the situation.

Kwon Taek Joo held Lee Cheol Jin's arm tightly. Suddenly he burst out laughing.

"Okay. Great!"

He no longer tried to hide his identity. If their identities are revealed, the spies have only two options. Committing suicide by drinking pre-prepared poison or using force to escape. He won't throw away something that was hard-won, so the choice this time will be the latter.

Lee Cheol Jin quickly put his hand inside his jacket, but that arm was immediately lifted up by Kwon Taek Joo in a split second, followed by his head hitting the vending machine.

The vending machine vibrated with a thud. Lee Cheol Jin also couldn't get over the shock and staggered.

At that moment, Kwon Taek Joo grabbed his arm and easily snatched the gun. When a gun appeared from nowhere, the gathered onlookers screamed and retreated.

Without hesitation, Kwon Taek Joo used all his strength to kick Lee Cheol Jin's butt. His body hit the floor. His face and head were shaken so he could not stay awake.

Meanwhile, Kwon Taek Joo lifted the lid of the vending machine and took out the USB. The woman from earlier left it behind. According to intelligence information, it may contain high-level information equivalent to state secrets.

"Sorry, please give way! Just for a moment, please."

At that moment a flight attendant approached, apparently he had received a report about the commotion. Kwon Taek Joo looked in that direction, at the same time he heard an angry mutter ringing in his ear.

"There's no law for you to rummage through other people's things."

Kwon Taek Joo turned his head with an unfortunate premonition. His eyes immediately met Lee Cheol Jin. His eyes flashed strangely. Could it be? He did not miss the rope that had just been dropped in front of him. "What's going on?", the flight attendant rushed in to ask.

"Hic.."

It happened in just a split second. Lee Cheol Jin wrapped his arms around the flight attendant's neck and pulled him back. In his other hand was a sharp knife.

"Ahhh!"

"Ah!"

Seeing the sharp blade, the surrounding passengers fled, only Kwon Taek Joo remained in his position.

He bit his lower lip out of habit. Whenever things go smoothly, he feels uncomfortable. There is no such thing as an easy thing to do. This time is no exception. Lee Cheol Jin wrapped his arms around the hostage's neck and clutched his weapon. The flight attendant shouted. Kwon Taek Joo scratched his head in annoyance.

"Give me that."

Lee Cheol Jin reached out his hand to request. The sharp blade stuck tighter to the hostage's neck. Kwon Taek Joo just stood there observing without reacting at all. Lee Cheol Jin impatiently waved his hand. He even shouted "Throw it over here!" Kwon Taek Joo looked boredly at the hostage's pale face at his every move. His breathing was rapid, almost like a sob.

Kwon Taek Joo looked at the USB in his hand and threw it away without hesitation. The small USB hit the hostage and then fell to the floor. Lee Cheol Jin reflexively intended to bend down but quickly changed his mind and asked the hostage to pick up the item that had just fallen.

The flight attendant picked up the USB with shaking hands. In the desperate crisis, his pants were helplessly soaked. Lee Cheol Jin forced him to stand up and step back step by step on weak legs that no longer had any strength due to fear.

At this time, Kwon Taek Joo also slowly moved. The distance tightened as soon as Lee Cheol Jin retreated. The series of actions were without hesitation as if he did not care about the safety of the hostages. When Lee Cheol Jin took a step back, Kwon Taek Joo took a step closer. Lee Cheol Jin's voice cracked with anger.

"Don't follow me!"

But that threat had no effect at all. If he takes a step back, Kwon Taek Joo will definitely take another step. Although a certain distance was still maintained between the two sides, the anxiety of the person being chased was still indescribable.

"Please help me."

The hostage rubbed his hands together in supplication. The urine that had soaked his pants was now dripping to the floor. For a moment, all movement and noise stopped as if time itself had stopped.

Lee Cheol Jin took a step back as if to check the situation. Kwon Taek Joo followed again. He went crazy and jumped up, his eyes seemed to have no mercy for the hostages.

"You bastard, didn't you listen to me when I told you to stop?"

Even being angry is of no use because it's hard to find room for compromise on Kwon Taek Joo's face. Even if the hostage's life is in danger, he will not back down. But one thing is clear: the moment the hostage stops breathing, Lee Cheol Jin himself will no longer be safe. All of that is contained in Kwon Taek Joo's quiet but pressured gaze.

"This bastard...!"

Lee Cheol Jin quickly gave up the confrontation and pushed the hostages away. He then walked up the stairs in the back. Kwon Taek Joo helped the flight attendant who fell aside and chased after him.

As soon as he reached the second floor, people started flocking to the entrance to the deck. Kwon Taek Joo turned around and walked straight in that direction. The sight of Lee Cheol Jin quickly running away entered his sight. But Kwon Taek Joo didn't run even though his strides were wider and he sped up somewhat, because there was absolutely no reason to lose patience. Either way, this ship is heading out to sea. Lee Cheol Jin is no different from a mouse that has crawled into a trap.

Kwon Taek Joo leisurely followed Lee Cheol Jin who was running away. His black hair fluttered in the sea breeze. That scene brought a strange sense of menace.

-Senior, the ferry assistant just reported to the Coast Guard that there was an armed person on the ship. What's going on?

Suddenly the voice from before rang out from the communication device in Kwon Taek Joo's ear.

"Let's talk later. I'll probably be a bit busy."

Kwon Taek Joo finally looked straight at Lee Cheol Jin, who had approached the railing. A warning sound came from the walkie-talkie, but he turned it off without hesitation. As a result, only Lee Cheol Jin and Kwon Taek Joo remained on the windy deck.

Lee Cheol Jin looked down at the dark sea. His hands that were clinging to the railing tightened. Meanwhile, Kwon Taek Joo gradually narrowed the gap. Lee Cheol Jin was cornered and suddenly swung his weapon wildly into the air. That gesture was like trying to escape at all costs, but it was also meaningless. The moment you are afraid, your threat has lost its power.

"Don't come here!"

He quickly approached the aggressive Lee Cheol Jin. He alternately looked down at the dark sea and towards Kwon Taek Joo and continuously waved the knife in the air.

"I told you not to come here!"

He panicked and screamed violently. Kwon Taek Joo took out the Colt. That was the moment Lee Cheol Jin's knife turned into a piece of scrap metal.

Lee Cheol Jin's eyes nervously looked at Kwon Taek Joo, then his eyes followed somewhere behind him.

Next round, sparks burst from Kwon Taek Joo's gun muzzle along with an explosion. The bullet passed through the target accurately, but the one who collapsed and screamed was not Lee Cheol Jin but Kim Young Hee, who quietly approached Kwon Taek Joo from behind.

Kim Young Hee's ivory jacket was stained with red blood. She sat down clutching her torn right hand while the Colt in her hand fell and shot bullets into the air. It is unclear whether the target the gun was aimed at was Kwon Taek Joo or Lee Cheol Jin.

Kwon Taek Joo turned his head forward again. Meanwhile, Lee Cheol Jin also threw his knife away and stood with his back turned. He grabbed the railing and took a deep breath, his shoulders rising, his back bulging. Just as an unpleasant feeling flashed through Kwon Taek Joo's head, Lee Cheol Jin's body, which was clinging to the railing, suddenly jumped out.

Kwon Taek Joo immediately ran to the railing. But before he could get there, a "thud" rang in his ears. Kwon Taek Joo looked down, one side of the black sea broke into white water jets.

He looked everywhere looking for Lee Cheol Jin but couldn't see him anywhere. Kwon Taek Joo waited a little longer. Then Lee Cheol Jin's head began to rise above the white wave. Jumping from this height into the sea is tantamount to suicide.

But as if to mock Kwon Taek Joo's idea, a boat suddenly appeared from somewhere. What was approaching with its lights was an old wooden fishing boat. Perhaps thanks to that, it was able to avoid the surveillance networks of investigative agencies and come all the way here.

The wooden boat glided in the darkness gradually approaching Lee Cheol Jin. Kwon Taek Joo felt like he was hit in the back of the head. Perhaps this is his real way out. The plan may have been to distract the pursuers' attention with a return train ticket and evaporate at sea as soon as the item was received.

Kwon Taek Joo opened fire immediately, but it was not easy to snipe a boat from far away in the dim visibility of the dead of night. Even though the goal is clearly in sight, putting them in a bad situation can complicate matters. If he had been allowed to shoot to death from the beginning, he wouldn't have worked so hard.

The purpose of this operation is to search for North Korean spies who have been residing in South Korea for a long time, who have occupied important social positions and stolen national secrets. Surely there must be more than one person colluding and supporting them. Kwon Taek Joo cannot cut off the tree trunk before digging up the roots.

Meanwhile, the ferry continued to move and the distance from the fishing boat gradually increased. A man from the cockpit of the fishing boat pulled Lee Cheol Jin onto the boat. He took off his soaked jacket. Of course it is. Various small buoys were wrapped around his body. As the boat left, Lee Cheol Jin raised his hand as if mocking him. Proud and victorious face.

Kwon Taek Joo smiled lightly, then that smile soon disappeared from his face. He turned around and approached the collapsed Kim Young Hee.

Kim Young Hee trembled in pain from her injured arm but was still trying to pull something out. It's poison. Kwon Taek Joo hit her hard on the back of the head to stop her suicide. Kim Young Hee lost consciousness. Kwon Taek Joo continued to stuff a handkerchief into her mouth to prevent her from harming herself after she regained consciousness. He then grabbed Kim Young Hee's left hand and twisted it behind her back.

Kwon Taek Joo accidentally looked down, a ring was on the ring finger of Kim Young Hee's hand. The exterior has almost no scratches, showing that it was only recently purchased.

"The ring is so beautiful, isn't it? So we should have a bracelet to match."

Kwon Taek Joo sarcastically took out the handcuffs. The deafening sound of the handcuffs fixed Kim Young Hee's left hand to the railing.

After finishing somewhere, Kwon Taek Joo turned on the intercom again.

"Okay, in 8 seconds, run here immediately.”

"Yes?" the person on the other side shouted as if he had heard wrong. Kwon Taek Joo ignored it and turned his attention to the watch on his hand. When he pressed the reset button next to the watch, the time indicator disappeared and road markings appeared. While chasing Lee Cheol Jin, Kwon Taek Joo attached a tracking device to his belt. The red dot represents the position of the target gradually moving away from the orientation line. He couldn't delay any longer. Kwon Taek Joo took a deep breath and quickly ran towards the back of the ferry. He stood at the end of the deck, then stepped onto the railing and jumped off without hesitation. His vision went black for a moment. The wind blew from all directions as if it was passing through Kwon Taek Joo's entire body. Fall seems to have lasted longer than expected.

Damn. The water surface rose suddenly, accompanied by a loud noise. A fierce shock also hit Kwon Taek Joo's entire body when he touched the black sea water. It felt like every muscle in my body was being ripped apart. Seawater immediately filled every pore with bursting water bubbles. He submerged in the water for a while to reduce the shock and then slowly moved his arms and legs to hold his body as the current carried him away. Kwon Taek Joo opened his eyes and looked around, but the water was pitch black without a single ray of light shining through.

He kicked his legs with all his strength and rose to the surface. It's hard to stay in position when high waves keep coming.

Kwon Taek Joo raised his wrist with difficulty and pressed the reset button of the watch again. Then the navigation chart disappeared and the entire license plate lit up. That light shot into the air. 2, 3 seconds passed like that. Then a familiar mechanical sound rang out not far away. That is the sound of a motorboat engine. The noise grew louder and louder and then quickly fell silent. Immediately after, white waves crashed into the propeller and whipped Kwon Taek Joo's skin along with a nagging voice pouring down above his head.

"Really. If you keep this up, you'll become a water ghost."

Yoon Jong Woo, who ran with all his might to get here in 8 seconds, is reaching out his hand. Kwon Taek Joo held his hand and climbed onto the boat. His whole body was wet and uncomfortable. Despite the intense cold, Kwon Taek Joo still took off his watch and threw it at Yoon Jong Woo. Without asking, Yoon Jong Woo steered the boat following the red dot on the clock's direction board. Meanwhile, Kwon Taek Joo took off his wet jacket and gasped.

The motorboat ran quickly through the dark waves. The entire boat bounced violently in the rolling waves. The red dot is almost outside the orientation line and is gradually approaching.

Pip, pip, pip, pip, pip,pipipipi.

When the wooden boat came into view, that characteristic mechanical sound became even clearer. Even the wooden boat that was leisurely running away must have noticed the presence chasing them.

Soon, a man stepped out of the cockpit and grabbed a rifle. Yoon Jong Woo gritted his teeth and steered. The ship turned suddenly and a strong current appeared. Most of the incoming bullets missed, but one of them hit a corner of the boat. Fortunately, it did not hit the engine or fuel tank, so the fireworks display at midnight did not happen.

There was still no light around the fishing boat. In this state, it is impossible to control the target without killing the opponent. Even when he got a little closer, the bullets from the fishing boat had already shot out with no room left. Capturing armed targets is truly an absurd order.

A series of situations repeat over and over. being attacked and then dodged, then continuing to approach the target and then being shot at again. Yoon Jong Woo angrily slammed his hand on the steering wheel. The target was right in front of him but not being able to touch it with even a fingertip drove him crazy.

"Let's get out of the way."

Yoon Jong Woo was pulled back. Kwon Taek Joo sat in the driver's seat and rushed to the fishing boat. Yoon Jong Woo was helpless as the boat bounced.

"Ah! Senior, we're going to collide! We're going to collide!"

Yoon Jong Woo stood up and screamed in horror, but Kwon Taek Joo only increased his speed.

Bullets were fired from the wooden boat. Kwon Taek Joo tilted the boat, causing a large stream of water to splash onto the deck of the wooden boat. Only then will the opponent's attack soften a bit. Just like that, he walked ahead of the fishing boat for a long time. Then Kwon Taek Joo suddenly turned the steering wheel and made a wide right turn. The engine could not bear to make noise. The boat rotated strongly as if it wanted to be flipped upside down. Yoon Jong Woo's pale face could not avoid falling again when the train changed direction and began to reverse.

Kwon Taek Joo returned to the path he just passed and increased the boat's speed to the maximum. When the motorboat that had disappeared into the darkness reappeared, the wooden boat looked restless. Anxiety was evident through the merciless bullets.

Because of the relentless pursuit, Kwon Taek Joo did not have time to shoot back. Yoon Jong Woo panicked and focused on protecting his body by holding his head with both hands.

"You're really going to die like this! You're going to die! You're going to die! Are you listening, you crazy guy!"

Yoon Jong Woo was scared and cursed his superior Kwon Taek Joo without hesitation. Kwon Taek Joo didn't care at all and kept rushing away. If the situation continues like this, his boat will collide head-on with the wooden boat. Yoon Jong Woo's eyes closed tightly. The image of his parents back home suddenly flashed through his mind, making his eyes suddenly wet. Two months ago, he didn't even have enough money to pay for the kimchi his mother sent him. The text message he received from his mother telling him he was a "bastard" before he took action this time still lingered in his mind. Ah, mom.

The wooden boat also had a premonition that something bad was about to happen. They watched in confusion as the motorboat rushed straight at them and then jumped into the water almost at the same time. With less than 5 meters left. the two boats will collide. The abandonment and despair became equally heavy in that brief moment.

At that moment.

Kwon Taek Joo turned the steering wheel hard again. The boat could not handle the speed at which it was traveling, so it shook violently due to sudden braking. The boat's hull jumped out of the water and slid in a long arc. Even so, eventual conflict is inevitable. That's it in theory

This is the time to give up to save your life, but Kwon Taek Joo continues to hold the steering wheel tightly. Soon, the right side of the wooden boat touched the stern of the motor boat with a thud. The collision caused both boat hulls to shake violently. A spark clearly burst out from the friction area. For a moment, the entire boat seemed to float in the air.

"Huh?"

After the chaos subsided, Yoon Jong Woo slowly opened his eyes. The surroundings were quiet again. He was on a boat, not on the cold sea, and Kwon Taek Joo was still sitting in the driver's seat. Smoke billowed from the back of the boat, there was a large hole on the right side of the wooden boat, but that was all. The tension that had tightened his entire body was suddenly released, but his heart was beating so hard that he couldn't control his body.

The sound of the engine finally stopped. The waves crashed in the direction of the boat, bringing it closer to the wooden boat. The two boat hulls suddenly approached and collided continuously, creating a deafening sound. Kwon Taek Joo stood up from his seat and walked towards the wooden boat. Only then did Yoon Jong Woo come to his senses. He groped around on the floor and picked up his Colt. So it's not dead yet.

Kwon Taek Joo boarded the fishing boat and illuminated the surroundings with a flashlight. He saw two figures swimming endlessly in the deep sea with nowhere to escape. While quietly observing those desperate movements, he picked up the fishing net lying next to him. Kwon Taek Joo held it tightly so it wouldn't get entangled and threw it towards the fleeing men. The fishing net spread out in the air and flew away. Two men who were swimming diligently suddenly became entangled in a net that had just flown in. The more they struggled to escape, the tighter the net became.

Kwon Taek Joo observed that fierce battle for a while then turned the machine connected to the fishing net. A rusty rattling sound came from the hand tractor commonly used on small fishing boats. It's not as difficult to use as it looks.

Suddenly Kwon Taek Joo looked back. Yoon Jong Woo, who had been quietly watching in the name of cover, was approaching. Perhaps because he was embarrassed, the boy used the net machine more passionately than Kwon Taek Joo. Immediately afterward, Lee Cheol Jin and his accomplices along with the fishing net were pulled onto the boat deck.

"Ha...ha...what should I do now?"

Yoon Jong Woo asked while wiping his sweat. No response from Kwon Taek Joo. When he looked up curiously, Kwon Taek Joo had already moved towards the motorboat and was busy looking for something.

"What are you doing?"

"Where is what I told you to prepare?"

"Ah, it's under the driver's seat."

Kwon Taek Joo immediately leaned back in the driver's seat. Just like Yoon Jong Woo said, there was a suitcase underneath. Kwon Taek Joo opened the zipper and checked inside then immediately gave instructions to Yoon Jong Woo.

"Contact headquarters and inform them that we have captured Lee Cheol Jin, his accomplice, and the USB. Contact Kim Young Hee is tied up on the ferry so the Coast Guard should have been searching by now." I saw her. Call them and tell them to take over."

"Yes? Senior? Why does it sound like I have to do it all myself..."

"But what else?"

"What about senior?"

"I'm busy as hell. I have a family event to attend. Work hard."

Is it true that at the crossroads between life and death, do people often not carefully consider the words they say while losing their reason? Yoon Jong Woo kept asking, "Yes?" just denied reality. As if to turn that unfortunate premonition into certainty, the motorboat started. Yoon Jong Woo was left behind on a wooden boat with two men caught in the net. Kwon Taek Joo left without looking back.

Powerful boat motor glides quickly. Everything happened so fast that Yoon Jong Woo didn't even have time to think. When he looked back bewilderedly, his shoes were already soaked, because seawater was seeping into the boat's hull. Even if this hole-in-the-wall boat doesn't sink immediately, can a superior abandon a subordinate without feeling guilty or hesitant?

Yoon Jong Woo screamed like he was dying from behind, but Kwon Taek Joo could only assume that he had mistakenly heard the wind or the waves. The sound of the wind today sounded like screaming "Unbelievable!". It is said that the more precious a child is, the more strictly he or she must be raised. So the sound he heard was definitely just a mistake.

Kwon Taek Joo's boat was parked at a corner of the dock. He did not encounter any obstacle even though he did not have a license because the boat had been previously registered for official purposes, and he did not need to go through any other procedures.

Kwon Taek Joo took his suitcase and went into a nearby warehouse. When he left there after a while, he had changed into a neat suit.

Kwon Taek Joo walked through the station where darkness fell. A taxi that he had called earlier was waiting for him when he walked out onto the main road. He got in the car and went to Busan station.

The departure announcement of the KTX train departing for Seoul rang out when Kwon Taek Joo just arrived at the station. He joined the group of people heading down to the station platform. An early train is waiting. Kwon Taek Joo went through the nearby door, checked the seat number and sat down. It was late at night so the train carriage was very quiet.

Drrrrr... drrr...

As soon as he sat down, the phone in his pocket rang. It is used for personal purposes outside of work. As expected, the person calling was his mother. Kwon Taek Joo cleared his throat and answered the phone as usual.

"Yes mom, I just got on the train. Cleaning up after the event is later than I thought so there's only the last train left. Even if the train isn't delayed, I won't be there until early tomorrow morning so Mom, just go take a nap."

Kwon Taek Joo answered as if reading a story by heart. The mother's series of questions began. When will it depart, when exactly will it arrive, how will Kwon Taek Joo get from the station to home, etc. Since his mother only sees her son once or twice a year, the times he comes home again are even more special. He could only end the call after promising her that he would go home immediately without stopping by anywhere else.

Kwon Taek Joo hung up the phone. The feeling of fatigue that I thought I had

forgotten came rushing back. He suddenly sighed. The train closed and started departing for Seoul. He leaned back with his head still wet and felt the vibration of the train.

An announcement of stops was made in the quiet train car. After the train driver's voice stopped at the last station 'Seoul, the light seemed to gradually dim.

Kwon Taek Joo's whole body sagged from the heat of the heater. His wet eyelids began to become dreamy. Eyelashes also seem heavier because of the sea salt. There are still 3 hours left before arriving. Should I get some sleep? The moment Kwon Taek Joo compromised with himself and was about to close his eyes.

Drrrrr... drrrrr...

A vibration sounded in his pocket. The phone he used to talk to his mother was still in his hand. So the bell ringing at this time is definitely for work purposes. Kwon Taek Joo tried to ignore it and tried to sleep, but the phone kept vibrating tirelessly. Obviously, they will definitely call until you receive the call. The noise made passengers in the same train car begin to feel uncomfortable.

"Ha.."

Kwon Taek Joo finally had to lift his body that was lying on his side and press the button to receive the call.

-Where are you now?

The person who suddenly asked the question was Chief Lim. As expected. If Yoon Jong Woo wasn't buried under the sea, he would have received reports on the results of his activities directly from him. But why did Chief Lim call back? Kwon Taek Joo never felt anything good came from receiving contact from him.

"Is something wrong?"

-I want to see you for a moment.

So why should I call? What's up?

The only thing Kwon Taek Joo could think about was the spy catching action that had just been completed. The incident should have been handled quietly, but there were many witnesses. An innocent citizen was also taken hostage, so high-ranking officials who received the report may have jumped up. In addition, the Coast Guard is also involved, so it will not be easy to handle everything. The reporters may have already sniffed out the incident, so it was not difficult to guess Chief Lim's persistent questions.

Even though he knew it would be useless. Kwon Taek Joo still tried to make excuses.

"That's really the best course of action this time. You know that."

-Alright. So let's come here and talk a little.

Of course. If he hadn't given such orders, he wouldn't have been the great Chief Lim.

Before starting this campaign, Kwon Taek Joo reminded him been the great Chief Lim. many times that tomorrow was the birthday of the mother who couldn't sleep at night because she was worried about her only son. So no matter what happens, Kwon Taek Joo has to go home. What did Chief Lim say at that time? Didn't he promise that even if the Second Korean War broke out. he would definitely return you to your mother?

Kwon Taek Joo asked if he had forgotten and reminded him of the conversation at that time.

"Chief, have you forgotten? Tomorrow is my mother's birthday.

-I won't keep you for long.

There's no way to refuse anymore. Chief Lim is brazen and even stubborn. Kwon Taek Joo angrily ruffled his wet hair. He made his final argument while looking out at the rapidly passing scenery outside the train car window.

"But the train has already left, how can I get there?"

Right then.

The KTX train that was operating smoothly suddenly stopped. Passengers who were listening to music or playing games on their phones all looked around in surprise and bewilderment.

The KTX train was stopped for a while in the tunnel. There were no announcements in the cabin, nor were any flight attendants passing by. It is not uncommon for KTX trains to be damaged and stopped. For that reason, no passenger seemed too uncomfortable. Those who stuck their heads out into the aisles wondering what was going on quickly lost interest and went to sleep.

That's right, this is not a big deal. Kwon Taek Joo wants to believe that. But unfortunate omens always appear like ghosts.

-Come down, hurry up.

Chief Lim skillfully gave instructions. Kwon Taek Joo was about to ask, "What's wrong?" then an announcement came out from the speaker

"Because there was a problem on the track, the train had to stop for a moment and will depart as soon as the problem is resolved. We hope for your understanding."

'As soon as the problem is resolved. This means that if Kwon Taek Joo did not listen to the instructions, the train would not move like this.

-Are you planning on not getting off the train?

The gentle urging continued to sound. His voice was leisurely as if he was enjoying the current situation. Chief Lim's attitude makes Kwon Taek Joo not want to follow his orders anymore. He also didn't pay much attention to the other passengers.

But as long as the train doesn't move. Kwon Taek Joo has no way to go home. He tilted his head in irritation. Kwon Taek Joo even hung up the phone. Manager Lim also did not call back, and of course there was no sign that the dormitory was leaving

Kwon Taek Joo sat for a moment, then sighed and stood up. As he walked through the hallway and exited, the train door opened as if it had been waiting. He shook his head and went down the stairs and walked on the gravel road.

Kwon Taek Joo called while walking to the back of the train. As soon as he exited the tunnel, the stopped KTX started moving. That's when he heard a reply from the other end of the phone: "Hello". That's your mother. Her voice was deeper than before. She was definitely worried that her son, who had said he would definitely return, would use the excuse of urgent work to break his promise.

"Mom, it's me. There's a problem with the train so I'll be a little late. No, this time I'll definitely come back, just a little late"

He stopped for a moment and asked.

"So mom, don't light the candle but wait for me."

The place where Kwon Taek Joo arrived on a prepared helicopter was the National Intelligence Agency. An employee waiting at the helipad guided him to the office of Deputy Chief 1. He followed silently and thought. The person I asked to see you earlier was Chief Lim, but for some reason you were taken to Deputy Chief 1's office and not the Chief's office.

The three Deputy Directors are the top executives of the National Intelligence Agency, each in charge of an independent job. Each Deputy Head is not allowed to participate in matters beyond his or her authority. There is an unwritten rule that departments, of which there are dozens, must obey their immediate superiors. So Kwon Taek Joo and Chief Lim, who were participating in espionage and intelligence activities under Deputy Chief 3, did not need to meet at Deputy Chief 1's office.

Is there something wrong here? While a series of questions were still repeating in Kwon Taek Joo's head, the employee knocked on the office door. Permission was soon given to go inside but it wasn't Chief Lim's voice. The employee personally

opened the door to let him inside.

Kwon Taek Joo forgot to say hello and just looked at the Deputy Manager 1 sitting across from him. It was no surprise that Deputy Chief 1 was sitting in his office. But the current situation he faced was ironic, because Chief Lim, the person who called Kwon Taek Joo over, was also sitting next to him. He looked straight at Chief Lim as if waiting for an explanation. Chief Lim just smiled in confusion.

The atmosphere was unusual. Kwon Taek Joo glanced at Deputy Chief 1 and Chief Lim. As if trying to calm his wariness. Deputy Chief 1 spoke first with a gentle expression.

"I heard you just finished your mission in Busan, right?"

"Yes. I tried my best."

Kwon Taek Joo responded as soon as Deputy Head 1's words ended. Although there was some commotion, it is clear that Deputy Chief 1's reprimand of Kwon Taek Joo was an abuse of power. Deputy Chief 1 and Chief Lim looked at Kwon Taek Joo who was defending and then smiled strangely. This feeling is not very pleasant.

"That's not the reason I called you here, so there's no need to be so tense. Although there was more commotion than necessary during the operation, it was insignificant compared to the leak." state secret. Is that right, Chief Lim?"

The implicitly sarcastic way of speaking is typical of an old fox manager, Kwon Taek Joo did not dispel his suspicions and looked at Chief Lim. He just shook his head with a smiling face, so for Kwon Taek Joo, things only became more confusing. If it weren't for what happened in Busan, why would you summon me at this late hour? He thought all the time but couldn't come to any conclusion

Chief Lim did not stress Kwon Taek Joo any more. He put the tablet he was holding down on the table.

"What is it?"

"Let's see first."

Kwon Taek Joo shrugged and gently picked up the tablet. He nonchalantly flipped through the first page. The bored gaze scrolling through the news gradually accelerated. Kwon Taek Joo pulled down the screen. He held his breath and silently read the information on it and quickly turned to the next page. Chief Lim watched those movements for a moment then opened his mouth.

"This is special intelligence information recently obtained. This story has been rumored for a long time but this is the first time there is real evidence. As you have seen, the main content is North Korea and Russia began working together three years ago to develop the new weapon. The weapon boasts firepower that no other country in the world has ever had. It is said that once completed, the situation will change. Global hegemony will also change. Its name is Anastasia. I don't know exactly whether that is the name of the weapon or the secret agreement between North Korea and Russia to produce weapons, or maybe even the name of the weapon's manufacturer. Right now we don't even know if this weapon has been completed or not."

It seems that Kwon Taek Joo understood what the combination of Deputy Manager 1 and Director Lim meant. If North Korea and Russia work together to create unprecedented weapons of destruction, who will be in trouble? Without thinking too much, I knew it would be Korea and the United States.

"We need to know what that weapon is, because the lack of information causes an imbalance of power. If 'Anastasia' is not yet completed, and if possible, we should stop it before it appears." presently."

"Can't we do something for the peace of the world and humanity? Stealing is not always bad if that small bad thing is to prevent a big bad thing."

Therefore, it is necessary to find out the identity of the weapons that North Korea and Russia have cooperated with. This means that, if necessary, the blueprints and related secrets must be retrieved, and if this is not possible, they must be destroyed so that they have no chance of ever seeing the light of day. Who will do it? Kwon Taek Joo himself?

Since he started working as a special agent at the National Intelligence Agency, it was very normal for him to be sent on overseas operations. Rather, the days he spent abroad were more than the days he spent in Korea. For that reason, business travel directives are nothing new. But what is worth noting is that this mission was carried out in Russia. That is a land that Kwon Taek Joo personally has never set foot on, let alone carry out a strategy

But it's not like he's not qualified. Kwon Taek Joo has been trained in Chinese, Persian and Russian since joining the headquarters. Even if he had to move to Moscow immediately, he himself would have no difficulty speaking the language.

But that's all. The most important thing for Kwon Taek Joo was that he had no field experience in Russia. Is there anything more important to an agent than actual combat experience? This mission is no different than asking Kwon Taek Joo to jump into the middle of a battlefield without a gun. And he couldn't understand why this task was assigned to him.

Kwon Taek Joo rolled his eyes and looked at Chief Lim with a dissatisfied expression. He nodded as if he understood everything.

"Strictly speaking, you are not the right person for this action."

"Then you have to find someone qualified."

"Of course I found it, and I sent it too."

"But?"

Chief Lim just scratched his eyebrows without continuing. Deputy Head 1 also smiled wryly. Kwon Taek Joo didn't know what the answer was because they couldn't spit out anymore.

"Probably not."

Chief Lim nodded again and spread the three photos on the table. The first photo is of someone's hand with 10 fingers amputated. His bloodless skin was swollen with water.

Another photo shows the body's forehead being covered with a white cloth with a pattern engraved in the middle of it. Kwon Taek Joo quickly realized it was a tattoo. Judging from the condition of the body's skin, it seemed that the tattoo had only been engraved not long before.

Finally, a neat ID photo. Based on a series of details, it can be assumed that this is the original shape of the body before being damaged. Kwon Taek Joo knows the person in the photo.

"Dominic Morgan. He was an elite agent sent to Russia by the US intelligence agency. He was found dead on the banks of the Nara River four days ago. At that time he was in charge. The only task was to find out the identity of 'Anastasia', and he was a very knowledgeable person in gathering Russian intelligence, but unfortunately, Russia treated him as an unknown death case, identity. Since he disguised himself with another identity to go to Russia, it's only natural. But I wonder if they really consider him an "anonymous" person."

"Because of that, Russia's surveillance has become stricter. what do you want me to do?"

"You understand what I'm saying. Anyway, let's not make this any more complicated. Since it involves North Korea, our country can also be called a litigant, right? So we can't just stand by and watch.". That's right, you know Agent Morgan from the last joint Korean-American training course, right?"

"We've only known each other for about a month at most, to be exact. I happened to be assigned to room with him."

Everything is clear. Chief Lim grinned. He skillfully attacked Kwon Taek Joo who was trying not to reveal any loopholes.

"That's why I chose you. Because emotions clouding reason can lead to undesirable things."

There are no other donkeys. Just as Kwon Taek Joo was about to angrily protest, a shaking sound suddenly rang out. It was Deputy Chief 1's phone. He said "Wait a minute, please understand" then passed by Kwon Taek Joo and walked out. The door had just opened and then closed. Chief Lim gave the order as if he had been waiting for a long time.

"On behalf of Agent Morgan, go find Anastasia."

The gentleness from before was no longer there, replaced by a rather serious tone. Kwon Taek Joo stared at him without answering. Is this really the only way? There has to be someone more suitable for this action than Kwon Taek Joo. It's obvious that there aren't at least a few employees in the headquarters... Isn't there even just one person? He racked his brain, but no character appeared in his mind.

Chief Lim still looked calm as if nothing was so special. Yeah, it's no big deal. Only one elite agent was found dead overnight, that's all. Kwon Taek Joo was about to speak sarcastically but then remained silent.

He worked under the direction of Chief Lim immediately after joining the headquarters. Now the two had become close enough to joke around, but one way or another he was still the superior. When Chief Lim assigns a task, Kwon Taek Joo is forced to obey. There is no resistance or refusal here.

Chief Lim smiled with satisfaction at his resigned expression.

"I promise to provide full support. I will arrange the team members according to your wishes."

"It's more comfortable to act alone."

"It won't be easy this time. Will it? It will be very difficult."

"There's no need to put more people to death when you know that."

Kwon Taek Joo responded gently. Chief Lim smiled as if he knew he would say that. Immediately after that he produced a thick envelope containing documents. Kwon Taek Joo snatched it. The unsealed envelope.contained various documents and a fake passport. When he opened his passport, an unfamiliar face appeared.

"Hiro Sakamoto?"

"I heard that a contract to build an LNG facility was signed between a Japanese energy company and Gazprom, the Russian state-owned gas company. The expected profits alone are estimated to be in the tens of millions. Tens of trillions of won. For that reason, officials of energy companies, major banks responsible for cooperative lending, and international trading companies were invited to Russia to celebrate the signing of the contract between the two countries and visit the proposed construction site. Major officials including the prime ministers of the two countries and big men in the business world will all attend the event. I heard that an international trading company named 'Itochu' played a big role in signing this contract. Hiro Sakamoto is the officer in charge of the European region. His name is proudly on the list of those expected to visit Russia."

Will Kwon Taek Joo disguise himself as Hiro Sakamoto and infiltrate Russia? Not a bad plan. If it is true that North Korea and Russia are developing weapons, then very few people will be involved or know the secrets involved. They are in leading positions in Russia so it will not be easy to reach. But if it was Hiro Sakamoto, it would be a different story, because they would automatically meet without any effort.

Of course, that's only if his identity isn't revealed. Besides Hiro Sakamoto, many other officials were also invited. If any of them noticed that Hiro Sakamoto was different than usual, all their plans would be in vain. Although Kwon Taek Joo only imagined it for a moment, Agent Morgan's outcome still appeared in his mind.

Chief Lim reassured the confused Kwon Taek Joo.

"Relax. Unless another Hiro Sakamoto appears, there is no chance of your identity being exposed. Hiro Sakamoto is scheduled to leave the country the day before the delegation's visit. All But in reality, agents in Tokyo will help prevent him from leaving the country."

The headquarters' camouflage skills were good enough to fool even his mother, and it seemed like there was no need to worry about the Japanese being relatively shorter than him. Tohiro Sakamoto's height is 180cm. Kwon Taek Joo is about 2 to 3 cm taller than him, but the average person wouldn't be able to tell the difference. If anyone gets suspicious, just tell them you're wearing insoles.

If it were normal, Kwon Taek Joo wouldn't have given it much thought. Unless he takes off his professional uniform, he has no right to refuse orders from his superiors. But he couldn't bring himself to agree easily. For some reason, Kwon Taek Joo felt an unrelenting sense of insecurity.

Because the agent Morgan in charge of the mission is dead? It would be a lie to say it didn't affect him at all, but that wasn't the only reason. Kwon Taek Joo's instinct was to feel vaguely worried about something that hadn't even happened yet.

"It's about rearranging world hegemony. If this succeeds, your position will change significantly."

Manager Lim skillfully encouraged determination, Kwon Taek Joo looked straight at him without saying a word. His eyes were straightforward and resolute. Chief Lim faced him with his signature smile. No words were spoken between the two for a long while.

Not long after, Kwon Taek Joo stuffed the prepared envelope into his jacket. He also added as if to clarify everything.

"I don't care about status or power. Those things have an unnecessarily fierce aspect."

"So why did you accept this combat action if you have no interest in it?"

"This is an order from a senior manager. Does a subordinate like me have the right to refuse?"

"Besides, that is there any other reason?"

"If I refuse this action, my career, which has always been 100% successful, will collapse."

"Anyway, of course it is."

"Can I go yet?"

"Oh, also, there's one thing to note."

"What's up?" Kwon Taek Joo asked with an annoyed look. Chief Lim's attitude has become rigid. His eyes quietly observed Kwon Taek Joo and seemed quite cautious. The voice that came out immediately after seemed to calm down a bit.

"Psych Bogdanov."

"Psych Bogdanov? Your name... doesn't seem right?"

Kwon Taek Joo frowned and tilted his head. 'Boedanov' is supposed to be a Russian surname, but 'Psych' is not a human name no matter how you look at it. What parent would call their child 'crazy'?

Chief Lim explained as if Kwon Taek Joo hadn't heard wrong.

"People often call him that rather than his real name."

A name that is used more often by another person than that person's real name. Then that nickname can become the basis for evaluating the litigant. The fact that the Russian that Chief Lim mentioned was called "crazy man" Bogdanov instead of his real name meant that he was quite a famous name. Kwon Taek Joo doesn't know what kind of person he is even in this far away country he is called that.

"In Russia, this man is like 'nuclear"

"If 'nuclear' then nuclear means 'center of gravity'?"

Kwon Taek Joo asked suspiciously. This is due to the ambiguity of the language. In addition to the meaning of 'core' or 'focus, 'core' also has a completely different meaning. But why would people compare a person to such a deadly weapon? He looked at Chief Lim wonderingly, he grinned again.

"That's right, it can be understood that way."

In any case, that meaning seems closer to 'nuclear' which refers to nuclear weapons. Kwon Taek Joo unconsciously frowned. After all, what kind of person is this who is called "crazy" more often than his real name, and even symbolizes nuclear bomb?

Thoughts on 'Psych Bogdanov' raise another question. Why was he mentioned in the campaign whose purpose was to find 'Anastasia' this time?

"Did that person have anything to do with Morgan's death?"

"I'm not sure. There's no concrete evidence, although there's a lot of speculation. If you want to get close to Russia's big guys, you won't be able to avoid confronting this person. 'Nuclear' It's not natural, it's 'nuclear'. So damage can happen, so even if we meet. don't confront each other."

A burst of laughter rang out. The more warnings Kwon Taek Joo received, the more curious Kwon Taek Joo was about who that crazy person was.

At that moment, a knock on the door rang out. When Chief Lim agreed, the employee who guided Kwon Taek Joo here also walked in. In his hands was a large bouquet of flowers and a suitcase. He handed them over to Kwon Taek Joo then silently bowed and went out.

"I've prepared everything you need. To save time and money, you don't have to worry too much. Is that right? Especially after buying underwear two months ago, you have no transactions." I don't want to buy anything anymore so I took your preferences into consideration and replaced everything.

No need to thank me."

"You know the condition of my underwear better than I do, don't you?"

"There's only so much I can do. And bring flowers home. I remember you said today is mom's birthday, right?"

This man is so cunning.

Kwon Taek Joo swallowed back the words he couldn't spit out and replied gruffly.

"I won't tell Mom it's a gift from the Chief. If she finds out it was sent by a man who took your son away on his birthday then that will only put a damper on her mood." My mother's good day just got worse."

"Thank you for thinking about me."

Chief Lim smiled brazenly.

"Don't die!"

Kwon Taek Joo was about to turn around and leave when suddenly a request was made. He stopped for a moment and nodded absentmindedly.

He walked out into the deserted hallway. Kwon Taek Joo trudged towards the door. The sensor light turns on and off from behind each place he passes. The lights dimmed and darkness descended as if to swallow him.

"......"

He suddenly stopped walking and turned to look. The ceiling light finally turned off. Kwon Taek Joo's silhouette was buried in dense darkness.