The Esper Who Loves Me Chapter 1.9 - Hidden Esper (9)

Eunseok stared at the offered hand for a long moment. Moon Seungwon waited patiently, without urging him.

Slowly, Eunseok raised his hand and clasped the firm hand offered to him. A lump formed in his throat.

The past flashed before his eyes; today was proof of his sincere efforts. To top it all off, the unexpected congratulations made his emotions overflow. Unconsciously, he tightened his grip on the offered hand. A low chuckle sounded from above.

“You’re not crying, are you?”

“No, I’m not crying.”

“Your parents couldn’t make it?”

“I’m not a child… They just asked me to send them lots of pictures later.”

Pictures… Moon Seungwon repeated the word and nodded in understanding. Which of the reporters present were the most skilled? He’d have to make a separate arrangement to have someone take photos just of Cha Eunseok. Having made his plans, he checked his watch. The commissioning ceremony was about to begin.

“Shall we go out?”

“Yes.”

While Eunseok rubbed his slightly stinging nose, the lock clicked and the door opened a crack. The noise of the bustling crowd outside filtered back in. It felt like waking up from a dream.

A firm, large hand touched his back. Supported by the strong hand, Eunseok easily stepped outside.

⊹ ࣪ ˖

“I swear! As an Esper of the Republic of Korea, I solemnly swear to be loyal to the nation and its people, and to faithfully carry out the duties and missions entrusted to me!”

Sungjoo, standing at the podium, took the commissioning oath as the representative of the Esper trainees.

Standing proudly before the Minister of National Defense, he read the declaration resolutely. His parents, eager to capture every moment of their proud son, held up cameras with long, white lenses from the front row.

Their enthusiasm and professional equipment, surpassing even the reporters’, drew laughter from the audience.

The Espers lined up and took turns ascending the podium. They received their commissioning certificates framed with a phoenix and had the official Esper epaulets placed on their shoulders. When Cha Eunseok’s turn came, he stepped onto the podium.

He received the honors alongside ten other Espers. Although Moon Seungwon was far away, Eunseok didn’t look in his direction. He simply stood in place, accepting the congratulations and encouragement.

“Congratulations, Esper Cha Eunseok.”

Team Leader Kang Jiho of Special Team 4, with his characteristically warm smile, patted Eunseok’s shoulder. Eunseok bowed deeply in response.

“If you don’t like it there, you can always transfer to Team 4. We’ll always welcome you.”

Eunseok gave a small smile at the playful remark and turned around. As he stepped away from the podium and faced forward, he saw Kim Yohan, Park Jaemin, and Seo Jiwoo waving enthusiastically from the audience. He couldn’t help but burst out laughing.

As Eunseok turned towards the guests with a bright smile, the cameras of the reporters in the front row flashed noisily.

As Moon Seungwon approached the VIP section, a blue-eyed German man called his name. The tall man, nearly two meters in height, with curly brown hair, smiled brightly as he waved. His mere act of standing drew attention.

<Julian.>

As Moon Seungwon acknowledged him, the German man quickly approached and grabbed him.

He pulled out a chair from the VIP table and promptly seated Moon Seungwon. Although Moon Seungwon looked annoyed, he complied.

<When did you arrive?>

<Two hours ago. Seoul Airport is still as convenient as ever.>

The CEO of P&I, having flown in on a private jet from Frankfurt, was receiving VIP treatment.

It had been a surprise when he contacted them, expressing his desire to attend the Esper commissioning ceremony. The government wasn’t sure what to make of it, but regardless of the reason, it was in their best interest to accommodate the P&I CEO and strengthen their relationship.

The Ministry of National Defense had even opened up Seoul Airport, typically reserved for heads of state, for Julian J. Schmidt.

<So, where is your savior?>

I came to see him! Julian, despite his large frame, bounced on the balls of his feet like an excited child.

It seemed that distinguishing Asian faces was difficult for him, and the identical uniforms made it even harder. Instead of answering, Moon Seungwon turned to look where Cha Eunseok was standing.

The official ceremony had ended, and the event was concluding with commemorative photos. Cha Eunseok, surrounded by his team members, held a bouquet of flowers and smiled brightly.

<Oh, there he is!>

Following Moon Seungwon’s gaze, Julian’s eyes lit up as he recognized Eunseok. His eyes sparkled like a child’s, and his cheeks rose with uncontainable joy.

<…….>

<Seeing as you’re not going to introduce me, is it okay if I just go talk to him? Damn, I’m kidding, stop looking at me like that. You’re really scary when you do that.>

To lighten the mood, Julian pulled two wine glasses from the table. He poured the pomegranate-colored red wine generously into the clear glasses. A tart, floral fragrance spread through the air.

Moon Seungwon didn’t look at the glass, but Julian, as if he hadn’t expected him to join in anyway, sipped his wine alone.

<There’s always a way out, isn’t there?>

<…….>

<Honestly… I thought you’d be lucky to last six months. I was about to introduce you to a lawyer to notarize your will, thinking you’d explode and die soon.>

But he was fine. He had even found a solution in Cha Eunseok.

When Moon Seungwon shared the news, Julian had wanted to visit Korea immediately and see for himself. He was happy that his friend’s life was saved, but as the CEO of a pharmaceutical company developing Guide drugs, he was also incredibly curious about Cha Eunseok’s abilities.

<Don’t forget that I played a small part in this.>

<Ah, that new drug you made. It’s not very good.>

<Don’t be ridiculous! Do you know how long the waiting list is for that?! Do you have any idea how much trouble I went through cleaning up your mess after you took it all for yourself?!>

After cursing in German, Julian calmed down, aware of the surrounding eyes, and straightened his slightly disheveled clothes.

Then, a moment later, he asked quietly in a worried voice, “Was the drug really that bad?” Seungwon chuckled and placated him, saying they’d talk later.

Julian picked up his wine glass again. Leaning back against the armrest, he glanced towards where Cha Eunseok was standing.

<Even the Creator isn’t completely thoughtless. He somehow manages to create compatible partners.>

<Is that so?>

Every Jack has his Jill, what a funny saying. Isn’t that a bit inappropriate for this situation? Moon Seungwon let out a hollow laugh, and Julian’s eyes narrowed playfully.

<He’s 23, you said?>

<Yes.>

<Is there a chance for your relationship to develop into something more?>

<We’re not like that, Julian. And he’s my subordinate now.>

Subordinate? That’s a good one. Who’s been looking at him with such possessiveness?

Julian chuckled inwardly, amused. He had a new opportunity to tease Moon Seungwon after a long time.

<Moon, if he’s good enough to catch your discerning eye, do you think others will see him differently? You must be getting old and forgetful, but 23… that’s an age easily swayed by temptation and loves to play around.>

<…….>

<Then some other punk will snatch him up. Oh, that would be really interesting. Make sure to call me then; I’ll come to Korea right away.>

The German burst into boisterous laughter, drawing attention once again. This time, even Eunseok glanced over at the commotion.

Moon Seungwon suppressed his annoyance and spoke, his voice low and deep, as if grinding through the earth.

<Cut the crap. Did you bring it?>

<Of course!>

As if he could forget the reason he came to Korea. The playful expression vanished from his face. Julian pulled a crisp envelope from a black briefcase. His expression as he handed it to Moon Seungwon was serious and solemn.

<I’d prefer to look at this somewhere private.>

<Let’s go upstairs. I’ve reserved a room.>

Seungwon’s expression as he received the envelope was grim. The two men rose from the VIP table and left the convention hall immediately.

⊹ ࣪ ˖

He hadn’t felt well since morning.

Even without a fever, he felt sluggish. Perhaps it was because he hadn’t received proper Guiding for three days.

The effectiveness of his Guiding had started to decline about a week ago. At first, he thought it was simply fatigue, but the symptoms persisted and worsened. He had resorted to medication as a temporary measure, but he couldn’t continue like this indefinitely. He had to find the cause quickly.

Seungwon opened his eyes and placed a hand on his forehead, unable to get up for a while.

He wasn’t experiencing any specific pain or unusual symptoms, but his persistent malaise had reached its peak today. He finally managed to sit up and reached for the bottled water on the nightstand.

The lukewarm water moistened his dry mouth and flowed down his throat. While emptying the bottle, his eyes scanned his phone impassively. Checking his daily schedule upon waking was part of his routine.

“Good work, Team Leader! Shall I prepare for Guiding right away?”

It was past 2 a.m. after he finished handling the urgent situation he’d been called to.

Secretary Kim, aware of Moon Seungwon’s recent health issues, approached him attentively. Despite the late hour, he had contacted a Guide with a high compatibility rate with Moon Seungwon.

Seungwon nodded silently, accepting the offer. He knew better than anyone that he desperately needed Guiding.

“Are you… doing it right now?”

His voice was raspy from fatigue and thirst. He had been holding hands with the Guide for over ten minutes, but he felt no Guiding energy. Unable to bear the lack of progress, he finally voiced his concern.

The Guide, equally perplexed, flinched.

“Yes? Oh, yes… But as you can probably feel, Team Leader… something’s strange.”

“What exactly do you mean?”

“It feels like I’m being pushed back. Even when I try to channel energy to you, Team Leader, it feels like it’s being repelled…”

“…….”

Moon Seungwon released the Guide’s hand and stood up. He pulled down his shirt cuff to hide his watch and covered it with his jacket. Hiding his fatigue, he gave her a curt nod.

“It must be because I haven’t been feeling well lately.”

“Oh, in that case, shall we try contact Guiding?”

“It’s fine, Guide Kang Yoojoo. Thank you for your hard work, especially so late at night. I’ve instructed my secretary; he’ll drive you home. Be safe.”

He turned away casually, his insides burning with anxiety.

Controlling his pace to avoid showing his unease, Seungwon waited until he was inside his car, away from prying eyes, to check his watch.

“…….”

The reading hadn’t decreased at all.

Guide Kang Yoojoo was an A-rank and had the highest compatibility rate with him. Usually, even just holding hands would lower his wavelength levels, but this time, there was no change.

Leaning his head against the headrest, he chewed on his lip. Perhaps… the problem was serious.

After a moment of contemplation, Moon Seungwon took out his phone. His finger scrolled through his contacts, then stopped and sent a text message.

He immediately called the recipient. Despite the early hour, the other person answered quickly, their voice laced with a sleepy curse.

—Son of a bitch, it’s 3 a.m.

“Jang Hanna, come to the address I just texted you.”

—Are you crazy, Moon Seungwon? Have you lost your mind?

“Let’s go to Germany.”

—Buy a ticket and go yourself, you sly fox.

“I’ll give you my card. Spend whatever you want there.”

—Oh, you sent the address already?

Jang Hanna arrived in less than five minutes. She stood there, leaning against his car and tapping on the window, looking thoroughly rebellious. Moon Seungwon opened the door and stepped out. Jang Hanna, swaggering like a gangster, made a counteroffer.

“Give me the card, and you have to do me a favor next time, no questions asked.”

“Deal.”

“So, where in Germany do we need to go?”

Moon Seungwon showed her the address saved in his phone’s memo pad. After looking at the screen, Jang Hanna grumbled and held out her left hand.

Instead of taking her hand, he grabbed her wrist. “Such a pain,” she muttered as she teleported them away. Only Seungwon’s car remained.

⊹ ࣪ ˖

Crash!!!

Frankfurt, Germany. 7 p.m.

Julian, enjoying dinner at home, blinked in surprise at the two figures who appeared seemingly out of thin air.

The dishes on his meticulously set table shattered, and what was once food was now scattered debris.

His mouth hung open, his hand frozen mid-air. The only movement in the sudden silence was the gravy dripping from the turkey skewered on his fork.

“Oh, my bad!”

Jang Hanna, having ruined someone’s dinner with her botched landing, raised her right hand in a half-hearted apology. She jumped down from the table, unconcerned by Julian’s shocked reaction.

She brushed off her legs, seemingly oblivious to Julian’s stunned expression, and focused on removing a piece of salad stuck to her pointed heel. Beside her, Moon Seungwon calmly wiped his hands with a clean napkin.

<Such… barbaric Espers!>

<Julian, you can eat later.>

His friend, whom he hadn’t seen in a while, walked up to him without a greeting and pulled back Julian’s chair. With a few gestures, the tall man was on his feet, looking utterly bewildered, but receiving no explanation.

Moon Seungwon pulled out his wallet and tossed it behind him without a glance. Like a well-rehearsed battery, Jang Hanna snatched it out of the air.

“Hey, you sly fox. I’m really going to max this out.”

“Do as you please.”

“How long are we staying here?”

“At least three hours. Entertain yourself.”

Humming cheerfully, Jang Hanna disappeared.

Silence descended upon the table once more.

Alone now, Moon Seungwon sighed, rubbing his eyes. Julian, noticing his friend’s distress, put down his fork and asked with concern,

<What’s going on? Why are you here so suddenly? Is something wrong?>

<Can you run a Guide matching test at your house?>

<I can, but… what is this about? Is it something confidential?>

Julian, a businessman with a keen interest in research and development, had equipped his home with equipment comparable to a laboratory. Knowing this, Moon Seungwon had chosen Julian’s residence in Germany over a Korean research facility. No one could know about this yet.

Seungwon nodded, tacitly confirming Julian’s suspicion. Julian’s face darkened.

<Follow me. Whatever it is, we don’t have much time.>

He turned and headed towards the stairs leading to the basement.

The results were devastating.

They tried every Guide in his database, but astonishingly, the compatibility rate was 0% across the board. Not a low number like 10% or 30%, but a flat 0%.

Julian blinked his lake-blue eyes, staring at the monitor in disbelief. They ran the test repeatedly, with hundreds of different Guides, but the result remained the same.

<What… why is this happening?>

<…….>

As if he had anticipated this to some extent, Moon Seungwon didn’t appear surprised or flustered. He simply sighed briefly and began removing the sensors attached to his body.

<Since when has this been happening?>

<About a week? The Guiding stopped working completely today.>

<You…>

While Julian’s hands trembled at the shocking news, Seungwon remained remarkably calm. For an Esper to be unable to receive Guiding was practically a death sentence.

Calm down, think. Use your brain, Schmidt!

Julian clutched his hair and racked his brain. Why was this happening? There had to be a reason!

<Any ideas?>

<The Guide today said it felt like the energy was being repelled when she tried to Guide me.>

<Repelled, you say.>

Repeating the word, Julian’s eyes widened as if something had occurred to him.

<I’ve heard Guides say they feel that sensation when Guiding a bonded Esper.>

<I’ve never bonded.>

<But there’s no other explanation. There’s no way your compatibility rate would be 0% unless you’re bonded!>

Julian, who had been pacing anxiously, stopped abruptly.

He stood up and opened a cabinet, retrieving a typewriter-sized device. He expertly connected the dusty machine to his computer and attached a disposable patch to the sensor, muttering to himself.

<This can’t be it. It’s impossible, but… just in case…>

<What are you doing?>

Looking at Moon Seungwon with the patch in his hand, Julian said gravely,

<A Guide test.>

The test was quick, taking less than 20 minutes.

A green light illuminated the simple device, indicating the presence of Guide abilities.

<…….>

<…….>

Neither of them spoke.

After a long silence, Julian finally murmured in a small voice,

<It’s real… this is actually… happening.>

Seungwon stared at the illuminated device, a hollow laugh escaping his lips. This was insane. A Guide? Impossible.

Seeing Julian frozen in place, he asked for an explanation.

<Explain this to me.>

<So… the most plausible theory right now is that you’ve developed Guide… energy within your body. Because you have Guide energy inside an Esper’s body, it’s being recognized as if you’re bonded…>

<I’ve developed Guide abilities, and that’s blocking other Guiding?>

<That’s… what it seems like…>

<But I can’t even use this ability myself?>

Judging by his condition over the past week, that seemed to be the case. The Guide energy within him might work on others, but he clearly couldn’t control his own Esper wavelengths.

The answer was obvious, but Julian couldn’t bring himself to confirm it. He found it difficult to speak as Moon Seungwon laughed mirthlessly.

<So, I either live as a Guide for the rest of my life, or I live as an Esper, unable to receive Guiding, and explode and die. Those are my choices?>

<Moon.>

“Fuck, this is fucked up.”

Although Julian didn’t understand Korean, he could tell from Seungwon’s tone that he was cursing. His laughter subsided, and he lowered his head in thought.

It was a short pause, but to Julian, waiting for his friend to compose himself, it felt like an eternity.

Finally, Seungwon lifted his head, his expression resolute.

<Run the test again properly. Draw blood, do whatever you need. And can you do it within two hours?>

<Huh? Uh… uh! Yes!>

<And I’d like the strongest Guide medication you have. Even if it’s still in development.>

<What are you planning to do?>

Moon Seungwon turned his head and looked calmly at Julian, his face betraying no hint of the Guide diagnosis he had just received.

<What else can I do? Endure it with medication.>

And now.

Back in Seoul.

The two men were together again in the living room of an executive suite.

Moon Seungwon held a tightly sealed envelope. He sliced it open with a gleaming paper knife and pulled out the contents. A stiff, two-page report emerged.

“…….”

He ignored the rest of the document. Moon Seungwon’s eyes were fixed on the words printed at the top of the first page.

Form and nature: Guide

Grade: Unable to measure

He lowered the report, his eyes meeting Julian’s anxious gaze. Julian forced an awkward smile and offered words of consolation.

<It’s a good thing, at least, that the Guide energy doesn’t manifest unless you actively try to use it.>

<That’s a relief. Otherwise, everyone would know.>

<And you found an Esper to replace a Guide. It all worked out in the end.>

He sighed wearily. Julian was right. Thanks to meeting Cha Eunseok, he could bury this unspeakable secret forever.

He gathered the report and envelope, then set them alight with a lighter. The paper blackened and turned to ash in an instant. He opened the window to ventilate the acrid smoke.

Julian, who had been watching, suddenly grew curious.

<Did you… tell the Esper?>

<Tell him what?>

<About your condition.>

Moon Seungwon brushed the ash from his hands and turned around. He looked at Julian, who was sitting on the sofa with a relieved expression, and spoke casually.

<He only knows that I can’t receive Guiding.>

<You’re not going to tell him?>

<Julian.>

Julian closed his mouth at the firm tone and the clear line drawn.

Seungwon strode over and leaned down, placing his hands on the arms of the single-seater sofa, trapping Julian. Julian, his large frame shrinking back against the cushions, tried to avoid Moon Seungwon’s gaze.

<I’m going to make sure no one ever finds out I’m a Guide.>

<…….>

<Remember, right now, only you and I know this.>

A sharp aura emanated from the man standing close to him. Julian didn’t understand why his friend’s native language, spoken so clearly and deliberately, felt so oppressive. He swallowed hard, his jaw muscles tense with anxiety.

<You’re not… going to kill me, are you?>

<Keep this secret. If this gets out, you’ll be the first person I suspect.>

Seungwon straightened up, his hand patting Julian’s shoulder. His beautiful face was now softened by a gentle smile, as if the previous threat had never happened.

Rest up, I’ll buy you dinner later. Instead of empty pleasantries, Moon Seungwon promised a meal. He walked towards the hotel room door. With the business concluded, there was no reason to stay.

Click, whir. The door closed and automatically locked.