A Player Who Eats Metal

Chapter 14: A Groundbreaking Proposal and Vacation

< Chapter 14: A Groundbreaking Proposal and Vacation – 2 >

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For a soldier of rank F to become an officer…

The battalion commander clearly said so.

That statement was so shocking that all the staff stopped eating.

Thud

Silence filled the air for a moment after the sound of dishes.

Lee Hyunwook tried to look deliberately bewildered.

‘Not a sergeant, but an officer… honestly, I didn’t expect this.’

To be honest, he had anticipated an offer to become a sergeant, but he never even dreamt of becoming an officer.

As everyone knows, an officer is the highest rank in the three main military classifications.

And for an AMT officer, excluding the ‘player rank’, the criteria were so strict it was almost unheard of.

That’s why it was extremely rare for a soldier from AMT to become an officer.

In fact, there had been none until now.

‘Even Choi Young-jun was appointed as a sergeant. He might have broken all expectations and reached rank A in a few years, but it was too late for him to receive officer training.’

This initial ‘rank’ usually determines a player’s fate.

All players in South Korea undergo 2 months of training at the Player Training Center.

During this time, after various tests, they are finally given their ‘initial rank’.

And on the day of the graduation ceremony, a ‘bidding competition’ starts based on that rank.

‘It’s kind of like a draft.’

In other words, it’s an entrance for rookie players.

Private guilds, AMT, PMC, etc.,

Organizations with the authority to hire players compete to get the best player resources. At this time, most players want to be chosen by the ‘private guilds’.

Honor, money, lifestyle – it was a fact that the private guilds had the upper hand in all aspects.

If not that, then the next best option…

‘I wish to enter <AMT Officer School> on the recommendation of the training center director.’

No matter how much of a soldier one might be, if you reach the rank of an officer, you’re typically treated with the utmost respect in the player community.

Moreover, after being discharged, it’s possible to join a private guild.

However, if one isn’t chosen for any path…

‘This is where you end up, serving two years as a soldier.’

In other words, originating as a soldier is considered the worst-case scenario, implying that you aren’t the cream of the crop.

From this, one could understand just how radical Kim Kang-seok’s proposal was.

“…”

Becoming an officer? Everyone must have been surprised, but they were trying their best not to show it.

Among them was the Strategy Squad Leader, Seo Eunha.

She occasionally glanced at Lee Hyunwook with a peculiar expression.

Unaware or unbothered by the atmosphere, Kim Kang-seok continued.

“Though your player abilities are merely rated F, the combat skills you’ve demonstrated using that minimal ability… I’d say it could be seen as rank C. Of course, I believe that if you face an orc, not just small monsters like goblins or kobolds, your combat abilities might drop significantly. But we’ll have to see about that.”

Rank C was the informal ‘officer mission standard’ within the AMT.

Simply put, if you don’t reach rank C, you’re usually restricted from promotions.

Like Lieutenant Oh Jung-tae, who was in charge of the battalion’s armory, one could end up with a stalled promotion to captain and eventually be pushed to discharge.

“More importantly, beyond combat skills, your judgment is your greatest asset.”

Judgment…

Considering all that Lee Hyunwook had said and done to impress Kim Kang-seok until now, and how effective his strategies had been, Kim Kang-seok seemed to be very generous in his assessment.

“Thank you for your kind words, Battalion Commander.”

“It’s not just me who thinks highly of you. I heard you received a business card from the tactical instructor of the Black Tiger unit.”

“Yes, I did.”

“The Black Tiger unit is also closely watching you. But if you join them, you might have the status of a sergeant, but in reality, you’ll be the lowest-ranking member. It would be like starting life as a private all over again.”

He subtly put down the Black Tiger unit as well…

“If you’re willing to try for an officer commission, I’m thinking of supporting you wholeheartedly.”

He said this as he lifted his cup of coffee.

Support from Kim Kang-seok meant being placed on one of the important tracks within the AMT.

Given that he’s a founding member of AMT, he maintained a close relationship with the top brass.

Gulp-

From the closest vantage point, observing Kim Kang-seok, the sound of a few officers who hadn’t even gotten a hold of that track swallowing their saliva was audible.

The loudest among them was Lieutenant Lee Hee-min, the deputy commander of the 1st Company’s 2nd Platoon.

Lee Hyunwook saw him lowering his head so much that it almost touched his plate, and the corners of his eyes trembling.

“Corporal Lee Hyunwook, what do you think? How about trying out being referred to as Lieutenant Lee Hyunwook?”

Kim Kang-seok even threw in that enticing offer.

“Ah…”

However, Lee Hyunwook had no intention of staying in the military, just as he hadn’t from the beginning.

And this thought wouldn’t change in the future either.

‘First and foremost, in order to be commissioned as an officer, one has to enroll in the <AMT Officer Academy> and complete a 2-year raid leadership training course.’

Lee Hyunwook didn’t have the time for that.

‘But it wouldn’t be good to flatly refuse.’

The trust of the Battalion Commander, Kim Kang-seok, was a powerful weapon.

His connection with him might be helpful not only for the rest of his military service but even after discharge.

No, it certainly would be.

In other words, even if it seemed opportunistic, there was a need to give the impression of holding onto the lifeline Kim Kang-seok offered.

“Thank you. Over the past few days, you’ve given me such a huge opportunity, Commander. It feels beyond my worth.”

“The past few days were a test, and now based on those results, I’m truly offering you an opportunity. You’ve proven your worth.”

Kim Kang-seok emphasized the word ‘truly’ in his statement.

“Thank you. However, I’ve recently been through so much that it’s confusing to make a decision. More than anything… I’m a grade F. My limitations are clear. If someone like me is given a major responsibility…”

He paused for a moment and then looked directly at the Battalion Commander.

“… It’s not just about fighting and beating the enemy. Making the soldiers trust and follow my judgment is, in my opinion, one of the most important capabilities a commander should possess. You said my judgment is good, but without proper leadership and teamwork, isn’t it all in vain? As a grade F, I’m not sure if I can ensure that.”

This meant that the officer organization might not welcome someone of grade F.

Nevertheless, the corners of Kim Kang-seok’s mouth slowly lifted.

The importance of leadership and teamwork… It must have been a satisfactory answer for a true soldier.

“… But I haven’t had a chance to think about that aspect. I was only appointed as a temporary platoon leader a few days ago. I would appreciate some time to consider.”

“You, Lee Hyunwook, truly know what’s crucial.”

Kim Kang-seok nodded.

“Alright, think about it during your leave. Positively.”

“Yes, I’ll seriously consider it.”

Lee Hyunwook requested and was granted a 3-night, 4-day leave starting tomorrow from Kim Kang-seok.

However, he wouldn’t have the luxury to ponder Kim Kang-seok’s offer during that period.

‘There’s so much to do for growth.’

In his mind, he only thought of using this vacation as a ‘hidden stage’ for explosive growth.

‘Moreover, the day I return coincides with the day that incident unfolds.’

Important events that were about to happen…

Right after his regression, Lee Hyunwook had listed them in his notebook.

Among them, several events were underlined, and in four days, he will reach the first ‘underlined’ event.

‘… The incident signaling the start of the 4th Wave.’

Wave.

It refers to the phenomenon where gates explosively emerge in specific areas.

Currently, most areas that experienced the 1st to 3rd Waves have become ruins, with some regions left unrecovered, becoming lands occupied by monsters.

‘But such an event is happening in Seoul.’

Only Lee Hyunwook knew that a crisis, akin to a massive wave, was approaching.

Thus, all his actions were being carried out under meticulous calculation.

‘I will gain every advantage during that period.’

* * *

After finishing a meal with the Battalion Commander, he was on his way back to the 1st Company barracks.

“…Lee Hyunwook!”

Someone called out from behind.

It was Seo Eunha’s voice.

Turning his head, something flew towards him, and Lee Hyunwook awkwardly caught it.

…It was chocolate.

“…?”

He looked at Seo Eunha with an expression asking why she gave it to him, but she remained expressionless.

“I was sorry about yesterday.”

“…Pardon?”

Without explaining what she was apologizing for, she lightly tapped his shoulder and walked past him.

In a way, she looked quite cool, like an impressive female officer…

Lee Hyunwook stifled a snicker.

‘Ah, is it about when she lashed out at me right after suppressing the Kobold Warlock yesterday?’

It seemed she had been bothered by that incident.

‘But anyway, she sure puts on a good show…’

Outwardly, she was undoubtedly the cold and rational image of a knight.

When she was on guard duty, she would force herself to stay awake, and she was the first to rush into action when something happened – a passionate soldier and the best tanker.

No one denied her abilities.

‘But for me, having seen her crying her eyes out while drunk on numerous occasions, it’s…’

However, only Lee Hyunwook knew.

Even if Seo Eunha appeared cold on the outside, she was the type to reflect deeply, feeling bad enough about a single harsh word to subtly offer an apology with something like chocolate.

That she would willingly die for her comrades…

* * *

Upon arriving at the barracks, Lee Hyunwook tossed something green onto An Min-tae’s bed.

It was the squad leader’s badge.

“Oh, am I finally getting to wear this?”

It was an indication that Lee Hyunwook had handed over the squad’s command to An Min-tae before his leave.

“Don’t get too excited. You’re just a stand-in for the stand-in.”

“Huh? Oh, right… But where are you going? It’s almost time for dinner.”

“Just a quick visit to the PX.”

PX (Post eXchange).

In Korean terms, it’s like the Loyalty Club, a military commissary.

However, AMT’s PX also included a ‘military item store.’

“Wow! Are you going to flex with the reward points you earned this time?”

“I just want to spend some before I leave for my vacation.”

“Ah! Are you trying to convert them into cash?”

“Just don’t ask too many details.”

Items purchased with ‘reward points’ at the military item store were not standard supplies, and they were entirely bound to the individual player.

Thus, selling items bought with reward points in society to make money, a practice known as ‘cashing out,’ was possible.

The PX was located in a building between the 1st Company and 2nd Company barracks.

‘It’s always bustling.’

Indeed, the PX was a haven for the soldiers. Regardless of gender, groups of soldiers gathered around.

The inside was quite spacious.

There were counters on one side, and on the other side, about ten tables were placed at regular intervals.

However, right upon entering, there were familiar yet unwelcome faces sitting at the table directly in front.

They were Sergeant Oh Sang-guk and Private First Class Kwak Jin-cheol, the self-proclaimed power duo of the 2nd Company.

“Wow! Has this newbie already been promoted to Private First Class? Time flies, huh?”

“Ugh, seriously… From what Sang-guk says, I can imagine how much the newcomers must dislike him.”

They were sitting across from two female soldiers from the 2nd Company.

Technically, close contact between male and female soldiers was prohibited, but without strict enforcement, it was inevitable that these young, spirited soldiers would occasionally break such minor rules.

“Hehe! But I’m still a beloved senior, right Jin-cheol?”

“Hahaha! Honestly, Sergeant Oh, you’re a necessary evil.”

“Ew, doesn’t that mean you’re trash? Sergeant Oh, as always.”

Lee Hyunwook intended to walk past them without a second thought.

“Hey! That Private over there, isn’t that him?”

“Ah, the F-ranked one who led the blockade operation?”

The female soldiers pointed at Lee Hyunwook and spoke, leaving Oh Sang-guk and Kwak Jin-cheol momentarily speechless.

“…Huh? Who?”

Even as Oh Sang-guk turned his head to look at Lee Hyunwook, he feigned ignorance.

“You know, the guy from your unit who, despite being F-ranked, did amazing during the Itaewon operation two days ago and received a commendation from the battalion commander.”

“He’s really famous in our company too. Introduce us.”

“Hey, ladies! Since when were you so interested in the affairs of another company?”

Oh Sang-guk unconsciously let out a frustrated sound.

“Why are you so annoyed? Obviously, we’re not interested in you. Maybe if you were like him. But he really is as handsome as the rumors say~”

The female soldiers giggled.

“But, isn’t Sergeant Oh his senior? Can’t you call him over for us?”

“…What are you talking about? You girls really!”

Lee Hyunwook overheard their conversation, but without giving them a glance, he went straight to the ‘Item Corner’ at the far end of the PX.

‘I have 5,500 reward points.’

The international standard ‘Healing Potion (Small)’ was worth about 100 reward points.

Considering that it’s traded for around 150,000 won in the market, 6,000 points equated to a value of about 9 million won.

‘Let’s see which item is best to convert into cash…’

To cash out, one needed to buy the most in-demand item.

“Of course, it’s the ‘Orb’.”

Orb.

A sphere containing magic, used to bestow specific ‘traits’ on items.

It was a versatile item with a high and stable market price.

Lee Hyunwook purchased three low-grade, level 5 orbs.

Each one cost 1,500 points in reward points, amounting to roughly 6,750,000 won in total.

‘And there’s no need to buy painkillers. The absorption will end soon.’

[ The ‘Breath Room’ is forming in your stomach (78%) ]

-Severe pain may accompany!]

There was still a lingering discomfort in his gut, but it gradually stabilized over time.

‘Once the Breath Room is complete, a furnace will be formed inside my body, making digestion much faster.’

Until now, exercising after swallowing metal was the best course of action.

However, the ‘Breath Room’, acting as a kind of ‘furnace’, would significantly increase the speed of his ability growth in the future.

After purchasing three orbs using his reward points, Lee Hyunwook packaged them in a dedicated safe box.

Because an orb, which reacts to equipment items, if mishandled, could unintentionally attach to a precious item.

By that time, Oh Sang-guk and Kwak Jin-cheol were still sitting at the table, conversing with the two female soldiers.

As Lee Hyunwook approached the entrance after settling the bill, the agitated voice of Oh Sang-guk reached his ears.

“…Listen, that guy is nothing special, okay? He’s originally an F-grade. He was just lucky. Lock him in a room with a few goblins, and he’d be dead. Damn, it’s so unbelievable that such rumors about him are going around! As if he’s some hero or something, jeez!”

Regardless of how you heard it, the target of the sharp criticism was clearly Lee Hyunwook.

When one of the female soldiers who noticed Lee Hyunwook laughed, Oh Sang-guk stopped talking.

“Lady, why are you laughing?”

“Sorry, Oh Sang-guk, but it seems he heard everything?”

“…What?”

Oh Sang-guk turned his head.

And there, passing right behind him, was Lee Hyunwook, their eyes meeting directly.

“…”

After a moment of silence, Oh Sang-guk blinked rapidly, then slowly turned his head away.

And then…

“…Hic!”

Suddenly, he began to hiccup.

“Huh? Oh Sang-guk, what’s wrong?”

“Hic! Hic! Oh, shi- hic! That’s not- hic!”

“…O, Officer Oh?”

Following Oh Sang-guk’s reaction, Kwak Jin-cheol flustered, offered him the can of soda he was drinking.

“Hic! Hic!”

“Wow! That F-grade guy must really be intimidating. Just making eye contact made you hiccup?”

“No, it’s not- hic! That’s not it- hic!”

The female soldiers began to laugh at the spectacle.

“Oh my, instead of calling him Officer Oh Sang-guk, we should call him Hiccup Officer!”

Lee Hyunwook, without saying a word, just passed by them after giving them a glance.