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39.16% Genius Grandson of the Loan Shark King / Chapter 329: Chapter 329: Did You Try to Kill Me?

Bab 329: Chapter 329: Did You Try to Kill Me?

The Chechen Republic was a thorn in Russia's side.

While most Russians adhered to the Russian Orthodox Church, the Chechens, who practiced Islam, had always rebelled against Russia.

Their relationship had soured to the point of two wars.

Notably, the Second Chechen War significantly contributed to Putin's rise to the presidency of Russia.

If he hadn't emerged victorious in the Second Chechen War, the current version of Putin might not even exist.

However, even though the war had ended, terror and slaughter continued to plague the region.

For Russia, giving up Chechnya was not an option. They had no reason to abandon the resource-rich Caucasus, which not only had vital pipelines but also abundant underground resources.

Yet, international criticism and the terror from Chechen rebels had put Putin in a tough spot.

"This time, don't mind the international community and wipe them out decisively. Use Russia's military might to do it,"

Putin nodded, as if my words were the truth.

It seemed he also admired the U.S. for their uncompromising response to Afghanistan.

"America has declared a war on terror. And the terror from Chechen rebels against Russia is escalating. It's not at all surprising if a terrorist act occurs in Moscow. Putin, this is a golden opportunity to gain the complete endorsement of the international community for Chechnya's annexation."

Putin didn't respond, but his eyes were careful and contemplative.

I continued my persuasive efforts.

"If you leave them as an autonomous republic, they'll keep claiming independence. Even if the moderates currently hold power in Chechnya, they aren't friendly towards Russia, are they? If you show any weakness or instability, they'll surely seize the chance to incite conflict again and call for independence."

"So you suggest we simply drive all the Chechens out?"

Given time, Putin would surely fill the leadership of Chechnya with his pro-Russian allies.

However, if this opportunity were seized right, it could be expedited.

"Not at all. I merely suggest we eliminate their focal points. All factions—moderates and hardliners alike. And then install a Chechen leader who is completely loyal to Putin."

"Hmm."

"If America and Western nations lend their support, no one can criticize any actions taken."

The mention of Western countries made one of his eyebrows twitch slightly.

This was likely due to the previous Chechen ultimatum being withdrawn after facing international backlash from the U.S. and Europe.

Putin took a sip from the glass in front of him, shaking his head afterward.

"That's too weak."

"…"

It's about acquiring a justification for invading a country. In order for the U.S. to ignore Russia's invasion of Chechnya, a plausible reason was needed.

Even as a satellite state, Chechnya was a sovereign republic. It wasn't easy to provoke without cause.

Since Chechnya would be a pivotal player in the international Islamist terror landscape, it could be approached from that angle.

Putin's gaze held a serious depth as he examined my thought process, layered with a touch of desire.

That look made it clear he wasn't just focused on settling affairs with the Chechen Republic.

"Putin, what more do you seek?"

"Well, what else could I gain?"

He flashed a sardonic smile.

That smile revealed how resolute he had already become.

He wanted not just a justification but also black gold, the oil.

"Understood. Just leave it to me. I will negotiate to maximize benefits for Russian interests. Of course, also for Putin's interests."

"If you do, I'll appreciate it. But if the negotiations don't suit my taste, I won't accept them."

"That goes without saying."

Once I confidently replied, Putin nodded satisfactorily, silently extending his glass toward me.

"By the way, isn't the presidential election in Korea coming up soon?"

"Yes, it is."

I answered while clinking my glass with his.

"The Moderate Party's candidate is Yoon Chang-ho, right?"

"Yes. He's my political partner."

"I see."

He brought the glass to his lips and fell into thought, remaining silent for a while.

"I'll lend you my support."

"Putin? How exactly do you mean?"

"There's a general election at the end of this year, right? I'll send Medvedev as a special envoy to meet President Kim Hak-gwon and the candidate you support. That should make for good publicity, don't you think?"

Politics can shift unexpectedly.

A candidate with overwhelming public support can see their approval ratings plummet in an instant, and a candidate who hovers at the bottom can experience a rapid rise to victory.

That's why people say politics is alive.

Public sentiment can change direction unpredictably.

But despite the uncertainty, major currents are always present.

If the second-in-command of Russia, Medvedev, was only scheduled to meet Yoon Chang-ho and no one else besides President Kim Hak-gwon, the effect would be to fan the flames of popularity for him.

"Thank you for your consideration."

"It's just a little something. Personally, I'd prefer that the person you support becomes the president of Korea. There are many tasks for Korea and Russia to collaborate on."

"That's right. I want Russia to grow stronger, capable of countering the U.S. like it used to. No matter how much China rises, it will struggle to contending with America at the heights once reached by the Soviet Union. Their perspectives are just too narrow-minded."

"Haha! This is why I like Mu-hyeok. You speak as if you have read my mind."

Putin was not fond of China. In fact, he disliked it.

A man of Putin's stature could openly express such feelings.

"Just be cautious when you move. The movements of the European aristocrats are too quiet. They aren't the type to remain still after experiencing a setback like they did with you."

"Their influence in America has diminished rapidly since Bush took office. The neocons are antithetical to them, aren't they?"

"That may be so, but international relations are not driven by emotions."

Where else could I hear the concerns of the Russian tsar, Putin?

As his worries lingered, I simply nodded without adding much.

"I'll keep that in mind."

"I have more faith in your instincts than in my own, truth be told. But if anything were to happen to you, I'd be saddened. So take care of yourself."

"Thank you."

In response to his words, I broke into a bright smile. Putin's stern demeanor softened as he witnessed my reaction.

"When are you heading back to Korea?"

"President Bush is visiting Korea next week. I plan to meet him then and discuss negotiations."

"I hope for good results. Now let's stop talking business and just enjoy a drink. We should call Medvedev as well."

"Sounds good."

Soon, Putin called for Medvedev, and the three of us raised our glasses together after a long time.

"Ah… my head."

When I opened my eyes, my head was pounding. The white ceiling felt like it was swaying. Holding my throbbing head, I sat up.

After groping for the water beside me, I checked the time and realized lunch had long since passed.

When I pressed the bell beside me, Manager Ma entered.

"Are you awake?"

"Manager, when did I return home?"

"I left that place after daybreak."

"My head hurts… I can't even recall how much I drank last night."

"President Putin asked me to tell you he had a great time."

Thankfully, it seems I didn't make any major mistakes.

Shaking my head lightly, I spoke to Manager Ma.

"Please bring me a hangover remedy. I'd like to clear my head with a spicy soup… If you have any ramen, please boil up a bowl of that."

Feeling queasy, memories of the bean sprout soup Grandma used to make came to mind.

Since I couldn't get that here, I'd have to settle for ramen instead.

When I get back to Korea, I need to make time to visit Busan.

"I'll prepare it for you."

"Alright, I'll wash up and be out shortly, so please have it ready."

After Manager Ma left, I tossed aside the clothes I had been wearing and stepped into the shower.

I turned the cold water on purpose, letting it splatter across me. It woke me up instantly.

Thoughts of my conversation with Putin flickered through my mind.

'First, I'll eliminate Mogilevich. Then…'

After my cold shower, the headache had subsided a bit.

After changing clothes and stepping outside, Manager Ma handed me a hangover remedy.

As I poured the medicine into my mouth with water, I asked.

"What about Igor?"

"He left early in the morning, saying he was going to meet Ussoyan."

"Oh, really?"

I chuckled, finding it odd that he wasn't around. It seemed he was caught up in work.

"Yes, he said he received a call to meet."

"Thank goodness. I wanted to wrap everything up before heading back to Korea."

As I mumbled to myself and took a seat, Manager Ma brought over a bowl of ramen.

Not feeling great, I only sipped the broth before rising. When my insides warmed a bit, I felt a little better.

"I'm feeling better now. Let's head to the office."

I grabbed a cool cup of coffee and headed to the office with Manager Ma.

As soon as I sat down, I shared the conversation I had yesterday with Putin with Manager Ma.

While listening, Manager Ma's face stiffened at the part about one of Russia's nuclear weapons entering the North.

"As there are still no reports of Jang Seong-taek being reinstated, iit seems we should keep a close watch. If Jang Seong-taek comes back, we'll nneed to use him to bring down Kim Jong-il."

"I think so too, Boss."

"Anyway, the immediate concern is the Mogilevich situation. Igor needs to handle the negotiations well."

Just then, Manager Ma's suit pocket rang.

He turned slightly and answered the phone.

"Yes, I received the call. Igor?"

The caller was Igor. A brief conversation passed through the receiver before Manager Ma handed the phone to me.

— Boss, it's Igor.

"Igor, how did the negotiations go?"

"— He wants to meet you in person. I'm bringing him now; is that alright?"

"That's fine. Bring him in."

— Understood. It should take about an hour.

"I'll be waiting."

After ending the call, I returned the phone to Manager Ma.

To Manager Ma, who was awaiting my response, I briefly explained the situation.

"He's bringing Ussoyan."

"It seems the negotiations went well."

"That could be, or perhaps he's considering whether to meet me directly. The person who intended to carry out the terror plot is now offering a deal. Either way, things will likely move swiftly from here."

An hour later, Igor arrived with a robust man.

I stood up and approached Ussoyan.

"Nice to meet you. I'm Kim Mu-hyeok."

"… I'm Ussoyan."

Surprised by my youth, Ussoyan's response came a beat late.

Recognizing this, I offered a gentle smile and gestured.

"Let's sit down first."

Igor and Ussoyan took their seats. Once Ussoyan settled in, I opened my mouth.

"Did you try to kill me?"

My voice was cold, though I wore a smile on my face.

Ussoyan answered slowly, his face rigid.

"… Yes, that is correct."

"Why? Were you afraid I would ally with Mogilevich?"

"That's correct. Mogilevich already holds significant sway, and if you allied with him, it would undoubtedly grow stronger. Even now, the majority of the organizations are aligning under him."

That said, Ussoyan's power was no small feat when it came to controlling Mogilevich.

Finding it strange that he would resort to terror against me for such a reason, I inquired further.

"As far as I know, your relationship with Mogilevich isn't exactly poor, is it?"

"On the surface, perhaps there is no choice."

"So you maintain only a facade of goodwill?"

"… The plot to kill you was a mistake on our part. I apologize."

"Well, you wouldn't have faced death either. I don't worry about things that haven't happened. Let's forget the past and speak about the future."

As I dismissed it lightly, surprise appeared on Ussoyan's face.

"Why? Did you think I would act petty over something so trivial?"

He seemed to hesitate for a moment, as though he were concerned about me thinking that way.

Yet, for him to come seeking me directly showed he had quite the fortitude.

"Yes. It's just unexpected that you would let it slide that easily… In our Russian culture, if someone attempts to take one's life, there is a vendetta until one of the two is dead."

"It's nothing serious, so I'm letting it go. After all, if it's to the level of being discovered and failing, there's no chance that it could have been executed. Right?"

"…"

It was an insulting remark, but it was also true. Ussoyan bit his lip tightly.

"However, this will be the last time I let this slide. If such an event occurs again, then one of us will truly have to die to resolve it."

As I spoke firmly to erase the smile from my face, Ussoyan swallowed hard.

To dissipate the tension, I picked up the teapot and poured tea for the three of us.

I slid one glass over to Ussoyan and spoke.

"Do you like tea? Give this a try. It's good Darjeeling. A tea grown in the highlands of India; I find it superior to the Keemun from China."

Once I raised my glass, Ussoyan, still stiff, followed suit and lifted his glass.

Cautiously sniffing the aroma, he took a sip of the tea and exclaimed.

"This is truly delicious. I also enjoy black tea, and this has an excellent fragrance and flavor."

"I'll make sure to gift you some when you leave."

With a single cup of tea, the once frosty air began to thaw.

Ussoyan's previously tense expression started to ease.

"Thank you. I should refuse, but I can't turn this down. Good tea is hard to find."

I smiled gently at the sight of him relishing the tea.

We then engaged in light conversation, cultivating an atmosphere conducive to deeper dialogues.

With the tone sufficiently warmed, it was finally time to discuss the main topic.

"Let's stop with the chit-chat and get down to the real topic. Ussoyan, let's join forces to remove Mogilevich. What do you say?"

When I proposed the idea of teaming up to get rid of Mogilevich, Ussoyan was so startled that he dropped the glass in his hand.

The sound of the teacup shattering filled the quiet office.


Bab 330: Chapter 330: Taking Over the Russian Underworld

I laughed as I watched the broken teacup rolling across the floor.

I thought he had a big heart, but turns out he's just a small fry.

"Why are you so surprised? Didn't you expect this? If not, what reason would I have to meet you?"

"That… Mogilevich is connected to the government…"

"You don't need to worry about that. The discussions are already over. This conflict between the mafia won't involve the police, let alone the FSB."

The fear in Usov's eyes finally flicered with a hint of light.

"Is that true?"

"Why would I lie to you? Let's change the venue. This place is just too exposed for my liking."

I stood up first, making my way out. Usov hesitated for a secnd, then stood up to follow me.

We left the office and continued our conversation in the reception area.

"So, is it possible to take out Mogilevich?"

"..."

"You're silent. Seems like it's easier to want him dead than to actually accomplish it."

I crossed my legs and fixed a cold stare on Usov..

He merely chewed his lips nervously and finally spoke up.

"The power disparity is too great. Even if I combine my organization with Ivanov's, we'd barely makeup half of what Mogilevich controls. Most of the mafia operates under his influence…"

"I'm not suggesting a full-scale war. You just need to eliminate Mogilevich. The organizations below him aren't loyal for loyalty's sake; they're drawn to his power, right? Once he's gone, they'll naturally disperse. What's there to worry about?"

Putin didn't want a mafia war either. And I certainly had no intention of escalating matters.

"Mogilevich operates openly and hasn't hidden himself. So, you still can't manage it?"

"If I fail, it'll lead to an intense conflict. He's not the kind of guy who lets those who threaten his life go easily."

"If you can't handle that risk, how can you aim for greater victories? I was willing to take him down, considering you must have heard rumors about my friendship with Putin?"

"…I dismissed those rumors. I found it hard to believe that Putin would keep an Asian as a friend."

That discriminatory thought about Asians slipped through his words. I frowned involuntarily.

Usov seemed oblivious tomy reaction and continued talking.

"Honestly, I still can't believe it. Meeting you in person only adds to my doubt; you look so young. Considering the armed guards, it seems real, but…"

Usov noticed the stiffnes on my face and quickly regretted his words.

"Please, continue. Don't hold back."

"…I apologize."

I sighed deeply. Even though he knew I held the upper hand, he still tried to undermine me because of my ethnicity.

Should I keep working with this fool?

A myriad of thoughts raced through my mind.

But my indecision didn't last long. After all, this guy was just a disposable pawn.

"Let me ask you something. In this business, what does race matter? Smuggling weapons, drugs, and prostitution? You're extending your reach across multiple Asian countries, yet you throw around terms like 'Asian' and dismiss them. If you disdain them, then you shouldn't even look at the Asian market. Are you attracted to Asian money but want to overlook the countries?"

As I spoke in a cold voice, Usov's face hardened..

"All right. Suppose you're a racist and hold those views. Then why are you here? I'm sure you must have heard something from Igor. In the end, you came to meet me for profit, didn't you? Yet here you are talking about age and race. It's refreshing yet infuriating, considering how business is conducted over here in Russia."

"…That was a mistake."

"I don't want to waste time on this pointless conversation, so I'll let it slide this time. But if you want to work with me, mind your words."

After all, I planned to use him as a disposable tool, so needless arguments were meaningless.

All I wanted was to assert my superiority, use him as needed, and toss him aside.

"It's not that I don't believe it, but you didn't want to believe it. You likely have connections with government officials, and surely they have informed you of my connection to Putin."

"..."

"You intended to assassinate me while ignoring that. You saw the armed guards from the airport and decided to give it up, didn't you?"

My mood soured, and I couldn't help but slip in a taunting remark.

"Well, fine then. If you're having a hard time with it, how about I take care of Mogilevich? Then you can just sit back and reap the rewards. But if that's the case, what's the reason for me to partner with you?"

The only reason I wanted to join forces with Usov and Ivanov was thatthey had enough power.

Why bother building a new ship when one was already at sea?

But seeing the existing ship taking on water made me feel uneasy.

"Instead, it might be more comfortable for me to establish an organization with my own men. Don't you think?"

Usov, face stiff, couldnt even respond.

If the information he received from government officials was accurate, he must know I was telling the truth.

He was just avoiding the hassle of forming an organization, but given enough time, he could easily expand his influence to overshadow even Ivanov and Usov's forces.

"Choose. Should I take out Mogilevich myself, or will you?"

The anticipated answer was nowhere to be found. Usov clenched his fist nrvously and chewed his lip.

I leisurely took a sip of my tea and then turned to Igor.

"Igor."

"Yes, Boss."

"Can we eliminate Mogilevich?"

"It would be easy if the Russian government just keeps watching."

Igor immediately understood the implication of my words.

"If Usov and Ivanov refuse, roceed immediately."

"Understood."

Nodding satisfactorily as I gave the instructions, Usov spoke up hastily..

"Wait, hold on a minute."

"Have you sorted out your thoughts?"

"What do we gain from this? I mean, what's the benefit of eliminating Mogilevich?"

"It's about dominating the Russian underworld."

"Even now, Mogilevich is running the majority of the underground world. It's hardly a benefit…"

"Everything profitable is all Mogilevich's territory, and the leftovers are just scraps. What do you mean by domination?"

Usov's tone started to gt rough as his face turned red from the insulting words he'd endured up until now.

"Hey! You've been disrespecting me, and there's only so much I can take. You were the one proposing a partnership, remember?"

Right. This is how it should be.

If the leader of the Russian mafia is too humble, it's no fun.

As I wore a thick smile, it seemed to irritate Usov even more, making hs face stormier.

But I didn't care at all as I replied.

"You really want to talk about keeping your cool, huh? I'm the one chatting amicably with someone who previously tried to kill me. Who do you think is the one who's more patient here?"

"That…"

"What? Are you embarrassed? I simply spoke the truth. If the business distribution had been satisfactory, you wouldn't need to turn against Mogilevich in the first place."

If Mogilevich's methods were sound, there would have been no reason for Usov and Ivanov, who wer close to him, to attempt to kill me.

"Go on, tell me. Other than being leftovers of Mogilevich, is there an actual business you're running in a legitimate manner?"

"..."

"I don't like people who don't reply when I ask questions. So, answer me. Will you eliminate Mogilevich, or will we?"

Usov closed his eyes andseemed to take a deep breath to calm himself.

After a while of pacing himself, he opened his eyes and spoke in a calmer tone than before.

"I would appreciate it if you'd show some respect. I didn't come here to bow before you; I came to hear Igor's words and negotiate."

"I understand that. But it's time to make a choice, Usov. Please answer me."

"So, if we eliminate Mogilevich, what do we stand to gain? Other than this abstract notion of dominating the Russian underworld, of course. We won't be able to claim all of his assets or businesses just because he's gone."

I raised an eyebrow at his unprecedented reply. Well, at least he had some awareness.

Once Mogilevich was gone, Putin would surely move to seize most of his assets.

"I'll provide a foothold to enter Japan. We might need to battle them, but if we win, we'll control the entire drug market in Japan."

"That's utterly absurd…"

"Additionally, a war between the Chinese triads and the Yakuza is also on the horizon. Just securing Mogilevich's smuggling route will earn us a fair sum of money."

Putin would only take the legitimate business.

These groups would take over the underworld business and, in return, serve faithfully as Putin's loyal hounds.

"Dominate the Russian underworld and gain a foothold in Japan. There's no more attractive business model than this. The options for businesses within Russia are dwindling, aren't they? Seems like it's high time to figure out what kind of man Putin really is."

"Are you sure the government won't take any action?"

"That's a promise."

"Then we'll do it. But I ask you to keep your end of the bargain. Protect us from the government."

Instead of answering, I picked up the phone beside me.

I switched it to speaker mode so everyone could hear, then dialed the number.

I heard the ringing sound, and not long after, a familiar voice answered.

― Hello.

"Medvedev. This is Kim Mu-hyeok."

"― Oh, Boss Kim. Are you awake? Ha-ha, why are you so weak with liquor?"

"I'm not weak; it's that Medvedev and Putin drink too stridently. I've never been called weak when it comes to alcohol."

"― I know. Seems like I can't even joke around. But it's been a while since I saw Putin smiling like that. Please come to Moscow often and be a companion for Putin."

As the conversation continued, Usov's expression starte to shift oddly.

"I'll stop by whenever I can. But Medvedev, the reason I'm calling is regarding Mogilevich."

"― Ah, I've already been informed. No matter what, neither the police nor the FSB will intervene. Do you need assistance?"

"No. Have you seen me receiving Putin's help in Russia? I'll manage on my own."

As I heard Medvedev's hearty laughter over the receiver, Usov's face went pale..

― Ha-ha, right. That's why Putin likes you. Once Mogilevich is gone, then we will act.

"Understood. Let's talk again later."

― Sure. Before heading to Korea, let's meet in person.

"Yes, I'll hang up now."

After ending the call, I turned to Usov. Seeing his pale fae filled me with a sense of satisfaction.

"Does that answer your question?"

"Is… is that really Administrative Minister Medvedev?"

He stuttered, unable to believe whether what he heard was real.

"You can't mistake Medvedev's voice, can you?"

"…I can't believe it. So, were all those rumors true?"

"Rumors can be exaggerated or downplayed. But now you can confirm the truth, and that's not a bad catch. Regardless, if you're working with me, you won't be persecuted like other mafia groups."

"I'll do it. I'll take out Mogilevich."

My call with Medvedev had proven effective. Usov likely found Medvedv more persuasive than me.

"No mistakes allowed. If you fail to kill him in one strike, there won't be a second chance. You know Mogilevich is on the hunt for you and Ivanov, right?"

"Yes, that's why we left Moscow for now."

"If you fail, it'll be you who ends up dead. Make sure you end him for good. After that, you can discuss absorbing Mogilevich's forces with Igor."

I rose from my seat and extended my hand first.

"Finding me will become the greatest fortune of your life."

Usov didn't hesitate, clsping my hand with both of his and grinning wide.

"Thank you. Please say a good word to President Putin and Medvedev for me."

"If you handle this well, good news will come your way."

Usov left the reception rea with Igor. As the door shut, Manager Ma leaned in, speaking softly enough for only me to hear.

"Can he be trusted?"

"Trustworthy? Unlike Mogilevich, he seems to understand where his power lies, so let's give him a chance."

The Mogilevich I'd met had been an arrogant man, who dared to think himself the Tsar of Russia.

Putin understood that, so he didn't resist the plan to eliminate Mogilevich.

I couldn't help but smile at the memory of Mogilevich overlooking the Kremlin Palace and Red Square.

A moment later, Igor returned to the reception area after seeing Usov off..

"Igor."

"Yes, Boss."

"If Usov and Ivanov avoid maing mistakes, we can definitely kill Mogilevich, who is currently unprepared. But frankly, I don't trust him. Keep an open line of communication, and if they get too close to Mogilevich, act immediately."

"Understood. Should we capture him, or just kill him?"

For a moment I pondered the assumption behind Igor's question, which assumed we wouldn't miss.

I was curious about the whereabouts of the nuclear weapons, but I couldn't acquire them.

"Just kill him."

"Understood, Boss."

"And once Mogilevich is dead, take out Ivanov as well. If there ae two heads, controlling them becomes far too difficult. Let's take out one head as a warning to Usov too.""

One leader was more than enough in the Russian mafia.

"I'll take care of that."

I smiled contently at Igor's response, feeling satisfied.


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