I am, Flame-Chaser of Previous Era-Chapter 94: Eliminate all

The turmoil on Mu Continent originated from a subtle meeting at the airport—a hasty encounter that decided the fates of several Fire Moth councilors and multinational corporations.

Ryan had perfectly achieved the meeting's objectives, indifferent to the council's internal squabbles; he only cared about his 'reward'.

The long limousine was luxurious; soundproof glass separated the driver, while the rear resembled a small living room.

The seats were made of supple leather, embossed with the family crest. The small table held fine cigars and spirits. A crystal-clear LCD screen displayed relaxing music, and the suspension was excellent; the ride was almost perfectly smooth.

Far more comfortable than that battered jeep, but Ryan's mood was sour. Given the choice, he'd rather be crammed into the jeep with Mobius.

"Top-quality Walla cigars, thirty-year-old whisky. Choose whatever you like." Wien gestured to the table, seeing Ryan's impassive expression, and chuckled wryly. "I forgot; you don't smoke or drink. You possess such power yet live like an ascetic monk."

"I'm just not interested in indulgence, not as noble as you think." Ryan nodded slightly. Frankly, the pressure of Honkai left him no time for such luxuries.

He preferred listening to the sounds of the city in Hua's rented apartment or eating street food—the kind those big shots wouldn't touch.

"That's why I'm curious. Your background and actions are completely incongruous. What's the meaning of your life?"

"Incomprehensible?"

"No, just curious."

Ryan offered a sardonic smile, saying casually, "If a person from the slums suddenly found themselves in this car, and you asked about the meaning of life, do you think they might become a Herrscher's conduit?"

The words struck a chord, stiffening the man's polite smile, forcing him to awkwardly put down his cigar.

He couldn't answer; even Fire Moth's psychological warfare department had reached a pessimistic conclusion: humanity was perpetually rife with conflict and darkness, the perfect breeding ground for Herrschers.

Poverty or wealth, health or sickness—like those cults, they viewed Herrschers as divine messengers, sent to cleanse the world.

Injustice in life; only death is equal.

"I never expected you to say that. It truly doesn't match your background."

"Perhaps I've seen too much. Wien, lower your head, and you'll see many things you won't comprehend." Ryan offered a faint smile, saying no more, his thoughts returning to the desert town.

Survival was hell. Perhaps immediate annihilation by a Herrscher would be a blessing.

"I was going to offer you some advice, but you've taught me a lesson instead." Wien finally lit his cigar; amidst the swirling smoke, his eyes sharpened. "Your way of thinking is dangerous."

Afraid I'll become a Herrscher and eliminate you?

"Overthinking. I'm past my Chunibyo phase; I know the world isn't simply black and white. I'm not as optimistic as Elysia, but I'm still human. That premise hasn't changed." Ryan replied seriously, knowing these words would soon reach the Director's desk.

"Ryan, you've always been a pragmatist; that's why I trust you." The man extinguished his expensive cigar and sat up straighter. "Let's discuss business. The council has been purged; six vacant seats are up for grabs."

"Yes, a delicious pie. Enough to give Fire Moth more power." Ryan nodded; this was his reason for helping—to ensure Fire Moth received a larger share of the pie.

Fire Moth was flawed, but there was no viable alternative; the other organizations were far worse.

"That's the Director's concern. More funds, materials, and troops are guaranteed. Our anti-Honkai trump cards will increase." Wien paused. "The research committee proposal has also been approved. Fire Moth's five Research Institutes will be consolidated under Dr. Mei's leadership. Frankly, many aren't happy; it's a huge challenge for her."

"Don't worry; she can do it." Ryan was confident; Mei's abilities had been proven in the original timeline.

Elysia was the spiritual leader; Mei, humanity's ultimate leader.

Wien eyed him skeptically. Where did that confidence come from? The girl was barely twenty, yet she was director of five Research Institutes, managing a multi-billion dollar project. Even he found it surreal.

But Honkai was a life-or-death matter. This wasn't the time to consider experience; let her try. If it failed, they'd find a replacement.

The research committee had no real power, so it didn't matter.

"Finally, per your request, Vill-V and Goushinnso Memento have joined Fire Moth. Frankly, they're valuable assets."

"My recommendations were sound."

"I hope I'm wrong." Wien leaned forward, emphasizing each word. "It seems you're truly trying to save the world."

Click... click...

The limousine smoothly stopped outside Fire Moth headquarters—a massive, austere monolithic building. Ryan looked out, seeing Mobius and Hua exiting behind him, before opening his own door.

"What? Don't I fit in?"

"You do, but you're still incomprehensible. You've always been strange." The man remained in the car, asking seriously, "You risked so much; what did you gain?"

"Nothing." Ryan replied without hesitation, exiting the car. After a few steps, he turned, a smile on his face. "Victorious return!"

The internal conflict left the man in the car stunned for a moment before he shook his head.

So that's it.

Mobius and Hua exited the limousine; their moods were palpable, making Klein extremely nervous.

During the journey, she felt like she was sitting on pins and needles. She remembered how the doctor had initially started a conversation, only for the girl to remain silent. The only sound in the car was Mobius's restless shifting.

As an assistant, she knew this was a sign of the doctor's impatience.

'A boring woman, barely uttering a word. That man has such poor taste; he actually likes this type of woman.' Mobius lifted her chin, again eyeing Hua.

She was undeniably pretty, but too reserved. Her uniform was perfectly neat, flawlessly adhering to aesthetic standards.

'Hmph, shamelessly dressed; just like Carole said, trying to seduce my senior brother.'

Hua was similarly assessing Mobius, especially the gleaming black thigh-high stockings, which attracted the attention of passing Fire Moth members. If those glances had been directed at her, she wouldn't have tolerated them.

As the two women glared at each other, Ryan returned, finding their animosity unsettling.

Why did they seem to dislike each other so intensely upon their first meeting?

He didn't understand these women's thoughts, merely clearing his throat. "It's settled. As expected, the problems have been solved."

"What problems?" Hua quietly approached, then saw Ryan's awkward and somewhat gloomy expression.

"I can't tell you yet. Knowing too much isn't beneficial." Ryan explained. Hua was too far removed from these matters; there was no need to burden her.

So she can't know?

The girl looked away, noticing Mobius's strained smile, a smile that caused her lips to tighten; she took a deep breath.

"Senior brother, I'll prepare for the commendation ceremony."

"Yes, I'll be there to applaud you."

This cheered the girl slightly; she saluted smartly and left with a confident stride.

Just a few months, and she'd transitioned from student to soldier. She'd grown rapidly, but it made sense. Hua's reserved nature suited a soldier's role.

Watching her go, Ryan turned to Mobius, who was smiling. "Smiling, smiling, what's so funny? Can you stop causing trouble?"

"Trouble? I didn't do anything. Your junior sister is like a wooden post; it's a waste of her youth."

"Don't badmouth her. You gossiping old woman wouldn't understand."

Old woman???

Mobius raised an eyebrow. She was indeed a few years older than Ryan, but not old enough to be called an old woman.

"Oh, now you're protective? I didn't expect you to like such a boring girl."

"What's it to you?"

"Of course it matters, because..." Mobius, seeing Ryan's questioning expression, changed her tone. "You're my property."

"I don't recall signing any contract selling myself. And before we discuss ownership, please settle my salary first."

Ryan snorted, unwilling to engage further, and walked away.

Years had passed, yet Fire Moth headquarters remained the same—not a militaristic fortress but a typical government building.

Located in Manhattan's most affluent district, it was surrounded by office blocks. If not for the Fire Moth insignia on the rooftop, it would be indistinguishable from any other building.

Few wore uniforms; most were in suits and leather shoes. It was rush hour; people hurried in, carrying breakfast. If not for the heavily armed guards, it could have been mistaken for a high-tech company.

But Fire Moth headquarters was similar to the Pentagon; it mainly handled administrative tasks, such as requesting funding from the UN. The true core was deep underground.

"Fascinated by this mundane scene?" Mobius followed quietly, stating the obvious. "If you want that position, I'd fully support you."

"Not interested. That position primarily involves balancing interests, perpetually restricted."

"But it allows one to reshape the current situation, like in your plans."

Mobius was manipulating him; Ryan had the ability, and she would benefit from his rise.

Ryan paused on the steps, slowly turning. "No need to sit in that chair. Remember what I told you in Nagazora City?"

Mobius pondered, recalling Ryan's words.

When necessary, he would physically eliminate all obstacles.