Return of the Sword God-Rank Civil Servant novel Chapter 7

Right.

Why worry about other concerns?

Most public servants would do anything to avoid going into a Gate, but if someone willingly volunteered for a field position, that was all the more welcome.

This job didn’t bring much material reward—it required true patriotism and selflessness to endure.

Suppressing a cheer, Jeong Chul-min responded, “Understood. The registration process and identity verification are complete. Although, this wasn’t exactly intended as an interview, but somehow it feels like it turned into one.”

“When people talk, sometimes the conversation just flows that way.”

“Haha, indeed. So, all that’s left is the aptitude test, written exam, and practical test....”

After checking his phone, Jeong Chul-min added, “You’re aware the exam registration period has already closed for this year, right? But if you’d like, I can arrange a special registration for you.”

“Is that possible?”

“It’s not illegal or anything. It’s an official rule, and since you solo-cleared an unanticipated Gate, I can get approval from the higher-ups. However, the exam happens to be tomorrow....”

He glanced at Suho, hesitant to suggest it too eagerly. After all, preparing for both a written and practical exam on just one day’s notice could be quite demanding.

‘The field and exams are two entirely different things... Sure, having some prior knowledge helps, but if he’s clueless about the specifics, it might be tough.’

Awkwardly smiling, Jeong continued, “It might be difficult. Otherwise, there’s always the test next month....”

“No, please register me for tomorrow.”

“Pardon?”

“I’d like to take the chance for the experience. So, will I be taking the aptitude test tomorrow as well?”

“Oh, no. You can do the aptitude test today if you’re up for it... Is that okay?”

“Yes, that’s fine. But could I ask you to handle these first? I’m low on registration funds.”

Suho pointed to the hobgoblin’s head and magic crystal, prompting Jeong to grab them right away.

“Of course. If you start your aptitude test, I’ll handle the sale and deposit the funds immediately. We can also cover your registration fee if you’d like....”

“No, thank you. I’d rather avoid any possible misunderstandings down the line. I’ll pay for it myself.”

Jeong, visibly moved by Suho’s response, quickly agreed.

“Understood! I’ll get everything ready right away, so please wait just a moment.”

Rising quickly from his seat, Jeong’s brisk movements made Suho chuckle to himself.

***

Everything proceeded smoothly.

While Suho took his aptitude test, Jeong, using his authority, handled the sale of the hobgoblin head and magic crystal with a tax exemption, depositing the proceeds—about 3 million won—directly to Suho’s account.

When Suho finished his aptitude test, he asked, “Team Leader, could I request one more favor?”

“What kind of favor?”

“I believe there’s a library in the Association’s basement. It has reference materials and guides relevant to tomorrow’s exam, if I’m not mistaken. If you allow me, I’d like to prepare there.”

“Oh, that’s all? Of course, you’re welcome to!”

“Thank you.”

The basement library was intended for the Association staff’s personal development. Given that Suho might one day become his subordinate, granting his request was a given.

The library, though technically a resource for staff, was rarely used, with only a few librarians whiling away their time. It was, in essence, a forgotten space.

Upon arrival, Suho immediately recognized the familiar smell of the staff library.

‘It’s been a while since I was here.’

Few people ever used the place, and the librarians barely took notice of anyone who entered.

Jeong lowered his voice and said, “You won’t need a staff card to leave, so feel free to stay as long as you need.”

“Yes, thank you.”

“Then I’ll be off to handle some work. Best of luck on tomorrow’s exam.”

After offering his encouragement, Jeong exited.

Once alone, Suho began scanning the library.

‘Now, where was it...?’

He’d come here seeking a hidden skill concealed in the staff library.

It was a skill related to memory retention—something he would’ve normally dismissed as unnecessary, but given recent events, he needed it more than anyone.

‘Human memory has its limits.’

As far as he knew, he was the only one who had returned to the past, meaning he had no one to turn to, no one to rely on.

Thus, he needed his memory to be as accurate as possible. He could recall significant events, but as a human, some minor details were fuzzy.

That’s why he was here.

Suho moved purposefully toward the “Unknown Books” section.

These were books found inside Gates from other realms, their contents unreadable, labeled as “junk items.”

Looking at the random assortment of books, Suho couldn’t help but recall some memories.

‘These were a pain back then.’

These “unknown books” were indeed troublesome.

They were flame-resistant, difficult to discard, and, given their origin, required some level of management, which led them to the Association’s library.

‘Most will be stored in a warehouse eventually.’

It didn’t take long for Suho to find the book he was looking for—it was the largest in the section.

‘Its size made it easy to spot.’