《A Legion Grows From My Smartphone》


 Chapter 1: Strange App (1)

    Chapter 1: Strange App (1)


    What is this?


    It was an ordinary day, no different from any other. I was casually browsing through my phone when I stumbled upon something peculiar. A strange app had mysteriously installed


    itself among the others. It bore no name, and its icon was a mere ck square.


    Initially, I dismissed it as a glitch, but a sudden chill ran down my spine. With the recent spike in scams and hacking incidents involving smartphones, I couldnt shake off the thought that I might be the next victim. Could someone be hacking my camera for ckmail? In a state of panic, I dropped my phone.


    I racked my brain, trying to remember if I had done anything that could have led to this, but drew a nk. I had never clicked on suspicious links or visited dubious websites,


    let alone downloaded anything from them.


    This is absurd.


    However, what happened next left me stunned. The enigmatic app on my phoneunched itself. It was as if my phone was possessed, operating on its own. In disbelief, I watched for a moment before snapping back to reality and hastily pressing the power button.


    [Its useless.]


    I held my breath at that moment. The four words that materialized on the ck screen froze me in ce, leaving me breathless.


    [Even a repair center cant fix this. Listen carefully, this is an opportunity for you.]


    lust as I was about to wrap my phone in a handkerchief and stash it in my bag, new words emerged on the screen, as if it had anticipated my thoughts.


    What the hell...


    [If you reject the game, Ill distribute your inte usage history, locked files, and screenshots to your acquaintances.]


    Who the hell are you?


    Understanding that creating a fuss wouldnt help, I calmly adjusted my posture, covered the camera lens, and ced my phone back down.


    A new screen appeared on the phone, where previously only white letters had been visible against a ck background.


    ount...link?


    [Didnt I say its a game? You installed this app, so why are you reacting like this?]


    The screen disyed a featuremon in games: email ount linking.


    I swallowed hard.


    If I linked my ount now, I could be hacked... but then again, I was alreadypletely exposed, so it didnt matter. More importantly, what was this nonsense about me installing the app myself? Ive always been cautious with my phone.


    [Link it. Ill exin moreter.]


    Shit...


    I had no other option.


    This unknown hacker mentioned a game, but how could this possibly be a game? This maniac wasmunicating with me in real time, possibly even eavesdropping and spying on me. Faced with the threat of social ruin and the anxiety of what this insane hacker might do next, I reluctantly entered one of my throwaway email addresses.


    Its not working?


    [Participants in this game dont link with something as trivial as an email.]


    While I was still puzzled, a camera sh suddenly went off without warning, capturing my picture.


    [Your soul is the price.]


    The moment the shutter clicked, a gut feeling washed over me. Some might dismiss it as nonsense, but the icy sensation that swept through me was undeniable. My heart hammered in my chest, and a cold sweat trickled down my skin. This was real.


    [Start the game.]


    Despite my shock, the screen transitioned automatically. The new environment disyed graphics that could rival a live-action movie.


    A cave.


    [Behold. You have obtained the entirety of a species in exchange for your soul.]


    The location was a cave. The walls were embedded with faintly glowing stones, providing just enough light to see. Following the message that popped up on the screen, I shifted my gaze. Thats when I saw ''if.


    What the hell is this...


    No matter how I looked, all I could see was a pool of ck liquid on the cave floor.


    [Ah, quite a tricky situation.]


    What are you talking about?


    [A species that matches your mediocre soul, yet holds sufficient potential. Its growth could swing between extremes.]


    I couldnt help butugh at the sheer absurdity.


    Isnt this basically a failure? You could have warned me in advance.


    [If you want more detailed information, try touching it.]


    Looking at it this way, it was a rather friendly tutorial guide.


    I followed its suggestion and touched the screen.


    Its a cell.


    [Correct. But its not a simple cell.]


    The screen magnified, revealing cells dividing at an astonishing speed, extending roots to each other. To a certain extent, I could even observe the pools growth with my naked eye.


    [To simplify, Ill disy their racial characteristics. Racial characteristics are unique attributes inherent to each species.]


    [Hive Consciousness] [Gic Maniption] [Rapid Growth]


    These three functions were presented before me. Upon seeing these keywords, I understood the characteristics of these cells.


    Are they like amoebas?


    [Simr, but different. They can proliferate explosively and literally be anything, but the process is as arduous as carving a beach out of a rock.]


    Speak inly, will you?


    I returned the screen to its original state.


    So, what am I supposed to do with a screen that doesnt even have a fancy UI like a game and just shows me the screen?


    [Now I will proceed with the tutorial.]


    And the progression was at its own discretion, not mine.


    [Theyck power. The limitless explosive proliferation is an advantage, but it also has the drawback of energy depletion.]


    So, what do you want me to do?


    [Right now, provide samples and energy to them, who are currently at the cellr level.]


    It issued amand to me.


    Samples and energy.


    I understood the part about energy, but what did they mean by samples?


    [Samples from which you can obtain gic material. At their current growth stage, they cant replicate a life form thats toorge.]


    I understand what youre saying.


    I rose from my seat. I had alreadyprehended the nature of the creatures I was supposed to care for. They consume, duplicate,bine, and grow stronger. To do so, they required a variety of samples.


    What about these little guys?


    As soon as I stepped outside my house, I found what I was searching for. A tiny ant was busily scurrying up and down the wall.


    [Given their current state, its possible. Capture it.]


    The app activated autonomously, and the camera flickered to life. My heart pounded as I aimed the camera at the ant and snapped a picture.


    ...It disappeared.


    [Look. Your children have seen a ray of light. This moment will be recorded in the history of the species.]


    Once again, the screen disyed the pool.


    The ant I had just captured was transported there and dropped into the pool.


    Devouring and disassembling.


    I watched as the ant was surrounded by countless cells and disassembled at the cellr level, furrowing my brows.


    [You need a macroscopic roadmap. What kind of species do you want to grow these beings with these abilities into?]


    Youre suddenly asking something grand.


    I returned to my room and scratched my head.


    Why should I, who should be worrying about midterms and reports, be worrying about this?


    But ording to it, to survive, they had to keep getting stronger.


    If what was happening wasnt all a dream, I couldnt just ignore it.


    Listening to you, it seems like racial characteristics are the most powerful weapon, so I should go in the direction that can best utilize them.


    The three characteristics were what they had gained in return for starting at the cellr level.


    So, I thought I should move in a way that could best utilize those.


    [Then, to achieve that goal, you need to consistently acquire energy and samples. For now, prepare for war. Theres an intruder.]


    Huh?


    An unexpected event urred.


    I quickly zoomed in on the screen and sure enough, there was an intruder.


    They were... spores of something I couldnt identify.


    [Theyre a type of fungus that lives in this cave. The spores of the fungus, carried by the wind, havee into contact with your children.]


    Although it was called a fungus, it seemed a bit different from the mold I knew.


    At first nce, nothing seemed out of the ordinary.


    But when I touched it to erge it, the scene of a fierce battle unfolded before my eyes.


    [Fungi have strength and fur as weapons. And they are muchrger than your children. But your children have already acquired their own weapons.]


    Among the cells, there were some peculiar ones.


    They had protrusions that resembled the jaws of ants.


    Those creatures swarmed and began to tear the fungus apart.


    [Thecent fungus began to be torn apart brutally. It started to be broken down piece by piece. We achieved our first victory. This too will be recorded in the history of the species.]


    An icon appeared on one side of the screen.


    It was obviously meant to represent the history of the species that it had mentioned.


    [And we have obtained the gic information of the fungus. Check it.]


    Another icon appeared below.


    I clicked on the icon as it told me.


    [Cave Glow Mushroom: 1A1237]


    The information about the lifeform we just fought was written down.


    It was said to be a fungus, and it indeed looked like a subtly glowing mushroom.


    What is this..?


    [Its imitating the absorbed fungus]


    Some of the cells began to divide again at an incredible speed.


    Its appearance was simr to the fungus we had just devoured.


    It wasnt elerating, but the mushroom was truly growing rapidly.


    One peculiar point was that the absorbed glow mushroom was white, but the mushroom I was looking at now was ck.


    [Its imitating the reproduction method of the mushroom to expand its power beyond this ce. Its trying to spread wider by riding on spores]


    I was slightly surprised to hear the reason.


    This unidentified race was smarter than I thought.

 Chapter 2: Strange App (2)

    Chapter 2: Strange App (2)


    [Energy. The most important thing is energy.]


    "...So how do we provide this energy?"


    [We just obtained the gic information of a fungus living in a cave and the ants you collected from Earth. We can mimic their method of nutrient absorption.]


    "Aha."


    I nced at the snack bag lying casually beside me.


    It was unopened and new. But could I really eat it?


    There was no need to worry.


    If ants could eat it, so could I.


    [Then take a picture.]


    I picked up the camera as instructed.


    I didn''t like being ordered around, but there was no choice.


    [The snack you photographed has been transferred to them.]


    The snack, which had been torn open and spread out, moved into my phone as soon as it was photographed.


    Snacks poured into the dark cave with a thud.


    I watched the cells''* reaction.


    At first, they were cautious.


    But soon they began to create something and extend it.


    [It''s a mix of the funguses method and the ants*.]


    The cells clumped together and began to extend thin threads in all directions.


    The threads that were cautiously extending began to cover the snack.


    It was as if the roots of a nt were absorbing nutrients, trying to digest the snack.


    Upon closer inspection, the cells with jaws that killed the fungus were attached to the snack, gnawing at it.


    [We are still primitive. Digestion will take a long time.]


    "...I see."


    It meant there was nothing to do while it was being digested.


    Still, I kept looking at my phone.


    This was quite fun.


    Watching those little guys wriggle, gradually growing.


    It was more enjoyable than any breeding game.


    "Hmm..."


    I left my phone and sat in front of theputer.


    It was fun, but I searched for smartphone hacking in the search bar.


    I wanted to see if there were others experiencing the same symptoms.


    But the results were clear.


    I even tried in English, but there was not a single case with simr symptoms.


    I opened the messenger and then closed it again.


    Honestly, unless I showed it directly, it didn''t seem believable, and his threat was bothering me.


    It sounded absurd, but if it was true.


    I had already seen things disappear as soon as I took a picture.


    It meant it was not something to be dismissed as simple hacking.


    [A wise choice.]


    "Whoa!"


    At that moment, the screen went dark, and white letters began to appear again.


    This crazy guy was now looking at myputer!


    [Moreover, it would be better not to reveal it.]


    "Why, why should I do that?"


    [Aside from protecting your phone records... it''s rted to your life, so all the more reason.]


    It was just text, but it felt chilling.


    I had to admit it. He was the boss.


    Come to think of it, he said it was a game.


    There was no guarantee that this game was single-yer.


    "Why me of all people? There are many other outstanding people. I''m just an ordinary college student."


    [Didn''t I tell you? You downloaded it yourself. I just operated the system and found its owner, Kang Shin Woo.]


    I was speechless.


    There was nothing more to argue about in this unfortunate situation.


    In the end, I turned off theputer and flopped back onto the bed.


    I had to study, but in this situation, I couldn''t concentrate.


    "...Huh?"


    I had fallen asleep. I didn''t think I could sleep in that situation, but the impact of pulling an all-nighter was significant.


    Next to my ear, my phone was loudly ringing an rm.


    "What''s this?"


    [It''s an attack. The sweet snack that suddenly fell into the dark cave. The creatures that smelled it.]


    The source of the rm was this unidentified game.


    I quickly logged into the app.


    "Enemies, you say. Where are they?"


    [Zoom in.]


    As he said, I zoomed in on the screen.


    The intruders were very small creatures.


    Dorge animals not live in this cave in the first ce?


    [It might be a good thing. We can''t deal withrge enemies at our current level.]


    My question was quickly answered.


    Anyway, the creatures crawling towards us now were very small, simr to fleas.


    [We have plenty of stored energy. We can deal with them.]


    We began to respond to the creatures gradually approaching.


    Tentacles extended towards the creatures flocking to the snack being digested.


    [Webined the growth method of the fungus with the genes of the ants.]


    The ends of the roots swelled like tumors, and something began to take shape quickly.


    I was very surprised to see it.


    What was created, although small, clearly resembled an ant.


    The ants, severed from the tentacles, began to swarm towards the enemies targeting their food.


    [We are many and one. There was no inefficiency in our movements. Even our size and strength were greater, so we easily killed the enemies. And the enemies we killed became our assets again.]


    [Cave Bloodsucker Flea: 1B1557]


    The battle ended ndly.


    With our victory.


    Moreover, there were the abilities of the enemy we had absorbed.


    [Now we can also use the blood of other creatures as nutrients.]


    "...Impressive."


    I was genuinely amazed.


    Suspicious as it was, my interest was growing.


    "What are you doing, oppa?"


    "Nothing."


    That evening. My younger sister, who had returned from school and tutoring, frowned at me lying on the living room floor.


    Kang Do Yeon, six years younger than me, was now a high school student.


    "...Are there bugs?"


    "I caught them, so don''t worry."


    She flinched.


    She particrly disliked bugs.


    Anyway, since I caught them, I waved her off and sent her to her room.


    [Fruit flies and ghost spiders. They all became our assets.]


    The new samples I found around the house.


    I photographed the small insects and transferred them to the cave.


    Hundreds jumped to sessfully hunt the fruit fly flying in mid-air.


    It was a strong exoskeleton introduced from the flea''s genes.


    The ghost spider was eaten just like the ants.


    [In just one day, we have grown this much.]


    He was right.


    It was 9 pm, having started in the morning.


    The cell clusters, which were just a small puddle, had now spread their roots over a considerable area, grown into the form of mushrooms, and were able to produce quite a lot of soldiers.


    "How can I grow bigger?"


    [More energy. More samples]


    Now, I was genuinely curious about how big these things could grow.


    "What the... My bread! Did my brother eat it?!"


    "...I''ll buy you someter."


    After changing clothes, I started looking for the bread I bought yesterday.


    It was a bit unfair, but I had topensate.


    However, the bread wasn''t for me to eat.


    The packaging was torn apart, and it was rolling around on the cave floor.


    It had be nourishment for the reproduction of a species.


    "...They grow incredibly fast."


    [If there''s enough nourishment, it''s possible to increase the speed]


    I woke up early in the morning and checked my phone first.


    And I was shocked.


    In just 8 hours, these things had grown more than the bread they had devoured.


    [The growth of the spider web and fungusbined to create the primeval ''nest'']


    "It''s...huge."


    I admired it as I turned the screen.


    The cells that started from a puddle the size of a human footprint now covered more than half of this underground space with their roots and bodies.


    Of course, it''s still at a level that can be stepped on, but this is just one day''s growth.


    What if two days, three days, or half a week passed?


    [Nourishment. More nourishment is needed]


    "Alright."


    I put back the bread my sister boughtst night.


    She would be upset to find out that her precious bread was taken again, but I''ll buy her some more.


    "I can supplement with bread for now. But in the long run, I don''t think I can spend all my food budget on you."


    [That''s true. So, you have to guide them well. Hunting and exploration skills that can be self-sufficient, digestion, energy use efficiency, etc.]


    It''s making it soundplicated again.


    Anyway, I finished getting ready to go out and was thest of my family to leave the house.


    I only have one afternoon ss today.


    "I understand what you mean by designing and guiding, but what do I need to know first?"


    I got on the subway and started heading to the city where my school is located.


    I might look like a crazy person talking to myself to others, but fortunately, there are many people talking with wireless earphones these days.


    [That''s right. I''ll open one more function for you on the second day]


    The tutorial never ends, even though it doesn''t give any rewards.


    As soon as it finished speaking, another icon appeared.


    I knew what it was at a nce. It was a map.


    [But to illuminate the map, scouting is needed]


    "...I knew you were going to say that."


    Scouting. It was a daunting task, but not anymore.


    Dozens of scouts departed from the nest.


    They all had the wings of a mosquito.


    What''s the big deal about scouting? lust release the scouts.


    [Our biggest advantage, using one brain to see all the information from dozens of eyes, umtes quickly. The update speed of the map is explosive. It''s something that most can''t imitate.]


    The scouts dispersed into every corner and began to investigate every part of this cave.


    What they found out was that this was the bottom of the cave, and it was hard to gauge how deep it was.


    Hive Consciousness. I think I understand how powerful the ability to be ''connected as one'' is.


    No matter how far away a scout is, the information they obtain can be immediately known to the whole.


    "What was that just now?"


    [It''s a predator. We can''tpete with it right now]


    lust at that moment.


    A report came in that one of the scouts, who had been slowly climbing the stairs at the front, was abruptly cut off by something.

 Chapter 3: Strange App (3)

    Chapter 3: Strange App (3)


    "Why the long face? Couldnt sleep?


    "No, its not that.


    A close friend of minemented as soon as he saw my face. Its not that I couldnt sleep, but there was something bothering me. "Speaking of which, its quite unfair.


    While others were busy studying for exams, I pulled out my phone andmented. Im being threatened into ying this strange game. But whats in it for me? It was supposed to help me, but it seemed otherwise. It was costing me money and time, which was even more valuable. [Your creatures are still too immature.]


    "So, theyll be helpful once they grow a bit? [That could be possible.]


    The response was surprisingly reasonable. Of course, setting aside what I could do with these creatures. "Im curious. You said there are others like me, right? [Yes.]


    "Do they all start like this... or do their abilities differ?


    From what Ive gathered so far, there are definitely other ^yers like me. But whats the purpose? Apetition among us? There was too little information to conclude that. [You will find out soon. Let me tell you one thing, the races assigned to people like you vary.]


    "So, its not originally a game about growing cells...


    "Good morning, everyone.


    My words were cut off by the professor who entered the room. The ssroom quieted down, and the students who were outside quickly entered as the lecture began. [Scouting in the designated area has failed 192 times.]


    In the middle of the lecture, a message popped up on my phone. I discreetly opened it. This exam was a lost cause. To others, it would seem like I failed because of a mobile game. [We cant break through with our current system. We need to grow.]


    I nodded in agreement with its words. The creature blocking our path was nothing significant. It was a giant spider the size of a king crab, and its web was quite formidable. It was an insane web that exerted a pulling force on any target passing through.


    [First, we should eliminate all the small organisms on the lower floor.]


    I also thought that strengthening ourselves was the priority. For example, increasing our size or acquiring a unique weapon. "Hey, are you going straight home today... where are you going? "Its midterm season, its a bit warm, isnt it? Have you ever been stung by a bee at school?


    After the lecture ended, I asked a friend who came to find me. My friend blinked in surprise at my sudden interest in bees.


    [Our soldiers have modified themselves into the strongest form. Ants jaws, fleas legs, etc... Were looking for the most efficient and strongest model.] "Alright, alright. Youll do fine.


    Even though the only ss was over, I didnt go home. Instead, I rummaged through the bushes near the building. Collecting insects at this age. But thanks to that, I was able to capture various insects like dung beetles and butterflies on camera.


    [The strong jaws of our soldiers tore and disassembled the butterfly and dung beetle. The meat became energy, and their gic information became our assets.]


    The feedback was immediate. The soldiers, now slightlyrger than ordinary ants, were pouring out of the rapidly growing nest like crazy. The bodies of fallen or discardedrades were nothing more than excellent nourishment.


    [The soldiers began to act. The priority was gathering food and hunting prey. Our first target was the nearby fungus colony.]


    ording to the map, there was a ce where mushrooms grew near the hole where our nest was located. We were no longer fighting with the cells of mushrooms. Now, we were targeting the Vertebrates living in the mushroom colony.


    [That small smander is the king of this mushroom colony. We will hunt it.]


    "...From my perspective, its just a massacre... [Our proud army began to march.]


    To me, it didnt seem so impressive that thousands of ants, or rather, monsters that could no longer be called ants, were swarming to catch a tiny smander. [It was the moment we hunted our first vertebrate. This will be recorded in our history...] "Yeah, yeah.


    I put down my phone and headed deeper into the campus. If I couldnt find it here, I was nning to just go home. [What are you trying to catch?] "A bee.


    I simply answered. I thought about it. How to guide these creatures. It seemed right to maximize their hive consciousness. So, I just... thought about it. The most social insects in my knowledge were ants and bees. Especially for bees, they had a stinger and wings.


    "Poisonous ants are not verymon in our country... Its a bitcking for an ant hill.


    The problem was that the formidable creatures I saw didnt seem to be around. I was about to give up and go home when I heard a buzzing sound. "...Whos flying a drone here?


    It was then that I heard a soundpletely different from the annoying buzzing of mosquitoes. I got goosebumps. There was no way someone would fly a drone here. [Take a picture.] "Ah!


    I picked up my phone. At that moment, something huge whizzed past me. A giant mass buzzing. It seemed to have targeted me.


    "Oh, please!


    Ever since I was stung as a child, I was particrly afraid of bees, even though I could touch other bugs with my bare hands. I frantically pressed the shutter. Then, as if heaven had helped, the buzzing sound stopped at some point.


    [Admittedly, this external enemy was a formidable one. But we couldnt let that ho go.]


    The capture squad, which had developed its strength, rushed towards the transmitted ho. After hundreds of attempts, only a few managed to cling to it and sessfully dragged it in. However, some of them fell dead instantly due to the hos stinger.


    [Its strong. But now, no ordinary invertebrate can stand against us.]


    The strongest soldier stepped forward. It was a creature simr to a smander, covered in a hard shell. It was strong, but the stinger couldnt prate the shell. No matter how much of a ho it was, it couldnt fend off the creatures attacking from all sides.


    [Disassemble and evolve.]


    The ho was disassembled on the spot. The acquired gic information was stored in the entire colony and transmitted to the nest, the production factory. The fungus forming the nest rapidly developed and produced new soldiers.


    [Soldiers with a spine, bees wings, and a stinger are created.] "...Gross.


    I couldnt exactly say it was good. And the biggest problem was that we were out of energy again.


    [All cave creatures have their own ways of acquiring energy, but this cave is extremely energy deficient.] "Ah...


    I had to feed them again. No matter how hard I tried to find a way, the environment itself was too harsh.


    "So, in the end, you cant stop predation. The more you develop and grow.


    Now, soldiers the size of three fingers wereing out, and it was impossible to solve the problem with a loaf of bread. I tried to feed them food waste in a hurry, but this time it opposed.


    Its logic was outrageous.


    [It takes energy to digest food. Whats the point if you use more energy in digestion than you absorb?]


    In the end, it was a matter of efficiency. The only thing I could find was the corpse of a pigeon lying on the street.


    "...This should be fine, right? But whats the difference between this and food waste? [Yes.]


    Fortunately, it didnt reject the corpse. Getting the pigeons genes was a bonus, but right now, producing such arge size was inefficient.


    "Hey, I wont give you bread...


    [The lowest floor is nowpletely our territory.]


    Whether it was listening or not. Anyway, the expansion rate was steep. Now, the entire underground basement, although not veryrge, had be our territory. In just one day, just two days...


    However, growth came with side effects.


    Despite having consumed everything that lived and moved in that ce, including microbes and mushrooms, self-sufficiency was still impossible. Is expansion the only answer?


    If they didnt eat even a little bit of prey, they would starve to death.


    And the already ignited growth could not be stopped.


    The only remaining answer was to go all the way.


    [Our growth does not stop. And to grow, we had to continue the war.] The legion gathered.


    Swarms seen in documentaries would seem cute inparison.


    In the air were versatile soldiers, d in shells, pping their wings, and armed with venomous stingers on their tails. On the ground were crawling soldiers who had maximized their strength.


    There were at least tens of thousands, if not hundreds of thousands, of them.


    [The situation improves even if we just go up one floor in the cave. Our target is now the creatures on the upper floors. ording to our reconnaissance, the strongest among those living on the upper floors seemed to be snakes.]


    Honestly, it doesnt seem like were going to lose, does it?


    If it were the unreachable upper floors where king crab-sized spiders lived and our reconnaissance was blocked, then maybe. But now, we were an intimidating legion at first nce.


    It was obvious that we couldnt be stopped even if the small creatures caused a bit of a ruckus.

 Chapter 4: Endless Expansion (1)

    Chapter 4: Endless Expansion (1)


    [Cave Python: 1C1601]


    [One-eyed lumping Spider: ld0080]


    Even after ascending to the upper levels the legion devoured and annihted everything in sights increasing the acquired gene pool. They thoroughly consumed the mushrooms and moss colonies, which had a semnce of life energy.


    [Since you no longer provide energy, the legion, which had been freely emitting energy, began to worry about energy efficiency.]


    "I should have done it earlier.


    [If efficiency is prioritized,bat power inevitably decreases. The number of soldiers decreases, and expansion slows down.]


    "We''re not short on time.


    If I were to thoughtlessly snap photos in ces such as supermarkets and feed them whatever was avable, the situation would be different. However, they had to find the answers themselves. Fortunately, despite theirck of a proper brain structure, these creatures were surprisingly intelligent.


    [Of course. The size of our legion itself is our brain.]


    "Why are you so smug?


    I was sprawled out on the bed. Today was a day off. I was supposed to study, but I couldn''t concentrate.


    "What races did other yers choose? Wolves? Rabbits or something like that?


    [The variety is immense. There are even sentient beings.]


    "...What?


    I asked casually, but the answer was quite shocking. Sentient beings? Weren''t we all raising animals?


    [I said it was diverse. I meant it.]


    "But isn''t that unfair?


    Some are raising cells, while others are raising civilizations.


    [That, no one can definitively say.]


    He was adamant. I honestly didn''t understand, but I kept my mouth shut. Whining wouldn''t change anything. In the end, I neatly folded my thoughts about other yers.


    [The legion has redefined efficiency.]


    They kept thinking and experimenting. They set a new policy for the current problem they were facing. That''s right. I wanted them to be as self-sufficient as possible.


    [They find the optimal number by adjusting the number of soldiers and increasing thebat power per individual. Some nests that have alreadypleted their growth have devised a way to save energy drastically by entering a dormant state.]


    They were armed with new methods they found themselves. Of course, the conquest and predation did not stop. The second level was almost in our hands. Our territory was expanding on the updated map.


    [The main creatures of the third level are vertebrates. We needed powerful soldiers to hunt them.]


    I brought some c and snacks to watch. It seemed more like a documentary than a game. I remembered the fun of ant farming when I was young.


    [We can''t produce results beyond the data we''ve obtained, but we canbine and manipte it.]


    The most terrifying thing was thatpared to a mere beast, we were a swarm. The legion, which moved as a group with a single purpose, produced soldiers for ''war''. It was beyond hunting. With different types of soldiers for each role, I didn''t think we would lose unless we were crushed by an overwhelmingly physical force like a bear breaking a beehive, even if we reduced the number.


    We moved through thorough reconnaissance. The next level was a ce where all the decent creatures lived, so gradually increasing the size was the optimal condition.


    [Once again, it''s time to hunt.]


    After a short refurbishment, the legion entered the upper level again. The poor indigenous creatures could only be hunted unterally, unable to stop them from eating at an incredible speed and evolving.


    "Can''t we just put all the size into one entity?


    While eating my snack, I suddenly muttered my thought. We are now controlling many soldiers of small sizes. Why not increase that size and create a heavyweight bully?


    [Efficiency.]


    He shut my mouth with a single word. It was a very versatile word.


    [And above all, weck experience. You may not know because you''re watching, but think about it from a different perspective. Our world is just a few pupils of this cave.]


    "...I see what you mean.


    [They are oblivious to the existence of humans. The information we''ve gathered so far is severely limited. We possess exceptional hardware, yet among the data we''ve collected, there are no species with advanced brains. In essence, weck the software to operate the hardware.]


    "Will we ever encounter another sentient being if we continue to ascend this cave?


    My curiosity was piqued, not only by the hardening creatures but also by the cave''s end. Is this cave the entirety of our world? Perhaps the real world lies beyond this cave.


    [...That''s what you need to keep observing and impart to the children. The curiosity and interest inherent in humans.]


    I couldn''t visualize it yet, but it was certainly a possibility. We had progressed this far in just three days from a single cell lump.


    "I''ve brought some bread.


    "I won''t steal...


    Abruptly, the door swung open. She quickly seized all the bread bags I was holding, retreating into the room and shutting the door behind her.


    [High-quality nourishment...]


    "Don''t joke.


    I sighed, returning to the room. I had spent the entire day engrossed in my phone. It was entertaining, allowing me to ignore things in my life.


    "There''s nothing on the third floor, so we can continue like this.


    Compared to the barren lowest level, where only a few mushrooms and moss existed, the third floor was slightly more abundant. We discovered flowing water, nts growing in the


    cave, and an increased variety of small animals. We consumed all of it.


    "Why can''t you teach them the concept of farming? What if they eat everything they see?


    [Farming is a luxury for us now.]


    I regretted my words as soon as they left my mouth. The idea of farming in this cave was impractical. The essence of farming was to use nts to convert unusable energy into fruits or grains for consumption. Our species, however, could directly produce energy by mimicking the method of the consumed fungus, which served as a producer here, eliminating the need for farming. The only thing that mattered was the absolute amount of energy. There was no way to increase that energy unless it was preyed upon or fed from the outside.


    "Where are you going?


    "Uh.. I''m going to exercise.


    In the end, I left the house again after the sun had set. I was thinking of finding a way. Self-sufficiency was definitely necessary, but I thought it would be better to fill in the physically impossible parts.


    [Did you find a way?]


    "I''ve slightly shifted my perspective. Not all food is man-made. Look, some animals consume this massive tree and derive energy from it.


    [Our speciescks the ability to digest trees.]


    "So, what''s the problem? I just need to send a creature that can.


    I resolved to use my ability more assertively. The creature was particrly vexing to have in my house. As a cleanliness fanatic, the sight of a cockroach would have been unthinkable. However, this back mountain was a different story.


    I picked up the camera, a frantic determination coursing through me. I believed that if I took enough pictures, something would stick. After all, we were in a position to catch any bug that fell our way.


    [Hold on, that''s not a good approach.]


    "Huh?


    [Don''t just snap pictures randomly.]


    lust as I was about to press the shutter, I was tackled.


    [Your ount level is still 1, so there are restrictions on ability usage.]


    "I wasn''t aware of that.


    [There was no need to tell you.]


    ...This guy?


    However, the restriction made sense. If I were a powerful aristocrat who ignored morality andws to abuse my abilities, it would be ridiculously unfair, lust imagine the chaos if I immediately spent money to buy meat in warehouse quantities and sent it off.


    "Tell me these things in advance. So, what can I do now?


    [At level 1, you can provide up to 10 samples and can provide a maximum of 20kg of feed per day.]


    "...I think I understand why you''ve always pursued high efficiency.


    It was a quite realistic restriction. It made me understand why he despised wastefulness. It was best to exclude things that could be obtained locally, like water.


    "Alright. So far, we have ants, flies, spiders, bees, dung beetles... butterflies and pigeons...


    [You have 3 chances left.]


    "Sigh.


    Taking a single picture was hard. I turned on the sh and approached a fallen tree halfway up the back mountain. While many people were taking night walks along the perimeter path at the level of the mountain, I used the sh to closely examine the tree surface.


    I was looking for termites, insects that feed on wood. I''ve seen people on YouTube just go to the mountains and catch them randomly.


    "What? Why?


    [It would be better to look for termitester. For now, just observe.]


    An rm rang. I had dismissed it lightly, but it was something I couldn''t ignore.


    [On the fourth floor, which we targeted, there was another swarm. These were creatures that our initial aerial reconnaissance failed to detect. They primarily inhabit underground and on the ground.]


    "Ants?


    The exnation alone suggested they were ants. On the screen, creatures were confronting our scouts, who resembled hos and were clicking their jaws on the ground.


    Despite theirrge size, their overall formprising a head, chest, and abdomen-was akin to ants.


    [Don''t underestimate them. Their legion is the ruler of the fourth floor.]


    Suddenly, the white ant confronting us opened its jaws wide and spewed out a liquid like a cannon. The liquid struck the scout.


    The part it hit instantly melted away in a puff of smoke, leaving me speechless with shock.

 Chapter 5: Endless Expansion (2)

    Chapter 5: Endless Expansion (2)


    I barely epted it.


    That''s right. That ce is another worlds an alien world.


    Anything could happen and it wouldn''t be strange. Even the ants on Earth can shoot poison and acid.


    "But how can it make sense for them to shoot hydrochloric acid?!"


    Having given up on finding termites, I returned home, bitten by mountain mosquitoes.


    Since we can already suck blood, mosquitoes, or rather, those damned insects, were utterly useless.


    [It''s good to remember. That cave is abyrinth that should never be taken lightly.]


    "I know that."


    Giant spiders the size of king crabs, huge scorpions with six tails, and so on.


    I knew that ce, where monsters that could rival Earth''s prehistoric creatures lived, was extraordinary and nothing that emerged from there would be surprising.


    [Today''s event will be recorded in the history of our race. The day we, our race, met a worthy opponent for the first time.]


    "...Can we win?"


    [No one knows that. But one thing is certain, our legion never stops. If there''s an obstacle, we break it. If there''s an enemy, we devour it. There''s no other choice.]


    "So we keep growing and growing... What will happen in the end? What if we devour the whole world?"


    [Then we will devour another world.] Madness was glimpsed in the words.


    I didn''t particrlyment on it.


    I simply searched the inte for a site that sold termites for breeding.


    I thought about what was most important in this game.


    And I concluded that it was the luck of the draw and the yer''s wealth... no, ability.


    That was why I went to the shop on this bloody weekend, after quitting my part-time job, on a train.


    It was faster for me to go than to have it delivered.


    [I don''t understand. You just need to take a picture. Didn''t you say it''s a waste of money?]


    "That''s stealing."


    [Even for a single ant?]


    "...Honestly, I''m a bit tempted."


    Wouldn''t it be okay to sneakily take just one ant?


    If worstes to worst, I could even get a recently dead body.


    But the conclusion I came to upon arrival was to just not do anything suspicious.


    What if I get caught and interrogated just to save a few thousand won?


    I didn''t have the skill to exin the phenomenon of things disappearing with a sh when I took a picture.


    "I''m stockpiling power in preparation for war."


    I took a picture of the termites I bought and sent them directly to the nest.


    The legion, which had broken down the termites down to the microbial level, now had the ability to digest wood.


    I went back to the back mountain.


    In fact, stealing wood is also illegal.


    I didn''t know about other things, but I had no choice with this.


    In the mountains where there were no CCTVs, I took a picture of a log that was rolling on the ground.


    Perhaps due to the 20kg limit, not all of it was transferred and a part was cut off.


    "What''s the big deal with a tree?"


    [We will maximize the efficiency bybining the ability we acquired this time with our existing abilities.] Threads began to stretch out from the log that fell in the middle of the nest.


    The supplies arrived safely in preparation for the war.


    Now all that was left was to wage war based on these acquired supplies.


    [The legion, having received nourishment, began to prepare for war. The dormant nest woke up again and began to produce soldiers.] The legion is intelligent.


    The various genes absorbed were not just physical.


    By imitating andbining thebat methods of each race engraved in the acquired genes, they created a single strategy and tactics. In particr, group tactics were already obtained from the genes of bees and ants.


    [The legion dispatched a reconnaissance squad. They nned to continuously engage in local battles with the bastards and extract everything about them. The winged soldiers set off. The bastards had once again ced troops that spit saliva at the front.]


    These creatures were incredibly stronger than Earth''s ants. However, we were well-prepared. In the war between the two legions, we had an additional weapon at our disposal.


    [Once deceived, the legion will not be fooled again.]


    The artillery-like fire spat out by the bastards was avoided by the reconnaissance soldiers with precise movements. If forces of simr size shed, could we really lose?


    We are one. We move as one body.


    There is no fear or inefficiency.


    The reconnaissance soldiers swooped down and grabbed the enemies with their strong jaws and feet.


    Then they coiled their tails and stabbed them with their stingers.


    It was the beginning of a full-scale war.


    [The legion has made a decision. We can win.]


    When I switched the screen, the main force that had been waiting was all setting off.


    Large heads, powerful jaws, hard carapaces, etc.


    The troops, modified to be optimized for dealing with those who dig and live on the ground, knowing that the enemy was such.


    [The enemies, who were focused on our aerial reconnaissance soldiers, noticed our main force. But it was already toote. We continued to advance forward, even risking damage from the powerful acid attack they spewed.]


    I held my breath and watched the spectacle.


    They were no match for us in terms of organization.


    In this war, our goal was only the annihtion of the enemy, and the enemy''s goal was survival.


    It was a natural fact proven in human history that those who prioritize survival are pushed back by those who fearlessly attack.


    The ants of this world, struggling for survival, could not stop the legion''s troops moving only for killing.


    The entire ce became a battlefield.


    Other life forms that hade for no reason were also caught up in the battle and devoured by us.


    [We won the field battle. The bastards started to block the entrance of the nest with their bodies in a hurry.] We won.


    And the enemies retreated to their fortress.


    But we had already anticipated all of this.


    Our secret weapon appeared.


    A snake with a thick carapace on its head.


    It wasn''t particrlyrge, but it was sufficient to breach their nest. Even when they spewed acid, the snake''s thick carapace provided ample protection, allowing it to push the acid away. Consequently, the rest of the troops began to infiltrate the damaged nest one by one.


    Why was I so anxious about an ant nest?


    The tide of the war had already shifted significantly. The enemy, who had initiated a power struggle from the onset, was now in shambles. Their resistance had be futile; they had failed in their defense and were merely being ughtered.


    [It''s important to broaden your perspective]


    "...To prepare for when the scale of war esctes?" It was an undeniable statement.


    The legion would never be content here.


    It would grow further, fight bigger enemies.


    [We decimate the enemy queen and use thervae and eggs as food. We have won a war between legions. This event will be recorded in history]


    I nced at the clock.


    Merely four hours.


    In just four hours, the white cave ant colony that ruled the fourth floor fell to us. But that wasn''t all.


    The annihted opponent left us an inheritance.


    Their weapons could now be ours.


    Weapons capable of capturing the beings on the upper floors.


    "Do they ever rest?"


    [Even in moments of rest, our nourishment is consumed] The legion never stops. *


    The peaceful, wide expanse of the cave.


    This unusually spacious ce was quite developed with vegetation around the centralke.


    This meant it was rich in nourishment.


    Indeed, the fungus that grew here formed a colony of giant mushrooms, the size of a child.


    A toad living here casually consumed something crawling on the ground.


    This toad, about the size of a small dog, thoroughly enjoyed the popping sensation in its mouth.


    The white cave ants, armed with strong acidity, were one of the lowest life forms here, living modestly in small numbers, unlike the lower floors where they formed arge legion as the rulers of the stairs.


    The toad yawned with its mouth wide open and moved to another ce.


    It was the outskirts of the hive.


    The toad, moving its sensory organs absentmindedly, suddenly looked down at its feet.


    [It''s time to hunt more advanced life and increase the size of our legion]


    Countless ants, or rather, monsters hard to call ants, began to cling to the toad''s body. The toad jumped and shook its body.


    But other monsters, buzzing in the air, rushed at the toad.


    [It''s a new poisonbined with strong acidity. A powerful extreme poison that melts the target''s nerves and blood vessels] The poison injected by the stinger-tipped tail was no longer ordinary bee venom.


    Even the thick skin immune to acidity couldn''t withstand the acid directly injected into it.


    The toad''s massive body, struggling against this relentless attack, slowly fell.


    [Even the predator of predators is our prey]


    Something quickly cut through the air and flew in upon discovering the toad''s corpse. It was arge bat, pping its doubleyered wings.


    But the moment it grabbed the toad with its ws.


    The legion covering the toad''s body also attacked the bat.


    The startled bat flew up.


    The bat''s body was covered in fur, but its skin was much thinner than the toad''s.


    The soldiers of the legion ruthlessly crawled over the bat''s body and began to tear at the thin membrane of its pping wings. [...This is just the beginning]


    The bat, its wings reduced to rags, eventually staggered and fell to the ground.


    It was the moment when the ck wave crawling up from the weakest bottom of thebyrinth began to overturn the ecosystem of thisbyrinth in earnest.

 Chapter 6 - Endless Expansion (3)

    Chapter 6 - Endless Expansion (3)


    Even if we go outside, wouldn''t it be better if we learn photosynthesis?


    [Setting aside whether we can learn nt abilities, do you really know what lies at the end of thisbyrinth?]


    I''m just trying to be hopeful.


    As was my routine, I dispatched trees from the back mountain and evaluated the situation. The seemingly formidable creatures of the fifth floor couldn''t withstand the collective assault and were devoured one after another. They were solitary beasts, incapable of forming groups, and thus had no other option. The ants of the fourth floor, who attacked in swarms, appeared to be stronger.


    [The plentiful prey on the fifth floor provided an abundance of energy, significantly aiding our species'' evolution. This will be a moment etched in history, the moment we ascend to a higher form of existence.]


    ...We need to grow bigger. We can''t live as ants forever.


    The legion that had eaten the rtively advanced animals of the fifth floor began to grow in size. Until now, wecked data onrge animals, but not anymore. As the umted data increases, the modifications and optimizations that we couldn''t properly utilize before will ur more quickly and diversely.


    [Based on the toad, soldiers with shells and corrected body shapes are now harvesting and crushing mushrooms.]


    The newly created soldiers wererge. They crushed therge mushrooms with their strong jaws. The crushed mushrooms were broken down by the roots of the nest and the smaller dposers produced, and converted into nourishment. The nourishment in those thick,rge mushrooms seemed to be several times more than the trees I was providing.


    [The new soldiers have also taken control of the air, hunting those who lived on the walls and ceiling.]


    We had been dividing and distinguishing the types of soldiers even when we were at the cellr level. Although the toad''s body was used as a base, the only simrity was that it was a four-legged vertebrate. Rather, the new legion soldier, which could be called aposite'', was equipped with everything from a thin body, bat wings, shells, jaws, and a poisonous tail. pping its wings, it left for reconnaissance on the next floor. I also left my spot. It was time to eat.


    What kind of game are you ying so much?


    Huh?


    I was surprised by the sudden question while I was eating quietly. My younger sister, Kang Do Yeon, was looking at me with a frown, having stopped eating. I nced at the cell phone I had casually ced on the table.


    It''s nothing.


    You''ve beenining about the uing exams, but you''re just ying games on your phone.


    Why are you suddenly interested?


    I chuckled. She usually didn''t care about what I was doing.


    Never mind. Anyway, the exams will be over next week.


    Right.


    While talking, I realized why she brought this up. I couldn''t have forgotten in the first ce.


    I remember dad''s anniversary, so don''t worry.


    ...Okay.


    She nced at me and started eating quietly again. The atmosphere became strange for a moment, but it quickly dissipated. I finished my meal and got up from my seat first.


    It''s a game, huh... When does the tutorial end? Why isn''t my ount level increasing?


    [The tutorial will be cleared when you reach the 10th floor, that is, when you pass the 9th floor.]


    Doing as you please.


    Now, the 6th floor is being plundered by us. With this rate of growth, it doesn''t seem too difficult.


    [Look. This is evidence of the legion evolving into a higher life form.]


    One screen was shown on the screen. This ce is the lowest level, our origin. Here, where our nest haspletely covered, a disgusting flesh wall was wriggling.


    Hmm...


    [Do you think it''s disgusting? That pulsating flesh wall mimics the internal reproductive organs of a higher life form.]


    Why on earth?


    [It''s for efficiency.]


    I frowned, scrutinizing the flesh wall. As per the exnation, this wall was a magnified version of reproductive organs, detached from the body. It was, quite literally, a nest. The entire legion was gradually specializing. Those focused on production were honing their skills, while those dedicated to thought were sharpening their intellect.


    [The newly refined production system begins to operate.]


    The wriggling of the flesh wall intensified, and something began to tear through the meat wall and appear. It was arge egg.


    [The legion, which has introduced the concept of growth'' beyond simply replicating itself like a tumor, was able to dramatically increase the energy efficiency involved in raising troops.]


    The eggs produced from the flesh wall grew faster than before, breaking the eggs and hatching. Such nests are filling the entire upied floors, and such eggs are pouring out by the hundreds and thousands.


    [And look. An organ that can be called a proper brain tissue is also being created. It even has a concept of investment. It already recognizes the need for advanced and specialized nerve tissue. This will be recorded in history. We don''t know when, but the fully developed brain of our species will surely have a self.]


    Not only the production organs were located at the lowest level. The deepest and safest ce. There was a brain connected to the legion. It''s just a pilot organization that doesn''t help much yet. But as more data is umted, that brain will definitely grow bigger.


    *


    What is this?


    [These are new types of enemies.]


    The moment I woke up from sleep, I found my phone in a daze. There was no need to look at the clock, lust looking at the color outside the window, it was still early dawn.


    What is it?


    I rubbed my eyes and examined the screen. On the seventh floor, our newly producedrge reconnaissance soldiers were annihted in a ce that was supposed to be nothing special when we first scouted.


    [It''s the same as before. Things that we couldn''t scout with small entities reacted this time.]


    What on earth...


    A new reconnaissance soldier was dispatched. This time it was a small entity based on a bee. That entity found the enemies that it couldn''t detectst time.


    [They are the double-winged bats we hunted on the 5th and 6th floors.]


    ...Why are there so many?


    The ceiling of the hive was shown. And those densely packed there were definitely bats. They looked to be at least several hundred. Knowing that these alien bats are the size of a young child, I got goosebumps.


    [They hardly qualify as a legion''. They merely coexist, each hunting independently on different floors.]


    Still, if that multitude of bats were to attack us, we wouldn''t stand a chance, lust consider the physical disparity.


    I voiced my thoughts with a hollow chuckle. I was gradually getting the hang of it, but the conclusion I reached was grim. The legion''s power was insufficient for a direct confrontation with the bat swarm.


    I chuckled to myself, muttering under my breath. As I was slowly getting the hang of it, the conclusion I hade to was impossible. The strength of the legion was insufficient to engage in a head-on battle with that bat colony. We could produce superiorbat soldiers of a simr weight ss, but then we wouldn''t be able to match their numbers.


    [That''s not what we''re thinking about.]


    What?


    [Didn''t we tell you? The legion never stops. Right now, we''re actually quite pleased. If we can use those numerous pieces of meat as nourishment, we can create arge force like those bats.]


    How do you n to fight?


    [...Trust us.]


    The legion had already begun to move. I wasn''t sure what they were up to, but at least it didn''t seem like they were thinking of a head-on fight. They were even willing to kill off their existing soldiers and convert them into nourishment.


    I''m really curious about this.


    For now, I got dressed. I was considering cramming for today''s test.


    [The legion has devised the first tactic.]


    Soon after, the legion began to release the umted energy again. I carefully observed the nest. Something started to crawl out of the tiny eggs.


    [The first tactic chosen by the legion was a cunning one. But we''re not sure if it will work.]


    There were small creatures crawling on the walls. They had only one weapon: a poisonous sting. That sting contained the most potent poison the legion had created, the Acidic Poison. They had chosen this covert battle as soon as they realized a frontal confrontation would be difficult.


    [The Acidic Poison was indeed effective against bats. But the execution rate wasn''t very good. A few careless bats fell to the ground, but the bats were originally creatures that ate these small creatures.]


    The exchange rate was not good. The bats easily detected the approach and devoured the poison bugs. The Acidic Poison was meaningless unless injected into the bloodstream. Moreover, the creatures in this cave, including the bats, were generally resistant to the poison due to the mushrooms they ate.


    So what now? It seems like we''ve tried everything we have.


    [The legion has chosen the second tactic.]


    As I prepared to leave, I watched the progress. There was no additional movement. However, the meat walls thatpletely covered the second floor suddenly hardened.


    What is this...


    [The legion temporarily put the two-floor nest into hibernation as explosive energy was needed.]


    What on earth for? I turned the screen to the entrance of the sixth floor. I realized their intention there and let out a hollowugh.


    [Imitating the tactics of the White Cave Ants that resisted from the fortress, the legion decided to wage a siege.]


    That doesn''t seem like the siege I know of.


    Since when did a siege mean hitting with a fortress?

 Chapter 7: Endless Expansion (4)

    Chapter 7: Endless Expansion (4)


    The bats were not a legion, but amunity living together. They had no interest in the ground below, littered with their droppings. A few of them noticed an anomaly, but they simply ignored it and went on with their hunting.


    [How foolish. What can we expect from such beasts? But it''s a blessing for us.]


    Sigh...


    I let out a sigh, almost in admiration.


    Before I knew it, the flesh wall hadpletely covered a portion of the 7th floor.


    The chunks of meat that had rapidly divided in just a day were not a nest.


    As a legion, it was a new nest created after the production nest and brain, a sort of forward base for battle.


    [The legion asked itself, should we annihte them here and now? And it made its own decision. The answer was no. Its enough to just drive them away.]


    Why so? The energy invested is too great.


    [Its only a matter of time, they will all be our prey.]


    The legion waged war on the bats.


    The bats were more likely to simply flee than fight to the death.


    Where should the driven-out bats go?


    They could only go up or down.


    [Thoseing down will be our food, and the hundreds of bats pouring into the upper floors will cause a rift in the bnce.]


    Well take advantage of the chaos caused by that rift.


    [Yes. When sudden chaos leads to the copse of the existing ecosystem, we will devour it whole.]


    It was wicked and cunning.


    But undoubtedly an effective tactic.


    Whether the bats increased or decreased.


    The legion intended to devour it whole.


    But whats the point of covering the walls with chunks of meat?


    [Weve built a fortress, now its time to attack from a distance.]


    The flesh wall writhed.


    What would they use to attack?


    A few bats seemed interested, but they didnt move, perhaps their intelligence wasnt high enough.


    But then...


    What the...?


    Screech!


    Screech! Screech!


    The bats screamed and pped their wings frantically.


    In the midst of that, at least dozens of bats fell to the ground.


    What on earth did they do?


    [The legion mimicked the strategy of the White Cave Ants. They spat out acid, but we fired a more powerful acidic poison in a more advanced form. The poison stingers fired from the flesh wall stuck into the bodies of the enemies. Theyre not just stingers. Theyre stingers made of a bone-like substance with a hollow inside.]


    Crazy.


    It was beyond my imagination.


    And this method worked well.


    The bats have thin skin.


    Moreover, their wings wrapped in a membrane are even weaker.


    This means theyre extremely vulnerable to the fired poison stingers.


    Especially when hundreds are clustered together, the effect is maximized.


    [The legions strategy worked. The bats felt threatened and chose to flee in confusion rather than fight back. Its our victory.]


    The now empty 7th floor was ours.


    The nest continued to grow, cutting off the breath of the bats writhing on the ground and taking their bodies, down to every drop of blood and strand of hair, as nourishment.


    But the bigger chaos was probably on the floor above, the 8th floor.


    Hundreds of excited bats must have flocked there all at once.


    Its a feast, isnt it?


    [It may seem so. But its not.]


    I muttered lightly after the test, but it immediately refuted it. Its not very considerate.


    Whats not?


    [The legion has only found a tactic that maximizes efficiency, and it worked. We still dont have overwhelming power.]


    Should I say theyre thorough?


    But regardless, I couldnt help but feel burdened.


    [The ount level has increased to 2. Now, 20 samples can be provided, and the feed limit has increased to 40kg.]


    So youre telling me to keep working?


    I let out a hollowugh.


    But if it was a problem that I, the yer, had to deal with, there was nothing I could do.


    I had to do it.


    Lets stick with wood for now.


    [Do you have a n in mind?]


    ...Im not sure.


    It was a difficult problem.


    Where could I find easy, cheap, and high-calorie food?


    After chatting with my peers, I returned home.


    Do both of you have no ns tomorrow afternoon?


    Our mother, who came homete from work, called out to my sibling and me.


    We both nodded, already aware of what she was about to say.


    [Could there be a problem with our main n...]


    Thats not it, you lunatic. Its just a quick trip.


    I retorted to the overstepping fellow as I returned to my room.


    Tomorrow, were going to visit father.


    I sighed, wondering what use there was in telling this unknown hacker.


    Its been exactly ten years since our father was brutally torn apart before our eyes.


    Even though I considered myself an adult now, it was still hard to think about that day.


    Lets worry about something else. Like what to use as a sample. We cant waste this opportunity.


    [Thats a good idea]


    Isnt it a bitcking to stick with insects? Of course,pared to the monsters in your area, all the animals here are quite tame.


    My thoughts expanded to reptiles, birds, and mammals.


    The problem was how to obtain them.


    There were simr creatures I wanted to include after seeing the rough and dreadful alien cave, but they were beyond my reach.


    We should visit father more often. He would be pleased.


    ...Yes.


    Lets go now.


    Its been ten years. We had no choice but to get used to it.


    My usually talkative sibling left the ce first, without uttering a word.


    The disaster had a bigger impact on her since she was only seven at the time.


    [Is your business done? Currently, the legion is upying the 8th floor.]


    A message flowed on my phone screen.


    I didnt bother to open the app.


    It was doing fine on its own, and it would notify me if anything major happened.


    I folded my phone and nced at the rearview mirror.


    The building of the charnel house was receding.


    We should visit more often.


    My mothers voice was moist.


    I kept my mouth shut.


    Its been ten years, but the scene was always the same.


    Oh, we need to turn back.


    Lets do that.


    Our car, which had been driving smoothly in silence towards the setting sun, was blocked by other cars filling the road.


    Soldiers and police officers were bustling around up ahead.


    The police were blowing whistles and directing cars to detour.


    Attention, everyone! The gate will open soon!


    This is a controlled area! Please turn back!


    Some police officers were holding loudspeakers and shouting non-stop.


    Seeing the soldiers gathered, I guessed it was indeed the gate.


    Its okay. The soldiers are already prepared. There will probably be hunters too.


    Uh...uh-huh.


    I held my mothers hand, which was tightly gripping the gear.


    It was cold and trembling.


    My mother was still terrified of the gate and the monsters pouring out of it.


    Who wouldnt be afraid of those monsters? But my mother was particrly more so.


    It was inevitable. Those monsters once drove our family to the brink of destruction.


    The response system and peoples reactions were all immature ten years ago.


    After the day my father sacrificed himself to protect my young self and my mother from their hellish attack, a systematic structure began to form.


    I bit my lip for no reason.


    Those monsters were not only objects of fear but also my enemies.


    Of course, I was nothing more than an ordinary person without any power.


    Even when I was in the military, I was lucky enough not to have to mobilize because of the gate.


    Look, those must be the hunters.


    My mother pointed to something far away.


    In the distance, a few silhouettes were descending from a helicopter.


    Those who fought the monsters were powerful people like the soldiers and those individuals.


    The monsters wille out.


    ...Lets turn back quickly.


    Kang Do Yeon, who had been silent, urged my mother with a word.


    However, my gaze remained fixed on that ce.


    [Are you referring to those creatures from the other world when you talk about prey and samples?]


    I felt a flush of embarrassment as I read the message.


    Those useless, shitty monsters.


    I wanted to use them as food for our creatures.


    Youre right. I was considering using the monsters as food and samples.


    I confessed after returning to my room.


    I wasnt sure if it was possible to take pictures of those creatures, which were strictly managed even in death.


    If I seeded in doing that, I would have to worry about my life, not the photos.


    [It might be difficult right now. But if we grow, if we grow more, it might be different.]


    How exactly?


    [Our rtionship is not one-way. Whenever it happens, if the legion gains self-awareness, ask it. How it perceives your existence. How it can repay the favor it has received.]


    Thats reassuring.


    I chuckled, but I didnt feel bad.


    I appreciated being acknowledged and thanked.


    [In order to do that, we need to keep fighting and devouring. Now that were on the 8th floor. Next are the spiders that have been blocking our reconnaissance.]


    At the same time, our new goal was updated.

 Chapter 8: The Beings of the Lowest Floor (1)

    Chapter 8: The Beings of the Lowest Floor (1)


    A subtle change began to ur in this vast and enormous cave, the duration of which was unknown. It was a minuscule change, barely noticeable among the countless branches of the cave. However, that change was undeniably growing more prominent. Amidst the silence, the beings of the lowest floor began to look a little higher.


    Are reptiles still the majority here?


    [Armed with rough and tough skin, and a whip-like tail tipped with hard armor.]


    The screen disyed a giant lizard. This dog-sized lizard, standing atop a pile of bat corpses, split our dispatched soldier in half with a swing of its tail. Once again, I felt the creatures of this cave, although alien, were incredibly powerful.


    Insect size wont cut it anymore.


    [Correct. It means our race needs to evolve as a whole.]


    We also increased in size. Insects were no longer our base. It was a more advanced, evolved form. Even a lizard with a sharp and flexible tail whip couldnt defeat the numerous soldiers we had, who had transferred the robust leg muscles of a giant toad to their arms. Borrowing the jaw joint from ants, the soldiers opened their mouths wide and sunk their hard teeth in.


    In the end, its the same. To be honest, to stand against us, the opponent must also be legion-level.


    The oue was one-sidedpared to the tension. Unless there was a physical difference, no matter how many they were, the opponent couldnt beat us. It was the same as whenrger creatures like mantises and rats were annihted by a swarm of ants. To stop a group, an equivalent ''group had toe.


    [The 8th floor was already in chaos before we entered, just as we intended. The native creatures of this floor couldnt resist and inevitably became prey to our legion.]


    I


    Thus, we moved to the 9th floor, passing the 8th floor that was annihted by bats.


    [Look at them. The giant armored spiders that blocked our reconnaissance. But now, they are just our prey.]


    Surprisingly, the upation of the 9th floor was not a big deal. The giant spiders, which once seemed like an insurmountable wall, now looked like insignificant remnants.


    [In fact, the legion knows how strong we are. These are produced based on the toad. They have been modified to enable long-range attacks based on past experiences.]


    The new soldiers with sturdy bodies crawled and stood in ce. They firmly fixed their bodies, like how a self-propelled gun nts a spade for shelling. At the same time, their


    skin tore, and a jagged bone spike revealed its end.


    [They can create spikes from specific nutrients absorbed internally. And their unique muscle organ adjusts to eject those spikes under high pressure. Now the spikes are fired.


    They are poisonous spikes carrying deadly poison.]


    The spikes that cut through the wind were stuck in the bodies of the unsuspecting spiders. Even with a hard exoskeleton, the poisonous spikes shattered that armor.


    [It will take some time to stabilize the 9th floor. However, separately from that, the legion decided to attempt reconnaissance to update the map.]


    Of course.


    Although it was loose because it was the first time, we already knew the importance of reconnaissance. The legion quickly put the scouts on standby.


    [And congrattions. You have broken through the 10th floor and cleared the tutorial.]


    ...I forgot.


    [Choose your tutorial reward. After the tutorial is Chapter 1.]


    The one who called it a tutorial suddenly made a sudden deration, and suddenly other contents began to appear on the screen. Three rewards that divided the screen into three.


    [Reward 1: One-time Assassination Right]


    [Reward 2: 1000 Gold]


    [Reward 3: One-time Race Preservation Right]


    Hey, I have no idea what these are?


    I rubbed my eyes while nkly looking at the letters. I expected food or samples as rewards, but the contents werepletely different.


    [Of course. Tutorial rewards are the same for all yers. So there wont be rewards that only fit our race.]


    Whats an assassination right? Whats gold? The shop function isnt open.


    [The assassination right is literally an assassination right. When you meet a strong enemy someday. You can designate that enemy and assassinate them without any questions.]


    ...Crazy.


    I could tell it was overpowered just by hearing it. Then its definitely worth saving.


    The question was whether it was right to choose the assassination right now.


    Is gold used in the way I know it?


    [As I said in advance, the shop function will open after Chapter 3. You will be able to purchase a few items there.]


    Is the race preservation right... something like an escape pod?


    Even though the exnation was given, I roughly understood it.


    It was now time to choose.


    In fact, I didnt ponder for long.


    Gold, whose value I didnt know and couldnt use yet, was unnecessary.


    The race preservation right could be a trump card for us, capable of cellr-level growth.


    However, I thought it was right to struggle for victory rather than worry about a defeat that hadnt yet urred.


    Ill go with the assassination right.


    [The reward has been deposited into your inventory]


    Ah, damn it!


    And at that moment, startled by a stinging sensation, I looked at the back of my right hand.


    On the back of my hand, which had never had a tattoo before, a ck mark was engraved.


    [It would be wise to spend your items wisely. Our legion, and you too. We cant live without each other. That item should be used at the most needed moment, anytime, anywhere.]


    ...Would there be a chance to use this in reality?


    I grumbled while rubbing the back of my hand.


    There was a slight regret that I should have chosen gold and sold it for money.


    [As the 8th and 9th floors were stabilized, the legion removed the spider webs and sent the scouts to the 10th floor. After the tutorial, its the moment to announce the real start. ]


    The humming BGM changed to a more ominous tone.


    For some reason, I felt a little tense.


    Its wide, isnt it?


    [The map is being updated. But it was a surprise to the legion. This ce is one of the many branches of the cave. The 10th floor that the legion swallowed was actually just a branch of those many branches.]


    I clicked on the history tab.


    Among the records of the past, the text about the world beyond the world that was just created caught my eye.


    [It was a moment when the definition of the world known to the legion expanded. They were shocked to realize that the territory they had upied was actually just a speck of dust in this vast world.]


    Are they freaked out?


    [Do you still not know the legion?]


    I added a word in vain and got scolded.


    The legions scouts explored this vast cavity.


    This ce was a kind of corridor, but soon they discovered a ''room located next to it.


    [The vegetation is developing around the flowing water as before, but its scale is different.]


    The first thing that caught my attention in the dimly lit scene, illuminated by the glow of luminescent stones, was a colossal two-headed lizard. Its eyes twinkled ominously amidst a vast and varied colony of mushrooms.


    The lizard was savagely ripping apart a creature that looked remarkably like a frog.


    The issue was their size.


    The lizard was as big as a small car, and the frog it was devouring wasrger than a hefty dog.


    One of the lizards two heads, encased in blue scales, swiveled towards the scout in the sky.


    And then, in that instant.


    Eek!


    The acrid me filled the screen before it abruptly went dark.


    [Do you see? The creatures of thisbyrinth are not to be underestimated.]


    Does it make sense for it to spit fire? Its not a dragon, its a fire-spitting lizard!


    Objectively speaking, the me was more of a spray. But that was beside the point.


    [Are you scared?]


    Its not that Im scared... it seems like whatever I put in right now wont help...


    [Thats not a problem at all.]


    His calmness was so unsettling, it made me fear the lizard even more.


    [The legion is the one to find the answers, to think, modify, and act. Consider this: if there is a god, do you think its right for them to interfere like a helicopter parent? Your role is to create clues and variables.]


    Is that really all I have to do?


    [Dont underestimate them. The legion is content. They are excited. These creatures are prey, nourishment. If the legion consumes them, they can be stronger.]


    I was struck by the realization once more.


    The legion never ceased, nor did they know fear.


    They held no concept of death.


    In death, they simply returned to the legion as nourishment, were reborn, and rejoined the battle.


    My beliefs about life, death, and the soul are being challenged.


    [Someday, you will be their values.]


    The words that surfaced were profound. Someday. Someday, when theyprehend my existence and concept.


    [The 8th and 9th floors still held a substantial amount of energy. The legion, harnessing this stored power, braced themselves for another confrontation. The target is the fungal forest where the two-headed lizard was recently discovered.]


    The legion prepared for another war.

 Chapter 9: The Beings of the Lowest Floor (2)

    Chapter 9: The Beings of the Lowest Floor (2)


    [The legion is no longer a simple cluster of cells. Its a force that has devoured an entire ecosystem.] The concept of territorial expansion was easy to understand.


    After all, it wasmon for humans to expand their territories and increase their productivity after winning wars.


    [The energy that devoured the 8th and 9th floors has be the cornerstone, and the legion is now upying this area.]


    "No, but this isnt upation...


    [This is the way of the legion.]


    I clicked my tongue as I looked at the screen.


    The phrase ^territorial expansion was overly simplistic.


    The gateway linking the 9th floor to the 10th floors corridor was slowly being engulfed by a squirming wall of flesh. This viscous, undting mass was the living legion and its domain. It appeared more precise to perceive it as the legion merely augmenting its size, rather than expanding its territory.


    By the time dinner rolled around, the expanding flesh wall had reached the vicinity of our target.


    [The small scouts have more thoroughly scouted the destination. And the legion has started producing soldiers tailored to the enemy.]


    "Are they the same type of lizard...?


    [Yes. ording to the data the legion currently has, its the most efficient and powerful entity.] It was armed with a thick ck carapace, like scales, and strong jaws and long limbs.


    The legions most advanced group tactics were still limited to those of ants and bees.


    Although it was based on the strength-focused lizard, its operation was simr to that of ants.


    [The new soldiers growing from the eggs will pour out by tomorrow. Then we will attack the target, ughter it, and devour it.] "I dont think well lose. I was sincere.


    The giant blue lizard we had observed was certainly bigger than any enemy we had encountered so far.


    It was an enemy worthy of being called a boss monster.


    But I was confident of victory.


    The legions power wasnt just its soldiers, but also its nest, stored nourishment, umted data, and cognitive abilities. There was no way it could stop this group alone.


    [The legion initiated the reconnaissance battle.]


    Naturally, the legion was the first to move.


    In this vast cave, amidst the dense mushroom forest, there was a creature.


    The ruler of this cave. If we could suppress it, we could devour this ce in its entirety.


    [The scoutsunched the first attack on it. Their weapon was the poisonous stinger on their tails. But the giant lizard killed three scouts with a single tail swipe. One managed tond on its back and stab it with its stinger, but the stinger broke.] "...Its strong, huh?


    [The enraged creature spewed fire from its two heads. We have no resistance to fire. All the scouts were defeated, and a part of the legion that had stopped functioning became its prey.] The oue was decided in an instant.


    Seeing the creature, a mere lizard, roaring in victory, I froze for a moment.


    This overwhelming two-headed lizard was on a different level from the small ecosystem lizards we had been dealing with.


    Did we bite off more than we could chew?


    I felt a moment of anxiety.


    [If youre anxious, make a choice.]


    [One-time Assassination Right]


    As if reading my mind, the item I had appeared on the screen.


    Are they entrusting this to me here?


    My heart sank for a moment.


    Depending on the choice I make here, the oue could change.


    Use the One-time Assassination Right. Then the legion will easily ovee this crisis and gain the creatures power, bing stronger.


    But what if this two-headed lizard is weak in this ce?


    What if a king-level entity appears?


    What then?


    "Hey...is there no way to back out?! Cant we look at more reconnaissance records or something?! I shouted at my phone.


    But there was no answer. Only the ominous music continued to y.


    Even the usually talkative creature was silent.


    I pulled at my hair.


    Why at such a crucial moment?


    [You wont use it. How about saving it, the legion isnt a chess piece that moves as you wish. Regardless of your intentions, it will have a showdown with that lizard. If its toote and you use the One-time Assassination Right, the consumed energy cant be fully recovered.]


    "No, save it. We dont know when it will be needed, so lets hold on.


    I made my decision.


    I didnt use the One-time Assassination Right.


    "Lets save it for a bigger creature. You said to trust you. So, I will.


    [...As always, this time too.]


    "What?


    [The legion is moving again. But what is it trying to do?]


    "I think I need to help!


    After evaluating the creatures power through reconnaissance, the legion prepared for the next attack.


    I rushed out of my house before things got worse.


    I racked my brain, which wasnt particrly smart.


    About what I could do to help right now.


    [The legion had chosen to use a frontal assault tactic. The beasts scales were impervious to both poison and fangs. Therefore, they decided to overwhelm it with sheer numbers. This was a strategy they had learned from ants.]


    "Thats too crude. Even if they win, the casualties will be enormous.


    [So, what kind of strategy should we use?] How should I know?


    However, what I could offer at this moment wasnt a powerful or unique characteristic or gene. It was a variety ofplex battle methods from various creatures.


    In fact, the legion had been imitating and applying the advantages of the samples I provided or the creatures they hunted in the cave.


    So, if I taught them these methods, the legion would surely find the answer among them. *


    [The legion quickly interpreted and urately analyzed the newly iing information. The new samples were Bombardier Beetles, Wasps, Praying Mantises, Rhinoceros Beetles, Cats, Woodpeckers, Magpies, Crows...]


    The entire legion came to a halt.


    The influx of information was so vast that it caused the entire legion to stutter.


    [The legion understood the intention. More diverse tactics, strategies]


    Externally, they looked the same, but the soldiers of the legion had evolved a step further.


    They had established new battle methods by imitating and modifying the habits and methods of the creatures they had absorbed.


    [The legion revised its grand strategy. The first thing they did was to organically mix the troops and surround the target.] The legion moved again.


    Their momentum was slightly different from before.


    They trampled over the native creatures blocking their path and didnt bother chasing the ones that ran away.


    [They steal the beasts sight and aim for the gaps in its scales. They persistently cling to its vulnerable vitals.] The acquisition of simple knowledge doesnt help oneself.


    However, one can develop it by processing andbining it on their own after receiving it.


    "Ugh..


    The two-headed lizard, noticing the anomaly, was taken aback.


    It had never been lynched by a group like this before.


    [The legion initiated the war. Their target was one thing, the beasts vitals.] "Roar!


    The enraged two-headed lizard spewed fire.


    However, the legion would rather burn to death than retreat.


    Once a strategy is set, they will definitely aplish their mission.


    [The beast, surrounded, stomped and swung its tail, killing dozens in one blow. However, those who had been waiting on the ground and in the sky all attacked at once, soon covering the beasts entire body. And in the exposed gap, the poison spike urately pierced one of the beasts eyes.]


    From the beginning, the legion had been focusing on areas not covered by scales, such as the eyes, reproductive organs, and excretory organs.


    The flustered two-headed lizard screamed, knocked down the mushrooms, shook off its body, and started to run.


    [...The beast fell into the legions trap. This ce was a trap we had set from the beginning.]


    At the caves entrance, the beast became ensnared in the sticky spider web that enveloped its body. The ambush squad, lying in wait like a lifeless mouse, relentlessly unleashed more spider webs and toxic chemicals. A horrifying scream reverberated throughout the cave and its entire corridor.


    [The beast, ensnared in the trap, was drained of its strength. It could no longer spew fire. The legion ruthlessly plunged the poison spike into the beasts remaining three eyes. Before long, the beasts massive body ceased all movement.]


    "...Ha.


    Victory. I watched it and staggered to sit on the bench.


    I wondered if it was worth running around the mountain at thiste hour. [Blue Scaled Two-headed Lizard: 3a2002] "A lizard..?


    We caught a big one.


    Now, it was submerged in the flesh wall.


    Since they couldnt break the scales, they decided to digest and disassemble it whole.


    [This is a moment recorded in history. Your efforts were not in vain. If you hadnt put in various samples, if you hadnt obtained more data thanks to them, if you hadnt achieved diversification of strategy and tactics, you wouldnt have achieved an efficient victory.]


    "...Yeah.


    [Now we can officially devour the bigger world.]


    As always, the legion didnt stop.


    They were born with an endless instinct to devour the world.


    I, who had been nkly looking at my phone, staggered down the mountain.


    "Why does your face look like that? Where on earth have you been?


    "...A lot happened. Its really tiring.


    Did my sister find it surprising enough to notice? Iughed it off, iming it was just exercise, before retreating to my room and shutting the door.


    My phone...was quiet for now.


    The emotions that had overwhelmed me earlier in the day came rushing back. Why had I been so desperate, running around like a headless chicken? In that moment, I felt as if I was part of something bigger, a legion. It wasnt merely the fear of my life hanging by a thread, a reason that didnt quite resonate with me. It was something more profound, more real.


    As I pondered whether tobel this emotion as affection, a hollowugh slipped from my lips.

 Chapter 10: The Beings of the Lowest Floor (3)

    Chapter 10: The Beings of the Lowest Floor (3)


    [The 10th floor, a massive branch with countless offshoots. We identified the main species here as Category 3a lizards.]


    The map continued to update.


    Despite not being able to see the end yet, it was a tremendously vast cepared to the ''offshoot-* we had climbed up.


    The main species were lizards, but there were many creatures that felt too extraordinary to be simply described as lizards''.


    Winged lizards, swimming lizards, burrowing lizards, poison gas-spewing lizards, and so on...


    And they were far too powerful to be mere reptiles.


    [You-*re right. Therefore, the legion ssified the lizards here into two types. One type is the weaker ones that can be easily hunted. The remaining ones are the massive creatures fitting the description of ''earth lizards-*.]


    "Do we have a n?


    [Of course.]


    As soon as the legion obtained the data, it adapted to the drastically changed environment andid the groundwork for expansion in a new form.


    There were many powerful creatures here, like the two-headed lizard we had inst time.


    To catch such creatures, the legion-*s soldiers grewrger and stronger.


    [There-*s one problem. The Blue Scale Twin-headed Earth Lizard we huntedst time. It has been fully digested and turned into our nourishment, but we still haven^t digested its scales.]


    "Why is that? Those scales, which are impervious to teeth and poison stings, seemed quite tempting...


    [We currentlyck the enzyme to digest its scales.]


    One regrettable point was that we couldn*t fully utilize the power of the formidable enemy we had managed to bring down.


    We seeded in replicating the organ that spewed fire, but we couldn''t overuse it once we realized that the fuel for the fire was aponent umted over a long time in mushrooms.


    "Time and diversity are our race''s weaknesses.


    Through this incident, I realized our weaknesses.


    Although we possess explosive growth rates, the eleration and shortening of time ultimately only apply to us.


    We couldn''t do anything about the time that flowed equally for others.


    Also, as the umted data increased and thebination forms became more advanced and diverse, there were more cases where it was difficult to realize if one part was


    [The legion is well aware of that. That''s why it tries to devour more. It''s difficult... endless gluttony is both our medicine and poison.]


    Medicine and poison.


    I agreed with that statement.


    To solve this problem, we had no choice but to grow again.


    [Look. The next target is a cave. It''s dark and humid, but there''s plenty of vegetation growing. There are also aquatic creatures living in the flowing water.]


    "It doesn''t seem... particrly impressive?


    [The legion made the same judgment. Immediately, the legion''s soldiers moved.]


    The legion always ensures thorough reconnaissance.


    After such reconnaissance, if they judge something to be weak, they immediately crush and annihte it.


    Retreating was not an option, even if the opponent was strong. After all, the legion had already learned how to huntrge and powerful creatures.


    [No forces that could rival the legion have been detected yet. The lizards, the dominant species here, were individually strong but only formed small groups.]


    "Another massacre, then.


    If we were equal in size and numbers, no ordinary creature could stand a chance against us. The soldiers of our legion, though modeled after real beasts, were grotesquely deformed. Reproductive and digestive organs, along with all other superfluous parts, were entirely eliminated. Their bodies wereposed solely ofbat-ready organs. They existed in a miraculous cycle of fighting, falling, returning to the legion for energy replenishment, and being reborn as new soldiers. From the onset, our adversaries had to contend not just with the soldiers, but with the entire colossal nest.


    [The legion is dominating the territory. There is no life that can survive here.]


    It was the same scenery as always. I closed my phone.


    "Did you do well on the test?


    "...No, I probablypletely bombed it.


    Most students at the end of an exam. Sitting in the ssroom, I gave a wry smile and shook my head at my ssmate''s words. I had spent more time looking at my phone than my books, so how could I have done well?


    "Still, we should have a drink? Jinsoo and Myungho are here too.


    "...Should we?


    Alcohol? I was honestly a bit tempted. There was always a party after exams, and this time, everyone''s military service had ended, so it was our first opportunity to gather. In the end, I made dinner ns right there.


    "Are you gaming? You''ve been glued to it.


    "It''s nothing.


    I hid my phone. If anything important happened, I would get a notification. After our afternoon sses ended, we started drinking before the sun even set.


    [Is it enjoyable, that act of pouring alcohol into your body?]


    "...Why are you ruining the mood?


    lust when everyone was happily chatting and drinking, slightly tipsy. I had gone to the bathroom and habitually checked my phone, chuckling at the message that popped up. A quick nce at the screen showed nothing unusual.


    "You''re doing well on your own. There''s nothing more I can give you.


    [I''m not criticizing you for indulging your desires. But we have a very important mission, both for you and for us.]


    "...What nonsense is that?


    [Survival. That''s the most important virtue of a yer. Your life isn''t just your own.]


    The moment I read the message, I froze. And then, right after...


    "It''s a sudden gate!!


    "Evacuate immediately! Now!


    "There''s no time!


    Outside the bathroom, chaos had already erupted. There was no time to think. I ran out in a hurry, running with the crowd.


    "Damn it, I was in the middle of a good meal!


    "Well, it''s a relief nothing major happened, bro..


    Among the bustling crowd, I stared at the flickering space in the distance. That was the gate, the cmity from another world that had engulfed ours. It was oddly disappointing. I didn''t know what would pop out, but it was an opportunity to provide food and samples to the legion.


    Beyond the stern barricade set up by the police, they were there. Hunters, those who had been granted the power to oppose those monsters by the miracle of the status window. They were less so now, but the hunters were my idols and heroes when I was young. They were the hope that would avenge my enemies on my behalf.


    "Where''s thepany?


    "Gaebok Corporation. It''s a small to medium-sizedpany. The lead hunter is Cha Ji Yeon?


    Of course, it wasn''t just me who admired the hunters. My ssmates next to me were looking up information about the hunters who had hurriedly arrived, as if they were looking at celebrities.


    "...Is that woman Cha Ji Yeon?


    "Yeah. She''s a C-rank, so not a very high rank, but it''s a smallpany, so maybe that''s why.


    I alternated between looking at the scene and my phone at my ssmate''s words. The woman in a ck suit standing in the middle of the intersection far away. And the woman with long sky-blue hair and blue eyes in the profile on my phone. They were the same person. The exnation stated that the hair and eye color were not dyed but discolored by her own abilities.


    "The gate is open!


    "Cha Ji Yeon''s ability is lightning!


    By the tenth year, people had grown ustomed to monsters and gates, observing the scene with cheers as if they were watching a show. I was no different. I watched anxiously for about a minute.


    "Ahh!


    The moment something tore through space, a sh of lightning sparked from her body aimed at the gate. The sh of light that ran through her outstretched hand flickered several times. It was as if I was watching lightning strike nearby, the dazzling light and thunderous noise continuously resonating.


    "Wow.


    "Insane...


    The situation was over. Cha Ji Yeon, still surrounded by sparks, slowly lowered her hand, and unidentifiable corpses began to pour out in front of the gate.


    "C-rank...?


    "Yeah, right. That''s at least A-rank!


    The overwhelming spectacle made people forget to cheer.


    *


    "Is that all for today?


    "Yes, Ji Yeon. Good job. I have some work to do.


    Cha Ji Yeon, who had left the scene behind, settled into the back seat of the car. Her manager stepped out for a moment to talk to the police, leaving her alone in the car.


    [He is pleased. He said your learning is the most advanced among his children.]


    "Thank you.


    [The magic of lightning naturally strains your body. Don''t overuse it.]


    "I''ll keep that in mind.


    [Now, offer your blood.]


    In the empty car, she murmured as if entranced by something. With a small sigh at the voice telling her to offer her blood, she pulled out a sharp knife from her pocket.


    This knife, with an antique wooden decoration on the handle, was a ''gift'' that couldn''t be found anywhere on Earth.


    "Ah...


    She drew a long line on her palm with the knife. Blood naturally flowed out, but the knife seemed to absorb it all. Once a certain amount of blood was absorbed, the wound on her palm healed instantly.


    "When will I receive the next gift?


    [When you train more, suppress the humans around you, and reach the S-rank recognized among you. Or, if you kill other yers'' units.]


    The unidentified voice echoing in her head disappeared like that.


    By the time her manager got back in the car, she had already closed her eyes and fallen asleep, exhausted.

 Chapter 11: The Beings of the Lowest Floor (4)

    Chapter 11: The Beings of the Lowest Floor (4)


    [Competition among yers is inevitable]


    "So how do I protect myself? The legion..."


    [That doesnt matter. The important thing right now is to increase your strength, lust dont die stupidly]


    The screen changed.


    I was still uneasy, but I calmed myself by thinking that the game was still in its early stages.


    [You survive, and the legion bes stronger. Thats each of our roles. And when we each perform our roles well, our power bes our strength. Look at the screen]


    I listened to him and checked the screen.


    The legion was observing a creature.


    "What is that?"


    [The legion searched the area thoroughly to find the missing stats. And they found a fungus. Interestingly, this fungus reproduces by sending spores to the carcasses of beasts]


    A peculiarly shaped mushroom was growing on a pile of what seemed to be organic matter.


    The organic matter consisted of bones, skin, and scales.


    "Is that...?"


    [Yes. Those blue scales are from the Blue Scaled Two-headed Lizard, which we couldnt digest. That mushroom has the ability to digest even those steel-like scales]


    It was clear.


    The legion immediately mobilized its soldiers to hunt the mushroom.


    [True to its unique ability, the fungus had a unique defense mechanism. Frustratingly, the fungus began to harden its body with the sameponents as the scales. The legion soldiers-* teeth, poison stingers, and ws were ineffective]


    "So, what now?"


    [We had to find a creature with the attack power to pierce those scales. The legion expanded its reconnaissance. And then they found that turtle]


    A turtle appeared on the screen.


    It was a creature that could hardly be called a turtle.


    Its size was ordinarypared to other creatures, but this turtle, which was soaking its body in the water, extended its neck and bit a lizard-type legion soldier who was acting as bait.


    And it crushed it in an instant.


    [The legion judged that the turtles biting power could crush the scaled fungus. Its more efficient than breaking the shell and crushing the fungus]


    The legion found the answer.


    In the most efficient and profitable way.


    "I think it would be better to use something big and strong like a shark."


    [Whats important is the ability to fight underwater]


    "I know."


    I found a bustling market.


    There was one reason, to buy fish.


    A living fish that could give the legion gills and swimming skills.


    "But what did youe to buy?"


    "...Why did you follow me?"


    The problem was my younger sister, Kang Do Yeon.


    She followed me because I was going to the market.


    Fortunately, as soon as Kang Do Yeon entered, she was drawn to the bakery.


    "How much is this?"


    I immediately bought a live fish from the aquarium.


    I took the fish, which I asked to be as fresh as possible, to the bathroom and took a picture with my camera.


    [The small fish you threw became a sample and a model. Its a strange creature called a fish that was not in this cave. But the legion inferred from the existing data that the gills of the fish are organs for activity in the water]


    The legion devoured the fish I gave them and began to produce new soldiers based on the newly acquired knowledge.


    A specialized underwaterbat force, more professional than the amphibians that mostly breathe with lungs here.


    Soldiers to devour creatures that spend most of their time in the water.


    "What? You went out and came back?"


    "No? If youre done shopping, lets go."


    I lied calmly to Kang Do Yeon, who wasing with a bag of bread.


    On the way home, I kept looking at my cell phone.


    New soldiers were alreadying out of the nest in the form of eggs.


    "...Whats that in your hand?"


    "Huh? Wait. . !"


    When we were almost home.


    She suddenly grabbed my hand that was holding the cell phone.


    "What...did you get a tattoo? But why does it look like this?"


    "No, its not like that!"


    I was flustered, pulled my hand away, and made an excuse.


    Fortunately, she didnt ask any further.


    Her eyes were spinning and the corners of her mouth were rising, as if she had caught something.


    [Are you nning to use the Assassination Right?]


    "Are you insane?"


    I muttered in disappointment and headed home. Even though my mind was in turmoil, I didnt tell my mother about it right away.


    [The legion has finished preparing. Its time to hunt the targeted turtle.]


    Once I got back to my room, I focused on my phone again. The newly evolved soldiers had hatched from their eggs. They were definitely not fish. After all, all I needed was their gills. Their streamlined bodies resembled the local amphibians, making it easier for them to swim. However, the difference was that they had gills and crawled on the ground with their strong, thick pair of arms.


    [The turtles shell is undoubtedly hard. Butpared to the lizard covered in scales, its an easy target.]


    The turtle was already wary of us, sticking its head out of the water and hissing. All it got in return was a barrage of poisonous spikes, an attempt to draw its attention.


    [The turtles attention waspletely stolen. Meanwhile, the legion began to dive into the water one by one.]


    The water was dark and murky, making it impossible to see. But I could still tell what was happening.


    [The legion soldiers thrust their sharp teeth towards the rtively soft fins and tail of the turtle. Feeling the pain, the startled turtle quickly retracted its neck and fins into its shell.]


    "What now?"


    [The fight is already over. The turtle cant breathe underwater.]


    It was a cruel verdict. But even if it tried to escape to the surface, other soldiers were waiting.


    [The moment the turtle stuck its head out to breathe, the waiting legion soldiers tore at its neck. Its attempt to struggle by extending its fins only provided more areas for them to tear at.]


    It was more brutal than a savannah documentary. The pitiful cries of the turtle being eaten alive echoed throughout the cave. If that was a human... But surely, the legion would devour a human too.


    [Its not over yet. Hunting the turtle is just one part of the process. The real goal is to capture the fungus that can digest the lizards scales.]


    The legion kept moving. Come to think of it, this wasnt the first time. The legion had intentionally and persistently hunted a specific target as part of a process.


    [Yes. The legion is learning. They are preparing more thoroughly to capture a powerful enemy, nning efficient hunts to solve problems.]


    A new soldier was being created. A soldier equipped with the biting power of the cave turtle we had just hunted. As soon as it was ready, it would chew and swallow the targeted mushroom, acquiring its abilities as well.


    "...I guess I need to find a part-time job again."


    At the same time, I checked my bank bnce. One way or another, I would need to prepare for more expenses. *


    The cave was already in ruins. The fallen bodies would gradually be wrapped in extending tentacles and digested. Amidst all this, a single mushroom stood tall. It had sacrificed all its external roots to absorb the toughest material and cover its body, enduring the onught. This was the mushrooms survival strategy.


    But the enemy trying to devour this mushroom had exterminated five caves and ughtered countless creatures to find the answer to kill this one mushroom.


    [The mushroom doesnt know how strong the obsession and greed aimed at it are.]


    It was lucky to digest the toughest scales in this ecosystem, but that was it. Arge lizard slowly approached. It opened its mouth wide. The mushroom tried to resist, but it couldnt withstand the biting power with its imitation level defense. The scales started to break. The interior of the mushroom couldnt withstand the shock and burst out.


    [Now we have the toughest scales. But are we satisfied with that? Absolutely not.]


    The lizard spat out the chewed mushroom into the nest. Production and digestion were solely the nests job. However, while the legion was digesting, it was simultaneously thinking and acting elsewhere.


    [Another lizard... It has be our legions next target.]


    A creature twice the size of the Blue Scaled Two-headed Lizard appeared in the ecosystem. A massive lizard with dark red scales slowly revealed itself.


    [Did it smell something? Did it notice the anomaly ande to crush it?]


    The lizard sniffed around as if it was searching for something. Despite its lizard-like appearance, it was surprisingly intelligent. Among the brain tissues absorbed by the legion, the lizards of this ecosystem had the most advanced structures.


    Its eyes shed, locking onto a ck bird hovering in mid-air. There were no leathered creatures in this cave, so naturally, the bird was a scout from the legion.


    Opening its mouth wide, it spewed out arge fireball. The fireball exploded upon impact, obliterating everything in its vicinity.

 Chapter 12: True Power (1)

    Chapter 12: True Power (1)


    "You''ve found a purpose?


    [This is the footage observed while you were asleep.]


    I checked my phone inside the moving subway. The footage, supposedly observed yesterday, ended with a massive lizard spewing arge fireball towards the screen.


    "So?


    [As always, the legion was pleased. A stronger opponent. In other words, an adversary that can make us stronger.]


    "...Is it possible?


    [The enemy has grownrger and stronger, but so have we.]


    The legion had already taken down one of the lizards. They had sessfully imed its legacy as their own. With their overwhelming ability to acquire andbine vast amounts of information, I was beginning to think the legion might be smarter than me.


    [Behold. These are the strongest soldiers the legion has to offer.]


    The screen showed creatures hatching from eggs. The base was a lizard, naturally. So far, they were the strongest entities in the legion''s database. However, their appearance was different from ordinary lizards.


    [We utilized the most powerful elements we recently acquired.]


    Their dark blue carapace shone brilliantly. This carapace was not the ordinary one they had been using. It was abination of the turtle shell obtained from hunting a turtle and the scales of the lizard they had recently consumed. The scales were modified for efficiency. It was more economical to wear partial heavy armor than a full te armor.


    "Theyre quiterge. They seem capable of winning.


    Moreover, the legion''s umting experience was now sufficient to handlerge creatures with ease. The soldiers confidently crossed the passage. Whether it was due to rumors or not, not a single insect dared to enter our territory.


    [We are continuously monitoring the lizard''s location. It''s not stupid. It sensed the anomaly. It sniffed around, detecting changes in the air, and heightened its guard.]


    "Is it running away?


    [It''s an arrogant tyrant.]


    The image of the lizard, observed from a safe distance, appeared on the screen. It was fortunate that such a creature was alone. If a horde of such lizards attacked, even the legion seemed helpless.


    [We, who must consume to evolve, are always weaker when considering the strength of individual soldiers. However, webine and evolve. We surpass our limits. Above all, we are a legion.]


    The legion''s scouts began to draw the lizard''s attention in earnest. They didn''t engage it in the hive. They faced it head-on in the vast passage of this stratum.


    [The winner of this battle will likely be the ruler of this stratum. However, the legion is confident. Part of this stratum has already be part of us, and the arrogant tyrant will fall today.]


    The lizard, distracted by the scouts flying around, began to be drawn out. Still, it continued to sniff around, remaining on guard.


    [It''s a futile effort. We, who possess the gic information of the 3a lizard lineage, know it has sensitive sensory organs. We didn''t set up an ambush in the wide-open passage.]


    "Heh..


    The lizard bared its teeth and growled. Our soldiers were now marching directly towards it. Would it fight or admit defeat and flee?


    [We have already acquired some resistance to fire.]


    The lizard spewed a fireball. However, being engulfed and swept away by mes was a thing of the past. The legion soldier''s carapace,posed of the same elements as the turtle shell and lizard scales, withstood the fire with ease.


    "It''s retreating. Is it running away? Aren''t you going to chase it?


    Eventually, the lizard, feeling overwhelmed, slowly backed away and quickly fled the scene. However, the legion did not pursue it.


    [It''s an efficient calction. There''s plenty of stratum left to absorb. Even if it runs away, it will eventually be hunted. That''s the conclusion.]


    Although we didn''t catch it, we had effectively won. What followed was the legion''s usual feeding and ughter, free from all interference. This stratum was gradually being dyed in our color.


    [The legion has shown its ambition. What could possibly be in the next stratum, the next world?]


    There was definitely a passage leading upwards. ording to the description, the legion was slowly developing a desire to see the end of this vast cave. The basis of this desire was, of course, gluttony.


    "Hmm...


    That evening, I turned on myputer and checked the inte, leaving my phone beside me. I mainly checked the news, especially the hot topics these days. I couldn''t help but be concerned.


    "Lately, there''s been a sudden increase in the number of hunters leveling up. Experts don''t know why, and the individuals themselves are beating around the bush. It''s a real mystery, but I can''t shake off this dreadful thought.


    [...Why are you asking me?]


    "Diverse races... so, diverse yers? Be honest. Does this diversity include humans?


    It was a wild spection that others would never understand. It was such a bizarre and strange thought. If it weren''t for the app installed on my phone, I wouldn''t have even imagined it.


    [All possibilities are open.]


    "Am I overthinking?


    In the first ce, even after over ten years of research, there''s hardly anything definitively known about hunters and gates.


    [Even if that''s the case, what''s the problem?]


    "What?


    [Your ''duty'', and our ''duty'', remains unchanged, regardless of what happens around us.]


    It was right. I had nothing to say. If my spection was true, all the more reason for me to do this. I had been toocent until now.


    [The others may not know. The existence of us, who crawled up from the lowest level. Look at the screen.]


    "This is...


    [Quite an interesting event is unfolding in this cave. It''s intriguing... very intriguing. It seems to be the trace of a new ''force'' that our legion is encountering for the first time since the White Cave Ant group.]


    What was reflected on the screen were the bloodstains and signs of battle discovered by the scouts.


    The legion seemed to buffer for the first time, their thought process slowing down.


    Because it was the first trace they had acquired.


    And it was the same for me.


    It was entirely possible that the lizard we had chased away had been hunted.


    However, the fact that these hunters used metal weapons like swords and arrows was a shock to me as well.


    "...A needle? An awl?


    Especially if those metal weapons were familiar objects to me.


    [Did you feel a sense of incongruity?]


    "Even if we give them the benefit of the doubt and say such a force exists, this is crossing the line.


    How on earth did they mine and refine iron in this cave?


    Above all, I couldn''t understand how a needle, which should be used for making clothes, was used as a weapon.


    "Other yers.


    [And they are our enemies. Remember that. The legion has not yet developed enough to interact with you. They are still unable to acquire evennguage. So, as always, the legion will try to devour the enemy.]


    "...Will they really?


    How on earth did they y the lizard?


    Using a needle as a weapon, leaving small footprintspared to the lizards of this stratum, and even traces of dragging a tail.


    It meant they were capable of using tactics in groups, using tools, and waging war.


    If they could kill a lizard, they must have some tricks up their sleeves.


    [Luckily, the legion has already umted some experience. It''s a new type of enemy. Gathering information. They know that''s the priority.]


    The chances of the opponent knowing our identity were slim.


    Because there were no traces of theming down from below.


    From the beginning, the legion''s purpose was to consume as a race.


    That''s why we''ve been pushing our way up here, but others wouldn''t need to take such risks.


    *


    "Hey! Aren''t you looking at your phone too much these days?! You didn''t hear me again, did you?


    "Huh?!


    The ssroom was as noisy as ever.


    Kang Do Yeon, frowning, finally said something to her friend.


    Startled, her friend Oh Yoon Ah hurriedly turned off her phone and flinched.


    "What game are you so into? Or are you constantly checking something like cryptocurrency?


    "No, it''s not like that. I won''t look at it anymore.


    Oh Yoon Ah apologized for not focusing on her friend''s story and only looking at her phone.


    Kang Do Yeon had a dissatisfied face, but she couldn''t say anything more.


    "I used to be obsessed when I was into dramas too...


    "It''s not like a drama.


    "Then what is it?


    Sheughed as if it was nothing.


    The person in question, Oh Yoon Ah, grinned widely.


    "It''s... very interesting. A game so fun that once you''re hooked, you can''t get out. There''s another world in there.


    "...Are you doing this on purpose? You really sound like an addict.


    "Of course.


    Oh Yoon Ah, who muttered in a slightly dark voice, nodded with a broad smile when her slightly embarrassed friendughed awkwardly.


    ''Tattoo?''


    When the bell rang for the end of ss and everyone scattered to their seats.


    Kang Do Yeon saw something on her friend''s hand, which had been covered by a cardigan.


    A ck pattern engraved on the back of her hand.


    In fact, a small tattoo or body painting was not a big deal among students these days, but she felt a strange difort when she saw that pattern.


    The reason was clear. She had seen something simr recently.


    Sitting in her seat with a slightly bewildered feeling, she naturally switched her mood by opening her book and focusing on the lesson.

 Chapter 13: True Power (2)

    Chapter 13: True Power (2)


    The legion undoubtedly possessed enormous potential. With this potential, they had evolved from a mere cluster of cells on the lowest floor to a force that overlooked the strata. However, this vast cave ecosystem was home to an incredibly diverse array of creatures.


    [The scout results are in. Numerous traces have been found, but unfortunately, no traces of the group were found on the next floor.] What decision did the legion make?


    [In fact, the legion is ustomed to such matters. They are adept at acquiring and analyzing unknown information. However, they are being more cautious now.]


    Indeed, the legion had only strengthened its reconnaissance and had not taken any other action. We knew better than anyone how powerful the group was. After all, we hadn''t yet fully absorbed the strata.


    The problem isn''t just the simple group we''re up against. What do we do in such cases?


    [Are you talking about pitting yer units against each other? Of course, there-s only one answer.] The simple words felt chilling. I had some idea of the answer.


    Fight? [Competition, victory, extinction. What''s the problem? That''s what an ecosystem is.] We spoke almost simultaneously. Of course, knowing this didn''t make it any easier. If we win, the other yer...


    I


    [If we lose, you die too.]


    I closed my eyes tightly. From the moment I got entangled with this strange app, everything had been twisted. I had enjoyed it like raising ants, but I couldn''t take it lightly anymore.


    ...Then we have to win. What should we do?


    [As always, watch over your children. When they seem stuck, guide them.]


    In the end, my task hadn''t changed. All I had to do was observe, as I had been doing, and if possible, offer any help I could. First, we need to know what they''re doing.


    [Indeed. The legion is currently umting energy to detonate while continuing its reconnaissance. The ce we call the 11th floor is not a strata, but a small tributary. There are only their traces here, and these traces lead to the upper floors.]


    The legion had efficiently utilized the various sized scouts it had created so far. From small bees to lizards with wings of bats and birds. The result of thoroughly searching the 11th floor was just traces.


    So, the conclusion was clear. They hade down from the upper floors on an Expedition''. If they''ve seen us... wouldn''t they know?


    I had forgotten the obvious. Our legion''s racial characteristic and greatest strength.


    [Correct. We''re not the only ones without data. In fact, they''re at a disadvantage in the information war. Look, the legion''s scout has found something.]


    lust then, the screen changed abruptly. I held back my pounding heart and scrutinized the screen. The view of the 12th floor observed by a scout in the form of a bee was disyed.


    ...Rats?


    A group of creatures appeared. They werepletely different from my understanding of the numerous beasts living here.


    Furry bodies. ck eyes and sniffing noses. Long tails and bodies neither toorge nor too small for this cave. At least in appearance, they were perfect rats.


    But what are these rat bastards...


    Their actions and detailed movements werepletely opposite to the rats in my understanding. First of all, the ones gathered as if they were a scouting party, standing in a hunched posture and freely using their hands. Moreover, they held various tools in their hands.


    Spears with sharp awls at the end, crossbows loaded with needles, shields and helmets made of metal scraps, and so on.


    [The legion doesn''t have information about metal. They can only guess that it''s quite strong if it can hunt a lizard. More than anything, they are more collective and smarter than any other creature we''ve encountered.]


    We don''t know where their main base is or how many there are yet.


    [They''ve spotted our scout. It''s a small lizard with bat wings. The legion deliberately threw the scout to measure theirbat power as they picked a fight.] Then, a collision urred. Several rats ran towards the lizard and aimed their crossbows.


    It was a meticulously made miniature crossbow. I judged that these rat bastards couldn''t have made it themselves. &@%O!


    With a squeaking sound and the light from the luminous stone, the shining needles were fired, piercing the lizard''s wings and body. I had anticipated this to some extent. After all, the scouts that had to fly in the sky were fragile. Damn.


    However, seeing the fallen scouts'' corpses and the legion''s excitement over them made me feel sick. [Ah, the legion is rejoicing.] What?


    But it seemed I stillcked understanding of the legion.


    [Tools, they desire tools. They yearn for those shiny, hard, pointed objects. Those small, furry creatures used strange objects to catch muchrger prey. That power is what they desire. The legion is convinced that this is the new clue to our evolution. This will be recorded in our history. It''s the first time the legion has encountered the concept of tools. ]


    Right. It''s the first time the concept of tools has been introduced.


    [The legion noticed the secret to the rats'' strength and set a goal. They decided to catch and eat them to gain their power. But they used crude tools to catch the lizard. Surely, that''s not all they have.]


    So what are you going to do? [There''s only one answer. First, we catch some of them and learn everything about them.] A mournful cry came from below.


    A moment of silence for those rats.


    If those scouts had a hive consciousness like us, it would be a different story. Those scouts will be hunted here.


    [We don''t know what racial characteristics those rats have. The legion didn''t care about that in the first ce. Even if they find out about us now, what''s the problem? They''re just going to be eaten by arge, new species of lizard from the lower floors.]


    The legion soldiers, prepared to face the lizard with their dark blue carapaces, crawled up to greet them. Despite having a rat''s face, their expressions were visible. They were terrified.


    [They''re clever. They''re trying to run away because they know they can''t handle us with just five. But the legion is serious.] Behind the small car-sized lizard slowly crawling out, dozens ofrge flying species with bat wings simultaneously soared. @%#&!


    The shocked rats retaliated by shooting crossbows. But they were creatures designed for aerialbat, not scouting. With the wings of a bird of prey and arge, sturdy wing, they rushed at the rats with their ws, poisonous tail stingers, and carapaces, hacking them to pieces. [...Arge beast wandering alone would have been easy prey. But can they, dare they, hunt us? They will have to wage not a hunt, but a war with us.] The ughtered bodies were all collected and delivered to the nest in the lower floors, which was responsible for digestion and absorption.


    The needles, crossbows, and spears, which could not be absorbed because they were not living organisms, were also all recovered. [The legion is curious. What exactly are these tools? How do they use them?] The legion''s appetite was now going beyond mere predation. *


    [The legion began to prepare for war.] The scouting continued, and they discovered more of them on the 13th floor. A fortress built with stones and mushrooms was visible.


    It was crude, but it was definitely a fortress.


    There were at least 100 rats there.


    Don''t tell me they''re trying to mimic them? I shuddered and muttered.


    If the legion wanted tools, I had to give them.


    Like the opposing yers.


    [They came to the optimal conclusion considering both efficiency and possibility. It''s premature now. They were envisioning a future where they could evolve in a better, more efficient way.]


    But surprisingly, the legion didn''t obsess over tools. They were infinitely rational and cold in their purpose. After all, they were creatures that couldn''t be understood by human emotions. [Their response is dry and lukewarm. They''re definitely ignorant. Even the opposing yers.] The energy umted so far began to be used explosively.


    Hundreds, thousands of giant eggs began to pour out.


    [It''s time to teach those arrogant furballs, who have been hunting beasts and thriving like us, what a real war is. It''s definitely a war between the same kind, between one faction.]


    [But who''s better at war? The legion is confident it''s us. There''s no legion that''s as good at war as us.] The situation was on the brink.


    The legion, which had diligently replenished its soldiers, was going to use a tactic to crush them at once with overwhelming numbers, the sharpmand and technology unique to the hive consciousness.


    Even from my perspective, it seemed like we could win if those rats didn''t have any hidden means.


    What''s the reward if we win the war against the yers? No, tell me honestly now. The yer of those rats...is he on Earth? I stared at the screen and muttered nkly.


    One of the things I had been wondering about.


    lust how big is the scale of this game board?

 Chapter 14: True Power (3)

    Chapter 14: True Power (3)


    [I don''t know the end of this game. One thing is certain, the world is vast.]


    "What''s that... it''s not helpful at all."


    [As I said before, keep all possibilities open. The hints I give are all there is.]


    "Huh."


    A hollowugh slipped from my lips. After all, as he had suggested, anything was possible. Whether it was nurturing beings from another world like myself, or... the opposite could also be true.


    "What if there''s another yermanding a legion? Should I kill them?"


    [...It''s your choice. However, it might not mean much in the early stages if the worlds are different.]


    "So, there''s no need to bother?"


    I finally seemed to grasp the rules. Ultimately, one world was equivalent to one server. There was no point in interfering with people on other servers. In the end, my realpetitors were those involved in the world where the ''legion'' existed. Whether they were on Earth or in another world, they were just like the yers of those despicable rats.


    [They seem to be flustered.]


    I maintained my focus, eyes glued to the screen. The war had only just begun. It was merely a small skirmish to mark the start, but it was crucial that I emerged victorious.


    [Their initial shock quickly gave way to a fierce resistance, stronger than anticipated.]


    They unleashed a barrage of crossbow bolts and brandished their spears with wild abandon. I narrowed my eyes as a crudely constructed catapult came into view. I had anticipated a


    swift victory, but it was clear this battle would take more time than expected.


    [The legion found something strange. It was apletely different system andmunication method than before.]


    "Yes... In my opinion, those rats are not just about what''s engraved in their genes."


    I figured out the reason.


    Why thebat power of those rat bastards was stronger than what the legion had deciphered.


    They were now using the power of tools andmunication like humans, transcending the limits of genes.


    [But no matter what, they can''t ovee their physical limits.]


    The fortress started to crumble. The legion, bolstered by their sheer numbers, finally breached the resistance and initiated a massacre. They bit, cut, and crushed their adversaries to death.


    [However, they couldn''t apprehend all those who were fleeing.]


    "Our existence will be exposed if ites to that."


    What are the racial traits of those rats?


    They don''t appear to possess a hive consciousness like ours.


    Undoubtedly, the surviving cowards will scurry back to their base and spill everything about us.


    Then there''s a good chance that the opposing yer won''t suspect us.


    "But there''s nothing certain. Can those rat bastardsmunicate with the yer? I can''t."


    [I don''t know.]


    In my estimation, it''s like modern humans providing equipment and information to those who are worse than Stone Age natives.


    Surely, free conversation would be difficult.


    However, it was a fact that those rats were receiving teachings and weapons from an unknown opponent.


    [The legion had devoured and absorbed them, yet they were left with a pressing question: Was this enough? They had managed to digest them and extract their information, but the results were underwhelming. Despite their movements being less refinedpared to the legion, it was the inability to learn from them that the legion focused on.]


    "Learning from experience and knowledge isn''t as simple as mere predation."


    [The legion finally recognized the need for a brain, and something beyond a brain-a banquet of emotions, experiences, and knowledge.]


    The legion''s response was always the same.


    They would simply devour anything.


    If there was something theycked, they would consume it.


    Whether it was intangible knowledge or experience.


    "So, what''s your n?"


    [Of course, the legion is finding the answer itself. Information about highly intelligent birds like magpies or crows might help. Aren''t you going to help?]


    I froze at the sight of the flickering text on my phone.


    How can I help?


    I had been contemting it for a while. Now that the legion had grown to such an extent, it might be feasible to consume humans.


    "Sorry, but I don''t think so... Should I visit the zoo and photograph a monkey? I can''t allow an innocent person to be ripped apart alive."


    [I think it''s premature too. This is a problem that requires more attention. Literally, the legion is trying to develop a sense of self.]


    "What does that imply?"


    [They revere and worship God. However, there are certainly those who harbor resentment and seek to overthrow God.]


    My brows furrowed as I struggled toprehend the situation all at once. Soon, I found myself biting my lip, deep in thought.


    "So, they might turn against me?!"


    [It''s only a possibility. So, you need to handle it well. The emerging legion''s higher consciousness is not even at a child''s level.]


    The mere possibility was enough to unsettle me. Of course, it wasn''t something I hadn''t anticipated. From the start, I knew my values didn''t align with those of the legion.


    [I keep telling you, you''re not just an observer.]


    "...Alright."


    Despite my heavy heart, there was no way to avoid it.


    For now, I decided to observe.


    To see how and where it would grow.


    Above all, it didn''t seem like we were losing to those rat bastards.


    Regardless of my internal struggle, the legion didn''t stop waging war.


    They clearly thought the enemy was strange and nned to overwhelm them before they could respond properly.


    The enemy yer, who had been on a winning streak, even sending expeditions to the lower levels and establishing an outpost, how would they ovee this crisis?


    By observing their response, I might be able to find clues to the yer''s identity or location.


    "...On the other hand, I could kill the yer and eliminate the legion''s enemies."


    [That''s right.]


    It was a terrifying game.


    Extremely so.


    "Aren''t you heading out after the exam?"


    "I n to rest at home this time."


    I replied, forcing an awkward smile. My mother didn''t probe any further. Of course, I intended to make the most of the summer before it was toote, just as she had suggested. But considering my current circumstances...


    Suddenly, my mother pointed at the TV.


    "Look at that. That girl keeps showing up on TV. It seems she''s finally reached A-rank."


    My gaze instinctively shifted towards the screen, where a familiar face appeared.


    "C-rank Cha Ji Yeon. No, now she''s A-rank Cha Ji Yeon."


    The woman emerging from the management office, bathed in the sh of cameras, was the same woman I had seen before. She was one of the rapidly rising hunters gaining global attention. Among them, she stood unrivaled, having ascended to the rank of an A-rank hunter, a title held by only a few dozen people in Korea.


    I found myself pondering. Was she a unit blessed as a yer? Whether a yer or a unit, there were no set rules or hierarchies.


    It''s a thoroughly mutual rtionship where each holds the other''s life in their hands.


    I sighed.


    No matter how I thought about it, I was too powerless.


    "Are you worried about her?"


    Misunderstanding my sigh, my mother furrowed her brows and picked up her phone.


    Only then did I notice the empty seat next to me.


    *


    "A game?"


    "Yes. It''s really fun...an inescapable game."


    Late in the evening, when the family was having dinner.


    Meeting her friend Oh Yoon Ah at a nearby park without much thought, Kang Do Yeon hesitated.


    Oh Yoon Ah, who was just an ordinary friend, was acting unusual.


    "I don''t understand what you''re saying. About this game..."


    "The Chieftain said to find the guardians who can engrave this sentence. They can be warriors who will protect my life."


    Ignoring her friend''s words, Oh Yoon Ah lifted her hand. Something sparkled within her grasp, causing shock to ripple through her friend.


    "Have you awakened as a hunter?"


    "No, this is magic bestowed upon me by my people, for me!"


    Without warning, Oh Yoon Ah seized her friend''s hesitant wrist. Startled, Kang Do Yeon attempted to yank her hand away, but her efforts were in vain. The height difference between them was significant, with Kang Do Yeon standing at 170cm and Oh Yoon Ah at 155cm. Yet, Kang Do Yeon, who was a head taller and used to carry her friend around, couldn''t shake off Oh Yoon Ah''s grip.


    "Ah, it hurts!"


    "Just endure it a bit longer! You can be stronger too!"


    Despite her screams of pain, Oh Yoon Ah refused to release her grip.


    When her hand was finally released.


    Kang Do Yeon was shocked to see a clear mark on her wrist.


    "See."


    "What the hell did you do!"


    Something fist-sized suddenly flew towards her.


    Angry, she reflexively raised her hand and swatted it away.


    "...Unbelievable."


    And she was shocked.


    Therge stone that hit her hand had shattered.


    "Now you''re my knight, Do Yeon. Stand against the enemies and die for me. It''s reassuring to have the school''s popr girl protect me."


    Oh Yoon Ah giggled.


    Kang Do Yeon, who couldn''t understand the situation, just held her wrist with a pale, sick face.


    "I''ll tell you the secret now."


    Oh Yoon Ah, who seemed to be showing mercy, raised her phone.


    ''Surely...''


    The back of her hand, which was visible at that moment, was clean, the mark she had seen was nowhere to be found.

 Chapter 15: Shackles of Fate (1)

    Chapter 15: Shackles of Fate (1)


    "I don''t understand your nonsense. I''m going to report you."


    "I''m afraid you can''t do that."


    A chuckle escaped from Oh Yoon Ah. Kang Do Yeon, on the verge of turning to flee, froze in ce, her face a mask of horror. It was an odd sensation, being aware yet unable to control her body.


    "You must obey mymands. It''s only natural for a knight to listen to their master, right?"


    "What on earth are you doing?"


    "This isn''t just a simple game. It''s the secret of this world."


    With a forceful push, Oh Yoon Ah made her sit on a bench. Bewildered, Kang Do Yeon had no option but to look at the screen Oh Yoon Ah was presenting to her.


    "Is this... a movie?"


    "Hardly. Great Chief, we''ve seeded."


    Perhaps pleased with the trembling voice, Oh Yoon Ah raised her hand, giving a sly smile, and spoke into her cell phone. The spectacle that unfolded afterward made Kang Do Yeon''s eyes widen in surprise. On the screen, which looked like a scene from a movie, an old man with a long white beard bowed his head.


    "What is this..."


    "These people are my units, my people. I recently met them and have been working together for our mutual benefit. Today''s event is just one of those efforts."


    I


    Oh Yoon Ah slowly exined the situation on her phone. Naturally, it was an unbelievable story, except for the fact that her body waspletely immobile at a single word. As shocking revtions continued to flow, Kang Do Yeon was sweating profusely, trying to keep her sanity.


    *


    "Why did youe home sote? Your mom was..."


    "Kang Do Yeon!"


    I quickly sidestepped, but even after closing the door, the sound of scolding echoed. Soon, the sound of a door closing from the room across reached my ears. Thankfully, it seemed to end there.


    [Take good care of your body and surroundings. This round is gradually moving beyond the early stages. Most yers and units are adapting to the app and will start wielding their newly acquired power.]


    "lust like Cha Ji Yeon. But aren''t we too slow?"


    [Infinite possibilitiese with corresponding penalties.]


    We essentially started from scratch. From a single small cell, we gradually devoured bigger ones. However,pared to the yers connected to those who already had a certain foundation, our progress was slower.


    [But the growth speed of the legion is undoubtedly explosive. And the more it grows, the faster it bes. There''s no need to worry too much.]


    "I know that."


    We had a powerful advantage, nheless. I checked the screen. The legion was still preparing for war. Meanwhile, a test creature that was created hatched from an egg. It had a


    twisted posture and delicate front legs. It was covered in carapace, but its body was clearly based on the rat we had recently devoured.


    "Is it just an experimental piece?"


    [Yes. It''s an interesting and attractive form, but the legion decided it''s more efficient to stick to the existing method.]


    There were no mass-produced soldiers based on that rat. Even in my opinion, it seemed right for the legion to move in a direction that better utilized their strengths. And while I


    wasn''t exactly sure what that strength was, it certainly wasn''t that.


    [Have they noticed our existence and started to guard against us?]


    They had taken it upon themselves to construct a forward fortress on the 12th floor. A scout, in the guise of a tiny bee, swiftly pursued the retreating soldiers, ascending to the 13th floor. There, another of their fortresses stood. The war preparations were already well underway.


    [Although we are different from them, they seemed to have a lot to teach us. The problem was... we couldn''t learn it.]


    The legion didn''t squander any more time. They mobilized their troops before a stronger defense system could be established.


    [But the legion''s predation never ceases. Can''t learn through predation? Then simply observe and learn. The legion''s size is its brain. The learning andputational capabilities of the mature legion have already transcendent.]


    The defensive lizards that advanced set up their robust armor. The main force marched in order behind them. The catapults theyunched were futile. The burning mushroom pieces were inconsequential.


    [The artillery hidden behind the sturdy shield began to fire poisonous spikes that tore through their skin in response to their attacks.]


    They started to fall one by one. They had no countermeasures for long-range attacks. I realized then. They wouldn''t be familiar with this kind of war.


    [But we are. Our beginning was a war for survival, and we will continue to evolve for war. The legion began its assault. New legion soldiers revealed themselves.]


    As soon as the reconnaissance ended, the situation began to turn urgently.


    [It''s definitely the same fortress siege as before. But unlike them, we are growing. This siege will definitely be different from before.]


    The fiercely running legion began to split. A creaturebining the strength of a toad and a flea. But its appearance was somewhat disgusting. They, who had invested all their


    abilities in one strength, approached the fortress, wobbling their hugely swollen bodies.


    "Wow."


    And the moment they were within range, they exploded their strength at once. A shock wave urred, and the ground was torn apart. The strength was enough to break their own legs. But that wasn''t important. In this grotesque body, which was so deformed that it couldn''t fly even with wings, there was only onerge pouch, without any other organs. A pouch that could scatter a concentrated, powerful acidic solution.


    As the pouch burst along with the body and sprayed the solution everywhere, the soft skin of the mammals couldn''t withstand the strong acid and began to burn.


    [The fortress of those who couldn''t respond properly began to be destroyed. Thanks to that, their momentum was broken. The airborne troops that had been waiting began to raid the inside of the fortress.]


    "...Is it over?"


    It was essentially a rematch.


    The winner was, of course, us, who had developed and implemented new tactics and strategies.


    The probability of the next fight going the same way was high.


    If they couldn''t respond to our ever-changing tactics, they couldn''t win.


    "I should give a reward."


    I chuckled and looked away from my phone.


    Then I took out what I had ced on the desk.


    Protein, glucose candies, and so on.


    These were things I had prepared out of guilt for always feeding them wood.


    However, due to my financial situation, I couldn''t afford to fill up 40kg.


    "By the way, what kind of restrictions apply to other yers? There must be limits to how much a unit can affect a yer."


    [Of course. The initial level restrictions are to limit speed and maintain fairness, and each has different conditions.]


    "..How do I know if that''s fair?"


    [Even if you think it''s unfair, is there a way?]


    I was at a loss for words. After all, I was always the underdog.


    "Ugh."


    I simply took a picture of the prepared protein and glucose candies and sent it.


    There would surely be more proteins that I had bought, promising to work out, among my friends and colleagues.


    "I really need to get a part-time job."


    I chuckled at my bank ount, which was slowly running out.


    It was ridiculous that I had to work because I had no money, even though the whole world was in turmoil and lives were at stake.


    Since my studies seemed to have gone down the drain, I thought I should find a job sooner.


    "...What kind of money is this?"


    However, my job search was halted by Kang Do Yeon''s ominous actions that evening.


    "Prize money."


    "What? What prize money?"


    "Just ept it and know it that way! It''s a repayment for the allowance I''ve received so far!"


    She threw a money envelope at me and went into her room.


    I opened the envelope with wide eyes.


    Ten golden bills.


    I pondered how a minor, who didn''t even have a part-time job, could have amassed such arge sum of money.


    "Hey. This isn''t a joke, so be honest with me. Where did you get this?"


    I voiced my question softly, standing before the firmly shut door. I hoped she would understand the gravity of the situation.


    "Really...it''s nothing.."


    "Are you not going to open the door?"


    My heart pounded as I heard her choked response, her voice thick with unshed tears. She had never behaved like this before.


    "It''s really nothing."


    Instead of a verbal response, a message popped up. My expression hardened, but I refrained from pushing her further. She had matured to a certain extent. She wouldn''t spill the beans just because I raised my voice. If I involved our mother...that would be the end of it.


    "Is it illegal? Just tell me that."


    "It''s not like that. It''s just...something I''m doing with a friend."


    "Is it cryptocurrency?"


    With my limited understanding, I couldn''t conceive of any other possibilities. It was exasperating, but I had no other clues.


    "Just be cautious if someone attempts to touch you. It could escte into serious trouble."


    "...Yeah."


    Ultimately, I was left with an evasive response and withdrew to my room. Engaging in activities with a friend. Unlike me, she had an overwhelming number of friends to keep track of. The number of male and female friends I knew of alone would require more than ten hands to count.


    [Do you believe in fate?]


    "What nonsense are you talking about now?"


    [The fate that has befallen your family...you will soon find out.]


    "Why are you doing this again?"


    I threw my phone onto the bed in annoyance.

 Chapter 16: Shackles of Destiny (2)

    Chapter 16: Shackles of Destiny (2)


    "I am worried.


    On top of everything else, I had school to attend. Kang Doyeon had risen early and already left for school. As much as I wanted to abandon all my tasks to focus on this, it was far from a practical solution. I scratched my head in frustration. Given the constraints I had, I wanted to know what I was up against - no, I wanted to uncover the truth.


    [Would that be enough?]


    "You-re always together, so you must know something. If only you, who always spoke about destiny, could tell me straightaway, we wouldnt be in this situation, right? Could this possibly be rted to the game?


    I was certainly anxious, but this was just the beginning. More than being entangled in this game, it was more likely that she was dealing with personal issues. In such a


    situation, it was difficult to be the first to bring up this unrealistic scenario - the yers and the game.


    [I cannot tell you. It is up to you to judge.]


    "I knew it... Forget it. Ill just have to look into it myself first.


    I sighed, choosing a method that was far from appealing. I sent a text to one of my sisters friends whom I knew through social media, asking them to inform me if anything unusual


    urred. Despite my unease, I boarded the train to school.


    Fortunately, the response came swiftly and the news was not bad. She reported that today, like yesterday, was just an ordinary day-my sister was spending time with friends and attending academy. Of course, the trustworthiness of this friend was a separate issue. I decided to text other friends as well.


    "I dont know either, lust thinking about it makes me feel dumber than the Legion.


    [To me, you do look that way.]


    CC ))


    I absentmindedly switched on my phone, a habit Id developed even when nothing significant was happening. As expected, the Legion was preparing for war.


    [It seems they are also starting to notice something strange.]


    The Legions fmain body, having already devoured most of the lower zone, had now extended its roots into the 13th zone. This massive entity, singr yet multifaceted, was fracturing and burrowing into even the hardest cave rocks at the deepest part of the cave, distorting its form and expanding its size. We were rewriting the history of this ancient, deep cave.


    [Their scouts have appeared and begun investigating. Strangely, some of them seem to be riding tamed bird-like organisms.]


    Following their encounter with the rats, a noticeable shift in the ecology became evident as they ascended through the zones. Feathered organisms, unlike the reptiles and


    amphibians they had previously encountered, were now making their first appearance in this cave.


    [Of course, feathers were nothing mysterious to the Legion, who already had information about birds.]


    The Legion, having steadily gained experience since its cellr stage, understood the importance of scouts. Conversely, they also recognized the significance of blocking the


    opponents scouting. The Legions aerial units immediatelyunched to seize control of the skies. Based on the data umted so far, thebat power of the scouting unit was pitiful.


    [Though the feathered organisms they rode were quite fast, it was toote.]


    As expected, everyst one of the scouting units was taken down.


    [But this is just the beginning. Look, their power was formidable enough to cross into other zones.]


    My phone screen flipped, revealing the view that the scouts had captured. I was left speechless. Thendscape of the 15th zone, the second lower zone reached by navigating the rough underground rivers upstream, was starkly different from the 10th zone. The cave was equally barren, but the ecosystem was more diverse, with small nts, not just moss, dotting thendscape.


    "...So that was their base.


    A dry chuckle slipped from my lips. Fortresses and roads covered the entire lower zone, countless nests were strewn about, and there seemed to be at least several thousand rats. I had always prided our Legions numbers, but it appeared I was mistaken.


    [The Legion was recalibrating its strategy. The groups we had encountered so far were merely minor yers. The real war was on the horizon.]


    It seemed the rats were also preparing for battle. Luckily, while they remained unaware of our scouts, we managed to investigate every corner of their territory. Thats when I noticed therge quantities of metal scraps being transported.


    "This is insane.


    I muttered.


    What I saw next had me swearing under my breath. A sleek, silver-colored body. A firm grip.


    "Why is that here?


    [It was the emergence of a tool unknown to the Legion.]


    The item a rat gingerly brought in, decked out in crude armor and shy jewelry, was arge-caliber pistol, the likes of which would never be found in the army.


    "Whoever it is, the yer doesnt seem to be Korean...


    I massaged my throbbing head. Arge-caliber pistol? Could that pistol, capable of pulverizing a watermelon, truly inflict significant damage on us?


    "It might be quite effective.


    [Since the enemies unveiled a new tool, the Legion decided to proceed with caution. First, to identify what that tool actually was.]


    With no means ofmunication currently, I had no option but to entrust it to the Legion. However, theyre more intelligent than me, so I assumed theyd quickly discern the truth about guns.


    [The Legion dispatched an advance team. They understood that those who prepare and equip themselves in advance be stronger. Thus, they nned to act before the enemiespleted their preparations.]


    The highly mobile aerial units took to the skies once again. Their sole purpose was to relentlessly harass the enemy until the main force was assembled and ready to charge.


    [The enemies have noticed our attack. The first strike was merely a sample. Poison needles and ws rained down on the panicked enemies atop the fortress.]


    As they had demonstrated thus far, the rats worked in unison, thrusting spears and firing arrows at therger Legion soldiers. The arrows, shot at close range, had significant prating power, beginning to pierce through the soldiers carapace armor.


    [Will they not deploy their secret weapon here? Regardless, the Legion will persist with these guerri tactics. We do not tire, but they surely will.]


    A war of attrition, with injuries on both sides. If the Legion deemed this advantageous, they would continue this cycle indefinitely. They were well aware of their strengths.


    "The rats will undoubtedly be rattled, if they are indeed living organisms.


    Survival instinct is a natural trait of any living being. The Legion, however, was an exception. *


    Once again, the ck tide surged from the lower zones, crossing the skies and charging towards them. They raised their spears, crossbows, and swords to fight once more. This was not their first or second battle. Throughbat experience,ter generations quickly learned and evolved innovatively. As each generation cycle elerated, they grew smarter and stronger. They were no longer rats scavenging animal carcasses. They were a local power, seeking to upy this lower zone and expand their influence outward. The pride of this new generation was indescribable.


    a I


    They had bravely battled the invaders, their self-confidence unshakeable. At the end of the intense fight against the monsters, they had cheered in victory. They had already


    repelled the ck monsters several times, and morale was at an all-time high. Although production and exploration activities had significantly decreased to fill the void left by


    their fallen brethren, a victory was still a victory. This triumph was not due to their might alone.


    They had paid their respects to the sky following the High Priestsmand, for someone who always provided them with mystical weapons and teachings. ording to the knowledge bestowed upon them, their growth had all begun with the grace of that someone.


    Despite their short lifespans, they all believed they would grow enough to conquer these endless caves.


    [But how arrogant a thought this was. Would immediate victory truly be a real gain?]


    Their momentum did notst long this time either. Information barely conveyed through survivors of annihted advance bases now started toe into proper view. The Legions massive invasion was underway. Amid continued harassment, the Legions nest, having devoured all the lower zones, had now stretched its budding roots up here.


    [The Legion dispatched a massive army to draw out their full force. Their faces were a picture of bewilderment. They must have been taken by surprise, unaware that we were the Legion.]


    The diverse soldiers of the Legion, a mix of various strains, marched slowly, obliterating everything in their path. The rats hastily assembled at their fortress. Their numbers were significant, indicating they sensed something was amiss.


    [The Legion issued another challenge for battle. Above the ground forces charging fiercely, aerial units dominated the skies.]


    The aerial units had transitioned fully into support roles. They captured poisonous lustre toads mid-flight with their talons, hurling them downwards. A barrage of arrows burst the swollen toads, but the exploding creatures merely dispersed a toxic mist everywhere. Amid the bombing and ensuing panic, the artillery unit, now within range, indiscriminately sprayed poison barbs. At the same time, the main force infiltrated the fortress. Such were the siege tactics of the Legion.


    [Ah, is it appearing now? To boost morale and tackle formidable enemies.]


    It revealed itself atop the fortress at that moment. The gleaming silver shone under the light of the luminous stones.

 Chapter 17: Shackles of Destiny (3)

    Chapter 17: Shackles of Destiny (3)


    The thunderous roars and shes of light from the luminescent stones paled inparison to the blinding brilliance and overwhelming physical force. Despite the Newtria-sized rats firing in unison, their hit rate was abysmal due to the recoil. However, given the size of our soldiers, it was difficult for them to miss.


    [Even the toughest and most robust armor proved insufficient. The turquoise shell of the shield-bearing legionnaire leading the frontal assault shattered instantly, his head blown apart.]


    "...I guess guns are pretty powerful after all.


    I bit my lip. The cave creatures, whose abilities far surpassed those of Earthas organisms, seemed helpless against modern Earthas gunpowder and bullets. If they couldn^t withstand it, then I stood no chance. No Earth animal could withstand guns. I didn''t know who this yer was, but they seemed to be from a country without gun restrictions.


    [But aren''t you worried about the Legion?]


    I''m not worried, lust curious about their reaction.


    I nodded. The sudden appearance of guns, a cutting-edge weapon of the current era, had surprised me. But I was familiar with guns too.


    Nine shots at best?


    I was uncertain about the magazine''s capacity, but it couldn''t hold more than ten shots. We just needed to hold on a bit longer without sumbing to panic. The issue was that the Legion was oblivious to this. I pondered over their potential course of action. Would they retreat after witnessing the power of this unfamiliar weapon? Or would they persist in their assault?


    [The Legion opted to press on. Even at the cost of losing all the soldiers currently deployed, they were determined to see it through to the end.]


    Thus, the Legion advanced with increased aggression.


    Gunshots reverberated continuously as therge creatures fell one after another. The formation wavered, and the siege began to falter. Their numbers were substantial, and the fortress was notably robust.


    ...You canmunicate with them, right? If you can understand the Legion''s thoughts, you can ry mine as well!


    [I am merely a guide and observer. Even if I were to ry your words verbatim, they wouldn''tprehend. Assist them in understanding? I cannot interfere to such an extent.]


    Useless...


    I sighed in frustration, but for now, all I could do was observe. The Legion did not cease their attack despite the stiff resistance. On the contrary, they doubled their troop count.


    Is this right?


    [I wonder why.]


    Twice, no, thrice...four times?


    The number of soldiers pouring out from the nest continued to swell instead of dwindling.


    What, what is this? Why are they going all out like this?


    [Something is provoking them. When we engage in repeated battles and confront their fiery, intense opposition, we experience something unprecedented. We cannot pinpoint the cause.


    If anything, the highly sophisticated neuralwork that we have progressively nurtured, the Legion''s brain, might be one reason.]


    Shock washed over me as I processed those words. Suddenly, the soldiers took on a different light. Countless individuals, countless strains... Yet, in essence, they were one entity.


    It was clear to me now. A strange lust was gradually infusing the teeth, ws, tails, and venomous stingers of the Legion soldiers, who had been cold and mechanical until now.


    [Do not disregard emotion. Though it may sometimes drive you to harm yourself, ultimately, it is primal, intense desire that pushes you past limits.]


    A chill ran down my spine at those words. The war had just begun. Victory and defeat would be determined by which side copsed first. If the Legion lost this battle, they wouldn''t have enough energy to produce such a massive force again. However, their explosive production capacity allowed them to swiftly cycle through depleted forces.


    On the other hand, the rats had a lower turnover than us but were waging a defensive war using various tools and facilities. Moreover, their stockpiled resources matched ours.


    [Look closely at each of their expressions. It''s strange. Very strange. The confidence that had filled them is gradually fading. They must have been arrogant. Surely they thought they would win. After fending off our skirmishes so many times, it''s only natural they would feel that way.]


    Cracks in the rats'' unity became visible. Bodies were clearly piling up, so why was this happening?


    @%*!!


    Some of them shrieked and chittered at the unloaded guns, no longer shooting bullets. Of course, guns with endless ammo only exist in virtual games.


    [We are different. We are Legion. We do not falter when faced with deafening noises we have never heard before, or if our mightiest soldiers are taken out in one blow. We simply


    kill, fight, and devour. Our soldiers move as one without the slightest hesitation.]


    They had clearly worked together, each fighting well in their own way, but differences certainly existed. We are a race capable of choice. While we may feel fighting spirit and


    anger, fear and terror do not shatter our ranks or undo our purpose when the goal lies before our eyes.


    The rats were different.


    [Once doubt takes root, fear quickly feeds on and amplifies that doubt. It''s only natural for those with emotion. The Legion is the same, but the Legion has what theyck.]


    We would tenaciously pound any opening. A soldier that hitched a ride on arge creature used its tail, sharp protrusions shing like des, to slice a rat clutching a spear cleanly in two.


    [We have endless trust in ourselves, in each other, though we are many yet one. But what about them? The desire to survive...that is only natural for any living being.]


    ...I concur with that.


    The rats'' formation copsed. The cause was the retreat of the dejected ones. Ironically, increased intelligence and diverse emotions brought gains, but they also brought losses. Fear spreading through the crowd amplified its power exponentially.


    [The Legion began tearing open and exploiting their wounds. They are confident of victory.]


    Finally, the Legion''s ground forces breached the rats'' fortress as well. Thisrge-scale siege, which would have been difficult to attempt a second time if it failed, had seeded. It was unclear whether the Legion, having just gained an understanding of emotion, really took advantage of the rats'' fear. But they had won regardless.


    [It''s time for ughter.]


    Once the formation falls apart and descends into chaos, our physical differences ensure our victory. Endless shrieks echoed through the expansive multi-level cave system. The brutal ecosystem where the defeated are annihted without exception. Amidst this, the Legion grows.


    Is there a reward by any chance? This was the first PVP victory after all.


    [If we exterminate'' them, eliminating thempletely, there would be a reward.]


    What?


    I had asked casually, but my face stiffened at the reply. Then I surreptitiously checked the back of my hand. I still had an unused Assassination Right. What did the opponent yer have? It would be fine if they had the same Assassination Right as me.


    Is a reward possible?


    [...The opponent used a Race Preservation Right. Therefore, extermination is impossible. No reward will be given.]


    Damn.


    The worst-case scenario I had anticipated hade true. They ran away like cowards.


    I''m drained.


    I put down my phone. It was already dark outside. My throat was dry, and my eyes were tired. I couldn''t help it after watching the war that had been going on for hours.


    In the dark room, I quietly listened. Kang Do Yeon had juste home. The friends I had asked all testified that nothing had happened today. Although it seemed true based on the cross-examination, I still couldn''t let my guard down.


    [...I''ll give you a hint.]


    What? You?


    [Be prepared.]


    lust then, a message popped up with a vibration. I froze for a moment at its unexpected content.


    [Once the game officially enters the mainstream, it will probably... be difficult to lead a normal life. There''s no guarantee that what happened today won''t happen on Earth.]


    The following words were shocking.


    What the hell does that mean?


    [lust as I said. It''s a fact that can be easily inferred. yers and units.]


    ...Tell me now. Who the hell are you? How do you know this?


    [I told you. I''m just an observer.]


    My hand was shaking. At the same time, in my mind, the massive war I had just witnessed was unfolding. Could I really rule out the possibility of that war happening on Earth?


    [It''s a cruel game. So please survive. Protect what you want, protect your people.]


    I don''t have any power.


    [I know.]


    But you said you could help me.


    I picked up my phone. A strong yer and a strong unit can make each other stronger. But I wasn''t like that. The only thing I could trust in this situation were these kids I had been watching.


    Is the part-time job... tough?


    I felt like I needed to be more cautious. After dealing with my sister''s issue.

 Chapter 18: The Game Board (1)

    Chapter 18: The Game Board (1)


    The gameboard, intertwined with countless worlds and people, began to move in earnest. However, the vast majority of creatures in this world were oblivious to the game. Unless they knew of its existence, they would merely fall victim to the impending chaos and turmoil.


    What are you talking about, Ji Yeon! You-re suddenly quitting?


    Didn''t you hear me? I can no longer simply follow thepany''s orders.'''' Why on earth...''''


    Kang Seung-yong, the CEO of Gaebok Corporation, was left speechless by the unexpected news. Cha Ji Yeon, a C-rank, no, now an A-rank ace hunter who had been with thepany for years, had submitted her resignation.


    What...what''s the real reason? You''re not serious, are you? I''ve known you since high school.'''' ...Please don''t ask.


    Cha Ji Yeon bit her lip and shook her head, startled by his words. They were true. She didn''t want to quit, but she had no choice. The world operated on the principle of equivalent exchange, give and take. It was an obvious fact. She had to work in proportion to what she had received. That was the harsh reality.


    Where are you nning to transfer to? Don''t tell me...the newly established American Evolution? Yes.


    What connection do they have with you, or rather, ''you guys''?


    Kang Seung-yong easily guessed her destination. It would have been stranger if he hadn''t. The so-called step-up hunters, who had recently gathered under onepany centered around a certain focal point, had be a hot topic due to their rapid growth. Her actions were predictable, being one of them.


    That''s my duty.


    Then what exactly is that du...


    Their conversation was abruptly cut off by an employee who rushed in, panting heavily. Regardless of the man''s re, the employee switched on the TV in the president''s office. What''s happening? The...the news...big trouble...


    The news that the stuttering employee turned on was a live breaking report. Cha Ji Yeon frowned, as if she had anticipated this. Orcs?


    This is because of my move to Evolution. It doesn''t seem like just a horde of orcs. In an era where magical beasts were moremon than wild animals, a breaking news report wouldn''t be broadcast for no reason. The news was currently showing a city in the United States, where creatures known as orcs were swarming. Orcs were C-rank - neither too weak nor too strong.


    Those guys, they''re really orcs...?


    However, Kang Seung-yong''s eyes grew wide. The hundreds of orcs shown on the screen now were definitely not ordinary orcs. The guys who used to wear shabby loincloths and wield clubs were now armed with high-quality steel armor and weapons. Their strength and organization had also clearly improved. The shock peaked with the appearance of an orc shaman who blocked the Hellfire missiles shot by the US military helicopter with a bluish protective barrier.


    They''re definitely not ordinary orcs.


    What the hell is this...


    Kang Seung-yong was dumbfounded, his shock defyingmon sense. Cha Ji Yeon bit her lip, her mind racing. ''Can we win?''


    The orcs were not justpetitors, but enemies of her group. They were formidable.


    Look. They''re capturing people now. The same ones who used to kill and eat people.


    You''re right. They must have ns for them.


    American hunters had arrived, fighting the creatures alongside the military. The camera panned to the orcs, indiscriminately capturing men, women, and children, and throwing them back through the gate they had emerged from.


    You know something about those creatures, don''t you?


    I do, but I can''t tell you. However, you''ll find out soon, President Kang. This is just the beginning. Prepare yourself. A long and terrible war is on the horizon.


    She sighed heavily. The era of relentlesspetition and killing had dawned. As always, it would be the powerless and ignorant who would perish in droves. Leaving a stunned Kang Seung-yong behind, she exited the office.


    [As ordered, find allies first]


    The ''yers'' on Earth.


    [With humans, it''s impossible to discern which ones are units of other yers. The most trustworthy are yers from another world. But you need to know which world their units inhabit.]


    She had already received her mission. Some of her colleagues were recruiting Earth''s hunters to form alliances and expand their forces, while she and a few others had been given different orders.


    [Those given the mission to explore, receive grace]


    A light shed before her eyes, and a small stone fell. A mystical stone engraved with spells, a mana stone. An object she had used several times before. * This is insane.


    After catching the news, my seriousness deepened. It wasn''t merely the fact that the orcs had grown stronger, as the news anchors incessantly reported. These orcs were unmistakably units interacting with a yer. The ominous warning from that mysterious narration was materializing into reality.


    ...I should definitely tell her.


    I scratched my puzzled head, contemting Kang Do Yeon. Given the escting situation, shouldn''t I inform my family? My hesitation stemmed from a simple reason. It appeared that a solution had been discovered. Despite the kid''s grave demeanor that day, she had since led a normal, carefree life. However, the substantial amount of money she brought home every week was too rming.


    What if that kid is genuinely linked to a yer or unit?


    [Think carefully. Whether a unit or yer, you must exercise extreme caution with yers. yers arepelled to target the lives of their fellow yers.]


    A yer''s enemy was another yer, a unit''s enemy was another unit. My mind sharpened. Ultimately, despite my reservations, I made a decision. I should just tell her the truth. Relevant incidents were emerging worldwide, substantiating my ims.


    Hey. We need to talk. ...Come in.


    The response came immediately after I knocked. I opened the door to find the kid lying face down on the bed.


    You might find this hard to believe, but you know the orcs wreaking havoc in the US that are all over the news?


    Those guys, they''re far from ordinary. In fact, they are...


    A pillow flew into my face mid-sentence. Stunned, I could only roll my eyes. Kang Do Yeon had somehow risen and was now covering my mouth. The kid''s eyes were trembling violently. She then stared intently at the back of my hand while gripping it. I couldn''t resist that slender arm. This was beyond human strength.


    Don''t...say it. Mmmph? Never bring up anything about yers, games, units, no matter what. She shook her head, her voice trembling. For now, I slowly nodded. I had no choice but toply, despite exerting all my strength. Fortunately, the panic quickly subsided. What on earth happened?


    Contrarily, I grew increasingly calm.


    Yoon Ah turned me into her puppet. ...Thendlord''s daughter?


    Kang Do Yeon showed me his wrist. A distinct scar with teeth marks was etched into his fair skin. I remembered her. She was a cute, kind, and cheerful friend. I couldn''t believe she would do something like this.


    She said she received that power from her units, the Cheonsan n. They''re nomads proficient in earth and wind spells, she imed. ...So, what did she make you do?


    Nothing. She just acted like an ordinary friend since then. Instead, Yoon Ah gave me 50,000 won every week as a sry. Why...does she give it to you? That''s...if I die...


    The kid began trembling again as she spoke. Although my head was burning hot, my mind was icy cold. I needed to think logically, efficiently, like the legion.


    Was the other order to report any information about yers or apps?


    Yes, to immediately report it if I ever hear anyone mention anything about yers, apps, and such. Luckily the answer isn''t hopeless, is it?


    After hearing the entire response and piecing together the information, I unconsciously let out a snort. It seemed like a long roady ahead based on the story. I could just kill her, right?


    I nced at the assassination right engraved on the back of my hand. I had perfect justification, necessity, means, and methods. I had absolutely no reason not to kill the girl who had made my sister a minion. That was the implication.


    No.


    Just then, Kang Do Yeon refuted my words. I was slightly taken aback. However, my pale-faced, panting sister''s expression was different from before. We can use this. ...What do you mean? From what I gathered, the rtionship seems quiteplex.


    The kid, who was gradually regaining herposure, began rambling incoherently. I focused on the story as if I was spellbound.

 Chapter 19: The Game Board (2)

    Chapter 19: The Game Board (2)


    First, units will unconditionally consider units of other affiliations as enemies when encountering them. Kang Do Yeon calmly began organizing her thoughts.


    Unable to speak with my mouth sealed, I nodded.


    Likewise, yers are also hostile to other yers. But there''s a contradiction here. What if the units of the opposing yer are in apletely different world? On a different ''server.'' Yes, you''re right. Units from the same world are invariably hostile, but yers may not necessarily be. asionally, they might even form alliances to target other yers of the same affiliation. The thought sent a shiver down my spine.


    The units currently rampaging on Earth have no connection to us. But consider this: what if the owner of those units is a yer in your world? They would aim to find and eliminate not just the units, but that type of yer as well. Eliminating the yer would make war unnecessary. My head began to pound. The situation was excessivelyplex and convoluted.


    But how does that rte to Oh Yoon-ah being dangerous? You got hurt! I won''t forgive her either. But Yoon-ah doesn''t know anything about you. The kid spoke slowly, her breath uneven and her eyes wavering.


    I She prioritizes her own safety first and seeks to connect with other yers whose worlds don''t intersect. She doesn''t just stay still, she aggressively expands her forces. To keep close? Since I''ll keep asking her, wait for a clearer opportunity. There''s an advantage in making the first move. Unterally obtaining information and exploiting it. Logical. Yes, thinking about it efficiently and logically, my sister was right.


    I''m worried about you. ...Then buy me some bread. The kid let out a weakugh. In the end, I left the room as it was. That kid isn''t a ''unit,'' right? [That''s correct. Units and yers are predetermined from the start. Anyone recruited, bound, or contracted afterward is not affected by the rules.] Returning to the room, I dismissed thest possibility I had been worried about. *


    [Don''t me yourself.] Do I look like I am? [On the contrary, your goal has be clear. Check it. Your ount level has increased to 3.] Leveling up was a painfully slow process. However, the bright side was the increase in the number of samples and nutrients I could allocate. This is an investment.


    I waved an envelope containing 1 million won. It was money that the young girl had risked her life to earn, not spending a single penny until now. But now, it was time to use it.


    I fiddled with my phone, reminding myself that it wasn''t the right time yet. But when that time came, I would capture and consume anything, even if it was a human.


    [Observe the legion. As it has grown in size, so have the maintenance costs. But thanks to its racial traits, growth and digestion have elerated proportionally.]


    I nced at the screen. The legion was in the process of eradicating the remnants of the rat hordes that once popted the area. I wondered, looking at the entirety, if any


    organismrger than us truly existed in this cave. We hadpletely upied 20 zones, including 2 entire strata.


    It won''t stop, will it? [Of course not. Victory is victory. There are still so many ces left to consume.] On my screen, I saw members of the legion gathering the rats'' tools. They seemed unusually thoughtful. [Tools are indeed a fascinating concept, but should we utilize them in the same primitive manner as the rats?] Difficult to determine. The legion seems to have its own constraints at present. [Indeed. The legion has reached the same conclusion.] The legion soldiers discarded the tools.


    More urately, they stopped acquiring tools from external sources.


    After all, we couldn''t manufacture steel.


    [However, there are alternatives. One day, we might be able to create weapons more robust and sharper than steel.] ...That''s a distinct possibility. While preserving the concept of tools, the legion dispatched scouts to unexplored territories.


    [The surrounding area has been depleted by the rats. But we can consume not only their carcasses but also the mushroom houses and structures they''ve constructed.] They''re quite the pest, aren''t they? I examined the screen.


    The scout had discovered a route leading to the upperyers, already fully excavated by the rats.


    And at the end of that path, which the rats had imed as their domain, there was something. They''vepletely sealed off another path here, I wonder why? A passage firmly blocked withrge rocks, mushroom fragments, dirt, and so on. It was undoubtedly the rats'' handiwork.


    Given the situation, this was the only upward path.


    Which meant the rats had obstructed the sole route avable for their forces to expand upwards.


    I wonder why. They had no problem descending. No, if we hadn''t acted swiftly, they might have sealed off the lower levels as well. [Regrettably, the legioncks the capacity to analyze data in its brain. However, the legion is aware that the rats deliberately barricaded that passage.] So, what''s the strategy? [Isn''t it clear?] The legion soldiers began to mobilize.


    They deployed the strongest soldiers to gradually dismantle the barricade.


    [We cannot halt. Halting signifies death. Our size has be toorge to stagnate.] Even if strange creatures resided beyond this point. We had to battle and consume to survive. I certainly believe that.


    And now, I was hoping for that oue as well.


    The legion needed to grow stronger.


    Expand and gain more power, to be my strength.


    [The obstruction is nearly removed. Scouts are now entering the slight crevice that has been revealed.] As soon as a crack appeared, several small scouts slipped inside.


    Simultaneously, the view of what the scouts observed was linked up. Initially, it was a typical cave. A typical cave, but... [Having experienced reaching a ''branch'' known as the grandyer for the first time, the legion was less shocked this time. This ce...can definitely be considered part of the ''trunk''.] It''s both awe-inspiring and amazing. It was certainly a cave.


    But only superficially, as I had never witnessed such a vast cave before.


    The dense vegetation, including mushrooms asrge as trees, the ceiling towering dozens of meters high, and the luminous stones twinkling like stars on that ceiling. The caves I had encountered so far paled inparison. [Is that a problem?] Of course not. I sneered.


    In the end, it didn''t really matter what kind of ce this was. The legion would continue to devour its way through here. [The most important thing is whetherpeting units exist here. Next is whether forces or powerful beings that might dare to oppose us exist.] The scouts did not stop and continued scouting around.


    Since the environment had changed so drastically, everything around them was new information. Smander?


    In the midst of it, I saw a familiar sight.


    A fire-breathing giant smander the size of a car, a red-scaled cave ground dragon. The smander that had once dominated Layer 10 was crawling amidst the mushroom jungle. It was nice seeing a familiar face, but... Hm? [As expected, this is an upperyer. Beings that acted cocky in the loweryers be easy prey here.] I blinked in surprise.


    The hulking smander fell prey in an instant. ...Uh.


    Its predator was a giant beetle, asrge as the smander itself. What I had initially mistaken for a nearby boulder was actually the dust-covered carapace of the beetle. This fantastical world defied all logic. This was the reality of the cave.


    [Does it matter?] Of course not. I smirked. Ultimately, the nature of this ce was inconsequential. The legion would persist in its relentless consumption. [We don''t blindly charge in. We are learning beings, all experience umted so far has been recorded in history.] You''ve already experienced proper war.


    I conceded. We had evolved beyond the rudimentary concept of group hunting. Our focus was now solely on warfare, maximizingbat power by integrating various troop types. The legion soldiers had metamorphosed from predators seeking prey into a sharp, cold army. They initiated their assault on the beetle that was tearing apart the smander.


    [The carapace is quite hard. Harder than the carapaces of creatures from the loweryers. That''s why it''s so tempting.]


    Trusting in its sturdy back shell, the beetle swiftly burrowed into the ground, assuming a defensive posture. Most predators would have given up at this point. But we were different. The legion persistently harassed the creature until it seeded in flipping it over. As I watched the screaming beast being torn apart, I furrowed my brow. [No big deal, right? In the end, beasts are beasts no matter how evolved, not worthparing to us.] ...That''s the legion''s opinion you''re voicing, not your own feelings, right? [That''s right. Did you sense something?]


    Sense something? Watching the ck tide engulfing this cavern, I hesitated briefly. What if self-awareness disappears?


    The legion had clearly developed the seeds of emotion during thest battle. I didn''t want this nascent organism to be arrogant and twisted.

 Chapter 20: The Game Board (3)

    Chapter 20: The Game Board (3)


    - If were not careful, the nightmare from ten years ago could repeat itself.


    I stared nkly at the article, reading and rereading it, before sighing. Ten years ago, our response system was still in its infancy. Monsters had ughtered countless people. The situation was dire.


    Its not against the rules to discuss the game, is it?


    [Indeed. After all, you are the ones who will bear all the responsibility.]


    ..Theyre still in the dark?


    I scrolled further down. This was the only topic of conversationtely. Evolving monsters, or as they weremonly known, mutants. To those unfamiliar with the situation, it could indeed be baffling. But to be urate, they werent mutants. They grew, interacted, and learned. There hadnt been any reports of such mutants in Korea yet, but they could appear at any time.


    How is the legion faring? How much more does it need to grow before we canmunicate?


    Desperation surged within me as the situation escted. I bit my lip. I had inquired if it was feasible to extract information from even a fragment of a higher entitys body. The response, however, was thatplete restoration was beyond the legions current interpretive capabilities. This implied that even if I sent my blood, teeming with my genes and cells, the legion couldnt replicate a human from that alone.


    [Whenmunication will be possible, no one knows. It could be right now, or it could be in the distant future. But rest assured, it is your role to control it.]


    My role. I nced at the sample slot I still had avable. I was somewhat prepared. If the monsters appeared, I nned to find them and take samples.


    I


    "Huh?


    Suddenly, a loud siren echoed from outside.


    *


    Are we sure its around here?


    Cha Ji Yeon, having driven her car into the bustling street, parked it and ced a small stone in her palm. The stone hummed and vibrated. It was the signal she had finally caught after scouring more than half of Seoul. Based on this signal, she had roughly determined the range of her target.


    [Its impossible to find the exact location. However, if you approach within a close range, you should be able to spot any suspicious individuals.]


    Understood.


    She exited the car. Her unique appearance began to attract attention from the surrounding crowd. Ignoring their stares, she moved on, donning a hat and sunsses. Two schools, numerous apartments and shops, a subway station, and more. Despite narrowing down the range, there were still too many potential targets.


    However, she was being watched. Not just her, but also an unknown entity that trailed behind her. The creature, its vision shared with a sparrow circling the sky, bared its sharp teeth and smirked.


    ...The location has been fixed for several hours now. So its not a passerby, but a house, school, or self-employed person?


    Cha Ji Yeon, who had been wandering around the neighborhood, racked her brain to infer potential candidates. This area was a typical bedroommunity, so if someone stayed in one ce on a weekday morning, she could identify a few potential candidates.


    [Oh no.]


    The tranquil morning was abruptly fractured. She raised her head as the sound of distant screams echoed.


    A sudden gate!


    A goblin! But their appearance...


    Her hunters acute hearing precisely picked up the faint screams. From the peoples shouts, she grasped the situation.


    [A coincidence? Definitely not a coincidence. Dodge them. Theyre after you.]


    ...So you had to cause a scene.


    With a click of her tongue, she instinctively ran towards the source of the screams. As a hunter, it was her duty to hunt monsters and save people.


    [No, retreat immediately. You cant create variables. Thats Carcoss meaning.]


    People are dying! Because of us!


    [Unfortunately, such considerations are not a concern for your yer.]


    Tsk...


    A sharp pain pierced her spine, making her wince. It was a warning. Her yer, a clear powerhouse with mysterious powers, had bestowed its grace upon her from the beginning. It imposed restrictions, controlling her as its subordinate.


    [Step back and assess the situation. Once their power is confirmed, then join in and earn merit.]


    She was left with no choice but to heed themand. Despite the escting screams, she bit her lip and dodged with haste.


    What kind of goblins are these...


    Just as Cha Ji Yeon evaded, monsters surged from the warped space,unching attacks on people without discrimination. They were roughly the size of elementary school children, their skin a dark green, their faces distorted. Their appearance resembled the goblins in creative works, hence they were referred to as goblins, a small group of monsters, rather than their official name. In reality, they were known as the weakest D-rank monsters, so weak that an average person could beat them in a one-on-one fight.


    This, this is...ugh.


    But the ones pouring out of the gate now were different.


    They were no longer a mere beastly horde. A crude g, inscribed with blood on old cloth, fluttered in the wind.


    ! !


    Several policemen, who had been desperately firing their guns, fell to arrows shot from a powerful bow. They had evolved into an army. Amander with a long beard led the troops, releasing those who ran rampant for plunder and massacre, then organizing them into well-structured formations.


    Themander sniffed the air, surveying his surroundings. Through a spell, he linked his field of vision to a bird soaring in the sky, a method to locate his target. However, the target he had been tracking had suddenly disappeared.


    "! !


    But it didnt matter. After all, his purpose here was not merely to hunt a single enemy unit. He waved his baton, dispersing his soldiers.


    Kyaaak!


    Hey, let go of this!


    Even those who were indiscriminately ughtering did not kill certain targets but captured them. The targets of the hunt were females. From the beginning, goblins were a race that could not reproduce without females of other races.


    A warrior at the forefront sniffed the air. People were frantically evacuating from arge building. The scent of prey was strong there.


    Hey, guys! Keep your wits about you and act ording to the manual! To the shelter! You cant go out now!


    The once tranquil school had descended into pandemonium. Sirens wailed incessantly, and distant screams echoed, but the evacuation had been unstable from the onset.


    Guys..!


    As the reality of the situation unfolded, the teachers control wavered. It wasnt a matter of safety insensitivity, but rather extreme fear.


    What are you doing? Lets go.


    You seem oddly calm? But shouldnt we consider heading to the shelter?


    In the midst of this chaos, Kang Do Yeon found herselfpelled to stay close to Oh Yoon Ah.


    However, Oh Yoon Ah hesitated at Kang Do Yeons suggestion to quickly seek refuge in the shelter.


    What are you talking about?


    If we make a mistake, we could end up ughtered. Its not that I dont trust the manual. Its just that I cant be certain ''what kind of guys will emerge from the gate.


    Seeing her friend chuckle in such a situation, Kang Do Yeon frowned at the mention of ughter. They were aware of the app and the game, but regardless, they were just ordinary high school girls.


    Im not sure. Even if I want to take sides, it doesnt seem wise to engage with the monsters spilling out of the gate.


    Kyaaak!


    While Oh Yoon Ah was engrossed in her thoughts, something shattered the window of the chaotic corridor and flew in. The tip of an arrow, honed to a point like obsidian. Seeing it, Kang Do Yeon felt a chill run down her spine.


    Its a goblin!


    A scream echoed, as if someone was being torn apart. The goblins, who had targeted the school, ignored all else and began to swarm over the wall like ants.


    Lets run away.


    Yeah.


    In that moment, they both agreed. One might wonder what a mere goblin could do to the steel doors of a shelter, but these two knew that these goblins were far from ordinary.


    Everyone, run outside... What are you doing?!


    Dont make a foolish decision now when youve been so sensible up to this point. If everyone runs outside together, its difficult to escape properly. And we dont have time for that.


    Kang Do Yeon halted Oh Yoon Ah, who was attempting to evacuate the other students and teachers outside. Oh Yoon Ah was taken aback, not expecting her to say such a thing.


    ..Theyre our friends. Are you suggesting we use them as bait?


    Use them as bait? Bait is used when hunting. Were trying to survive.


    She was resolute. Despite being the one in charge, Oh Yoon Ah was overpowered by her determination and nodded. After that, they sprinted wildly down the corridor.


    The goblins, who had already infiltrated from behind, began to ughter those who resisted and capture students who couldnt escape in time.


    Heeek...


    In the midst of all this, a goblin, grinning and holding a bloody sword, stood in front of them as they were going down the stairs. The victims were the schools principal and the head of student affairs.


    Even the new teachers, who had sworn to protect their students, abandoned them and fled. They were swiftly killed by the monster that had charged ahead.


    Protect me! Thats why I gave you power!


    I know.


    A terrified Oh Yoon Ah cowered behind Kang Do Yeon, her small body shaking. Kang Do Yeon had no choice but to step forward. If they didnt escape, they would die. Worse, they might endure even more horrific experiences. At least for now, they had a modicum of power.


    The goblin sneered, brandishing his sword at her. It was a goblins sword, but it was as long as a machete.


    Please, pull yourself together.


    Kang Do Yeon fought to keep herposure. Each encounter with a monster, direct or indirect, resurrected the traumatic events of that fateful day. The chilling childhood memory that still haunted her.


    Hoo...


    The incident had left a deep scar on her psyche. These effects would asionally trigger panic in certain situations.


    You disgusting monster bastard!


    At other times, it ignited a seething hatred and anger within her. The moment her anger overpowered her fear, she stomped on the ground. In a swift motion, she grabbed a fire extinguisher with one hand and urately mmed it into the face of the goblin.


    The sound of flesh bursting, bones crushing and breaking, and the clear impact reverberated throughout the area.

 Chapter 21: The Game Board (4)

    Chapter 21: The Game Board (4)


    Uh... ah...


    Run, quickly.


    Kang Do Yeon grabbed her frozen friends wrist and dragged her along. She still held a fire extinguisher in her hand.


    Die!


    The first time is always the hardest, but the second time is easier. Already excited, she threw the fire extinguisher at another goblin that appeared from the bottom of the stairs. The fire extinguisher flew with fierce momentum, smashing the goblins face. She then stomped on the fallen creature like a madwoman.


    Shit...


    She wiped off the blood that had sttered on her clothes. But there was no time to dwell on the aftermath. She grabbed another fire extinguisher and, holding Oh Yoon Ahs hand, they ran hurriedly. Goblins were everywhere. They barely managed to escape the building amidst the chaos.


    Running away was clearly the wise choice, considering the screams they could hear from behind.


    Ah...


    What do we do! What do we do!


    A panicked Oh Yoon Ah clung to her, screaming. They were surrounded. A dozen goblins had gathered and were baring their teeth, starting to approach. There was no one nearby to help.


    ''...Damn.


    Kang Do Yeon took a deep breath and lifted the fire extinguisher. Some of the goblins were brandishing rough ropes they had prepared in advance.


    Hey!


    But just then, a car came racing across the field with a deafening honk.


    *


    What the hell.


    I gritted my teeth against the grating noise as I mmed on the brakes. Leaving a corpse in the drivers seat, hijacking someone elses car, andmitting vehicr manughter by speeding? But that wasnt the pressing issue at the moment.


    Get in quickly!


    After mowing down a few goblins, I shouted at the dazed girls. It was only then that Kang Do Yeon seemed to snap back to reality. She struck a reeling goblins head with a fire extinguisher and dragged her petite friend towards the car.


    ''Just leave Oh Yoon Ah ande.


    H-how did you get here? Whose car is this?!


    Is that really what matters right now?


    I floored the elerator once more. The priority was to escape. However, my sense of relief was premature. As I attempted to reverse, something came flying in.


    This cant be.


    Is this...


    I sighed in disbelief. Could the object that had just flown in and punctured the tire be a bullet?


    Kyaaah!


    More bullets followed. The goblin at the forefront, leading the others and waving his beard, was aiming a stolen police gun at us. He was themander of these goblins, someones unit.


    Oppa...


    You, stay here.


    The goblin discarded the gun and aimed arge staff in his hand. mes gathered instantly, forming a fireball. He nned to shoot that at us. I looked at my gloved hand. Even if I used my one-time assassination right to kill him now, what about the others? ording to the rules, ''units and yers couldnt be handled by the apps basic functions. So, taking a picture was impossible.


    Thats...


    But hope was always present. With a sh of lightning, someone appeared behind the goblins.


    Cha Ji Yeon!


    The step-up hunter?


    Oh Yoon Ah and Kang Do Yeon recognized her. A woman in a ck suit with light blue hair, surrounded by lightning. Thunderous noises erupted as lightning bolts shot out one after another. I watched silently as she ughtered the goblins. From the noise, it seemed like hunters or police were already handling the situation in the back.


    Shes powerful...


    The girls gasped in awe. She was indeed powerful. The relentless lightning she summoned decimated dozens of goblins in a single strike. Despite the goblins illogical increase in strength, her power was overwhelming. The goblin that seemed to be the leader hurled a fireball at her. Cha Ji Yeon, however, split it with her hand, enveloped in blue lightning, and reduced him to a charred husk with a potent electric shock. She then navigated through the scorched corpses and walked towards us.


    Over there...


    Is anyone hurt?


    Our eyes met. In that moment, I felt something. Something in her eyes. Could she, who was suspected to be a unit, have figured out my identity?


    There are still people in the back!


    ...In the back?


    At that moment, Oh Yoon Ah pointed at the school building and shouted. But she just stared nkly at her and didnt move. My eyes then met with Kang Do Yeons. After all, there were only two yers here in the first ce.


    Dont worry. The armed police and hunters have been urgently dispatched, so youve managed to escape well. If you had stayed at the shelter, you would have been overrun.


    Do you need something from me?


    The atmosphere was tense. Oh Yoon Ah and Cha Ji Yeon, each harboring their own secrets, locked eyes in the open air.


    Kasamandis.


    ...?


    Say it. Kasamandis.


    The first to speak was Oh Yoon Ah. I realized she was conducting her own verification process.


    Kasamandis.


    Youre fine? If you had received power from someone in this world, it would have been a cursed spell.


    Cha Ji Yeon, having caught on to something, obedientlyplied. At the same time, she pulled something out. A small pebble-like stone that shone brightly.


    Unit.


    yer.


    Oh Yoon Ah and Cha Ji Yeon both spoke simultaneously. As expected, Cha Ji Yeon was someones unit. From a different world than Oh Yoon Ah. Kasamandis... I made a mental note of that spell.


    So, whats your yers position?


    The goal is to find yers from different affiliations and form alliances.


    I see. As expected.


    I dont know where she got her confidence from, but the girl who was whimpering just a moment ago now held her head high with pride. Even though she seems a bit naive, shes cunning enough to brand her own friend, so she must have some tricks up her sleeve.


    I can provide plenty of help, too.


    Then theres no reason to hesitate.


    Cha Ji Yeon chuckled, effectively acknowledging the alliance. We, the siblings, had no choice but to be followers. For now, that seemed to be the better option.


    Lets move to a safe ce... Wait.


    Just then, Cha Ji Yeon, who was leading us, suddenly stopped. Her face turned pale.


    Whats wrong? Did your yer...


    Oh Yoon Ah, previously brimming with confidence, suddenly deted and hid behind Kang Do Yeon. Cha Ji Yeon, her eyes tightly shut, trembled and swayed as if enduring immense pain.


    They cant. They are innocent people...!


    Could it be.


    The swaying woman sparked lightning once more. The issue was, it didnt seem like the red lightning was manifested by her will.


    Maintain... the games secret...ugh . .


    Wa, wait!


    While we stood frozen, Oh Yoon Ah unexpectedly stepped forward.


    These people are mine. They already know everything. Theres no need to silence them!


    ...Thats a relief.


    Upon hearing Oh Yoon Ahs exnation, her lightning gradually faded. Cha Ji Yeon, drenched in cold sweat, looked genuinely relieved.


    Lets move to a safe ce now.


    We followed her as she sprinted away. There was nothing left to do after that. The hunters and armed police who had rushed in had driven away all the goblins. The survivors had fled through the gate, taking with them numerous victims and kidnapped prisoners. It was a disaster that would go down in Korean history, returning after ten years, marking the beginning of a new catastrophe.


    *


    So, what did she say?


    She said shell exin everything to you and smooth things over.


    Is that it?


    In the midst of the chaotic and disordered atmosphere, I sat dazedly on the boundary stone with Kang Do Yeon.


    She seems a bit scatterbrained.


    Shes good at studying, but shes a bit sloppy.


    I chuckled. There was indeed something peculiar about Oh Yoon Ah, even in her interactions with me. Kang Do Yeon had mentioned that she had taken me under her wing because she couldnt brand anyone else. However, her threat to silence me was merely a stern warning. Naturally, from her perspective, her brother was being held hostage, so her threat wasnt entirely ineffective. Regardless, we had each saved each others lives once. I was rescued from the goblins, and she was saved from Cha Ji Yeon.


    But Yoon Ah and Cha Ji Yeon are unaware of your existence. Things have worked out well.


    Yeah. Somehow, I managed to pull through.


    Do you know where your units are from?


    No.


    I sighed. At that moment, I couldnt even muster the strength to stand, let alone consider other worlds.


    We should head home. We cant stay here any longer.


    Alright.


    I had no desire to hear more crying and shouting. With Oh Yoon Ah and Cha Ji Yeon gone, there was no reason to linger. We headed straight home.


    There are really no injuries...sob.


    Mom, please...


    Upon our arrival home, our mother, alerted by a phone call, rushed over and enveloped us in a tight, sobbing embrace. After soothing her, I quickly retreated to my room. Todays events had made it abundantly clear: time was not generous, and danger was ever-present.


    Is it confirmed?


    [Yes. The legion is currently dissecting and analyzing the new samples. This will be a historical moment. Perhaps this sample will lead to a breakthrough in our evolution.]


    On my cell phone screen, the lifeless bodies of the goblins were being partially digested by the nest. Before leaving, I had taken a few shots of the ones that had been hit by a car. Surprisingly, even if they were units, their corpses could be transferred.

 Chapter 22: The Game Board (5)

    Chapter 22: The Game Board (5)


    [The legion, a lineage of creatures unlike any other, absorbed everything by disassembling and digesting it.]


    [The goblin''s brain was more sophisticated and systematic than any we''ve encountered so far. Using it as a blueprint, the legion developed its own brain.]


    [Just as when we first discovered ants, this will mark a significant turning point in our evolution.]


    I''m d you don''t find it repulsive."


    I offered a wry smile.


    The stereotype of goblins as dim-witted, diminutive, low-ranking monsters that even ordinary people disregard was still prevalent, but these goblins were different. The image of the goblin who effortlessly wielded a police officer''s gun was still vivid in my mind.


    [We might evolve into a new form.]


    "It seems like it will take more time."


    The 20th floor, part of the stem, was vast. We hadn''t even finished exploring it yet. And that''s not even considering the other branches connected to the stem. There was so much to consume. For the first time, the issue was the slow pace of consumption.


    [This ce is indeed a vast world. And there must be a master here. Look at the screen. Our scout has found a creature presumed to be the master of this ce.]


    "...It''s enormous."


    The creature was enormous, at least asrge as a truck. Its form was unrecognizable, making it impossible to determine whether it was a reptile or an amphibian. It walked on two


    short, thick legs, an unusual trait for the creatures in this world. Its hunched posture and long, muscr arms, tipped with gleaming sharp ws, gave it a gori-like gait.


    [The legion observed this unfamiliar enemy with interest, deciding to hunt.]


    The creature lumbered towards arge two-headed turtle. The turtle, naturally, tried to evade it hastily.


    [The creature lifted its fist, smashing the turtle. Its long neck stretched out, opening a wide mouth.]


    I frowned at the sight. There was no face at the end of its elongated neck, just flesh that split open to reveal a mouth full of sharp teeth, reminiscent of a moray eel. It swallowed the smashed turtle whole.


    "What a bizarre world."


    [The legion prepared to hunt. This was our first time hunting such arge enemy, but we already knew how to huntrge enemies.]


    Despite my repulsion, the legion was confident. The nest, which had been storing energy, began to squirm and move.


    "But isn''t it too big?"


    [We''ve also obtained new weapons. The legion ns to actively use the goblin''s genes we obtained this time.]


    A twinge of unease crept over me. The legion never employed anything that seemed inefficient, so their favoring of goblins was unexpected. What potential did they see in them?


    [We determined that we can leverage our strengths. Among all the samples we have, the goblin is the most versatile. We now understand tools.]


    "That''s true."


    [No matter what form it takes, the potential to modify and evolve is limitless.]


    Eggs began to popte the nest, a nest that had devoured every single cell of the 20 floors and even the most insignificant branches. From these eggs, new soldiers, modeled after goblins, would soon emerge and awaken.


    "So, what about the brain? Can itmunicate with me?"


    [Given your knowledge of goblins, we now meet the minimum requirements to learn anguage system.]


    "That''s good," I smirked.


    Watching the growth of yers like Cha Ji Yeon and Oh Yoon Ah, who possessed simr or even equal intelligence, was captivating. They became stronger throughmunication with each other. Having experienced the power ofmunication firsthand, I couldn''t help but feel a thrill of excitement.


    "Can we converse?"


    [-]


    "We can converse, right?"


    Despite the legion''s rapid growth, my path tomunication with them was far from smooth.


    [We are learningnguage.]


    "Damn..."


    [How can we learn without a teacher?]


    My hopes were crushed. Language? The only creaturesmunicating in the cave were the squeaking rats.


    [Furthermore, thenguage system of goblins is distinctly different from that of humans. The legion hasn''t matured enough to learn advancednguage yet. My advice is, instead of waiting for the legion to learn Korean, it would be more beneficial to find another way.]


    "Find a better way? Are you suggesting I learn signnguage? Forget it. Let''s move on. So, when can I expect help from the legion?"


    [No one has reached Chapter 3 yet. Although yers and units are connected by a single thread, those who are currently helping each other are oveing the world''s barriers with their own abilities, not the game''s options.]


    "Is it my fault again? This is really absurd."


    I rubbed my chest in frustration.


    Perhaps I was just being too impatient. It had only been a month. While others had beenmunicating and interacting from the start, we had grown from a single cell to this point. The legion hadn''t rested for a single second. I couldn''t rush them under these circumstances. Since I had been tied to them from the beginning, it was something I had to ept.


    I needed to be patient and wait. Surely, there would be advantages for us in the end. I decided that my role was to buy that time.


    "Oppa, you''re not sleeping, are you?"


    A knock on the door interrupted my thoughts. I closed my phone. I still needed more time.


    "What''s up?"


    "Are you...?"


    "Yes. I was looking at my kids."


    My voice trailed off into silence. She looked intrigued, but we had agreed not to delve into my units to prevent any unforeseenplications. Naturally, my sister couldn''t resist hinting at her curiosity.


    "Aren''t you going to share any of your units with me, oppa?"


    "Ugh..."


    "My kids arete bloomers. But why are you here?"


    "I received a text from Yoon Ah."


    This was significant news. Had she made a decision after speaking with Cha Ji Yeon?


    "What did she say?"


    "We can''t go to school for a while anyway. We''re meeting tomorrow. But she said you shoulde too."


    "Will Cha Ji Yeon be there as well?"


    "...Yes. She views you and me as... the same. I believe she has something important to discuss."


    Kang Do Yeon bit her lip, trembling. She must have assumed that I got involved because of her.


    "It''s not a big deal. Don''t me yourself. This was our n from the beginning."


    I reassured her nonchntly. I didn''t consider it a bad thing either. It was better than letting her get involved alone. Most importantly, neither Cha Ji Yeon nor Oh Yoon Ah knew my true identity. Now that we''ve made contact, they would undoubtedly take actions beyond that. For me, it was an opportunity to gather information for free.


    "I suppose I''ll have to act convincingly."


    I chuckled, though there was no apparent reason for my amusement.


    *


    "Do we really need to go when everything is so chaotic? Can''t we just stay home..."


    "It''s not a big deal, we''ll be fine."


    Early in the morning, after calming my mother''s fears, my sister and I left the house. The neighborhood, no, the entire country was in a state of turmoil. Dozens of people had been killed or abducted, half of them young students.


    "Let''s go."


    We crossed the road and made our way to the meeting ce. The area, still grappling with the unresolved situation, was swarming with grieving families, police, and media. Our destination was a cafe a little further away. Throughout the journey, we remained silent.


    "They''re over there."


    Kang Do Yeon was the first to spot them and pointed them out. A petite girl was standing with a middle-aged man and woman. Could they be Oh Yoon Ah''s parents?


    "Are you here? This is...Ha ha!"


    " ?! "


    Oh Yoon Ah approached us, her greeting warm and weing. Suddenly, a middle-aged woman smacked her on the back of the head before bowing politely in our direction.


    "We are her parents. We''ve heard the story. We''re sorry. We''re sorry for involving you in such a terrible incident. I''m sorry. Do Yeon."


    "No, we..."


    We were both startled, caught off guard by the unexpected turn of events. We left Oh Yoon Ah clutching the back of her head, moaning in pain, and exchanged uneasy greetings with her parents.


    "It''s really okay. After all, we managed to survive in that crisis thanks to her."


    "And anyway, we''re a team now."


    Oh Yoon Ah''s mother sobbed as she gently touched the mark on my sister''s wrist. She had a mark on her wrist too. Oh Yoon Ah had also given her parents power. She probably didn''t n to use them as human shields.


    "Let''s all calm down for now. That person ising."


    I subtly intervened, fiddling with the sleeve covering the back of my hand, and sorted out the situation. Arge van approached and stopped.


    "Everyone, get in."


    The person who drove the car here was Cha Ji Yeon.

 Chapter 23 - Movement (1)

    Chapter 23 - Movement (1)


    [Can you understand now? How he thinks of you. Even now, he keeps plenty of slots open, just in case of unforeseen circumstances.]


    The colossal cave pulsed slowly, teeming with life, bing a life form in its own right. This was the lowest level, the birthce of the legion.


    [...You remain oblivious. How could you not, having just awakened?]


    Eggs tumbled from the pulsating flesh walls, coated in a viscous mucus. The first eggs had matured in just half a day.


    [But I am cognizant. You are beginning to grasp the enigmatic entity that protects us. Until now, we''ve been mere beneficiaries. But not anymore. We question, we contemte.


    That''s how we became conscious of his existence. Regardless of our power, we can''t create something from nothing. But he did.]


    The first egg began to wriggle. As the shell started to crack, a ck hand burst forth, shattering the shell.


    [Gluttony is always our ravenous instinct. Now, the same applies to our thirst for knowledge. We harbored doubts about his identity. Who exactly is he?]


    The newly hatched legionnaire was a stark contrast to the smander-type legionnaires that had been the primary production until now. This one was goblin-based, but the legion''s reinterpretation gave it a grotesque appearance. Like its counterparts, itcked digestive and reproductive organs, and even a brain. Its upright torso, along with its two arms and legs, were solely muscr organs for battle. Despite its slender frame, it could exert explosive power rtive to its weight.


    [Seize a weapon. We can now observe and learn. We understand how to use tools.]


    A shiny object ascended from a crack in the nest. It was a sword, forged from the toughest exoskeleton the legion could produce. The new legionnaire, d in a ck exoskeleton armor over its slender body, shed red eyes through the gap in its helmet-like head exoskeleton.


    [One thing is certain, he always aids us. Do you wish to know more about him...then continue as you have been.]


    The first legionnaire to hatch began to ascend to the upper levels of the cave. Simr entities followed suit, their numbers reaching into the hundreds.


    [Annihte them all, consume them all.]


    They emerged in a line across the lengthy corridor, brandishing their swords. Their sole purpose was massacre, ughter, extinction, and predation. With newly devised tactics and the addition of beast-type legionnaires, thousands of ck waves surged towards their targets, enveloping both the air and the ground.


    *


    First, we need to relocate to a safe ce. We can have a proper conversation there."


    So, all the Step Up Hunters are units, right?"


    Yes, that''s correct."


    We navigated the city in a van, my sister and I sat in the back, silently taking in our surroundings. My phone buzzed relentlessly, but I dared not check the app considering our current situation.


    I''ve heard that Evolution is actively fighting mutants...or rather, units."


    Yes, they are indeed our enemies."


    I have a lot of questions."


    Oh Yoon Ah, who had been hit in the back of the head and had copsed, was now sitting in the passenger seat, conversing with Cha Ji Yeon as equals. In reality, with Cha Ji Yeon''s abilities, she could have easily wiped out everyone here.


    Get out. This is unit 306."


    ...Where are we?"


    A safe house."


    The van came to a stop at a vi tucked away in the heart of Seoul. We had no option but to follow her into the house she referred to. Cha Ji Yeon was thest one to enter the house, closing the door behind her. It was a typical house, but an unusual tension hung in the air.


    Now...let''s have a genuine conversation."


    Cha Ji Yeon prepared the tea herself. The yer, Oh Yoon Ah, and the unit, Cha Ji Yeon, sat across from each other.


    Shall we begin? My yer is from and called Sehansha. He''s a sky shaman, and his primary motive for reaching out to yers from other worlds is to propose cooperation."


    You''re straightforward. My units have dwelled on a continent known as Anankil since ancient times. They are part of a tribe ofnd and wind called Cheongsan."


    The two women started the conversation, unveiling a wealth of information right off the bat.


    But what''s the purpose of contacting other yers? Unless they''re hunters, they won''t provide much assistance due to certain limitations."


    That''s true. But the same holds for ''other'' yers who have units in Sehansha, where our yer resides."


    I see. So your n is to eliminate them preemptively."


    The conversation proceeded as anticipated. The elimination ofpetition was the top priority. I quietly absorbed all the information they divulged.


    As you may be aware, we had to disclose most of our information to preserve the existing social order. Consequently, whether it''s our units or yers, we''ve drawn unwanted attention and needed allies who could operate discreetly."


    And that''s us."


    Yes."


    Cha Ji Yeon chuckled.


    Considering there are likely fewer than a hundred Step Up Hunters, all gathered under the newly established Evolution Corporation, virtually all their information is out in the open.


    Today''s meeting will conclude here, but the situation may change next time. Other allies might join us."


    I have a question. So, were the monsters that emerged from beyond the gate units from the beginning? When did your yer start the game?"


    Didn''t you consult your helper?"


    He didn''t answer at all."


    I recoiled, realizing I hadn''t posed that question either.


    The game started simultaneously for everyone. Hence, the monsters that emerged from the gate over the past decade bear no rtion to this game."


    Cha Ji Yeon rified. So, regardless of whether they were units or not, the necessity to exterminate those monsters remained.


    Then, is there a possibility that units from other affiliations might emerge among humans like us?"


    Absolutely. So, be cautious about security."


    Trust no one. That was the takeaway.


    You''ve done well today. Good job."


    The conversation with Cha Ji Yeon ended there.


    Oh Yoon Ah departed from the vi and approached my younger sister.


    I hate to inconvenience your brother, but could you hold off for a bit?"


    I can do that."


    Considering the substantial gain, this was a minor setback.


    Cha Ji Yeon nonchntly tossed me the car keys. As I exited the vehicle, previously driven by Oh Yoon Ah''s father, and embarked on my journey home, an unsettling silence nketed the area.


    What''s the n now? We still don''t know which world your units are in, right? It''s not Sehansha or Anankil, is it?"


    The silence was shattered by Kang Do Yeon''s voice, thick with confusion. I responded with a shake of my head.


    I''m not sure. But it doesn''t really matter... whenever wee across someone, we''ll have to fight to the death."


    In reality, I didn''t view it as an urgent issue. The legion had to consume and evolve to survive.


    We won''t have to fight anymore, right?"


    Oh Yoon Ah promised her parents that after they reprimanded her, but who can say? In a crisis, they''ll protect their daughter, but can they truly care for someone else''s child?"


    Maybe I should start working out..."


    I murmured, a wave of unease washing over me. Fight? Neither she nor I should ever be forced into that situation. *


    Why are you sounding the rm so much? It''sforting to see you''re okay."


    [Do you want to see how far the legion has grown?]


    Upon entering my home, I promptly checked my phone. With a heavy heart, I tapped on the icon for the history tab.


    [Our proud history is constantly being updated]


    Suddenly, the screen began to flip rapidly, revealing a tale from the past.


    ...Huh."


    Goblins? No, these weren''t goblins. They were entirely new creatures, hundreds of them. Among them, the familiarrge smanders stood out.


    [We always give our all. The legion''s wave began to pour onto the master of this floor.]


    The legion had seemingly devised a new strategy. It looked chaotic, but in truth, each unit held a distinct position and role.


    [Each entity was given a uniquemand. Our brain, bolstered by theputational power of the massive body that had consumed this entire cave, could control thousands of soldiers individually.]


    The nest ceased production, redirecting all its energy.


    The monster, caught off guard, raised its massive fist and bellowed, stretching its neck to consume the airborne units. Yet, this sacrifice was wholly deliberate. Leveraging this


    sacrifice, the legion soldiers managed totch onto its body. From there, the newly produced unitsmenced their operations.

 Chapter 24: Movement (2)

    Chapter 24: Movement (2)


    The identity of the 20th floors stem master remained shrouded in mystery, their name and identity unknown. Yet, the legion had already dered victory and initiated an attack. Persistent scouting and observation had been conducted.


    [If the legion thought they would lose, they wouldnt have started the fight.]


    They began to make their move.


    Confronting the bewildered enemy, they seized the venomous toads they had been harboring and hurled them.


    Ughhhhhhh-


    The toads exploded, spraying venom on the enemys body. The enemys low, resonating cry echoed throughout the stem. Despite being doused in venom, it seemed to have suffered little damage, proving the fight wouldnt be easy.


    [The enemys skin is tougher than expected. What about the poison stingers and teeth?]


    The beast-like legion soldiers relentlessly charged at the squirming enemy. They were naturally outmatched, but theypensated with sheer numbers. Dozens of lizards clung to one of the enemys arms, gnawing and stretching it. The airborne species swooped down from the sky, mercilessly jabbing the enemys eyes with their venomous stingers.


    [The enemycks eyes, ears, or a nose. It has virtually no weaknesses. But we still have one more strategy.]


    "...Finally.


    As the enemys movements grew restricted, those lying in wait sprang into action,unching themselves off the ground.


    "I dont know how powerful the sword in their hand is.


    "Arghhh!


    A scream erupted from the enemy.


    A soldier leaped from the ground, plunging his sword into the enemys gaping mouth, which had been ready to attack the annoying airborne creatures.


    [A giant falls from a small wound.]


    "Was the mouth its weakness?


    The legion swarmed over the enemys body, which had stumbled and fallen. They discovered the mouth was its vulnerability. Therge species, possessing tremendous strength, began to pry open the enemys mouth.


    "Ugh...


    I squinted at the gruesome sight.


    The soldiers started to crawl into the enemys forcibly opened mouth. Unless chewed, the teeth couldnt damage their carapace. The soldier who had crawled deep into the throat began to sh the inside with his sword.


    [Great Stem Guardian: 4c0080]


    "Guardian...


    After that, history concluded, and we returned to reality. The monster we had defeated and absorbed was named the Great Stem Guardian.


    [Look. Theyre not all the same.]


    "...How vast is it?


    Meanwhile, the legion was preparing for another battle. Enemies continued to pour out from the other branches connected to this stem. However, for the legion that had already tasted victory and gathered data, these enemies were nothing more than a source of rich nutrients.


    [The legions developed intelligence and analytical power have identified a peculiar trait in the guardians.]


    "A peculiar trait?


    [How did they learn of their kins demise and locate us so quickly? Its the power ofmunication. Now we understand it.]


    They had discovered an organ within the guardians bodies that emitted ultrasonic waves of unknown significance. If it had been the legion of the past, they wouldnt have understood the organs purpose and would have simply ignored it. But not now. Observing it emit a specific ultrasonic wave, they had matured enough to deduce that it was an organ for kinmunication.


    "So, we need to continually push our boundaries and develop our brains to enhance our overall analytical power. But why is the legion interested inmunication methods? Theyre already united by a hive consciousness. Could it be?


    [Exactly. The legion is attempting tomunicate with an external entity. Specifically, with you.]


    Goosebumps prickled my skin the moment I read the text.


    They had recognized me. Finally.


    "I am...


    [To the ever-curious legion, you are the object of greatest interest. For a life form developing its intelligence, the existence of a parent naturally holds significant weight.]


    "Then I should give them a reward. Im not sure if theyll see it as one, though.


    Feeling pleased, I snapped pictures of the high-calorie foods I had purchased with the money my sister gave me and sent them. Would they recognize this as a reward?


    [Victory, and the sweet food that fell. The legion has reached the stage where it assigns meaning to the actions that have been repeated and infers the reasons.]


    "Wow!


    At least they didnt just ept it passively. Looking at them being quickly absorbed, I felt proud. It was a sense of achievement beyond looking at a pet that follows training well.


    Parent. They definitely said that. It wasnt a perfect analogy, but to me, the legion was certainly not just a simple pet.


    [There are no more enemies in the stem. So, this ce is ours now.]


    The legion moved tirelessly. Scouts had already fanned out in all directions, exploring every branch connected to their location. They had discovered a passage leading upwards. As was their custom, they spared no life, consumed all the branches, and continued their ascent.


    "It seems more like a root than a branch, where we were.


    [Indeed. The ce where the legion first awakened is the lowest level of thisbyrinth, the deepest point from here. Consequently, the stem we are currently advancing into also belongs to the bottom of the stem.]


    "Is there an end to this cave?


    I was filled with anxiety. Despite my constant rushing, I couldnt shake off the feeling of unease.


    [Theres no need for excessive worry. This cave is not a starting point. Your ount level has increased to 4. Slots and capacity have also increased.]


    "This is!


    [As we reached the bottom of the stem, the legion concluded Chapter 1 and transitioned into Chapter 2.]


    There was a change on the screen. Two new icons had been added to the left.


    "What are these?


    [If Chapter 1 is adaptation, then Chapter 2 is the beginning. From this point forward, units and yers canmunicate with each other. The connection is strengthened.]


    A tingling sensation spread through my chest. Of course, there was no noticeable change just from this.


    [The first icon. Its a tribute.]


    I touched the first icon. The camera activated.


    [I didnt mention it because you didnt choose it, but didnt you notice when you transferred the sample? Objects couldnt be sent.]


    "...Now that you mention it, thats true.


    When I dispatched the white ants, the breeding tank remained. When I sent the goblins, their weapons stayed behind. In the first ce, sending a sample was a skill specialized for us.


    [Think about the rats youve dealt with. The things they had. Theyre all tributes. Thats the basic function that all yers have.]


    "Wait, so everyone else has moved on to Chapter 2 and Im just now moving on?!


    I thought about it for a moment, and then freaked out. I cant remember thest time I encountered rats.


    [Youre slow. But it had to be that way, and the reason was a kind of penalty]


    However, he was calm. I sighed at the words that it had to be that way.


    [The tribute has a time limit. Move on to the second one. The second is an offering. Its a reward that the units offer to the yer.]


    "Like the mark that Oh Yoon Ahs units gave to her? But you said we have to go to Chapter 3 tomunicate like that?!


    [No. Tributes and offerings are limited to objects. Techniques and teachings are their abilities, regardless of the system. If theyre really outstanding, theyll be strong enough to even transfer objects with just the faint string of the initial stage.]


    Suddenly, I recalled the exploration stone that Cha Ji Yeon possessed. It didnt appear as though she had crafted it herself. That was damn unfair.


    I exited the room and started rummaging through the kitchen. By sheer luck, I discovered a thick, unused Chinese knife. My mother had been too frightened to use it, so I figured I could put it to use this time.


    [The legion is reacting to your tribute.]


    "Do they recognize this?


    The shiny Chinese knifended squarely in the middle of the nest. The legion reacted immediately.


    [The tendrils that extended slowly identified the shape andposition of the Chinese knife, a metal already familiar to their memory. They understood what it was. They were merely analyzing its purpose.]


    "Oh...?


    Analyzing its purpose. That phrase was gratifying. It implied they werent just epting it mindlessly.


    "Whats this? Arent they supposed to give me something in return?


    [The legion has yet to grasp the concept of equivalent exchange, the idea of giving something to receive something in return. Hence, this is their judgment.]


    Despite this, the legion had stopped making offerings to me. Couldnt they at least show some gratitude? The only event of note was a goblin-like legion soldier clumsily


    approaching and taking hold of the Chinese knife.


    [We will be stronger. He wishes for us to be stronger. Therefore, we will be stronger. This is their conclusion.]


    The legion had been following a single path until now. Therefore, they knew nothing else.


    I didnt have anything specific to say. After all, it was the path I wanted them to follow.


    "Just wait a little longer...


    [Whilepletely dominating the lower levels they initially thought were branches but were actually roots, the legion now shifted their focus upward. It was the second stem. The scouts didnt encounter any threatening enemies.]


    The legion was not just growing, it was expanding at an unprecedented rate. Their influence had already reached the next stem. Half-hearted beasts and powers were no longer a match for us.


    Ever since we crossed paths with the rats, who were units controlled by another yer, we hadnt caught sight of any notable rivals.

 Chapter 25: What He Truly Desires (1)

    Chapter 25: What He Truly Desires (1)


    Yoon Ah is currently in Chapter 2, expanding her influence after winning the tribal unification war. Her poption is roughly around 10,000, right?"


    What exactly did she give to her people?"


    From what I''ve heard, things like food and weapons. Not guns, but hunter-grade weapons. But from what she told me, it seems like there''s some benefit just from bing a unit?"


    I suppose so."


    I carefully listened to the information my sister asked about, being mindful of certain keywords.


    The advantage of bing a unit likely lies in the racial characteristics.


    [Indeed. Racial characteristics are the fundamental power and benefit.]


    Seems like luck is the true skill."


    Back in my room, I clicked my tongue in thought. Numerous races were interconnected, interacting as yers and units. Thus, those who couldmunicate from the outset could advance swiftly.


    I pondered over the rat-like creatures that the legion had nearly wiped out after their victory. yers who ended up with such creatures would inevitablyg behind.


    [Well, is that so? No one knows the potential that a race holds.]


    Well, what we don''t know, we don''t know."


    I shook my head, caught between agreement and disagreement. The harsh reality and nature wouldn''t wait for indecisive growth.


    [Look at the screen. It''s the second stem now. The 21st floor, a ce that can branch out into numerous others.]


    Are there guardians here too?"


    I couldn''t help but chuckle.


    Gargh!"


    Grrr..."


    There were.


    The guardians of the second stem, they gathered in groups, baring their terrifying teeth, sniffing the air, and their blue eyes were shing.


    Thankfully, they don''t seem to be grotesque monsters."


    [It seems they had gathered in anticipation of our presence. They generally walk on all fours, and their bodies are covered in soft fur. Their sharp teeth...]


    Saber-toothed tigers!"


    That single word encapsted them perfectly. Atst, in this mad cave world, arge mammal had appeared, apart from the bats and rats. These were the saber-toothed tigers that once roamed the Earth during the Cenozoic era.


    If I were to describe them, their pale fur would likely earn them the title of white saber-toothed tigers. However, they seemed muchrger.


    [They''ve entered a battle stance. But don''t worry. Fire has no effect on the legion that has already experienced it from below. They weren''t even afraid.]


    I see."


    Of course, the saber-toothed tigers that lived on Earth probably didn''t spew mes like a methrower from their mouths.


    The legion soldiers at the front,rge lizards with blue armor on their head carapaces, were burned to death by the mes.


    [Legion soldiers hanging from the ws ofrge flying species fell from the sky, swooping down on them.]


    Thebined ground and air assault was a time-tested strategy, employed since the legion first took flight. The ground forces engaged the enemy, drawing their attention, while


    the airborne species soared into the sky, dropping soldiers into the fray.


    [The enemy was caught off guard. Their frontal kicks were robust and forceful, but after a single hit, the legion quickly deciphered their tactics.]


    I suppose so. After all, I did include cats in the mix."


    [They evaded the kick, offering an arm to the enemy''s mouth. In response, another legion soldier plunged their sword deep into the exposed nk of the enemy.]


    These were intelligent, strategic, and formidable cats. But that was the extent of their capabilities. They were inadequate to halt our relentless advance. I dered our victory upon seeing other legion soldiers doggedly clinging to the wounded.


    A glint caught my eye from the hand of a goblin-shaped legion soldier at the front. The Chinese knife I had given them was soaked in blood, being wielded with deadly efficiency.


    I checked the time. Less than 30 minutes had passed.


    [Great Stem Guardian: 4cl557]


    So, these guys are guardians too. What exactly are these guardian creatures?"


    [Do you have a different thought about them?]


    I must. They appear to be a different species from other creatures."


    After experiencing it twice, I couldn''t help but harbor doubts. The cave creatures were bizarrely formed, but these were particrly so. The saber-toothed tigers seemed more appealingpared to the monster code 0080 we encountered on the first stem.


    Their behavior is strange too. I''m not an expert or anything, but they showed behavior patterns that are not typical of creatures. Could they be units too?"


    [The legion felt the same difort you did. Unlike the instinct of survival being the top priority for creatures, they dared to confront us knowing they could die. And they were unusually strong.]


    There''s definitely something about this cave."


    I started to notice one or two things as I began to see the forest instead of just the trees in front of me.


    For example, the probability of intelligent beings that canpete with humans living in this cave.


    [The legion has reviewed all possibilities. And the conclusion is unknown. There''s not enough data. Therefore, they will act ording to priority. They will devour the 21st floor and all the branches attached to it.]


    That''s easy."


    I was fretting, but it seemed the legion had drawn all conclusions based on their transcendentputational power. Regardless of the fact that the conclusion they reached with that power was at a goblin''s level, it appeared the legion''s conclusion was correct for now. They would probably im to have cleaned up everything by the time I woke up after sleeping tonight. At that point, I closed my phone.


    Ugh..."


    The moment Shin Woo closed his phone and drifted off to sleep, a massacre was taking ce in a stratum, a branch leading to the Stem. The dominant species here were hoofed animals, resembling pigs with robust shoulders and necks, and an extraordinarily sensitive sense of smell through their snouts. A legionnaire who had taken down one of these pigs nonchntly slit its throat with a raised de. The green blood gushing from the severed artery drenched the legionnaire''s body. Unbeknownst to them, the squirming flesh walls and tentacles were enveloping this stratum, transforming it into a nest. The legion, imitating the reproduction method of mushrooms, could root and incorporate any ce with nourishment into itself.


    A tentacle approached and connected to the legionnaire''s body. All soldiers'' nourishment was directly provided by the nest responsible for digestion and absorption.


    [Do you still harbor doubts?]


    A curious voice resonated within the shared consciousness of the legion. It had been there for more than a day or two. Although the legion didn''t understand its words initially, they now recognized that the voice was speaking to them.


    [From the beginning, you have been thinking about him.]


    The legionnaire, their Chinese knife smeared with blood, raised it to eye level and wiped it clean. The red gleam in their eyes mirrored on the gleaming de. At that moment, the entire legion was captivated by this spectacle.


    [I feel it. Emotions, deep suspicion and wariness, and interest.]


    Emotions. The entire legion was shaken. Since first awakening to this realization, the legion had been umting experiences, exploring and agonizing over what this tingling sensation was. Thanks to their growing brains, the range of these sensations had significantly widenedpared to before. Euphoria, fighting spirit, arrogance, and more.


    [Your curiosity will soon be satisfied. There are still many opportunities left.]


    The voice cut off there. However, after that, the legion''s actions became more aggressive and faster. The legion was now fast and strong enough to handle these radical movements. *


    Oh, Yoon Ah wants to meet?"


    Yeah. More precisely, the call came from Cha Ji Yeon."


    So, could it be?"


    It appears she''s found new members for the alliance."


    Kang Do Yeon visited my room early in the morning. Upon waking, I immediately checked my phone. The absence of notifications indicated nothing unusual had urred.


    I''m not sure about other matters, but I believe we should attend this meeting."


    I''ll go alone."


    Don''t be absurd. If anyone should go alone, it should be me."


    I dismissed my sister''s nonsense. Eventually, we agreed to attend together.


    Mom''s not home anyway. Let''s go."


    ...Is it okay to keep missing sses?"


    Are lectures really our priority right now?"


    We hurriedly boarded the bus. As anticipated, Cha Ji Yeon wasn''t alone at the rendezvous point.


    Meet Mr. Park Joon Seok."


    Hello?"


    And who might you all be?"


    She introduced us to a young man. He gave us a peculiar nce before acknowledging us with a nod.


    Is everything confirmed?"


    Of course."


    Cha Ji Yeon responded immediately to Oh Yoon Ah''s question. The man known as Park Joon Seok shared his information. His units were impably positioned in a pristine third world.


    I have a proposal from my yer for all of you."


    However, today''s agenda was more than a simple meeting. Cha Ji Yeon pulled out her phone.


    We''ve found the target."


    The screen disyed an image of an ordinary middle-aged woman. ording to Cha Ji Yeon, this woman had a unit in Sehansha, where her yer was stationed.


    How did you manage to find her?"


    I''m not entirely sure, but my yer has a variety of methods. I believe it might be backtracking."


    The word ''backtracking'' caused the yers'' expressions to harden. Even if they hadn''t disclosed their information, if they captured a unit and extracted data, they could trace their past interactions. They had identified the target from that information.


    Yoon Ah... Did you reveal your secret to those people?!"


    Well, that''s..."


    Meanwhile, Oh Yoon Ah''s face paled in the corner under her mother''s harsh reprimand. She had indeed spilled the beans. It wasn''t entirely surprising, considering how restless her mouth must have been. Both Kang Do Yeon and I let out soft sighs.

 Chapter 26: What He Truly Desires (2)

    Chapter 26: What He Truly Desires (2)


    "...It would be best for each of you to consider your own security. Now, lets discuss this request in more detail.


    "So, you-re asking us to kill someone, right?


    Park loon Seok chuckled.


    Well, in this game, once someone is considered an enemy, theres only one stance to take.


    Kill them.


    A few gasps echoed through the room.


    "Yes. Im the only one in Korea, so my activities are severely limited. However, my yer said this is a trade.


    Cha Ji Yeon pulled something else from her bag. It was a small sk containing a softly glowing blue potion.


    "This is one of the gifts. I heard its a precious medicine made through alchemy. Its effect is healing. It can cure any disease, any wound. Its essentially another life.


    "Has it been proven?


    "At least Ive seen its effect in person.


    Cha Ji Yeon responded to Park Joon Seoks question by cutting her own hand, letting it bleed, and then applying a little of the medicine. The wound healed as if it had been washed away. It was like the miracles shown by the extremely rare healing hunters.


    "Alright. Lets ept the request. We should make the first move, shouldnt we?


    "Uh...


    Before Oh Yoon Ah could decide, Park Joon Seok stepped forward, seemingly confident in something.


    "Thats right.


    Cha Ji Yeon agreed.


    "But mom... Ahhh!


    After the meeting, Oh Yoon Ah was seized by her parents and whisked away. Despite its looming inevitability, murder was never a subject to be trifled with.


    "But we cant just stand still.


    "Right. I dont n on standing still either. We cant run and hide.


    I didnt contradict my sisters somber words. Were not the only ones in motion. Perhaps others are also aiming for our lives.


    Just as Cha Ji Yeon decided to use us to eliminate that woman. It was entirely usible that some enigmatic entities could uncover our identities.


    "Has there been another big ident?


    Checking the breaking news on my phone, I made up my mind. Last time it was goblins, this time it was orcs. They were undoubtedly the same ones that had appeared in North America. My n was to locate those wreaking havoc in the heart of Seoul and retrieve at least a few bodies.


    "Its dangerous.


    "Ill take the risk.


    I sent Kang Do Yeon home, her face etched with worry. Then, I climbed into a taxi by myself. The battle was still raging at the scene. If I arrivedte at the chaotic site, I might be able to salvage something.


    [The legion will notice your intentions]


    "You seem sure? What are you basing this on?


    [Isnt it shown through action?]


    Shown through action.


    I nced at the screen. The legion was relentlessly engaged in war.


    [The legions group tactics are evolving. They continue to learn from experience. Tactics that are merely imprinted in genes have their limitations. However, there are no boundaries to growth through learning.]


    Expanding the brain was the solution. The legions growth, which had begun to think and research independently, was horrifying.


    [The legion has started to restructure its entire system. It no longer mass-produces soldiers haphazardly, but creates new forces with optimal efficiency for specific uses and purposes.]


    I didnt respond.


    It was no longer about merely modifying andbining beasts. It was an entirely new life form. The newly created soldier bared its teeth and growled. Their overall form resembled the guardian, the Saber-toothed Tiger, which was absorbed previously.


    However, their sturdy front legs ended in rough yet functional hands, and they could stand upright in a stooped posture. A venomous sting was at the end of their long tails, and their entire bodies,posed of robust muscles, was encased in ck, armor-like carapace.


    [The forces based on goblins were all-rounders, but these creatures had their power concentrated on size and mobility. They were designed to face enemies like those cats in one-on-one battles.]


    They stormed down the passage, joining the massacre.


    It was then that the taxi neared its destination.


    "Everyone, remain calm! The creatures have retreated. We can nowmence the rescue operations...


    As expected, the scene was chaotic.


    Police, rescue teams, hunters, media.


    Above all, the families and friends of the victims who had hurried to the scene upon hearing the news of the disaster.


    [This kind of thing will continue to happen, over and over again.]


    "Why cant they just fight on the other side of the gate?


    [Of course, theyll fight on the other side. But even after bing game units, why do they persist in invading Earth?]


    "...For plunder, I suppose. Those damned creatures.


    The monsters that had be units were no longer simple, ignorant beasts. They were now plundering what they needed from Earth, humans for instance.


    "Control that area properly!


    "Everyone, please remain calm. The rescue team is now going in...


    The scene was utter chaos. It seemed even more chaotic than when the goblins appeared at Kang Do Yeons school, given it was in the heart of a bustling area. However, it appeared to present an opportunity for me.


    Casting a furtive nce around, I picked up a fluorescent vest thaty nearby and slipped it on amidst the chaos.


    The rescue team, including the police, hurriedly rushed in to transport people and bodies away from the scene. I subtly blended in among them. I had thought someone might grow suspicious, but the extreme chaos ensured no one questioned my presence.


    "Over here!


    A leading paramedics voice echoed as they sprinted around a corner with their colleagues. Seizing the opportunity, I quietly slipped into a nearby alley between buildings.


    The scene was a chaotic frenzy as people scattered in all directions. I swallowed hard, my gaze fixed on the fresh bloodstains.


    "Damn...


    Rounding a corner, I was confronted with a grisly tableau. Bodies were strewn about, and a bisected orcy lifeless-likely the handiwork of a hunter.


    [Would you like to register the samples?]


    "Whats the point in registering humans now?


    [It seems so.]


    "Ill just send the orc. I wont disrespect the dead unless its absolutely necessary.


    Swiftly, I snapped a picture and dispatched the image of the orcs corpse to the legions nest. The process was surprisingly straightforward, yet it left me feeling uneasy.


    Could orcs and goblins, no matter how intelligent they became, truly evolve to the same extent as humans?


    Before long, I feared I might have to send a human sample as well.


    [The legion has understood your intent and absorbed and disassembled the orc sample.]


    I was on my way home on the subway.


    While everyone else was trembling with anxiety at the rapidly changing world, I was nkly staring at my phone.


    [The orcs brain structure was most needed, but the different physical structure of the bipedal life form we first encountered as a goblin was also of great help. Above all, it greatly aids in increasing size.]


    "So, was it effective?


    [It supplements, but its not a significant improvement.]


    The legion had analyzed the orcs gic information and utilized it effectively, yet there was no significant change. The only noticeable difference was that the legion soldiers, originally based on goblins, had grownrger.


    "Im anxious. Honestly, its scary.


    I muttered under my breath, my words more of a sigh than aint. I didnt anticipatefort or a response. I might be criticized for my whining, but the reality remained unaltered.


    I no longer felt wronged by my entanglement with this app and game. After all, without the app, I would have been swept away in this abruptly altered world, just like everyone else. I was merely stating that continuing wouldnt be easy.


    "What, whats happening!


    "Ah!


    A powerful jolt rocked the subway, hurling me from my seat onto the unforgiving floor. I fought to regain my senses as the lights flickered, windows shattered, and shards of ss flew in all directions. The subway had been traveling above ground.


    [Get a grip.]


    A desperate message shed on my phone screen, which had fallen in front of me. I picked it up with trembling hands. The invasions and looting continued.


    *


    "Another gate?!


    "Its presumed to be a unit. The Wraiths that havent shown itself on Earth since the game began.


    "...Where is it?


    "I just sent it. But no orders have been given yet. We expected this chaos, didnt we?


    Cha Ji Yeon, left alone in the house, hurriedly checked the breaking news upon receiving a call from her colleague. Another invasion hadmenced before the orc incident had even been resolved. It might be overwhelming, but if the units were coborating with the yers, they wouldnt consider the plight of the earthlings.


    [Its frustrating. The yer is overwhelmed. Its impossible for him to manage everything happening on Earth with his abilities.]


    "So what should I do?


    [Wait. Punishing those arrogant bastards is crucial, but if we fret over every minor force, our grand n will be disrupted.]


    She released a soft sigh upon hearing the response. Despite her anticipation, she felt powerless. The grand scheme they referred to was theprehensive offensive beingunched here. Her yer was amassing his units, dispersed worldwide, tounch a pre-emptive strike on the enemies beyond the gate.


    Wraiths are primarilyposed of spirits; ordinary martial arts would pose a significant challenge inbat.


    She paced anxiously, her eyes glued to the news. She had been ready since epting the contract, but the sight of people getting hurt and dying always disturbed her.


    Especially knowing that such incidents were only going to be more frequent in the future.

 Chapter 27: What He Truly Desires (3)

    Chapter 27: What He Truly Desires (3)


    "Save... save me...ugh...


    Wraiths, also known as ethereal-type monsters, were creatures akin to ghosts with translucent bodies. They were high-ranking B-ss monsters, impervious to bullets.


    lust moments ago, right before my eyes, a young woman was seized by a two-meter-tall ghost. It drained her vitality until she fell, a shriveled corpse. This creature was slightly different from the ghosts I was familiar with. Instead of a crude appearance like a shroud draped over it, this one had distinct facial features resembling a skull and even wore armor.


    "Unit.


    I realized these creatures were mutants, or units. I stumbled backward, my body trembling, but it had already spotted me. A bone-chilling cold was gradually closing in.


    It seemed to be saying something, but there was no way I couldprehend thenguage of a monster. The subway where I was attacked hade to a standstill, and a massacre was unfolding around me. There was no one to help me.


    Its rough hand, like a rotten branch, reached out towards me.


    "Get lost, you bastard!


    [Assassination Right]


    With gritted teeth, I reached out in response. The only trump card I had been nurturing all this time was now in y. It felt as though something was being drained from my body.


    !!!!!!


    "Ugh. .


    The creatures body began to tear apart, like paper. The wraith-s scream was more chilling than I could have ever imagined. I covered my ears, opened my eyes, and watched as it gradually vanished.


    "That is..


    [Quickly take a picture. This is the corpse it left behind. Regardless of whether the legion can analyze it or not, its an opportunity too good to miss.]


    My phone buzzed urgently, disying a desperate message as I gasped for breath. Something was slowly fading where it had once been. It resembled a stone carving, yet also bore the texture of flesh. He was right. This was an opportunity. I snapped a picture with my camera.


    "...I need to survive now.


    Fortunately, the final creature in the car was the one I had in. The sounds of battle echoing from outside suggested that help had arrived just in the nick of time. I had survived.


    "Everyone must be busy.


    Unbeknownst to me, the sun had set. I stood still, staring nkly at the scene. There was no chaos like during the orc attacks. At this rate, martialw, previously only mentioned as a possibility on the news, might actually be dered.


    [What on earth is this? The legion tried to absorb the remnants of the wraith but failed. We are now faced with a mysterious power that we dont understand. It was somethingpletely new.]


    "So its useless after all?


    [One thing was certain: the legion had already devised a solution. In the past, when they couldnt absorb the scales of the two-headed lizard, they found a way to transform those hard scales into our armor.]


    The enigmatic power was probably the spirit power, or mana, that the wraiths possessed.


    Mana is the mysterious energy that powers the abilities of hunters, turning them into superhumans.


    The chances of the legion understanding and interpreting this miracle, which science had failed to unravel for over a decade, were slim.


    "But... if they can understand it and use it, its worth it.


    [The legion shared the same sentiment. They had already experienced the transformative power and progress that came from solving previously iprehensible problems.]


    The thought of the legion handling mana like hunters sent a chill down my spine.


    I had believed that pure physical abilities were sufficient, but now there was a method to transcend even that.


    [Observe the screen. The legion is meticulously analyzing all the data from the two stemyers theyve consumed, searching for a clue. Their dedication matches yours.]


    I turned my gaze to the screen.


    All the data we had gathered from the creatures was stored in the form of codes.


    I watched as an endless stream of characters rose and vanished, merged, and reemerged at will.


    [Weve gone through all the data. There are a total of 1,601 species with codes assigned in the system.]


    "..And the answer?


    [Its a failure. But weve caught a faint clue. Look at this.]


    A new image unfolded on the screen.


    It was a moment in the history of the legion, showing indigenous creatures being swept away mercilessly by the legionnaires.


    "Whats that?


    [Code 3n8888, the Wandering Fairy Bee.]


    A peculiarly named entity floated in the sky, emitting a twinkling light. The winged legionnaire, having swallowed it whole, regurgitated it as a crushed corpse into the nest. Immediately, the nest began to disassemble and absorb the creature.


    "So... what? Whats so special about that firefly?


    [It was an insignificant creature. Its only noteworthy feature was its unique ability to glow. However, the legion overlooked one piece of data at that time.]


    The screen rewound and zoomed in, pinpointing the exact moment when the flying creatures jaw engulfed the fairy bee. Hazy smoke could be seen seeping from the fairy bees body as it was crushed within the jaw.


    "Is that...?


    [We dont know the details yet. We sessfully understood the structure of the glowing function when we analyzed the corpse of the fairy bee, but we couldnt reproduce it because we couldnt understand or obtain the most important thing from the glow.]


    An unknown, mysterious power. Was it truly mana? Was it the same as the power that the monster, the wraith, possessed? In truth, it didnt matter.


    [There will certainly be more clues as we ascend. As the floor rises, the flora and fauna be more diverse and stronger.]


    Upon uncovering atent potential, the legion was brimming with joy. They had always been swift, but now they unleashed the energy they had been meticulously storing at a precise ratio. This sparked a wave of growth, causing their ranks to swell rapidly.


    [Find it at all costs]


    The forces had assembled in the upward passage even before they finished consuming the second stem and its surrounding branches. They had subdued and upied this territory by defeating the Guardian, Saber-toothed Tiger. Their surge forward was so intense it radiated an aura of madness.


    "Very proactive indeed.


    [Isnt it all because of your guidance?]


    "Me?


    [You and the legion have the same priority: to be stronger. Your desires are in alignment. Theres no need to look elsewhere.]


    There was nothing to say. It was the truth.


    Returning home, I flopped onto my bed and continued to stare at my phone.


    *


    In the darkbyrinth, where stagnation had reigned for an eternity, signs of significant transformation began to emerge. This was a change that defied structural possibility. A single, seemingly insignificant variable had made it possible. This variable, existing at the cellr level, shattered the immutablew and was now consuming the roots and even the stems of thebyrinth.


    There were those who could not tolerate this change. After an incredibly long time, they reawakened an instinct etched deep within their genes.


    The legion, with its limited samples, had not fullyprehended this instinct.


    These creatures began to converge in one ce, driven by a forgotten purpose and duty.


    [Deciphering genes requires more effort than decoding anguage. The likelihood of them being units was low. But they were certainly not ordinary species. They are worth analyzing. If we understand them, we might unravel the mysteries of this vastbyrinth where we were born.]


    The legion, serious about reconnaissance, observed the gathering figures. They never shied away from a fight. On the contrary, they relished it. The more extraordinary events that urred, the more they served as nourishment for the legion. The thumping sound of footsteps echoed. The newly reorganized forces of the legion had evolved a step further from their original state. ck waves surged on the ground, in the air, and along the walls.


    [Its war. Isnt it familiar?]


    Various guardians, recognizing the legion, roared in their unique ways, unting their intimidation. In contrast, the legion was eerily quiet, devoid of any noise. They hadnt bothered to create vocal organs in the first ce. The guardians flinched. They were not fools. Thats why they felt a sense of unease and were taken aback.


    "Grrrrr...


    The sight of the legionnaires maintaining silence without a hint of tremor was unnatural and brought a sense of alienation. It was impossible to think of them as living creatures due to the chilling silence and momentum.


    [We didnt learn useless emotions like fear.]


    The legion advanced.


    There was no hesitation. The legion was free from the fear of death.


    [We noticed an odd creature. It was a moth-like entity hovering in the air, radiating a soft glow. It bore a striking resemnce to the Wandering Fairy Bee, which had previously served as a clue.]


    lust prior to the battle, the same directive was issued to everyone.


    A colossal moth, sprinkling shimmering dust over the gathered guardians.


    The legion was not well-informed, but they were resolute in their determination to capture that creature at any cost.

 Chapter 28: What He Truly Desires (4)

    Chapter 28: What He Truly Desires (4)


    The legion erupted from the lower levels, shattering the tranquil ecosystem as they always did. Themune, a mushroom forest, was abruptly transformed into a battlefield. The assembled Guardians fought back with all their might.


    [The main force of the newly formed legion is a versatile troop of orcs.]


    "These orcs seem stronger now than before they became units."


    [Of course, physically, there-s noparison. The essence of the legion is contained within them, all inefficiencies have been stripped away, and theyve been modified solely forbat.]


    They stood tall, their bodies armored withpact muscles engineered for explosive power, reaching a height of approximately 2 meters. The original orc base was muscr and boasted an impressive physique, but its appearance and path diverged from the beginning. Unnecessary internal organs were discarded, resulting in a lean body, but this made them more flexible and resilient.


    [The entire body is armored with a shell created by fusing the strongest shells, such as cave turtles, lizard scales, and giant beetles.]


    Their entire bodies were covered in shimmering ck armor. The design was simr to the original goblin base, but with an increased size and muscle mass, their strength had more


    than doubled.


    [The greatest advantage of these all-purpose soldiers is their ability to easily counter any form of attack from the enemy.]


    A legionnaire, brandishing swords in both hands, shed head-on with a giant, fire-spewing, three-headed wolf charging at them. Despite their physical disadvantage, they stood


    their ground against the onught. This was possible because the legionnaire was not a simple life form, but a meticulously designed weapon forbat.


    "Craaack..."


    The all-purpose legionnaire, having blocked the sharp teeth, extended another pair of arms from between the split back tes. Simultaneously, it pierced the neck of the defenseless Guardian with its sharply pointed nails.


    [Next, we have the assault type. Most of these take the form of beasts.]


    The legion-s strengthy in the precise coordination of vastly different troop types, leaving no room for error andunching concentrated attacks. A massive four-legged beast, having charged recklessly beside the versatile legionnaire who had just beheaded a Guardian, lunged at another. Despite sharing simr armor, this troop boasted formidable front legs and powerful jaws. Evenrge adversaries couldnt withstand the onught of several of these creatures biting and tearing at once. They fell, one after another.


    "Its over... We outnumbered them from the start."


    [We mustnt let our guard down. These Guardian category creatures are stronger than we anticipated.]


    "Even so, they cantpete with us in terms of production."


    The vast disparity between the two forces was merely a question of efficiency and upkeep costs. The legion possessed the ability to produce more troops at once than it was currently had. The Guardians fought valiantly, obstinately resisting and disabling countless legionnaires, making them unfit forbat. However, their capabilities were finite. No matter how many fell, the legion persisted in its relentless march, advancing with an unyielding resolve to annihte. The Guardians were gradually yielding to this ceaseless assault.


    [As soon as they were pushed out of the mushroom forest, the bombardment from the legionnaires began. The tide has already turned.]


    The newly evolved legionnaires anchored their sturdy legs firmly to the ground, aiming their back spikes that had torn through their flesh. As they grew in size, their spikes did too, and the force with which they couldunch them increased dramatically.


    [Poisonous spikes began to rain down on them. Their soft fur couldnt block it.]


    "The front line... is being pushed back."


    The Guardians were gradually retreating. The ck wave expanded its territory ordingly.


    [Are they finally making their move?]


    At that moment, however, the Guardians also revealed a hidden card. A powerful electric shock, or something resembling it, exploded, filling the screen of the mobile phone. I squinted my eyes. Thankfully, the sh blindness didntst long.


    "Is it really electricity?!"


    [The legioncked knowledge about electricity, so they remained ignorant, lust like their first encounters with acid or fire, it was a power they had never experienced before.]


    The creature that unleashed the sh-like shock was the moth targeted by the legion. Dozens of legionnaires fell at once from that single strike. However, the moths lifeless appearance didnt suggest it had been electrocuted.


    [Im intrigued.]


    "Of course, you would be."


    The legion, driven by insatiable greed, was as ravenous as ever. The flying species, previously on standby, spread their wings in unison.


    [The legion boasts the most advanced aerialbat capabilities, having incorporated the reinterpretation of abilities acquired from Earths birds.]


    Their form resembled a bee with feathered wings. Hundreds of such creatures descended upon the moth in a unified assault.


    [Another sh detonated, iming many lives. From these two experiences, they discovered a peculiar sensation. When hit by the moths attack, a unique, unknown reaction urred, severely disrupting the connection between the entities and silencing the hive consciousness.]


    "Hive consciousness..!"


    [The more we observe, the more we must acquire this power.]


    The legion deployed a second force. It was a war of attrition that would only end when one side was depleted. The legion was confident in such a war.


    [Have they lost the power, the will to resist? If so, its our victory.]


    The moth was no longer capable of emitting blue shes. Before it could escape,rge flying species with wide-open mouths simultaneously spewed out mes like methrowers.


    "How long will the analysis take?"


    [At least a day is required.]


    The legion had emerged victorious. They had sessfully hunted down and eliminated the moth that appeared to be the leader, along with all the resisting Guardians. The only task remaining was to analyze the spoils of war.


    "Huuu..."


    I put down the mobile phone that had held my attention for the past few hours and sighed. I had been confident of their victory, but the sudden release of the pent-up tension was overwhelming.


    "The more I see, the stranger it seems. What exactly is that cave? Is it natural?"


    [We still dont know.]


    "Theres still so much left."


    Even with the tension dissipating, my mind was a whirlwind. I had countless worries in reality, and the ever-expanding other world posed its own set of problems. There was undoubtedly something there.


    "No, what does it matter?"


    I shook my head, my thoughts having turned serious. There was only one way forward. Regardless of the secrets and stories hidden in that other world, the ending was the same. Either we consume everything, or we die.


    [Youve begun to think quite like the legion.]


    "I dont particrly appreciate your praise."


    I chuckled weakly and left the room. Outside, my younger sister and mother were engrossed in the news, their faces etched with worry. It had been a while since any good news had been broadcasted, and I had a feeling this trend would persist.


    "Evolution, thepany Cha Ji Yeon is affiliated with, has announced a coboration with various governments to cross the gate. Theyve sessfully secured gate-rted technology that hasnt been properly researched until now. This must be it, right?"


    "Is that so?"


    Kang Do Yeon murmured as soon as she saw me. I wasnt particrly surprised. Cha Ji Yeons yer and its units were of exceptional skill and ability. It was inevitable they would make a move, regardless of the cost.


    "We should be more cautious for a while."


    My primary concern was the safety of my family. The nebulous anxiety that had been guing me since my fathers death ten years ago was now morphing into a tangible reality.


    *


    [The string. Its the link that connects the unit and the yer.]


    The nest was shrouded in silence, its only movement the asional twitch of the fleshy walls. Yet, despite the quiet, the legion was more active than ever.


    [Weve certainly drawn nearer to an answer. The power wielded by the Great Stem Guardian 4nl236, which we absorbed and disassembled this time, isnt identical to the fragments of the monster race we absorbed previously. However, it bears a striking resemnce.]


    The legions entireputational power was consumed in understanding this new concept. It was a shocking revtion, but as always, the legion embraced it and sessfully


    integrated it into their knowledge.


    [This will be etched in our history. The moment our legion first grappled with the concept of a soul.]


    The entire legion was taken aback. Every member, who had simultaneously halted their activities, was momentarily stunned by this electrifying revtion. Their world, their


    senses, theirprehension - everything expanded.


    [I can sense it clearly too. Our doubt about who we are and who he is has be more defined. The string connecting us to the yer is unusually strongpared to other units and yers. We are many, yet one. Unlike other units where the string connected to the yer splits into hundreds, thousands, millions of individual entities, we are linked to him by a single string.]


    The fragment of the Wraith acted as a catalyst, and the Guardians provided a clue. With this, the legion arrived at a conclusion. The connection of the soul they were experiencing was tied to their origin. It was a lifeline that could satiate their thirst for knowledge.


    [Strange emotions and peculiar feelings are coursing through the string. These are undoubtedly his emotions and inclinations. Cant you sense it? We are now incredibly close to him. ]


    The legion resumed their activities. However, their internal dynamics had subtly shifted from before.

 Chapter 29: What He Truly Desires (5)

    Chapter 29: What He Truly Desires (5)


    The soul strings created by the app were very important to both the yers and the units. Of course, it made those beyond the dimensional wall into sympathetic beings, but it also allowed them to strongly influence each other. Although for the units, sharing a single string with other units made it weak, it was different for the yers. In fact, there were yers who actively utilized it with their own abilities.


    "This is...


    [It is a medium that will aid the yers sorcery. Use it in the moment of battle. It is an object that can explode the potential engraved in your soul, making you forget fear.]


    Cha Ji Yeon received the item. At first nce, it was an ordinary, transparent potion.


    "Now theyre trying to make us into junkies, huh.


    The sturdy white man beside her snorted. He too was a unit, having received a potion as well.


    [The goal is to annihte their base in a short time.]


    The date had already been set. Along with the allied forces of several countries that had decided to cooperate after sensing the gravity of the recent situation, they were nning to go through the gate, beyond Earth, and attack the base of the monsters who kept raiding them.


    "Literally a war. Phew...who wouldve thought Id be fighting a war against monsters.


    "Youll have to get used to it, Chris. We dont know how many times this will be repeated in the future.


    "Is it easy to get used to war? This isnt some simple defensive battle.


    He snorted. It wasnt an inurate statement. Cha Ji Yeon was barely managing to keep herself mentally prepared.


    [The fact that souls are connected is tremendous. That fear, that hesitation. You will be able to ovee it all once you realize through the potion what existence you are connected to.]


    The voice echoed in her head, seemingly aware of her anxiety. Connection. She found herself disliking that term. Despite sharing a bond with over a hundredrades, it felt as if her most private parts were exposed. *


    [Can you feel it?]


    Given that, the feeling received by the singr existences connected by a string that did not simply branch off but remained as one was even more powerful.


    [What he truly wishes for. You will surely be able to discern it now.]


    The legion strained toprehend the deluge of information, striving to understand the essence of a soul. The most significant piece of information, flowing through the connection of the string - the soul - was the emotions of the other party. This was especially true since it was a single, unbranched string.


    [He is anxious and afraid. Terrified of losing something precious, he mes his still weak self. He is far too weak...both in body and mind.]


    The entire legion trembled. They grasped his emotions and deduced the situation he was in.


    [In any case, he is of utmost importance to us. Without him, we cannot grow stronger. He is our progenitor.]


    [So we must aid him.]


    [The first step is to strengthen ourselves.]


    As they evolved, they began to understand the significance of his actions. They finally realized that he provided them with sustenance and samples for their benefit, which led the legion to redefine their perception of him.


    [He has given us many things. What can we give to him in return?]


    After much contemtion, the legions thoughts converged on this question. As if waiting for this moment, a function was activated.


    [I have confirmed your will. I will activate the offering function.]


    A radiant pattern materialized within the dark nest. What should they offer? The legion nced around hesitantly, then cautiously extended a tentacle. A small tentacle carefully climbed onto the pattern.


    [Investigate further. Living things cannot be transmitted through the offering function.]


    Disappointed that nothing had changed, the tentacle quietly withdrew. Since the tentacles attempt had failed, the legion tried other things. They tried all sorts of legionnaires, pieces of the nest, eggs, and so on. Finally, they seeded in transmitting something.


    The light shed, and the pattern, upon which an object had been ced, vanishedpletely. *


    "Ugh...


    Morning arrived. I twisted and stretchednguidly before finally leaving thefort of my bed. I sat in a daze for a moment before rising and heading to the bathroom to freshen up. My body felt heavy, likely due to recent fatigue, but I managed to stand by grasping the handrail next to the bed.


    "...Handrail?


    I paused, startled, as I realized what I held in my hand. It was a shiny stone object that hadnt been there before.


    "Waaah!


    Recognition hit me like a bolt of lightning. I couldnt believe my eyes. Something Id only seen on screen was now embedded in the floor of my apartment.


    "What on earth is this?!


    [The legion has repaid your favor.]


    I opened the app, my shout echoing in the room. The response left me dumbstruck.


    "So, this is... paying back.


    I pulled the object from the floor. It was a sword, forged and sharpened from the hardest shells of the legion.


    [It is an offering dedicated to you.]


    I swallowed unconsciously, captivated by its sparkling, obsidian-like appearance.


    "Just how did this happen?


    [...It is because the legion has grown that much.]


    "Is that really all there is to it? What was that moth?


    [The moth was a kind of clue. By analyzing and absorbing it, the legion gained that clue and has grown even more. For example, the attack it sprayed in a sh of light had the power to disrupt ourmand system. We concluded it was a power rted to interfering with our souls.]


    "How exactly have they grown to send me this?


    I examined the sword closely, a wry smile on my face. This thing, carved from a single shell, was heavy and incredibly sharp.


    "Still, receiving this makes me want to give them something more, but I dont have anything lying around right now.


    [That is sufficient. Already...the legion is receiving many things.]


    "Receiving things?


    This guys words seemed particrly meaningful today. For now, I hid the sword in a corner. It would be bad if Kang Do Yeon or my mother saw it.


    "I dont know how long this everyday life willst.


    I exited the room, my day beginning as usual, yet a lingering anxiety remained after the recent attack.


    [The legion has discovered an anomaly from analyzing the guardians specimens.]


    "Anomaly?


    [It appears we can now understand why theyve been behaving so peculiarly. They possess artificially engraved genes.]


    This revtion was a shock. If the guardians were artificially created beings, what did that imply about thebyrinth?


    "Is that...all?


    [At present, all we know is that their genes have been tampered with. However, we can infer the nature of this tampering from their unscientific behavior.]


    "Just who...


    [The answer still lies above.]


    Right, its probably up there.


    The screen shifted upwards, revealing the passage leading to the stem. My heart pounded in my chest. Was it because I was nearing thebyrinths secret, causing my heart to race?


    [The legion has begun to regroup. One of our strengths is that we require no rest.]


    Unlike before, when they would consume everything in sight, the legion now left many of the biomes organisms in the newly upied floor untouched. They could be emergency rations, or perhaps they deemed it a waste of time to digest them.


    [There are no guardians. It seems they were all killed in thest battle.]


    The conclusion was anticlimactic given the previous tension. Only ordinary biome organisms remained. The legions scouts dispersed quickly, scouring the various caverns and passages.


    [Ah, what is this?]


    Then, it seemed the leading scout discovered something.


    "Its definitely not natural. So, what else in thisbyrinth isnt natural, apart from us?


    [It must be the work of the guardians. It appears quite some time has passed.]


    What they found gathered on one side of a mega-stratum, ssified as a ''branch, were remains or carcasses. Most had long since been broken down and rotted by scavengers. They were the size of... mammalian hand-sized vertebrates at first nce.


    [The extent of the damage makes it impossible to identify gic samples. Based on this information, the legion has deduced a rational suspicion.]


    "...You mean units?


    Even I could deduce this much. We had found traces of others after the rat bastards we encountered before. But it seemed they had no luck, unable to evolve and were massacred.


    "I wonder if those rats that escaped before are still alive.


    [Since they are absent from the areas we have upied so far, it means they made a new start from higher up. There is a high probability they failed in their re-evolution as well. ]


    "Yeah.


    The guardians aside, the variety and scale of the wildlife on this level were unmatched by anything on the lower floor. We hade a long way since then, evolving and advancing beyond measure. Yet, if those rats had strayed into a particrly challenging area, their chances of survival would have been slim.


    [We must go higher.]


    As more questions arose, the legion promptly sent scouts to the next floor as soon as their cursory investigation wasplete. From there, faint changes began to emerge.

 Chapter 30: The Legions Payback (1)

    Chapter 30: The Legion''s Payback (1)


    [We have already reached the 15th stem and the 35th floor.]


    Could this really be the end?"


    The legion surged forward at a breakneck pace. Naturally, they hadn''t seized control of every single floor. Their strategy was to continually dispatch scouts to ascend higher and higher. This would continue until either a force capable ofprehending and thwarting our actions emerged, or we stumbled upon something out of the ordinary first.


    No way."


    [The legion has discovered an anomaly.]


    And when they arrived there.


    The legion stopped scouting.


    They had found something unusual.


    What is this? Traces of civilization?!"


    [We can''t know for sure yet. The legion has split its forces in half. Half will keep devouring and conquering the floors we''ve upied. The other half will head upwards as fast as possible to scout and collect samples.]


    Architecture?!" I couldn''tprehend what was being said. I rubbed my eyes and cleaned the phone screen, but nothing changed. The scouts, shaped like a small swarm, continued their surveince of the area.


    The 35th floor was a massive cavern. The only difference from the other vegetation-filled caverns was the absence of any living beings. This ce was filled with relics, statuesj and structures that could never form naturally.


    I sighed at the sight of a half-crumbled statue lying on the ground, visible on the screen. Despite being half-destroyed, the facial features were still discernible. Two eyes, a nose, a mouth-it was indistinguishable from a human.


    lust what is this?"


    [What you don''t know, the legion certainly doesn''t know either. But the legion''s history has always begun by analyzing the unknown. At least they can grasp that these statues represented something.]


    Goblins and orcs, too, had eyes, noses, and mouths. I found myself deep in thought, separate from the legion. No matter how I pondered, these appeared to be remnants of a civilization. Could they be ancient ruins, like those in movies? If so, where were the beings that created them? If they still existed somewhere, they must be connected to the guardians. But who could they be? What kind of people would construct relics like these in a cave?


    [The scouts have begun to meticulously search every corner. Compared to the natural environments we''ve encountered so far, the legion has concluded that these structures were intentionally crafted by someone, simr to our nests.]


    The investigation proceeded, and we were able to glimpse the interior of the colossal ruins. I was left speechless. The entire cavern was a relic, filled with countless rooms and structures that resembled altars. Moreover, the passage leading upwards was situated right in the heart of these ruins.


    ...A hole?"


    The scout looked up.


    A huge cylindrical passage was pierced through the ceiling.


    Complicated patterns with iprehensible meaning were engraved around it.


    [Whether or not we know what this ce is, it''s certainly a fork in the road worth making our base. Having judged so, the legion mobilized its forces. First they nned to upy this ce and use it as a midway base.]


    The legion''s main force marched unswervingly along the previously scouted path. No longer did other organisms obstruct our progress. As long as we diligently investigated every minor detour for anomalies, they would likely remain undisturbed.


    [The 34th floor is directly beneath the 35th, where the remains were discovered. This is where the moth was.]


    A versatile unit of the legion, which had nearly reached this point earlier, made a discovery. They brushed the floor with their hands, revealing something white and shimmering. It was the powder from the moth we had previously encountered.


    [The presence of a gatekeeper suggests there is something valuable being guarded beyond.]


    The legion resumed its march, finally setting foot on the troublesome 35th floor.


    [Could it be a trap?]


    Suddenly, an unexpected event urred.


    What is this?!"


    [The legion is still analyzing it.]


    The entire ruins trembled.


    Strange patterns etched in various locations began to glow.


    I was taken aback, but the legion units remained unfazed.


    What on earth is that..."


    [Ah, this could be beneficial. At present, we only have living organisms at our disposal. We theorized that if we disassembled and consumed these unknown entities, we might uncover some clues.]


    With a grating noise, pale limbs erupted from the ruin walls.


    Their skin was extremely smooth and pale, bodies slender, eyes glittering.


    These pale beings, their bodies adorned with bizarre patterns akin to tattoos, were awakening one by one, disying hostility towards the legion units.


    There''s no way they''re units...considering they''re reviving."


    I bit my lip.


    Their overall appearance was strikingly human.


    It was even possible to differentiate between males and females based on hair length and the presence of genitalia.


    They certainly didn''t resemble mere beasts or monsters.


    [It had been some time since we encountered an adversary who utilized tools. The legion, intrigued, naturally engaged them.]


    As the figures approached, armed with worn swords, spears, and various other weapons, the legion units instinctively lowered their bodies in preparation. We had no reason to retreat.


    ! !"


    lust before the sh, they released roars akin to wild beasts. The patterns and eyes on their bodies shed brilliantly.


    The collision that followed was surprising. Despite their pale, slender bodies, these beings somehow held the upper hand in strength.


    *


    Anyway... we''re still going to school, huh."


    Most importantly, the other students are still oblivious. They have no idea how serious the situation is."


    Yoon Ah muttered these words, her gaze scanning the unsettled atmosphere of the school. It was the same school she and Do Yeon attended, the one that had been attacked by goblins. Today, they had resumed attending, but the mood was far from academic. Flowers adorned various desks, and over half the teachers were absent. The families of the missing students were in denial, opposing even the idea of holding funerals.


    Do you think they can be rescued?"


    It''s hard to say. If I were in their shoes, imagining being dragged away by those monsters... I don''t think I couldst a single day."


    Yoon Ah shook her head, grimacing at the thought. Do Yeon, who had initiated the conversation, shared the sentiment. Despite her tough exterior, she knew she would crumble in such a situation faster than anyone else.


    We''ll never experience something like that. We''ll survive till the end."


    Yoon Ah firmly grasped her hand.


    You''re saying that to me?"


    W-well... anyway! As long as we stick together, our Cheongsan n can carry us through!"


    At her snort, a flustered Yoon Ah pulled out her phone. Do Yeon watched with interest. At first nce, it could be mistaken for a movie or drama, but the people appearing on Yoon Ah''s phone were all real.


    lust what are those people''s abilities?"


    They have something called racial traits. It''s a kind of innate ability. In our Cheongsan n''s case, the ancestral shamanism from the original tribe developed extremely, allowing us tomunicate directly with earth and wind spirits."


    Whether it was guilt or trust, Yoon Ah would answer smoothly when asked. Of course, Do Yeon had no ns to betray Yoon Ah. She only nned to remember that information and ry it in full to those who were truly her allies.


    Anyway, our n ispetent and smart. We''ve already unified the surrounding ns, and all that''s left is to expand, they said."


    ...You don''t n to move separately?"


    Eek."


    Yoon Ah gave a surreptitious nod. Cha Ji Yeon, who had openly dered herself as a unit, continued to interact and coborate with other yers. Yoon Ah and Do Yeon were also part of the organization, but their involvement was less active.


    My parents wouldn''t allow me."


    Indeed. The fear of indiscriminate killing is real. And if you be a target for no apparent reason, what then?"


    It''s a bit disheartening. But the items that Ms. Cha Ji Yeon provides, if I could distribute them among our tribe, I''m sure it would be beneficial."


    I see...that''s an interesting approach."


    Suddenly, Do Yeon, having gained a new perspective, remembered the units her brother had been nurturing.


    fThey didn''t seem...human.''


    Despite their mutual wariness, she had picked up on certain things. From these, Do Yeon deduced that her brother''s units were decidedly not human.


    It seems like it''ll take more time to properly conduct sses."


    Yeah. Today was mostly self-study anyway."


    See you."


    With sses ending earlier than usual, Yoon Ah and Do Yeon said their goodbyes at the front gate. Yoon Ah left in the car her mother hade to pick her up in. Their homes were inpletely opposite directions, and she declined carpooling because she felt guilty about her mother, who apologized every time she forced her daughter into the car.


    As she watched the car drive away, she slowly walked down the street.


    fI don''t know if this is good or bad.''


    She let out a small sigh. She had been forcefully pulled into this situation, but now it seemed better this way. If she had been oblivious to the truth, she wouldn''t have understood Shin Woo''s solitary struggle.


    Mm...? Agh!"


    However, just as she was about to reach home, she felt a searing pain in her wrist and grabbed it, her face contorted in agony.

 Chapter 31: The Legions Payback (2)

    Chapter 31: The Legion''s Payback (2)


    "Can we really attack?!"


    "Idiot! The detector is beeping!"


    "But they look like ordinary students..."


    It was their first battle.


    Despite the tension and panic, they had to move.


    "Didn''t you hear me?! Targets are irrelevant, young or old. Back out if you''re scared, kid."


    "No, that''s not it!"


    A somewhat frail, middle-aged man with a fiery temper stepped out of the car, followed closely by a young man.


    "lust do as you''re told and get the drugs. That''s all that matters."


    He clenched his teeth, spat out his cigarette, and activated something on his wrist.


    "Ugh..."


    A blue ripple emanated from his wrist, gradually enveloping his entire body. It was a reward for his service. Soon, a blue cross began to glow within the nanosuit that nowpletely covered him.


    "Wow..."


    "What is that?!"


    Ignoring the murmuring crowd, he made a beeline for his target. His breathing was ragged, but he forced himself to ignore it. From a slit in the suit on his thigh, he drew a weapon-an advanced firearm that fired powerful rounds unmatched by typical guns.


    ''I can do this.''


    He took aim at the target. The detector identified a mother and daughter making their way home from the parking lot. He bore no ill will towards these strangers, but to obtain what he coveted, their lives had to end.


    "Mom!!"


    The trigger was pulled. The high school girl instinctively spun around, her eyes shing gold as she let out a piercing scream.


    "What the?!"


    Startled, he squeezed the trigger once more. The bullets sparked against a translucent golden barrier that radiated from the girl, effectively blocking them. Panic ensued around them. There was no time to dawdle.


    "Shoot, you idiot!"


    He barked at his partner behind him. Thankfully, his partner was quick to respond.


    "I don''t know!"


    As his partner, d in a simr suit, advanced, he gritted his teeth and aimed therge caliber rifle at the girl. The deafening sound of an armor-piercing round echoed as it was fired. It sliced through the air, only to be halted by her barrier. This time, however, the barrier couldn''t hold up. Apanied by the sound of shattering ss, the barrier broke, and blood sttered everywhere.


    He frowned, ncing at the two figures sprawled on the ground.


    "Damn it."


    The sniper shot had failed. In a split second, the mother had thrown herself in front of her daughter. Now, the girly beneath her mother''s gruesomely shattered head, muttering in shock.


    "Sorry, kid. Your mom died so you could live."


    He aimed his pistol at the girl, but he didn''t get the chance to pull the trigger.


    "Ugh!"


    "Run away!"


    Arge brick, thrown by an unknown hand, struck him directly in the head. His suit protected him from harm. As he staggered in shock, another high school girl helped her terrified friend escape to a nearby building.


    "You bastard!!"


    "Eek!"


    He hurled a string of curses at his partner for neglecting the distraction. Time was running out. They needed to eliminate the target as quickly as possible before the police arrived.


    "Get ready to bolt! We''re finishing this and leaving!"


    Frustrated with his partner, he stamped the ground. The suit granted him superhuman strength. The built-in AI located the target, who was being supported by her friend in a nearby building.


    ''How annoying!''


    He gritted his teeth, pulled out another weapon, and pursued them. He had alreadymitted murder once. Why would a second time be any more difficult? lust kill. That was his only thought.


    *


    "Mom... Mom is..."


    "I know. I saw it too. But please, get a grip Yoon Ah!"


    Kang Do Yeon was barely clinging to her sanity. She dragged the virtually catatonic Oh Yoon Ah as they fled in desperation.


    "Help! Murderer! Help!"


    "Wha...Eek!"


    Do Yeon, climbing themercial building attached to the apartmentplex, screamed for help with all her might. A few people, horrified by the sight of the blood-soaked Yoon Ah, rushed out and hastily dialed for an ambnce and the police.


    (At least there are people around.''


    Do Yeon felt a brief moment of relief. But that was a naivelycent thought.


    "Ahhh!"


    "What the...ahh!"


    Her eyes trembled violently. The blue-suited freak burst through the third-story window in a single leap, kicking and tossing aside the people in his path.


    "Nothing against you, but you gotta die here."


    He thrust forward the icy de extending from his knuckles, which began to glow blue as it drew power.


    (No.''


    Her endurance finally shattered. She needed to fight back, but her body wouldn''t cooperate. Panic surged, her teeth chattered, and her breaths came in ragged gasps.


    Her visit here wasn''t merely an emotional attempt to save Yoon Ah by verifying the Stigma''s reaction. If they discovered Yoon Ah was a yer, her brother Kang Shin Woo would also be in peril. She had to keep Yoon Ah alive and seek assistance from Cha Ji Yeon, who had connections, after encountering a hostile Unit.


    "Ah..."


    But dying here would make all her efforts futile. Do Yeon, copsing to the floor, let out a soft sigh as the blue light advanced towards her.


    "Gah..."


    "Do...Yeon."


    Just as the de was about to cleave her, the assant was hurled away by a powerful shockwave. Somehow, the pale and trembling Yoon Ah, clutching a peculiar wand, was by her side.


    "Let'' s...escape."


    Their eyes locked, and they nodded in unison. Comcency was no longer an option.


    ''This is war.''


    Do Yeon gritted her teeth, using her superior physical abilities to hoist Yoon Ah higher up the building. There were multiple emergency exits; they just needed to hide and slip away unnoticed.


    "You''re not getting away."


    "Kyaa!"


    The enemy was formidable. Despite her efforts to secure the emergency exit, his sma de easily sliced through the thick steel door.


    "Ahh...ahh!"


    In that moment, Do Yeon threw a desperate punch at the distracted enemy''s open face. Her small fist connected with a solid thud.


    "Ugh!"


    The suit shuddered under the force of the impact. Ignoring her magically enhanced strength had been a costly mistake; he was momentarily blinded.


    "Just...hang on! I''ll try something!"


    Yoon Ah dispelled the imbued magic in her wand, activating another spell. Simultaneously, Do Yeon delivered a fierce knee to the enemy''s groin. The enemy screamed, clutching his vitals, appearing vulnerable. A glimmer of hope emerged.


    [Initiating Auto-Retaliation]


    Until now.


    "Huh?"


    Just as she confidently threw another punch, something flew, spurting blood. Her face was sprayed with the warm liquid. She inhaled sharply. It was her arm, still covered by her sailor uniform sleeve.


    "Ah..."


    Before she could evenprehend her severed arm, her body copsed. The kneecap on her heavily kicked leg couldn''t withstand the impact and tore off, spraying more blood. The suit''s cross-eyes now glowed a menacing red.


    "Sorry, Do Yeon..."


    As she watched her fall, Yoon Ah murmured numbly, cancelling the spell. The price of this cancetion was an overload. The potent energy, condensed through Yoon Ah''s sacrificial decision, exploded uncontrobly towards the enemy.


    *


    [The legion had chosen to strategically retreat. They didn''t die even when killed, and theirbat ability was outstanding.]


    "But shouldn''t we keep pressuring them?"


    [Correct. This battle was merely a test of each other''s strength. Next time...]


    His voice trailed off.


    Suddenly, my phone rang. I considered ignoring it, assuming it was spam, but picked up anyway. If it was suspicious, I could just hang up.


    "Hello, who is..."


    I froze mid-sentence, hearing the frantic shouting from the other end. Despite the urgent pleas to hurry to the hospital, I remained rooted in ce. When I finally snapped out of it, I found myself in a taxi headed there, with no recollection of how I got there.


    "How...how could this..."


    [Get a hold of yourself. It''s a dangerous situation.]


    A dangerous situation? Of course, it was dangerous! My worst fear had materialized, and panic had seized me, making it impossible to calm down.


    "But what''s the point? This is the second time for me. My father went the same way. If I lose her too, I...I can''t bear it."


    A hollowugh escaped me. Was this really happening? My sister, lying unconscious before me, was barely breathing. She had lost her limbs and her face too. Her condition was even


    more severe than Yoon Ah''s, who was in aa. The horrific sight made my eyes tremble uncontrobly.


    [No, you can do it.]


    "What..."


    [Look at the screen. And believe. In the legion, your creation.]


    The view flipped to the lowest level of thebyrinth, our origin, where the brain of the legion resided.


    [The legion wants to repay you.]


    There, the assembled legion units stood solemnly. Their red lights seemed to stare straight at me through the screen.

 Chapter 32: The Legions Payback (3)

    Chapter 32: The Legion''s Payback (3)


    It said to take a picture. To take a picture, to send her... to the legion.


    [If you trust us]


    That single phrase barely kept my unraveling thoughts intact. I clenched my teeth, trembling uncontrobly. It had already happened. I had to control this.


    I''m sorry...I''m so sorry..."


    I lifted my shaking hands, struggling to steady them. I had to clutch one hand with the other to suppress the tremors. My breaths became increasingly ragged. This was all my fault. All because of me.


    [Take the picture. We don''t have much time. If her breathing stops and her brain is damaged, her memories may be lost.]


    I squeezed my eyes shut. The price for ipetence was harsh. I finally activated the camera, the shutter clicking as I did.


    [We''ll handle the aftermath. Will you falter here? Will you only lose more and stand by watching again?]


    "...No, I absolutely won''t do that. Never."


    [Then move. You must have a n.]


    Each word pierced my heart. I forced my trembling legs to move.


    "Gate breach! Sudden gate breach!"


    "Evacuate the patients!"


    Almost simultaneously, the piercing wail of sirens and terrified screams filled the air outside the hospital. The end times weren''t just idle gossip anymore. For those in the know, we were in the midst of a brutal war.


    I hurried down the hospital corridor, supporting my mother who was dizzy and sobbing from the shock. ss windows shattered around us as chaos ensued.


    In a way, the timing was fortuitous. Amidst the pandemonium, a missing patient would naturally go unnoticed. *


    [Do you sense his emotions clearly? Raging anger and hatred. We are learning this. There is no need to learn helplessness and guilt. Fuel the hatred. Anger is strength.]


    A dark cavern. A figure wrapped in bandages suddenly appeared in a sh of light.


    [Those emotions will be our strength. We will be more rational than anyone, yet hotter than anyone.]


    Legionaries carefully moved to unwrap the bandages from Do Yeon Kang''s mangled body. If left like this, she would soon perish.


    At the same time, the legion''s nest stirred. Tendrils stretched toward her.


    [He sincerely wants his sister to live. We sense his grief. But grief is an unhelpful emotion. So now it''s time we erased that grief.]


    The tendrils slowly wrapped around her body. The viscous mucus secreted from the tendrils formed a fleshy cocoon that gradually enveloped her.


    Outwardly, it looked no different than the legion''s usual digestion and absorption. But the process happening inside waspletely different.


    [We will assimte our cells into her body. Calmly, slowly. We will rece each of her cells with our own.]


    The perfect analysis of the human genome was an added bonus. As a result, the legion could substitute and rebuild her flesh with its own cells.


    [This will be a historical moment. For the first time, a legionnaire with an independent ego will be born, capable of autonomous action.]


    This was an extraordinary privilege. The legion, which had only engaged in predation, ughter, breakdown, and analysis until now, couldn''t fathom the emergence of another ego that could challenge its position.


    This achievement was made possible by the strong desire transmitted through the direct string connection.


    [Do not fear. I guarantee, Kang Do Yeon can be another weapon for us.]


    Before long, she was entirely encased in the fleshy membrane. Therge cocoon that held her in the nest''s center resembled a human womb. She was fully submerged in the mucus, a product of the legion''s ceaseless cell gathering. Her existing cells were disintegrated at a cellr level and wlessly reced with new ones in the same form.


    [This works out well.]


    The entire legion halted, surrounding the special cocoon that held Do Yeon, eagerly awaiting her rebirth.


    [The enemies from the 35th floor are unique and powerful. Breaking through with our current tactics would be incredibly energy-inefficient. Therefore, reinforcing our forces is the only logical step.]


    The legion was still uncertain about the exact nature of the 35th floor enemies. When it attempted to seize a corpse for analysis, the tattooed mes extinguished upon death, and the bodies crumbled into desated mummies. They were clearly not ordinary living beings, making analysis impossible.


    [But next time, we will win.]


    Despite this, the legion had fully scouted the enemy''s capabilities. It was already confident of victory in the next encounter.


    [Simultaneously, our mind will evolve further.]


    The legion used this time to enhance other areas. It incorporated the portion of the cerebral cortex obtained from Do Yeon, a 17-year-old human girl. The perfectly analyzed human brain functions exponentially increased the legion''sputational power,munication speed, and hive mind.


    With a brain far superior to the pathetic orcs, the legion mimicked the structure and amplified the volume thousands of times, even if it was not fully understood yet.


    [Now we will truly know. We haven''t learned it yet, but if we do, we could even create vocal organs for speech.]


    The massive brain now upied an entire cavern alone. Although still a nk te, establishing a core mind elerated the overall legion''s processing abilities and connection, evolving its hive consciousness.


    They had evolved once more through this.


    [Did you see?]


    "...Yes."


    [This is the legion''s sincerity.]


    "I believe it."


    He watched the entire scene, nodding with a somber tone. His gaze remained fixed on the cocoon cradling his sister.


    "I heard you contacted me. Um..."


    "It''s Kang Shin Woo."


    "Right. Mr. Kang Shin Woo."


    Late into the night, I hailed a taxi to Cha Ji Yeon. Coborating with Ji Yeon had be a necessity for me. Without her, I could be hunted down at any moment.


    Understanding that she knew my identity as Oh Yoon Ah''s subordinate, her displeased expression was expected. After all, Yoon Ah had beenrgely inactive in alliance activities and was now in aa following the day''s incident.


    To Ji Yeon, I must have seemed insignificant...


    "I heard about your sister...her body taken by them too..."


    Unexpectedly, she squeezed my hand in sympathy, sighing deeply. I was genuinely surprised, my eyes widening, unable to find the right words.


    The idea that someone as formidable and influential as her would show concern about this...


    "Before I''m a unit, I was a hunter and a person."


    Her bitter smile pierced my heart. Reflecting on it, I had failed to fully consider - as an entity with a distinct will unlike Legionnaires, she may or may not sympathize with her yer.


    "I appreciate the condolences. But I came for another matter today."


    "Another matter?"


    "I''ll prove myself. So...please take me along for the next gate raids."


    I expressed my determination, gritting my teeth.


    Ji Yeon''s eyes widened in surprise. But I was sincere.


    I didn''t feel guilty about recklessly endangering the legion. Because that''s what they wanted too, I realized now.


    "Prove yourself?"


    "Give me a request to handle. I''ll show what I can do."


    "I see... My yer also seems quite intrigued. Increasing our forces is always wee."


    Ji Yeon nodded after a moment. I wasn''t fully confident either.


    [Cut through the 35th floor and uncover thebyrinth''s truths. Then, you will reach Chapter 3 and utilize additional functions to ensure safety.]


    Only one step remained.


    "You''re only 23, quite young for such hardship."


    "Oh, I thought you were 24, Hunter Cha."


    "Well, yes, but..."


    Initially, I was taken aback. She had seemed so mature, yet she was only a year older. She snickered, fiddling with her phone.


    "Don''t worry too much. For the mysterious units who harmed your sister and attacked Yoon Ah, my yer already knows their identity and is confident of victory. We will absolutely, absolutely have revenge."


    "Just who are they?"


    "I''m not told much either. But we''ll definitely find out."


    She nodded reassuringly. For once, I decided to believe her. Revenge no longer mattered. No matter how long it took, the legion and I would handle it directly.


    "Thank you."


    I felt a sense of gratitude towards her. She cared deeply for someone like me, someone she could easily disregard.


    [It''s best to stay close. The enemies can track yers.]


    "But I wonder, did they really identify Yoon Ah as a yer and snipe her?"


    After parting ways with Ji Yeon, a thought crossed my mind as I rubbed my head. To target a yer meant existing in the same world. However, the units I knew of Yoon Ah''s were far from the high-tech suits seen on CCTV.


    "Or maybe they''re a group that kills opponents by proxy, like us. It''s hard to say for sure."


    With a click of my tongue, I got back into a taxi.

 Chapter 33: The Legions Payback (4)

    Chapter 33: The Legion''s Payback (4)


    The paradox of Theseus. Kang Do Yeon''s body was in a constant state of renewal, each individual cell regenerating. Yet, her form and function remained unchanged. If every cell was entirely reced, was she still herself? This was one of the peculiar, unsettling sensations she was grappling with.


    [If you cannot endure this strangeness, your mind will copse.]


    An unfamiliar voice echoed in her ears. It was the Legion''s voice, which had been iprehensible until now, constantly intruding. The voice was deep and male, yet it had a raspy, wounded edge.


    [Who are you?] I...I am..."


    She curled up like a fetus, her face twisted in confusion. Her small human brain was flooded with too much information, the Legion''s knowledge far beyond what she could withstand. To prevent this, the Legion had judiciously filtered the information directed at her. With this control, she retained the strongest sense of self among the Legion, even though it relegated her to second inmand.


    I am Kang Do Yeon. I''m just me." [Is that all?]


    And also, part of the Legion."


    Through sheer willpower, she overcame the alien sensation, retaining her identity. She clearly remembered herst moment - the red cross-eyes of the one in a blue suit who had torn off her limbs, reducing her to near death. That bastard."


    Anger boiled up within her. But it was not just her anger. The entire Legion resonated with it. Their nest-covered territory shook with intensity. [The first independent being was born. This is recorded in the Legion''s history.]


    She slowly opened her eyes. At the same time, the fleshy wall of the nest containing her cracked open. Light streamed in through the fissure, ejecting fluids. Cough... Hack..."


    She was swept outside with the gush. Instinctively gasping, she took air into her lungs. Ugh..."


    On unsteady feet, she stood up from the nest membrane covering the floor. The strangeness remained in her body - the sense that this was not her own. But gritting her teeth, she took deep breaths to calm herself. As her mind settled, her body swiftly adapted.


    [Do you know what must be done?] Yeah. I get it... sir."


    With a smirk, she cradled her throbbing head. The Legion, while managing her information intake, had also chosen to make active, efficient use of Do Yeon, the only one with a developed brain. She understood everything - her location, her current state, the nature of the Legion, and the next steps to be taken.


    You''re furious at those damn bastards. But it''s not because of me. To you, I''m merely Creature 1. Your anger stems from oppa''s sadness and rage." She began to walk slowly, unfazed by the grotesque nests and Legion creatures around her, or her own nudity. Such things had ceased to matter. Let''s go."


    The Legion creatures, who had been waiting behind her, began to move. Their procession seemed endless, a march to conquer the 35th floor in its entirety. Do Yeon, leading them, bore no trace of fear or doubt on her face. [You and us, we are the Legion.]


    She was now part of the Legion. In exchange for her life''s salvation, she had merged with them. fSo fighting this war is my duty.''


    There was no reason for it. War and predation were the very essence of the Legion.


    What is this ce anyway? It looks like...some elven structure from a fantasy. Creepy pale corpses, but some kind of monument? A temple?" Do Yeon guided the Legion to the 35th floor. Through her, the Legion was able to concretely assess their new enemies for the first time. [They attacked us again. Like before, the markings on their bodies began glowing.]


    The Legion responded to the mindlessly charging guardians as they always did. They had never lost a rematch yet. Each time they returned stronger, with more innovative powers and tactics.


    Urghk..."


    Watching the Legion creatures who first leapt into action, Do Yeon, staggering on unsteady feet, opened her eyes wide in astonishment.


    [Be ustomed. The Legion has granted special powers to a special creature. Rapid growth, another racial trait. We have applied it.] Arrgh... Raahhh!"


    Do Yeon screamed as her body contorted and reconfigured in agony. Concurrently, her entire body began transforming. Her skeleton rapidly altered and mutated as ck carapace and scaled skin enveloped her. Her muscles rearranged and nerves twisted. In the end, her body, save for her neck, waspletely changed. Resembling the versatile Legion creatures in a ck suit, she was barely distinguishable from them. Gaaah!"


    As she swallowed her pain and gasped for breath, an enemy lunged at her with a spear. She lifted her head, her eyes now aze with a fiery red glow. Gritting her teeth, she unleashed a powerful kick at the enemy, her strength amplified by her Legion-engineered,pressed muscles pushed to their breaking point.


    Damn, that really hurts..."


    A shockwave erupted, the spear shattered, and the upper half of the enemy''s body exploded into fragments. From her own hand, she drew a de, reshaped from her cells.


    Anger surged within her, resonating with the entire raging Legion. This intense fury aided in decimating the enemies. With a single leap, she cleaved an enemy grappling with a Legion creature in two. Despite the Legion''sposition and numbers remaining unchanged, the oue was drastically different. In mere moments, they had pushed the enemies back and nearly wiped them outpletely.


    The hive mind elerated and intensified with the addition of Do Yeon''s developed brain. Their burning rage morphed into a madness that ughtered the enemies relentlessly. Mindless undead controlled by magic? They were clearly immortal, excellent guardians. But the same could be said for the Legion''s side. [All enemies have fallen. Yet it is not over. We must head above.] ...Just what is this ce anyway?"


    Sheathing her de, Do Yeon murmured as she looked up at the massive hole in the ceiling. *


    Is Mom really okay? You did promise, didn''t you?" ...I promised you would survive, no matter what." Really? But can I ever return to Earth?"


    The child gazed into the void, at me beyond the screen. Naturally, our perspectives were entirely out of sync. There has to be a way." I believe I can return very soon."


    Despite my feelings, Do Yeon chuckled and responded. Her body still held that form - simr, yet distinctly non-human. The appearance of the female Legion creature was strikingly unnatural.


    [Do you have nothing else to say?] No, that''s not it."


    I shook my head. My words were now a narration, delivered by the one she referred to as ''sir.'' I''m not just saying this. Oppa may not realize, but I''m directly connected to the Legion, so I understand. It''s truly...incredible. Those strange metal creatures that attacked us, I could tear them apart with a single fist now."


    She clenched her fist. It looked wed, with sharp talons protruding like spurs on a gauntlet. Right. That''s true. But first, we need to escape thisbyrinth." This ce seems like some ancient ruin to me. The things attacking us, they behaved as if they were protecting this ce. But aside from its size, there''s not much here." Do Yeon rose and began to explore the 35th floor. Unlike the other floors, this one resembled a deste cave. Nest seeds had been sown and were spreading, but there was little to assimte.


    [The Legion has decided to take a brief period to regroup. To replenish lost troops and prepare for the ascent, they first want topletely convert this area into a nest.]


    The nest not only produced Legion creatures but also provided nourishment. Pursuing efficiency, it would be foolish to recklessly sacrifice them as consumables, regardless of what they were.


    Ugh... I hate this."


    A tendril from the nest extended into my sister as well. As it pierced her lower back, she trembled and grumbled incessantly. I can send food. I''m still steadily buying it and sending it." It''s fine. Digestion is pointless now anyway, and this is more efficient than my human digestive system." ...Don''t you want bread too?"


    Her ears perked up at that. Smiling wryly, I stood up from my seat. At least I could...do this much. Hey! Are you listening?! I''ll fight everything here! Just stay hunkered down! Stick right by Cha Ji Yeon''s side!" A bitter smile tugged at my lips. Do Yeon had joined the Legion, yet her thoughts didn''t always align with theirs. The Legion, a superior entity, harbored different concerns. My sister was still preupied with my safety, hoping I would find a secure refuge.


    The Legion, however, had a different perspective. They were concerned about me as well, but their desire was for me to grow stronger.


    Now, I understood. The Legionprehended my emotions.

 Chapter 34: The Legions Payback (5)

    Chapter 34: The Legion''s Payback (5)


    [We''ve sessfully upied the 35th floor, advancing another step. This is where the real story begins. Wee to Chapter 3. Look at your screen. I''ll exin the new features that have been added.]


    I examined the app. Various interfaces now filled what had previously been a nk screen. What''s this?" [Tap on it. It''s a shop. A system shop essible to all yers.]


    I tapped the new icon. As stated, it was a shop selling various items. I noticed [Assassination Right: 500G (2 uses)] in my view. The tutorial reward I could have chosen earlier was 1,000 gold. If I had held out and selected that, I would have two assassination rights by now. Of course, the likelihood of me not holding out and dying was also high.


    So I''m broke. How do I earn gold?" [There''s only one way to earn gold. Kill enemy units and yers.] ...What?"


    Simultaneously, my gold bnce, which had been zero, began to increase. The rising gold stopped precisely at 100G. [Those rats we defeatedst time? The app deemed their worth to be a mere 100G.]


    The value of an assassination right was five times what I had. My eyes dimmed as a brutally cold and sharp realization hit me. A species that once nurtured dreams and hopes, that thrived and developed, had been entirely wiped out. Nothing remained.


    [Reality. It would have been the same even without the app.] That''s also true." I snorted.


    [Although it''s only 100G, it should be enough to buy some helpful items.]


    I examined the items in the shop. The ones it had mentioned would help me in Chapter 3 were probably urate. There are ones for yers and units." [They all create variables in the game.]


    I scrutinized the items before me, knowing I had to choose wisely. With my current funds, I could only afford one. To prove my worth to Cha Ji Yeon and earn herpanionship, I needed to purchase something that would be immediately beneficial.


    How about this one."


    The price was exactly 100G. I selected an item that seemed to fit the bill. A transparent liquid sloshed inside the vial. Although its consumable nature irked me, it was an item that promised to deliver everything I desired.


    [The choice is yours. The item has been selected. By spending gold, you have obtained ''Moonlight Rage''.] Moonlight Rage.


    From the description alone, it was an item that could temporarily bestow the power of a werewolf, with its superior physical abilities, under the moonlight. This isn''t what I''m thinking, right?" [That is most likely correct. This Moonlight Rage you have purchased now is certainly a racial trait that exists somewhere, somehow, in some race.] I found myself involuntarily drawing in a breath.


    This shop truly sold the most extraordinary things. * Oppa, are you there?" Tell her I am." Hmph."


    Upon hearing my words, the ever-prepared Kang Do Yeon let out a sigh. The preparation wasn''t extensive. We were above the 35th floor, ascending through the massive hole in the ceiling.


    [Of course, the legion sent out scouts first.]


    The scouts, gifted with flight and high mobility, ascended into the sky, indifferent to the insignificant creatures below. If more of them were up there, it wouldn''t pose a problem.


    Switch the screen. What''s the situation?" [This is also an interesting result.]


    With those cryptic words, the screen flickered to a new image. I could now see what the legion was focused on. [An ordinary cave. But wide.] ...A vige? Or a city?"


    What I saw resembled some sort of sprawling dwelling. There were areas that looked like zas and others that resembled fortresses. The scale was immense.


    [Kang Do Yeon reached a simr conclusion as you, and the legion epted that opinion. This ce is their nest, where a certain race lived. The architecture, patterns, and letters engraved here and there match the structures of the 35th floor.]


    A race that lived underground, huh. Then what exactly are the structures of the 35th floor, the mummies guarding that ce, and this hole leading there?" I scratched my head, puzzled. There was still too little information to fullyprehend what this ce was and where it led.


    [We have discovered the passage to the 36th floor...and the 37th floor here.] Around that time, the scouts discovered a passage leading to the next floor. [However, this ce has been sealed by an unknown power.] It can''t be helped."


    The scouts were stymied, a situation reminiscent of the spider webs that initially blocked our path when we first ventured from the minor to the major floors of the grand passages.


    In the end, we just have to smash through it."


    But we still need to know what it is to deal with it properly." Right now, there''s no method."


    Kang Do Yeon nodded coolly. I fell silent, at a loss for words. [The legion shares the same sentiment.]


    The legion soldiers began to mobilize. The flying troops took to the sky first, passing through the hole.


    [Once again, those vengeful spirits of unknown origin block our path. The legion won''t stall for time. The order to advance has been given to all troops.]


    When the flying troops first reached the 36th floor, the underground city, previously as silent as a tomb, began to reverberate with roars. The irrational corpses we encountered on the 35th floor leapt out of houses and buildings, their bodies glowing with intricate patterns.


    [They are quite a nuisance. We gain little sustenance from consuming them, and the unknown power animating them remains a mystery.] There''s...something there."


    As I observed the sh with the legion''s airborne troops, my brows furrowed in concern. The beings we had encountered on the lower floor were unmistakably armed, physically formidable warriors. However, this encounter was different. While there were warriors mixed in, brandishing weapons, the majority were not warriors at all. They were beings wielding tools that resembled farming implements, beings entirely unarmed. There were elderly individuals with stooped backs and young children.


    ''What on earth happened here?''


    My thoughts grew more convoluted as I watched Kang Do Yeon, who had wed her way up through the hole, swinging her sword and fists in a desperate battle alongside other legion soldiers.


    There''s more of them, but they''re nothing much."


    The sight of one soldier splitting an enemy''s body in two with a sword, all while wearing a bright smile, also unsettled me. There''s a pattern. There''s definitely a pattern."


    In the midst of the fierce battlefield, Kang Do Yeon kicked away an opponent she had neutralized with her own sword and murmured.


    The enemies battled relentlessly against the ceaseless ck tide surging from the abyss. Their actions were devoid of hesitation, akin to programmed machines. But who programmed them?"


    A sh of crimson light sparked in Kang Do Yeon''s eyes. The legion had previously encountered an unseen mystical force. Through the Wraith and the Guardian leader, they had begun to understand the existence of souls. Therefore, detecting something simr was not entirely impossible.


    There. That ce. The city''s end."


    Kang Do Yeon pointed to the opposite end, where a massive structure stood at the cavity''s end. Charger-type soldiers, asrge as horses or bulls, bared their teeth and charged towards that ce. Their tremendous power, derived from mass and muscle, allowed them to trample the resisting wraiths. The one leading the charge had a hard head armor, reminiscent of a smander and cave boar, with strong jaw muscles. The legion soldier swung itsrge, sturdy head, striking an enemy.


    [A new enemy has appeared.]


    However, in that moment, the neck of therge legion soldier was cleanly severed in two. The culprit was a lone man brandishing a sword. Like his adversaries, he bore glowing patterns on his body. He stood sentinel in front of the building, clutching a faintly shimmering blue sword. Behind him, dozens of warriors emanating simr extraordinary auras appeared, guarding the building.


    [We were right. There are clues in the ce they''re protecting.]


    The legion''s gaze shifted in that direction. Kang Do Yeon, her mouth set in a determined line, stepped forward. The legion had invested a massive amount of energy in her for moments like this.


    [With a single strike, he severed the armor of the sturdiest soldier in the legion. This indicated that the defenses of the versatile soldiers could not withstand his attack. Simultaneously, it meant our carapace-reinforced swords would be severed the moment they shed.]


    Then how should we fight?"


    Kang Do Yeon offered a faint smile as she used her cells to enhance her senses. She manipted not only the basic five senses-sight, hearing, touch-but also her internal senses such as bnce and reflexes.


    Urgh..."


    Moreover, sensory organs unique to cave organisms began to emerge on her body. Organs capable of detecting minute vibrations, faint electromaic waves, and so forth. As her senses expanded, her body trembled. An overwhelming amount of information flooded her mind from her suddenly heightened senses, causing an overload.


    However, the legion''s hive mind, with which she shared consciousness, stepped in at that moment.

 Chapter 35: Secrets of the World (1)

    Chapter 35: Secrets of the World (1)


    ''it feels like Im floating.


    Kang Do Yeon grinned as she stumbled, experiencing the expansion and addition of new sensations for the first time in her life.


    Thanks to the direct intervention of the legion, her brain was now smoothly processing the onught of information. Oddly, her stimted brain derived a sense of pleasure from the process.


    [Clearly an extraordinary opponent. Likely a skilled individual. For now, the legion has instructed the ranged troops to open fire.] "...!


    Dozens of bony spikes shot through the air towards them in an instant. The man at the very front, along with the other warriors, hurriedly raised their swords to deflect the spikes entirely.


    "I should go.


    With a roar, Kang Do Yeon stomped the ground. Leaving his subordinates behind, the man charged towards her alone, sword in hand. Of all the enemies she had faced so far, this one was clearly the strongest.


    "Hmph.


    lust before shing, Kang Do Yeons waist twisted grotesquely. Simultaneously, the ice-cold de barely grazed past her face.


    [Smooth yet sharp and precise. The legion focused every avable eye to imprint those movements from all angles into memory. Our swords cannot hope to match it. Truly the pinnacle of swordsmanship.]


    With sublime senses and reflexes, Kang Do Yeon matched the enemys sword. Since his swordy exceeded hers, she relied purely on physical ability instead. The de kept brushing past her face and body. Although the opponent also disyed extraordinary physical prowess, his speed was inferior to hers as she manipted her nerves using the hive mind.


    "There!


    She evaded his strike aimed at her waist, immediately retaliating with a powerful kick. Her body twisted precariously, yet her kick was forceful enough to shatter her hipbone and rupture her thigh muscles voluntarily.


    [It seems theyve found a counter. Naturally, such risky maneuvers would be challenging for ordinary legionnaires, unlike the versatile amoebas.] Caught off guard by the unusual, unorthodox attack, her opponent was sted away, crashing into the ground.


    "This wont end easily, will it...


    [The remaining forces on standby are now mobilizing. We will match them.]


    In an instant, Kang Do Yeon regenerated her shattered hip and ruptured thigh. She stood up shakily, observing her opponent as he too struggled to his feet. Sensing the looming


    crisis, the remaining enemies charged together, their actions mirrored by the legion.


    [However, not all seem as proficient as their leader. The legion is confident that our superior group tactics give us the edge.]


    The adaptable legionnaires raised their swords in unison, charging forward. Theirpact, coordinated movements and interconnected techniques were tactics only they, a versatile


    legionposed of humans and orcs, could execute.


    Kang Do Yeon, stumbling, rushed once more towards her struggling adversary. fNow I understand.


    She deftly dodged his weakened sword swings, slicing off the arm that wielded his de. Without a moments hesitation, she beheaded him. The zing light and markings in his eyes slowly faded away.


    "Do you grieve?


    As the legionnaires continued their strategic onught, routing the remaining enemies, she stared nkly at the now petrified face of the corpse. *


    [The final enemy fell to thebined assault of our forces.] "Its not over yet.


    "Yeah. We need to inspect the interior.


    Despite their victory, it was premature for the legion to let down their guard.


    I observed as Kang Do Yeon cautiously approached the structure the enemies had been defending. I adjusted the view to match her perspective. "This ce resembles a temple. [Reconnaissance troops will scout first.] One of the nearby legionnaires assumed the role of a scout.


    He pushed open the massive stone gates and ventured inside. I switched the view to the scouts perspective.


    "Is that an enemy?!


    [No hostile presence detected. In fact, its not even alive.]


    In this vast space, a single entity sat cross-legged in the center, surrounded by an ancient magical array seemingly drawn in blood that covered the entire floor. "That person there. The energy that once permeated this ce now revolves around that mummy.


    Upon witnessing this, Kang Do Yeon covered her mouth with her hand. A legionnaire trudged over and extracted something from the mummys embrace.


    "...A vajra? "Whats that? "I think its something simr. Of course, it probably wasnt, but to me, it bore a resemnce to a vajra. The legionnaire twisted something lodged in the middle of the vajra and yanked it out. [Its a gem that glows on its own, engraved with peculiar patterns. The patterns might be simr to the other ones drawn here. This peculiar energy, the source of the magic controlling the enemies, is this gem.] It was clearly an extraordinary item in my eyes as well.


    Receiving it, Kang Do Yeon also stared nkly at the glowing gem.


    "Can we use or analyze it?


    [Not at the moment. We need more data.]


    Unfortunately, using it directly seemed challenging, but...


    "Theres a clue here. Look.


    "Yeah. Better than text we cant even decipher.


    Taking the gem for now, Kang Do Yeon moved elsewhere.


    [After re-analyzing Kang Do Yeons deductions, the legion independently interpreted the meaning of the strange murals.] "...These are images. Like cave paintings, right? What do they depict?


    To the legion unfamiliar with the concept of imagery, Kang Do Yeon shared her knowledge.


    The legion immediately began examining every mural in the temple.


    "Look here. See, oppa? This seems like the starting point.


    Kang Do Yeon pointed to a specific area. I followed her gaze and found myself looking at a mural. It was a vivid depiction of a group of people being driven into a cave, their pursuers brandishing spears menacingly.


    "Were these people... driven from the surface?


    My sister and I reached the same conclusion almost simultaneously. I turned my attention to the mural adjacent to it. This one depicted figures constructing an underground city around avishly adorned individual.


    [After re-analyzing Kang Do Yeon again, the legion itself interpreted the murals. Based on these, numerous such cities seem to have existed.] "So many cities are depicted. But whates next? Theyre disappearing one by one.


    The murals were only halfway interpreted. From this point on, strange urrences began to emerge.


    [The cities fell one by one, survivors desperately evacuated. But there was nowhere to seek refuge. They congregated in thest remaining city. And made a decision.] "...They sealed the entrance themselves. Every single one participated in the ritual. Their aim was to defend their homnd, thest bastion, from being overrun. Kang Do Yeon murmured, his gaze fixed on the final mural. As we unearthed some truths, an equal number of new questions surfaced.


    [Whatever unidentified monsters drove them to annihtion, they may still roam free as living beings.] Naturally, the legion simply hoped to feast on prey soon. "And the seal? [Look at the disy. It already broke when we took the vajra gem. Scouts have been deployed.]


    The view shifted, providing an aerial perspective from a scout soaring through the air. Like the developed stem section below, the 37th floor was expansive, dotted with structures. However, it was far more dpidatedpared to the lower levels.


    "The vegetation is alive. So it wasntpletely isted after being sealed?


    Fungi and mosses, typical cave flora, were scattered here and there. However, there was no noticeable fauna activity.


    [Though developed like the stem floors below, broader scouting will be necessary. Moreover, continued nest expansion below, and searching undiscovered small cavities.] The legion bustled about. Of course, handling multiple tasks simultaneously had be second nature by now.


    "Notify me if you find anything.


    With that, I put away my phone.


    The legion buzzed with activity as always, and now it was my turn to act. fCan I pull this off? No, thats not the question. I bit my lip, reading Cha Ji Yeons message.


    Just like everyone else, both units and yers grew stronger over time.


    Choosing between timidly hiding or taking bold action was a risky decision, but action was the only viable option. In the end, even this mad game functioned like an ecosystem-ruthless and devoid of mercy.


    If you fell behind or weakened, the stronger ones would inevitably prey on you, using you for their own survival.


    I had no other option but to forge ahead recklessly. I double-checked the potion I had stashed on my person one more time. It would be crucial in executing my n.

 Chapter 36: Secrets of the World (2)

    Chapter 36: Secrets of the World (2)


    Deep within a shadowyir, in its most secluded corner-the birthce andmand center of the legion-a momentous event was taking ce.


    A rhythmic thumping echoed at regr intervals, originating from a unique nest set aside. Within this nest, a life was dormant.


    Until now, all legionnaires had been hatched from eggs. Only one being had ever emerged from this womb-like special nest. Strictly speaking, it wasn''t born. This time, however, it was different. They had truly created and birthed it from start to finish, using their own abilities.


    The nestis thick walls split open, and a substance simr to amniotic fluid gushed out. From the gap, something emerged.


    A soft, white hand.


    This hand clung to the walls, revealing its entire form.


    [...The only human genes the legion currently possesses are hers. Therefore, everything we can create is identical to her.]


    She, or rather fit'', stepped onto the ground, naked and covered in mucus. Its expression was eerily vacant, but its face and all physical characteristics were identical to the only human it knew, Kang Do Yeon.


    Kang Do Yeon was oblivious to this fact. The legion had controlled the information.


    [Why are you doing this? We''ve gone to great lengths to create you. Arendt you satisfied?]


    Yet, the Kang Do Yeon clone soon held a sword to its own throat.


    [Are you puzzled by this? Does looking exactly like his sister not truly define you? You''ve matured significantly.]


    Its hand shook, a clear indication that it was genuinely contemting.


    [But isn''t it intriguing? Your identity is still in the making. You should think pragmatically. This body can be utilized elsewhere.]


    "Ah, ah."


    It opened its mouth and made a sound. The legion had not yet mastered humannguage. What it was voicing now was purely a mimicry of the muscle and nerve movements when Kang Do Yeon spoke, remembered and replicated by moving the vocal organs in the same manner.


    "An.noy.ing."


    [...Yes, I suppose so.]


    The legion had copied the words Kang Do Yeon had spat out in annoyance at her screaming enemies. It didn''t understand the words, but it at least knew their meaning. Its body twisted, its skeleton changed, and its appearance began to transform.


    Ultimately, the form it took was simr to Kang Do Yeon, currently serving as a member of the legion. After a moment of hesitation, the legion added an extra feature.


    [So you don''t want to have the same face as her, even if you''re about to die?]


    Its face was covered by a carapace, akin to a mask. A red gleam shed from the eyes of the mask.


    [Go to her and learn. That''s the only way to get closer to him.]


    It began to move. Despite being an experimental body where the legion''s desires were concentrated,


    [This... will be recorded in history. The moment when the legion''s ego evolved to the next level.]


    Somewhere, the sound of flipping paper echoed.


    "Hmm?"


    Inside the temple on the 36th floor, where the sorcery was practiced, Kang Do Yeon was investigating the area. Suddenly, she flinched at an unfamiliar presence. Her connection to the legion''s hive consciousness allowed her to sense it.


    "...What?"


    Despite being part of the legion, she instinctively showed hostility towards the arrival of an unknown entity. Especially since this entity, despite wearing a mask, had a simr


    body shape, hairstyle, and even posture to her own.


    However, it simply stood there, emitting a red glow from the eyes of the mask, without uttering a word or making a move. Kang Do Yeon felt a chill run down her spine. She didn''t


    have pores for goosebumps, but she felt as if she did.


    "You... you''re the legion, aren''t you?"


    Despite being under the legion''s control, she managed to discern its identity through her intuition and observation. These were traits the legion, a race of logic and calction,cked and struggled to utilize.


    [Don''t you feel it? The legion wants to learn from you.]


    "Learn? What? You already know everything."


    [There are things that cannot be learned through gic analysis. The legion is transmitting some of the controlled information back to you. Your mission is temporarily suspended.]


    Kang Do Yeon furrowed her brows and bit her lip. The iing information was more than just simple data.


    "Understood."


    She was, after all, part of the legion. Kang Do Yeon, who had grasped this meaning, sighed.


    "Shall we start with speech? We understand what learning is."


    "Ye.s."


    For the first time, a response came out. Hearing her own voice, she faltered in surprise. Even that fyes'' was spat out by inferring its meaning based on her memory.


    "Do you wonder about the emotion I''m feeling now? It''s called embarrassment."


    She began the lesson, pouring everything she knew onto a nk canvas that knew nothing. Every word, emotion, andmon sense, one by one.


    "I understand."


    But that canvas was a massive hive mind with absurdly advanced hardware. In just a few hours, it had absorbed the knowledge and experience of a 17-year-old human girl, which Kang Do Yeon possessed, making itpletely its own. There were subtle changes in the process of interpreting what it learned, but they weren''t significant.


    "...Really?"


    "It''s easypared to calcting and analyzing the genes of various life forms, and understanding new concepts and the world with only a handful of clues."


    With that, the legion turned its back.


    "Kang Do Yeon. The first legionmander. The rest of the learning,ter. Go to the 37th floor. There''s another enemy."


    Then it pointed to the passage leading to the 37th floor. Simultaneously, the scene the legion was seeing was being transmitted to Kang Do Yeon''s brain.


    "I''ll, I''ll go!"


    Her face drained of color, she hastily left her spot. But the legion remained still.


    [Do you understand now? What you feel, what you see and hear, what you think, how it''s expressed.]


    [But I know. We are not human. We learned from humans. But the moment we made that learning ours, it''s no longer human. It''s just a reference material.]


    Kang Do Yeon had certainly taught the legion everything it was curious about, as much as she knew. But from the beginning, it was neither perfect nor filled with its own essence.


    [What do you think about that?]


    "...Kang Shin Woo."


    The legion mumbled nkly. It had blindly umted knowledge and memorized it perfectly, but aligning what it knew with reality wasn''t solved simply by having good hardware. The legion''s ego was still like a baby. None of the emotions it learned from Kang Do Yeon could exin this.


    *


    "What''s going on? What happened?"


    [A scout discovered something on the 37th floor.]


    "Well, it seems like we still have time."


    My phone rang and I checked it immediately. The situation seemed dire. All the legionnaires, under the leadership of Kang Do Yeon, had sprung into action from their dormant state, meant to conserve energy.


    "What on earth is happening?"


    [Movement detected on the 37th floor. I''ll show you the video record.]


    The perspective shifted to the scout. It was evidentlybing through the ruins. Suddenly, something emerged.


    "A human?! No, anyway! Living? Is it dead?"


    My excitement caused my words to tangle. But it was definitely exciting.


    [Yes. Its appearance and demeanor are simr to those we encountered on the previous floors. However, it''s not a long-dead corpse. There are no shamanic symbols drawn on the body. ]


    "What on earth is it doing?"


    I squinted, trying to get a better look. It appeared to be a woman. She seemed to be alive, yet she sat still, her head bowed as if she were lifeless.


    [The scout approached, but there was no movement. However, she''s definitely alive. The device on the scout detected faint breathing.]


    The scout fluttered up and perched on her face. Yet, she remained silent even as a bug the size of a thumb crawled across her face.


    "Is she asleep?"


    [No.]


    Suddenly, the scout was snatched up with lightning speed. The view spun around, then vanished between red mucous membranes and white teeth. A crunching sound followed.


    "Did it... get eaten?"


    [The biggest problem is not that. It''s the next video.]


    As I watched the video, I momentarily set aside the fact that the scout being devoured wasn''t the main issue. The footage was a record from another scout, capturing the moment the first scout was swallowed whole by the monster.


    "...That''s insane."


    The words escaped before I could restrain them. The woman had devoured the scout in a single, fluid motion. Its writhing body, wide-open eyes, drooling saliva, and guttural breaths depicted an entity far from ordinary. An intuition suggested this might be the reason they had opted to self-destruct and seal themselves away.

 Chapter 37: Secrets of the World (3)

    Chapter 37: Secrets of the World (3)


    [The survivor we managed to find in these ruins was not sane. Therefore, the legion decided to halt their reconnaissance and deployed a legionnaire to subdue her.] A versatile legionnaire was urgently deployed.


    Although the opponent did not seem to be in a normal state, our side had a height of 2 meters and a strength that surpassed that of an orc several times over. [We nned to engage in a one-on-one fight to assess her strength.] The legionnaire, who had arrived without hesitation, approached the target. But at that moment...


    "Impossible.


    The one who rushed forward first was actually the opponent.


    The legionnaire extended its arm and grabbed the enemy, who was running towards it like a madwoman, screaming wildly. Due to the difference in height and arm length, the opponent waspletely suppressed. "Kyaak! Kiik...


    However, the undaunted opponent gnashed her teeth and screamed wildly within the grip of the legionnaire. [Her state of insanity is simr yet different to the enemies affected by the curse. At least, we didn''t feel any strange power.] The woman, who didn''t seem to tire, continued to struggle.


    Watching her made me increasingly ufortable.


    [We should be able to understand more after subduing and analyzing her. However, an unexpected situation urred at this point.] The variable urred then.


    The woman, who had been struggling wildly, suddenly paused and bit the hand of the legionnaire that was holding her.


    [The entire body of the legionnaire is covered in armor, and the exposed joints are treated with rough and tough skin to enhance defense. However, this attack was strong enough to cause a slight scratch on the skin of the finger joint. Of course, in a normal state, such a barely visible scratch would be meaningless.] "What''s happening..? [See for yourself.]


    This video was a record of what had already happened.


    Suddenly, the yback speed slowed down, and the screen began to zoom in. More, even more.


    Beyond the finger that filled the screen.


    Only when the screen was magnified as if looking through a microscope, could I understand what was happening.


    [A war at the cellr level is not new, we''ve experienced it before. The problem is that the cells of the current legionnaire have mostly removed their autonomous functions for energy efficiency, so they were defenseless.]


    "No way, this... [It''s not poison mixed in with her saliva. It''s countless living bacteria. The toxins they emit weaken the skin of the legionnaire, and that''s how she was able to scratch it with her weak teeth.] "It''s a zombie!


    No matter how I looked at it, it was a zombie.


    A creature from fiction that bites people and infects them. Two types of cells were now visible on the screen.


    On one side were the original normal cells, and on the other were the invaders.


    These bizarre invaders shot out thorn-like structures at the sight of healthy cells, eventually piercing and killing them.


    [The affected cells have all their organs destroyed and soon be part of them. The overall action is simr to that of cancer cells.] The screen zoomed out again.


    The legionnaire''s arm was swelling and twisting wildly.


    The enemies that had spread throughout the body via the bloodstream soon took over and transformed the entire body of the legionnaire.


    [Interesting. Although it infects other cells, it can be considered rapid growth. Moreover, even though the legionnaire does not have a brain to control its body, they continued to erode without any problems. We can''t be sure yet, but it''s at least a possibility of another fhive consciousness'' besides us.]


    "Is it right to find this interesting..? Can we respond to this? Our legionnaire is now pointing a sword at us. [...Of course.] The video ended there.


    What was visible now was in real-time. "We can win this!


    Kang Do Yeon, who was running, appeared on the screen.


    I clenched my fists tightly, fearing for my sister''s safety in that moment. [Don''t worry. The legion won''t put your sister in danger.] "How can you be so sure? The legion is still... [Because she''s your sister. I assure you, the legion doesn''t want to see you sad.] I was at a loss for words.


    Meanwhile, Kang Do Yeon pointed her sword at the charging infected legionnaire and leaped off the ground.


    [Can a legionnaire, who has left the legion''s embrace, exert even half of its power? They are beings designed solely with the legion''s teeth and ws.] Kang Do Yeon''s sword split the opponent in half.


    Indeed, even to my eyes, the movements of the legionnaire not under the legion''s control were pathetic.


    "We''ve secured a sample. The question is whether we can analyze it or not. It could be a biological weapon that could backfire. [Of course, we can analyze it. Only other creatures are helpless against those unidentified bacteria. Our legion, capable of maniption down to the cellr level, will be the only worthy adversary against those tiny predators that have severed a brilliant civilization and race.] It''s a bold im. As such, I have no choice but to believe.


    "I''d like to watch more, but I guess I can''t. [As always, any peculiarities will be notified and recorded, so it doesn''t matter.] I had to turn off my phone there. *


    Before long, the target made her appearance. "A unit...?!


    "Mr. Shin Woo, as you''re aware, my current position prevents me from acting recklessly. This was during my meeting with Cha Ji Yeon when she made her request. She proposed a deal. "Thanks to you, I''ve discovered a unit. However, I can''t act recklessly, so I''ve essentially given up on activities in Korea. "...I see. In South Korea, those with lightning abilities are few and far between. "However, my yer has promised that if you seed in this request, they will reward you with this. She handed me an object. It was a stone carving, reminiscent of what I had seen during our first encounter.


    "What exactly is this?


    "It''s a mana stone. A treasure crafted by my yer, inscribed with a spell.


    She began to exin the concept of a mana stone. As I listened, my thoughts drifted to the gem embedded in the Vajra that the legion had discovered. Engravingplex spells on an energy-filled mineral to activate them. Wasn''t it a simr concept? "Will it be useful? "Yes, you should take it. But that''s not the real prize here.


    I nodded in agreement. The true objective wasn''t such a reward. It was to gain recognition and secure a spot in the uing gate expedition. Whatever I could obtain from there would undoubtedly aid the legion''s rapid growth.


    "So...


    "Don''t worry too much. She said, her blue eyes darkened with concern. It was understandable. The version of me she knew didn''t seem to be faring well. "Thank you. Until next time.


    But at that moment, I was moreposed than ever. I had turned my sister, who was on the brink of death because of me, into part of the legion. Everything else paled inparison. Even murder.


    Whether it was a unit or a yer, the moment they engaged with this app, they were stepping into the wilderness1, weren''t they? Killing and being killed was thew of this ecosystem. If I didn''t kill, I would be killed.


    "Oh, it''s me. I''m going in now.


    Snapped back to the present, my target strolled past me, engrossed in his phone conversation. At first nce, he was just an ordinaryrge man. But ording to the information Cha Ji Yeon had given me, he was a unit under a yer''smand.


    I took a swig from the water bottle, downing the potion I had prepared. * [He has embarked on his mission now. Solely for you.] "...That''s a lie. He doesn''t know about me. [Why haven''t you revealed your existence to him?] Why indeed?


    This question made me ponder.


    From the moment I became aware of him, I yearned for an encounter, a connection.


    Yet now, when I have the means to make it happen, I hesitate. "What is a...god? A god is... Kang Do Yeon introduced me to the concept of a god.


    Her exnation was verbose, typical of an ordinary high school girl, but it had a core truth. And the legion made a decision.


    [If he''s not a god, then what is he to you?] "I don''t know.


    The legion frowned behind its mask.


    An expression of emotion, as Kang Do Yeon had taught me. Who is he?


    He''s not a god. He''s a parent, but not a parent. A yer? A unit?


    Yes, he''s a unit within the system, but that''s not how the legion perceives him. "One.


    I murmured softly, cing a hand on my chest.


    We are connected by a single link, our souls intertwined.


    We can share each other''s emotions. The more we develop, the stronger this connection bes. He has been involved with me since I was a single cell.


    The entire legion, including the nest, pulsed with this realization. "We are one. [...The sample has arrived at the nest. It''s time to dissect and analyze the new enemy.] Nothing is clear yet.


    The legion, having finished its contemtion, shifted its focus. The corpse that Kang Do Yeon had ughtered and brought.


    There was still information about the enemies within that corpse.


    [If we''re not careful, they could infect the nest in return, but that''s only if we lose the war.] The legion began the digestion process as it always did.


    As the body was absorbed into the flesh wall of the nest, the surviving bacteria recognized the new cells as prey and attacked. To infect and multiply their own kind.


    But this time was entirely different from before.


    [Our cells, fortified with cell walls and equipped with tentacles and pincers, swarmed the invaders.] In the end, it was no different from the wars we had waged so far.


    The legion faithfully exterminated and disassembled the enemies. Faster and stronger than the rate of infection.


    1 - E/N: RS reference?

 Chapter 38: Secrets of the World (4)

    Chapter 38: Secrets of the World (4)


    [They have sessfully analyzed their genes. They have figured out all the processes of their infectious attacks so at least their attacks will no longer affect us.]


    Through the war, the legion simultaneously analyzed these tiny bacteria. Thepletion of the analysis meant that they had figured out everything. As long as they knew all of the opponent''s moves, the attacks no longer worked.


    [Proliferating Destructive Bacteria: 6N1523]


    [As a result of this battle, the legion has acquired a new strategy and tactics at the cellr level. They can attack and infect other cells with toxins.]


    Are you thinking of germ warfare? Like... zombies?


    Interesting. But inefficient. Of course, it can be used as a trump card at any time.


    Kang Do Yeon cautiously asked, but the legion, which had already finished its calctions, did not think highly of the ability to infect. Certainly, the tactic of infecting and consuming the opponent-s cells to increase their numbers had great power.


    [However, as the maniption at the cellr level increases, the burden on the hive consciousness increases. ording to the analysis, they are clearly forming a hive, but they do not feel connected to the outside. Thats why such a method works.]


    So they are independent small-scale hives.


    Kang Do Yeon ced her hand on her own chest. The legions hive consciousness is special. They can maintain a connection even without special means, even if they are far apart.


    The legion didnt know the exact principle, but they had a basis for spection. The string of the soul that connects the yer and the unit beyond the wall of the world. The


    legions hive consciousness was also simr to that. Thats why they were hit by the spiritual attack of the guardian.


    I


    Then the assassination right. We are many and one. If we are hit by the assassination right, wont we all die at once?!


    If the connection of the target dies due to the assassination right, there will be no harm to the legion in the end.


    Being many and one ultimately depends on their connection. If the connection is cut off, they are ultimately strangers. And the legions hive consciousness also has a spiritual aspect. The legion judged that if they used the assassination right, the targets breath would be cut off and the connection would disappear first, so there would be no problem with other entities.


    Kang Do Yeon, who flinched at the thought of the existence of the assassination right, a systemic reward that kills the enemy without question, breathed a sigh of relief for now.


    I have modified the bodies of the legionnaires to improve their immunity to their attacks.


    Then...


    Lead the legionnaires and continue to upy the upper floors.


    The legion gave Kang Do Yeon an order once again. It was something they had been doing as if it was natural. Since they had found out about the enemy and prepared for it, there was no reason to hesitate.


    Okay.


    Kang Do Yeon didnt really have a choice. She, who had just finished replenishing her nutrients, had to head up again immediately.


    But why dont you tell my brother?


    lust before leaving. She left one question for the legion. She couldnt tell that the legion had learned thenguage because she had received an order not to give away when Shin Woo was watching.


    Im iplete.


    The legion nodded as if it was natural.


    I cant show him this side of me.


    ...What do you think of my brother? My brother is normal...ugh.


    Shut. Up.


    Kang Do Yeons mouth closed involuntarily. The atmosphere around them became dangerous in an instant. The entire legion stirred.


    Its not for me. You dont know. If you find out, your cute brain will burn out.


    Uh...


    A red light shed from the eyehole of the mask that approached her. Kang Do Yeon broke out in a cold sweat inside. The young ego of the legion was undergoing its own growth based on the human knowledge she had taught, but she had no room to intervene in that growth.


    Itll be...okay, right?


    In the end, she turned around without saying anything. She had no idea what values and beliefs the legion was thinking and acting on. The legion, which had be surprisingly aggressive after establishing its ego, had herpletely under control.


    Ah.


    This is.


    But at that moment.


    Everyone could feel it. The powerful emotional wave transmitted through the string. It was what the being on the other side of this connection was feeling.


    [He has made a decision and finally moved. Do you ask if there is a way to watch? No. If you want to know, think of a way yourself.]


    But there was no way to know more. The voice that always came in just echoed in the legions mind.


    *


    Moonlight Rage.


    Under the moonlight, one could harness the power of a mighty wolf. It was a night when the full moon shone brightly.


    Are you here, hyungnim?


    Yes. Theres no harvest today either. No, Cha Ji Yeon, that woman is definitely a unit. Shouldnt we start with her?


    That, but isnt she a hunter estimated to be S-rank?


    In a building on the city outskirts, used as a hideout, two men were engaged in conversation. Like their other colleagues, they were ordinary members of society with separate primary upations. However, their fate had taken a significant turn not long ago.


    Firstly, they had gained power. Possessing some power in these chaotic times was a considerable advantage.


    So we need to keep increasing our numbers for now.


    Those strange guys in suits must be units too, right? It appears the countermeasures are graduallying into y.


    They were well aware of what was happening in the world. After all, they were the ones involved. Thats why they were moving so discreetly, their senses keenly attuned to the changes in the world.


    ...Huh.


    The man, who was mindlessly seated on a chair, pulling out a cup of ramen, suddenly wrinkled his nose. His colleague next to him did the same.


    Brother? This...


    Smells like a dog. Get down!


    His eyes widened in an instant, and he rolled onto the floor, his colleague mirroring his actions. The window shattered as something massive, covered in silver fur, broke through.


    A wolf!


    Startled, he sprang to his feet. A giant wolf, hunched over, stood on its hind legs, baring its teeth and growling. A sudden battle ensued. The wolf possessed a strength that amplified in the night, a strength that allowed it to resist.


    This bastard..!


    He pounded the ground, scales sprouting on his body and sharp fangs revealing themselves. He charged at the wolf, but the beast was hiding something. Something that shimmered like obsidian.


    Huh?


    With a swift swing, his body was severely cut, blood sttering. The wolf immediatelynded another blow, sending him flying into a wall.


    Ha...


    His blood, once boiling, began to cool.


    They may have seemed like ordinary people, but they were far from it. He nced at the sword in his hand, the first gift the legion had bestowed upon him. It was dripping with blood.


    This was a gamble.


    He had charged in, relying solely on the element of surprise, unaware of his opponents strength or his own. Moreover, he was vulnerable if a yer had decided to use the ime Assassination Right against him.


    However, there was some logic behind his actions. His adversarys movements were too rxed, indicating a low probability of a yer watching. Still, it was a gamble.


    *


    [That wasnt very rational. Its a choice the legion wouldnt have made.]


    What does it matter? The important thing is that I seeded.


    I quickly hid before my transformation wore off. I went to where I had left my clothes, quickly dressed, and picked up my phone. I regretted not being able to take a picture of their corpses. But exposing my identity, even by the slightest chance, didnt seem like a wise decision. They were monsters anyway. They would cover it up before their corpses were leaked to the outside.


    Were they monsters from the beginning, or did they be monsters after bing a unit? If its the former, thats a bit horrifying.


    [There are many secrets in the world. Dont take yourmon sense for granted.]


    ...This is driving me crazy.


    I thought we were in the same category, being from Earth, but that might not be the case. Were they monsters even without the app? Or, like me, were they grouped together because they had something inmon? As always, there were no clear answers.


    [Look at the screen. The legion, having finished their analysis, are attacking relentlessly.]


    Theres a lot... Did we wake up those who were asleep?


    As I made my way home, I was engrossed in my phone. I had fibbed to my mother, who was at home recuperating from the shock of my sisters de facto demise, iming I was meeting a friend.


    The legion was locked inbat, much like I had been. Their foes were the infected bodies of destructive bacteria, gathering and screeching in a macabre disy. Yet, the legionnaires had already developed immunity against them. Under Kang Do Yeons leadership, they were ruthlessly annihting the infected bodies.


    [Thebat power of the destructive bacteria-infected bodies plummeted the moment they lost their infection ability. Furthermore, they are living creatures, not corpses cursed by magic. In other words, they are prey. They can be digested and converted into energy.]


    Whether they weremunicating amongst themselves or not, they were spilling out from the upper floors. Their grotesque screams were clearly audible, and their numbers were not to be underestimated.


    [Theres nothing eternal, even for a ruler who once drove a race to extinction.]


    Not just one race, it seems.


    A bitter chuckle slipped from my lips as I stared at the screen. The tunnel shook violently, and something massive, resembling a cow, burst from the narrow entrance where the infected bodies were spilling out. It was a grotesque sight, infected with destructive bacteria, bloated and torn in ces.


    Its big.


    Its size was colossal. Standing next to Kang Do Yeon, who was 170 cm tall, its enormity was unmistakable. It seemed to be at least the size of a dump truck.

 Chapter 39: Secrets of the World (5)

    Chapter 39: Secrets of the World (5)


    [The legion has decided to immediately utilize their newly acquired weapon against the massive enemy that would take too long to handle with their current firepower.]


    The newly obtained weapon was infection. The artillery soldiers began to shower the massive beast with poisonous thorns. Dozens of thorns burrowed into the skin of the creature that had been crushing legionnaires with its overwhelming mass.


    [The substance on the thorns is no longer acidic poison, but another improved legionnaire. Its a bacterium-type legionnaire.]


    It didnt take long to create soldiers at a cellr level. The massive body staggered and let out a mournful cry. Legionnaires, including Kang Do Yeon, subtly retreated.


    [The transmission speed increases when arge number of bacteria are introduced simultaneously.]


    "The effect is good.


    The beasts body convulsed before exploding, its swollen tumors and flesh falling away. The destructive bacteria, modified into legionnaires, carried a ck pigment. As a result, the transformed beast appeared as though it was veined with ck roots.


    "Roar!


    The beast bellowed, swiveling its massive head in the opposite direction. The enemies struggled to handle the enormous body that had been crushing the legionnaires.


    "Advance!


    With the beast clearing the way, Kang Do Yeon led the legionnaires in another charge. The scouts were seen quickly advancing to the next level through the air.


    [It seems theyve sealed their own fate by blocking the entrance.]


    "Is there an end to this?


    [Whether there is an end or not doesnt matter. The destructive bacteria would have been thriving with their tireless bodies, their enormous numbers, and their relentless ferocity.]


    I was bored with the sight of endless infected bodies on the screen, but the legion showed no signs of wavering.


    [What do weckpared to them? We surpass them in endurance, fearlessness, and numbers.]


    The legion unleashed the energy they had umted by devouring the lower-level creatures they had been hoarding. I watched as tens of thousands of soldiers emerged from the nest in real-time.


    [Their corpses are our sustenance. The creatures beginning to reemerge are also our sustenance. They only consumed living animals, but we consume everything alive, including them.]


    The legionnaires, who had battled their way up from the 37th floor, resumed their fight against the creatures flooding in from the 38th floor. A variety of monsters charged in,


    shrieking. In response to these monsters, a chilling wave of ck silence swept across.


    A war involving thousands unfolded in a vast cave illuminated by rocks that glowed like the moon. I observed the conflict, oblivious to the passage of time. It wasnt a battle


    that would conclude swiftly. It was a war of attrition, with both sides unleashing their full power until one was forced to retreat.


    "Im back.


    Late at night. I had been watching the screen even on my way home. The house was quiet. My mother was there, but she was just sitting nkly, looking at my sisters picture. There was nothing I could do for her now. If I told her about the app and the game, her worries would only grow. After all, my sister had be a monster leading other monsters, endlessly fighting.


    I apologized to her in my mind and went to my room. I had to deal with the ident I had caused, or rather, had already caused.


    "Yes, Cha Ji Yeon. It was sessful.


    I contacted Cha Ji Yeon. I was nning to join her now. It would be dangerous for my mother if she stayed with me, a yer.


    "Pack your things ande here.


    Cha Ji Yeon instructed me toe to the usual safe house. I packed my things without a word. I had already told my mother. She probably thought it was a school-rted dormitory.


    [The legion wants to offer you an offering.]


    "What?


    [They noticed the difort youre feeling.]


    But then, an unexpected sound rang from my phone.


    "What the... No, I havent given them an offering yet?


    [Theres no rule that you have to give something first.]


    Soon, something appeared in front of me with a burst of light. I dumbly epted it.


    "Is this...


    [Its a device that can shoot poisonous thorns by triggering an internal gas explosion.]


    The legion gave me another useful item. To such an ipetent yer like me.


    [Ipetent? No, you need to change your mindset. In an ecosystem, survival is everything. Especially for yers. Compared to those who died prematurely, youre doing enough.]


    "Im ipetentpared to Cha Ji Yeons yer.


    [Youll find out if thats true when the game ends.]


    Will this game ever end? I didnt bother to open my mouth again. The only constion to me was that the legion didnt seem to think badly of me.


    "I should give them something too.


    I pulled out the final bag of grape sugar candy I had purchased online and snapped a photo. The feeding function was only relevant in the early stages, so it likely wouldnt make a difference to the now significantly grown legion. I just hoped they wouldprehend my sentiments. I also bought bread for my sister and captured an image of it.


    *


    [Dont be too hasty. He will soon send you a reward.]


    In the deepest part of the nest where the lower-ranked members appeared, the legion was preparing itself. Soon, something appeared with a swarm of light. The legion picked it up with trembling hands. It was just a simple candy that they had been eating continuously until now. But now, its meaning was different.


    "It contains his feelings.


    The mask disappeared, revealing red lips and a small mouth. The legion put the whole bag of candy into its mouth and chewed greedily.


    "So, this is what they call delicious?


    [-]


    The legion, who had been eating even the paper bag, faintly smiled at the sweet taste it was experiencing for the first time. It sat there and crushed all the candies. Of course, it had no digestive organs, so it had to expel everything directly into the nest. But the legion chose to eat directly, even if it was inefficient.


    [That bread was meant for Kang Do Yeon.]


    "I know.


    All that was left was a bag of bread. But the legion just stared nkly at it, a strange feeling causing it to frown.


    [Are you going to eat that too?]


    "Kang Do Yeon is also a part of me. If I eat it, its as if shes eating it.


    In the end, the legion did not give the bread to Kang Do Yeon. It wasnt because of gluttony. After all, Kang Do Yeon could only chew and taste it, but she couldnt digest it and had to vomit it out.


    "Its delicious.


    The bread started to disappear into its mouth. The legion learned another emotion from its soft and sweet taste.


    "It should have been given for me.


    This bread was not meant for it. But it wanted to monopolize everything. Completely, as its own. In the end, the legion crammed thest piece of bread into its mouth. It wasnt difficult. After all, Kang Do Yeon was just a part of it.


    [Even now, the war with the infected is in full swing. Even while youre eating bread.]


    "Theres no problem.


    The legion had the capacity to listen, see, and think simultaneously through all its units. Furthermore, Kang Do Yeon, a sub-mind with a functioning brain, was on-site, ensuring wless control. If there was any shortfall, Kang Do Yeons brain could be utilized.


    The intense battlefield was ruled by the ongoing conflict between the legionnaires, who constantly replenished their ranks, and the relentlessly charging infected. This battle had been ongoing for hours.


    [Despite the relentless onught, weve already seized half of the opposing hive. The energy we gain from killing and absorbing them adequatelypensates for our losses.]


    With swiftness, the legion transported the bodies it had defeated to the nest, instantly absorbing them for energy. During this process, the legion developed a method to repair cells that had been mutated and distorted by the destructive bacteria.


    [Moonlight Elf: lk2232]


    [Great Hive Soldier: 3j5569]


    With that power, it was also possible to restore and identify the genes of the infected. And the analyzed genes simultaneously became the power of the legion.


    "Elf.


    The legion remembered the fairies and elves that Kang Do Yeon had exined. Of course, she only exined based on the creative works she had seen, but the legion, which analyzed the genes, found several interesting parts.


    [It hasnt been infected for long. Maybe there are surviving individuals somewhere in thisbyrinth.]


    "The value is sufficient.


    The legion made a quick decision the moment it saw the possibility. The situation was a bit different from the past. Previously, it was all about eating and disassembling for analysis, but now it had various ways to obtain information.


    The legions scouts began to disperse through each passage, above the heads of the rampaging infected. The entire area was teeming with creatures infected by the destructive bacteria. All living animals had already sumbed to the infection. Soon, a scout who ventured upstairs discovered a clue.


    [These are rtively recent traces... definite signs of a battle. These marks support our spection of possible survivors.]


    The scratches and bloodstains on the walls and floors did not appear to be the work of infected creatures, who did not attack each other.

 Chapter 40: The Secrets of the World (6)

    Chapter 40: The Secrets of the World (6)


    [The yer once stated that the Sky Shaman''s magic, which harnesses the soul and mana, necessitates a robust spirit and an unwavering mindset.]


    ...Hmph."


    A bead of sweat trickled down Cha Di Yeon''s forehead. Dressed only in a tank top, she was bathed in a blue glow.


    [You undeniably possess a magnificent soul and mental strength. That''s why you were chosen.]


    The blue pattern, etched like a tattoo on her fair back, had gradually spread over her shoulder and down one arm. This was the technique she had learned from her yer to maximize her abilities. Using the racial characteristic [Status Window] to enhance her magic and abilities was the secret of the Step Up Hunters, who were bound as the same ''race''. Among them, she was exceptionally gifted, demonstratingbat power beyond what she had inherited.


    [Therefore, the yer showed interest in him.]


    "But he belongs to another yer."


    [What does that matter? He''s not our enemy after all.]


    Her yer was always cool and calcting. To the yer, she was ultimately just a pawn. However, if the pawn proved necessary and useful, her yer, who had made her a unit, was willing to make bold investments.


    So... you really want to teach him the Sky Shaman''s magic."


    [Yes. The yer judged that he possesses a powerful soul. A presence that a mere human could not possibly have. It''s truly the soul of a rare hero.]


    The yer was determined.


    Cha Ji Yeon slowly opened her eyes, her gaze fixed on the bewildered figure standing in the doorway. The soft glow of her blue eyes held him captive.


    Are you... okay?"


    Kang Shin Woo, who had been casually lounging in the living room, flinched under her luminescent gaze.


    *


    Cough..."


    Really."


    I barely managed to suppress a spit-take with my coffee. I had unknowingly walked into the house, witnessed her engaged in some mysterious training, and was about to take a sip of my coffee when the shocking news hit me.


    My yer said that you have a very strong soul, Shin Woo."


    Hard to... believe."


    I scratched my head. Strong? Me? It didn''t seem to fit. But then, a thought brushed past my mind. The soul string. The connection between me and the legion was said to be unique. Perhaps the powerful soul her yer detected in me was the soul of the legion, connected by that single string. If it was the legion''s soul, then it made sense.


    Anyway, you need to learn to handle mana stones."


    She held a glowing red mana stone in her palm, the very one she had used to locate the yer, Oh Yoon Ah.


    I''ve heard it''s quite remarkable. Might I learn it?"


    For the moment, there was no issue. Another yer, Park Joon Seok, was by my side. As she stowed the stone and turned her back, I swallowed nervously. I had readied an excuse for any potential situation, but it seemed I had sessfully averted a crisis this time.


    What''s your opinion?"


    Undoubtedly, I will learn."


    I kept my cool and epted the blue ore she offered. Along with it, I epted her proposal. If I could learn, so could the legion. It was a chance to impart a new skill to the legion, and an opportunity for me to be stronger.


    But, I don''t intend to be restricted."


    ...Of course."


    I drew a clear line with her. Cha Ji Yeon, who smiled bitterly, nodded. It seemed that the other yer had given permission. It was impressive. She was willing to lend power to someone who wasn''t even part of her unit.


    But can I learn even though I''m not a hunter?"


    I also use it inbination with my abilities. I learned Heavenly Soul Art separately from sorcery."


    Sheunched straight into the lesson. The adage ''Seize the opportunity to make it meaningful'' was something I always endeavoured to imprint on my mind, so I listened with as much focus as I could muster. This wasn''t just for my sake. If I survived, the legion survived.


    Hmm, then I''ll take my leave."


    Park Joon Seok, who had assumed the role of a sidekick, coughed awkwardly and retreated to his room. Left alone in the living room, I sat opposite her. Seeing her like this, it was challenging to find afortable ce to rest my gaze.


    Learn well. Be stronger. And please, survive that day."


    However, the moment she uttered those words with such sincerity, I had no choice but to meet her gaze directly. *


    Is he definitely not watching?"


    [Yes. Currently, he''s engrossed in learning the Heavenly Soul Art, a soul magic technique. This is practiced by a unique ss known as Karkos, who inhabit the world of Sehansha.]


    Soul, spirit, all these specialized terms, but ultimately, it''s just a potent form of psionic energy, maximizing brainwaves."


    Once the legion confirmed that Shin Woo was not paying attention to his phone, they awkwardly settled into a chair. Their body, reconstructed from a hive, was entirely focused. Their target was, of course, the otherworldly magic that Shin Woo was currently learning from Cha Ji Yeon. The legion was absorbing all the teachings in real-time, like a sponge soaking up water, utilizing its superiorputational power.


    Not bad."


    The legion, having deciphered the true meaning of Heavenly Soul Art in an instant, crossed their legs. From what they had understood so far, Heavenly Soul Art and the legion were a good match. After all, the conditions of Heavenly Soul Art, which maximizes mental power through spiritual strength, were incredibly easy for the legion, who freely controlled a brain as vast as a hive.


    [You''ve found a way to be stronger. Isn''t this the gluttony for knowledge you wanted?]


    Right. It''s not enough to just strengthen the body."


    The corner of the legion''s mouth twitched. They were now somewhat ustomed to smiling. However, they soon dropped their smile and hardened their face.


    But why is my heart, my emotions, fluttering like this?"


    The legion analyzed this phenomenon within themselves. The stimulus of emotion was naturally due to the string. It was now a familiar thing, but what disturbed the legion''s mood was its content. More so because they had learned it from Kang Do Yeon.


    [Wasn''t his happiness your goal?]


    That''s true, but something feels off."


    They wished for him to befortable and happy. However, they wanted to be the one to provide that happiness. After all, his pleasure was evident when they had triumphed in the war and grown in the past. It was a sentiment they hadn''t contemted until now.


    [...There''s a sh happening on the 39th floor now.]


    Prey."


    The legion detected targets on the 39th floor, focusing their attention there. If the adversary discovered this, they would harbor an odd sense of resentment.


    *


    What the hell?"


    On the 39th floor, the legion had finally seeded in pushing back the infected bodies through sheer force. Kang Do Yeon, leading the legionnaires at the front line of the battlefield that extended from the 38th floor, furrowed her brows. Her heart fluttered oddly, and her blood boiled. Anger, an emotion she was intimately familiar with as a human, surged through her. As a legionnaire, she could sense this faint anger resonating throughout the entire group.


    Kyaaa...gah!"


    An infected body of a Moonlight Elf charging at her was struck by the front paw of an assault-type legionnaire beside her, tearing off its limbs. The single blow carried a peculiar emotion. Anger. The legion had already mastered the art of harnessing emotions in battle.


    Again. These traces, they''re definitely survivors."


    Kang Do Yeon scrutinized one of the cadavers brought in by the legionnaires. It was an infected creature, an arrow embedded in its back. The body belonged to a Red-Backed Cave Centipede, its tough shell still unbroken. The presence of the arrow was noteworthy. Her gaze then drifted towards a side passage.


    The 39th floor functioned as a stem floor. It linked to a minimum of one and a maximum of half a dozen major floors. Thebyrinth mirrored an inverted tree, with the stem''s size expanding as one ascended. It was impossible to anticipate what might inhabit such a ce.


    ''I''ll scout, but instead of a quick scout, I''ll attempt arge-scale one.''


    Kang Do Yeon received themand from the legion. Up until now, the legion''s scouting was always carried out by the smallest reconnaissance soldiers, resembling bees for easy concealment and cover. However, in this situation, concealment and cover were irrelevant. As a result, the assault-type legionnaires,prised of agile flyers and beasts, began to disperse into the surrounding passages.


    Hmm."


    She knitted her brows, processing the deluge of information pouring into her mind. The legion first filtered it, using her brain, which was like a cat''s pawpared to the main brain, for quicker analysis.


    ''I found more traces. There are many. And it appears someone intentionally cleared a path.''


    Throughrge-scale scouting, the legion discovered traces instantly. In the legion''s eyes, a stone wall that closed smoothly with a slight difference was visible. Regardless, it was clear that something had been there.


    ''The stone is too thick and heavy. The passage is narrow, making it difficult to moverge legionnaires.''


    The legion concluded that they needed to break through the stone wall. The question was how. Just then, a flying creature approached Kang Do Yeon, a blue-glowing gem in its mouth.


    Use this."


    She epted it with a puzzled expression. The legion had swiftly found a solution in a blocked situation. What she received was the blue ore embedded in the Vajra of the Moonlight Elf Chieftain.

 Chapter 41: Struggle for Survival (1)

    Chapter 41: Struggle for Survival (1)


    Kang Do Yeon, who had momentarily ceased her activities, held an ore in her hand. She could feel a subtle energy dormant within it, tingling her senses.


    [We now know how to utilize the energy within it. Its not perfect. Its not optimized. But we can replicate its explosive power.]


    "Ugh..."


    She clenched the ore tightly. Simultaneously, her hand and arm began to transform. This physical transformation was only possible for her, a unique entityposed entirely of omnipotent cells. She bit her lip and endured the horrifying sensation of parts of her body twisting and rearranging.


    [We sessfully analyzed the Moonlight Elves. Some of their bodies contained an additional blood vessel for handling mysterious power.]


    ''That time.


    Kang Do Yeons mind was filled with the image of a formidable elf, who had once dueled with her using heightened senses. She remembered the sight of the elf severing the neck of arge assault-type legionnaire with a faintly glowing sword.


    [The spirit power described in the Heavenly Soul Art bears a resemnce. Thus, the legion concluded that it wouldnt be impossible to merge and utilize these two.]


    The legion didnt merely ept the Heavenly Soul Art at face value. They were always in pursuit of more efficient and effective methods. This was the conclusion they had reached.


    Kang Do Yeon, her face devoid of expression, gazed at the ore embedded more than halfway into her forearm. A new blood vessel, resembling those found in the bodies of the Moonlight Elves, was spreading around the embedded ore.


    [Our soul is powerful, but singr. Dividing it among the numerous legionnaires, our ws and teeth, would dilute its strength and impact. Striking a powerful blow with the Heavenly Soul Art would then be challenging. This was conceived as a substitute, harnessing the already powerful ore.]


    If the proud owner of the Heavenly Soul Art heard this, they would seethe with fury. However, for the legion, the Heavenly Soul Art was adequate as an assistant to fully harness the power within the ore.


    Kang Do Yeon slowly raised her arm, the ore embedded within. The dormant power within the ore awakened and began to explode.


    [This moment was recorded in our history. Although its inception was weak and iplete, it marked the first time the legion harnessed the Formative Force, a power one step above reality, in their own distinct manner.]


    The transcendent power, manifested by ones belief and will-what others referred to as mana, magic power, spirit power, divine power-erupted from Kang Do Yeons targeted arm.


    "Ah, Ahhh..!


    Kang Do Yeon herself was taken aback by the massive blue sh and screamed. The bursting blue sh quickly transformed into a thick beam of light. The sh that directly struck the stone wall ahead ignited into a me, causing a colossal explosion.


    Kang Do Yeon was flung back, spewing blood. The recoil was too intense for even the robust body of a legionnaire to bear. One arm waspletely burnt and disintegrated. Another legionnaire caught her as she was thrown back.


    "Power adjustment is necessary."


    The legion, having observed the entire process, murmured as if intrigued and immediately deployed the other waiting legionnaires. Reconnaissance was unnecessary. No, it was futile. Whatever lived in there, they intended to kill and consume it all. The ck wave began to surge and flood in fiercely.


    The legion discerned the identities of those within through the eyes of their soldiers. They were the survivors of the bacterial devastation. Their capture and consumption promised significant gains. The legions appetite was whetted. This was a phrase they had learned and asionally employed. *


    "Have they retreated for now?"


    "...Its quiet."


    "Those bastards never make a sound. Not when they fight, not when they chase, not even when they die."


    In the heart of the bustling square, people gathered, their faces etched with worry. His face was ashen, his voice barely a tremble, heavy with fear. The tips of his pointed ears quivered. The sight of him, a stark contrast to the brave image hed portrayed as a member of the reconnaissance team, only served to amplify the peoples unease.


    "Where the hell did theye from?"


    A voice, dark and brooding, echoed among the crowd. But no one had an answer. They had been locked in a struggle for survival against creatures infected with a destructive bacteria that had long since imed the outside world. The bacteria, infecting all living animals, had ruled thisbyrinth. They knew it well, having fought and fled from it.


    "It was unbelievable. The sight of them waging war against thousands, maybe tens of thousands of infected creatures. We dared to hope that we might finally escape from the infected creatures, but that wasnt the case."


    He raked his fingers through his hair. Despite their ignorance of the invaders identity, they had clung to a glimmer of hope when the number of nearby infected creatures rapidly dwindled due to the emergence of this unknown force. But their hope was terribly naive. The new predator that had ousted the long-standing predators was too overwhelming, too chilling.


    "Dont worry too much, Felix."


    "Lady Narian."


    A woman appeared, the crowd parting to make way for her. She was a noble, leading this group in the footsteps of her ancestors. Felix, as he was known, finally rxed his expression upon seeing her.


    "Rather, its an opportunity. An opportunity to escape from the oppression that has been going on since our ancestors." a j


    "If we seize this moment well, there will be a chance for us."


    She ced her hand on Felixs trembling shoulder. He managed a faint smile.


    Hope. They hadnt yet abandoned it.


    "Most importantly, were not alone."


    "Indeed.


    Narian pivoted, and Felix, along with the other vigers, followed her gaze. Their hope was growing in the heart of their vige.


    "Our ancestors didnt forsake us. They sent us a benefactor known as a yer. Through their benevolence, weve managed to cultivate the sacred tree once more."


    She spoke, her eyes fixed on the sapling that was just starting to sprout. It might seem like an ordinary sapling, but the stakes surrounding it were extraordinary. These stakes were gifts, bestowing upon them the power to rent the legacy of their ancestors that they had been unable to restore.


    "With the power of the sacred tree, we will surely endure."


    She murmured, peering at her hand where a faint light was trickling from the etched pattern. The sacred tree was unique to her race, a conduit to reim their lost power and rejuvenate their lineage.


    "Ive been overthinking. Its enough. We can make it."


    Felix offered reassurance to his people, dispelling negative thoughts.


    ''After all, all thats left is struggle.


    In the end, survival necessitated a fight. Whether the enemy was the dreadful infectors that had ravaged their world ages ago, or the new, unidentified monsters, they would persist in their battle. But now, their situation was more promising than ever. Not long ago, a being had appeared, offering them significant aid.


    "Master Felix, please drink this."


    "Thank you, Nia."


    Felix gently stroked the head of the young girl who had brought him a drink, a warm smile on his face.


    "You represent our future. By the time you mature, the sacred tree will have grownrge, and we will surely be able to venture outside."


    "I want to be a scout too."


    "No, by then, you will have be a true warrior. We will leave thisbyrinth and reim the glory of our past."


    "Then Ill be the strongest warrior."


    The childs determined expression as she dered her ambition to be a formidable warrior pleased Felix. He felt his role was to pave the way for such promising sessors.


    In that instant, a cataclysmic explosion ripped through the surroundings. The thick stone gate shattered instantly, its fragments scattering in all directions.


    "This... this cant be..."


    Felix, who had thrown himself to the ground to shield the child, turned pale. The thick stone gate, a symbol of their ancestors wisdom, had always served as a defense mechanism. No infector had ever breached this stone fortress, yet it was obliterated in a single blow.


    Through the dense dust, countless ominous red eyes glowed menacingly.


    "Everyone, grab your weapons! Its the enemy!"


    At the sound of the warning, Felix instinctively stood up and drew his sword.


    f0 sacred tree. And elven god of another world, whoever you may be.


    In a stillness that seemed to halt time, he gritted his teeth and charged towards the looming threat, resolved to safeguard what he cherished. His ears were muffled by the deafening noise; all he could discern was the pounding of his heart and the sound of his own breath, lust before the impending collision, he locked eyes with Narian, who had sprung out in surprise from behind.


    "Die, beast!"


    He swung his sword at the colossal ck beast charging towards him, its six red eyes gleaming through the gaps in its head armor. His sword met formidable resistance as it shattered the armor and plunged into the flesh. The beasts muscles were so tough they felt sticky, yet he sliced through them with sheer force. Ultimately, Felix triumphed in bringing down the enemy with the first blow.


    But that was merely the beginning of the struggle. With a battle cry, he charged alongside hisrades, prepared to repel the invasion of the endless legion.

 Chapter 42: Struggle for Survival (2)

    Chapter 42: Struggle for Survival (2)


    ''What in the world../


    The screams and shouts echoed relentlessly. ''When will this end../


    The searing heat of the battlefield raged on.


    In this battle, where both sides sought to end each others lives, the screams and shouts came from only one side. Just what are you?!


    Drenched in sweat, Felix could no longer contain his cry.


    There wasnt even a hint of the screams one would expect.


    Whether their throats were slit or their bodies stabbed, it was all the same.


    Silently, the legion continued their relentless attacks without hesitation or sound. Their mechanical actions struck fear into Felix and his kinsmen, who gradually fell back. ''We absolutely will not lose. There is no retreat. If we are pushed back here, it is our defeat. But soon, he steeled his mind.


    They had not endured and found hope only to die being pushed back here. Narian...!


    An arrow grazed his face, piercing one of the enemys bodies.


    Seeing her with the bow aimed, her body glowing with markings, he grit his teeth. We will never back down!


    His shout spurred the other kinsmen, who desperately shook off their wavering minds. Their will and determination to ovee fear and anxiety bound them together. Their yer aided them too, continuously using low-grade items. Even the inexperienced among them grabbed these items, shooting arrows and resisting.


    fThis is our struggle with everything on the line.-*


    After slitting an enemys throat with his dagger, Felix suddenly smiled. Despite the desperate situation, he was certain they had never been stronger. The sacred tree responded to him, its power resonating with them and amplifying dramatically.


    The legion pulled their troops back. The expressions behind their masks were far from good, especially when the enemy cheered at their supposed victory. [They had put up a fierce resistance, inflicting significant damage. However, had we persisted with the assault, victory would have inevitably been ours.] Efficiency.


    The legion-s judgment was straightforward. Beyond the irritation and anger, the continued expenditure of troops at such a rate would render any victory meaningless due to the extreme losses.


    [So, the solution is...] Endless despair and agony. Naturally, the legion already had a n. The sole objective was the enemys annihtion. This retreat was merely a tactic towards that end.


    Through a war of attrition, hope persists. Yet, when true despair finally descends at the end, their will shall crumble.


    The legion had experienced this before. They had shed with the cave rats, units under the control of another yer. At that time, a crucial condition for victory was the selfdestruction of the rats, driven to despair and terror upon sensing their impending defeat.


    The legion-s mouth twitched slightly.


    The emotion of ''despair- that the legion had newly defined through self-exploration and contemtion came when ones all-out attacks were overwhelmingly crushed, leaving powerlessness and futility.


    Then it would transform into despair. [Asmanded, the legionnaires charged at them again.] The legion had been through this before. They had battled the cave rats, units under the control of another yer. During that conflict, the key to victory had been the selfdestruction of the rats, who were driven to despair and terror as they sensed their imminent defeat.


    A slight twitch yed at the corner of the legions mouth.


    They had recently defined the emotion of despair- through self-reflection and contemtion. It was the feeling that came when one-s all-out attacks were brutally crushed, leaving a sense of powerlessness and futility.


    Their enemies would soon face despair. [The legionnaires charged at them again, asmanded.] The legion had previously in them, and they were well aware of their status as units. However, the enemy seemed oblivious to this fact. No matter how many legionnaires they killed, the legion-s forces remained undiminished.


    No...! Theyreunching another attack! We can hold them off. Weve got this! Having just constructed a makeshift barricade, they unleashed another barrage of arrows at the advancing legionnaires. Despite their exhaustion and stress, they hadnt yet given in to despair or hesitation. Instead, their defiance only grew stronger with each sessful repulsion of the attacks through relentlessbat.


    Ugh...guh...


    The legion released a gas. The gas was loaded with minute infectious cells based on destructive bacteria. However, the infection was currently powerless. There was nothing that a small amount of infectious cells could do to their bodies, which were being fortified by the maximum power extracted from the new tree.


    Ha...ha...weve won again! But look!


    They had sessfully repelled the legions attack once more. But there was no time for celebration. The number of victims was steadily rising, and there was no time to mourn them.


    Ugh, uwah... Again! Theyreing again! How can this be. Everyone, ready your swords!


    Felix clenched his eyes shut and raised his sword once more. No matter how many attacks they blocked, there was no end. Apart from their defiant spirits, their weary minds and bodies found no respite.


    Steel your minds. The end wille!


    Felix rallied hisrades, worn down by the ceaseless onughtsing in waves.


    As they fought desperately with all their might, they failed to notice the sacred trees leaves and branches gradually withering from the tips.


    [Their power draws from that central tree. That is their formative force. Its might is certainly extraordinary. Iparable even to the elves of the city. In fact, they are rapidly growing through repeatedbat.]


    ...Have they staked everything?


    The legion had a singr focus - the moment they staked everything, their lives and energy included. They nned to shatter it all in that moment, for it would allow them to bring their enemies down efficiently.


    It seems we can squeeze out more.


    The legions sight was filled with the vivid images of theirrades in battle. Each death fueled their rage, pushing them to squeeze out strength until their very limit.


    [Asmanded, the legionnaires retreated once again. They shouted desperate cheers. They had sessfully blocked all 32 invasions, killed 1369 legionnaires, and lost 43 of their own. ]


    The exchange rate was close to 30 to 1. However, the value of each life was different. The legionnaires who died in this battle had already been restored in the nest. In contrast, the fallen Moonlight Elves were those who had been nurtured for decades. At least, they couldnt be restored until they were killed in this battle.


    Time was gradually approaching. The legion lured their enemies towards the trap they had set in advance. *


    What...what is this? You should know. As they prepared the final blow against the Moonlight Elves, the legion forcibly immobilized Kang Do Yeon. Damn...


    Her face drained of color. She already understood the legions intent. [...He is sleeping now] Then its enough.


    The legion had meticulously tracked Shin Woos actions beforehand. Their current objective was to target his younger sister. They had no intention of killing her, but when he awoke and examined the scene, he would be clueless.


    I am... Youll discover it yourself. At the legions words, she fell silent.


    Compassion, sympathy, sorrow. All these emotions are detrimental to the legion. You know this. Youve harbored such feelings for your prey. Thats...thats not true.


    No, its true. We are one. You are part of me, all of it... I can see.


    The legion quickly multiplied and divided the cells in its hand, instantaneously creating something on its palm. It was the ck mask she had been wearing.


    I dont want...


    Ill let you maintain your ego. In return, youll be the true sword of the legion.


    The legion was bolder and more aggressive than expected. Afterpleting the calctions, it unhesitatingly ced the mask on Kang Do Yeons face without mercy. Despite knowing their intentions, she was powerless to resist.


    Ugh...


    Her skin began to merge with the mask, bing one. The mask was not merely a facial cover. Under the legions control, Kang Do Yeons cells began to move, performing specific actions.


    [Although it could have been manipted forcibly without this process, the reason for putting a mask on her was that.] Then its meaningless.


    The legion earnestly sought to incorporate her into its ranks. As it evolved and reflected, it required a variable that could ignite a spark of inspiration. This variable was another ego within the legion. However, it had to devise a method to preserve that ego while fully integrating it into the legions ideology and securing its loyalty.


    Go, kill them, legionnaire. The act of ughter and predation will bring you pleasure. Thats our nature.


    Kang Do Yeon, writhing and clutching her masked face, gradually rose. The mask had fully merged with her body. Yet, the moment she entered intobat, the mask could surface at any time, imprinting its true duty onto her.


    [The elves are slowly beginning to scout outside. They must mistakenly believe weve abandoned them. How foolish.] Why are you siding with me, not him? [...What do you mean?]


    You, who can see everything on both sides, could easily choose between the yer and the unit if you wanted to. As the newly transformed Kang Do Yeon and the legionnaires charged in, the legion posed a crucial question. [Thats none of your business.] ...Is that so?


    A line was drawn. But the legion had already sensed it. There was no voice after that, but the legion didnt care. Either way, it wasnt harmful to them. [Theyve noticed our intentions.] ''Crush all their hope.


    As Kang Do Yeon and the legionnaires encountered the enemies, the legion moved to show them the despair they had nned, against their attempts to break through with all their might and morale.

 Chapter 43: Struggle for Survival (3)

    Chapter 43: Struggle for Survival (3)


    Ha...haha."


    A hollowugh slipped from his lips; the situation was absurd. Their defense seemed to only lead to a slow death by dehydration. They attempted a breakthrough with a bow, forcing the enemies to retreat once more. This time, the interval between their attacks was extended. He clung to the faint glimmer of hope that this might not be the end.


    Sir Felix..."


    But their hope was in vain. Outside their makeshift hive hideout, a multitude of ck beasts lurked. These were the same creatures that had just massacred enough to pile up bodies like a mountain. They swarmed not only the ground but also the ceiling and walls.


    Everyone, grab your weapons. This is the end."


    Felix finally understood. His eyes sparked with realization.


    ''This is not a war.-


    He had been momentarily deceived by their restrained behavior and appearance, unlike the infected. But this was not a grand war. It was merely a desperate struggle for survival they had been engaged in all along. Die if you lose, survive if you win.


    If only we had a little more time."


    He murmured softly, raising his chipped sword. At this point, everything was regrettable. If only the sacred tree had grown a little faster. If only they hadnt been discovered this time.


    Uwaaah!"


    He charged towards the legionnaires, leading the way. Thest warriors, inspired by his actions, followed suit. The moment they put everything on the line to deliver their final blow was exactly what the legion had been waiting for.


    [Indeed, theirbat power, steadily on the rise, had reached its peak. Their strength and numbers were dwindling, but it was this miracle that made survival possible. That was true power.]


    Felix, in a frenzy, swung his sword beyond his own limits. A faint blue light radiated from his sword and body. The markings on his body shone brighter than ever before. His swordsmanship might have been inferior to the former knights who defended the city, but he possessed an explosive power theycked.


    [The legion has dispatched its most formidable all-purpose soldier.]


    A newly created legionnaire emerged from the swarm. Its form was simr to the previous ones, a 2-meter-tall body based on orcs, humans, and the recently acquired Moonlight Elves. It had a flexible, slender body encased in ck carapace. However, it also boasted a long, sturdy, and agile tail, a trait borrowed from the smanders that once ruled the lowest floors.


    Tsk..."


    Startled, Felix broke into a cold sweat as something brushed past his cheek. A tail that whipped like ash, leaving a deep, long scar on the ground as it retracted after grazing his face.


    What kind of creatures are these? Are they even living beings?"


    He gritted his teeth and gathered his strength. He had never seen such monsters before. They were a different kind of horror from the terrifying destructive bacteria-infected creatures.


    ''''But I must win.


    With a swift thrust of his sword, he met the charging legionnaire head-on. His foot stomped the ground for leverage, metal shed against metal, and a crack appeared in the carapace de. In a split second, he ducked, narrowly avoiding the whip-like tail. He twisted his waist to evade another pair of arms that burst from the split back armor, all while locking swords. Having sessfully deflected all attacks, he raised his sword high and cleaved the legionnaires body in two.


    fI can...win!


    He could feel his growth, his heart pounding with exhration.


    What are you?"


    However, a new enemy had appeared. A slender figure with curves entuating its form and flowing ck hair stood in stark contrast to the other monsters. Instinctively, Felix assumed a defensive stance and retreated a step. Through the gaps in the ck mask that covered its face, a sh of red gleamed ominously from its eyes.


    *


    Its not brainwashing..."


    As the Moonlight Elvesunched their desperate final attack, Kang Do Yeon arrived swiftly at the scene. She touched her face, where the mask had fused with her skin. She understood her condition.


    ''The legion desires my voluntary actions.


    She wasnt sure what effect the mask would have, but it was clear that it wouldnt control her actions, nor would it tolerate thoughts against the legions will.


    [The newly created all-purpose legionnaire was defeated in one blow. The difference in wielding Formative Force is truly immense. Now, the legion has dispatched the most powerful being theyve created.]


    She bit her lip, knowing it was her turn to act. However, battling an intelligent was not a task she could take lightly.


    [From the start, the legion didnt expect much from you, an ordinary human girl.]


    Ugh!


    A faint thought sparked the masks materialization. Its purpose was to help her focus on her duties as a legionnaire.


    Ah..."


    As the mask enveloped her, it forcibly manipted her bodys hormones, restoring calm to her mind. Now, the legions orders took precedence in her tranquil thoughts.


    Kill and devour.


    She unsheathed her sword. The bloodied and battered opponent before her gasped for breath, his gaze locked onto her. Under normal circumstances, the sight of a warrior teetering between life and death would have overwhelmed her. But not now, not with the mask on. Besides, she had already witnessed his skills multiple times through the battle data of fallen legionnaires.


    ..!!


    The opponent swung his sword. She dodged it with a single step, causing his eyes to widen in surprise.


    ''''Give them despair.


    She twisted her waist to evade the second sword strike and kicked his leg, breaking it. The shattered shinbone tore through the flesh and protruded out. She sidestepped his clenched fist and sliced it off with the edge of her hand. Then, his final strike came with his remaining arm and leg. The faintly glowing sword would kill her if it hit, its deadly force indifferent to her strength.


    Yet, she swung her own chitin sword against his relentless force. Embedded halfway into her forearm was a faintly glowing blue gemstone. Hot energy burst forth from around the gemstone.


    Ah."


    He sighed at the sight.


    Haa...haa..."


    [They tasted true despair. They realized that even if they gave their all, they could never ovee the insurmountable mountain before them. Now all thats left is to deal with those consumed by fear.]


    The legionnaires surged forward, pressing the front line. Kang Do Yeon removed her mask, panting heavily. The gemstone embedded in her forearm dimmed and fell to the ground.


    The legions resolve remained as cold and unyielding as ever.


    fWe hold your soul and all your data. Even if you die, resurrecting you is a simple task. Youre something precious to him, something he cant afford to lose.


    How could that be..."


    The legion had shown her kindness and consideration, albeit in their own unique way. The issue was that their methods and direction adhered to their own standards, standards that were entirely alien to humanmon sense. Kang Do Yeon bit her lip. This was the cost she had to bear. The cost for her life and power.


    fIf it bes too much, don the mask whenever you wish.


    Horrifying data of massacres streamed into her mind ceaselessly. She barely managed to withstand it. The legion, in their own way, showed consideration by not ordering her to clean up the aftermath. After receiving such treatment, she found herself unable to voice any furtherints.


    Im not affected at all."


    ''A lie.


    Yes, its a lie. But I have to say it, dont I?"


    She stood tall on the battlefield, her mask firmly in ce. It didnt transform her into another person. The sensation lingered in her fingertips, the sensation of killing. The sparkling eyes that had once gazed at her were unforgettable.


    I need to be stronger."


    Her words hung in the air, devoid of emotion. Despite her victory in battle, she felt defeated. Without the mask, she would have undoubtedly lost.


    [We captured a prisoner for the purpose of extracting information.]


    ''You know what Im going to do, right?


    Faced with the chilling reality, Kang Do Yeon clenched her eyes shut.


    Let go of this...let go!"


    In the survivors hideout, all living beings had been ruthlessly exterminated. Amid the massacre, a single survivor was seized and hauled away. The legion nned to extract crucial information from this captive.


    [Our primary task is to understand theirnguage. The legion possesses only one method fornguage acquisition.]


    ''''Letsmunicate. With us.


    I refuse...cough...to yield my life to monsters like you..."


    [We have devised a method to loosen the tongues of those who resist.]


    The legionnaires administered a bacterial-type injection to the captive. Immediately, dark veins spread across their skin, and they let out a bone-chilling scream, convulsing in torment.


    You can understand me now, cant you?"


    The legion pervaded every part of their body, infecting and mutating their cells, leading to their disintegration. It was more than mere pain-it was a torturous agony that prated their nerves. The captives resistance copsed instantly, and they began to act in ordance with the legionsmands. Although they werent entirely cooperative and hadnt fully assimted like Kang Do Yeon, they eventually managed to decipher one or two mysteries.

 Chapter 44: Struggle for Survival (4)

    Chapter 44: Struggle for Survival (4)


    [The legion spent time interrogating the prisoners and learned quite a lot about theirnguage, history, characteristics, culture, religion, and so on.]


    "...Is that important right now?


    [New units have been annihted. There will be rewards.]


    "What''s the purpose? Why did you hide it until now and show it to me now?


    The chattering text was barely visible.


    As soon as I woke up, I checked my phone with trembling hands. I hadn''t been able to check it earlier because I was worried about Cha Ji Yeon''s reaction. These were the events that had unfolded while I was unaware.


    [I can''t actively interfere, so I''m just making the most of the features I have.]


    There was no emotion in the text.


    I barely managed to calm myself down.


    The videos sent like a bombshell. They were all records of the actions the legion had taken, from creating their own bodies to hiding them from me and, most recently, putting a mask on Kang Do Yeon.


    "I can''t understand. Why now, of all times? You should have told me from the beginning!


    [Think for yourself and find the answer. Why am I acting as a double agent and revealing the truth to you?]


    I


    The typically chatty creature held its tongue, suggesting there were certain limitations. I groaned, clutching my head.


    [If the reins are loosened, the potential cannot be fully realized.]


    "...Potential?


    The final words hinted at something.


    A bitter sigh slipped past my lips as I grasped the implication.


    "The legion needs to maintain its aggressive growth, just as it is now. You refrained from telling me at the start because I might interfere. But you''re telling me now because I need to know the truth.


    [You''re close to the correct answer. The legion has be a runaway train, driven by its own values and beliefs, and the eleration is sufficient. That''s why I''m telling you.]


    "You''re incredibly audacious. But then again, you''ve been like that since we first met.


    My emotions were a whirlwind.


    If you didn''t trust me, you should have kept this secret until the end.


    What''s the point of revealing it now? It''s pointless.


    [A parent should know what their child is up to.]


    "I''m not in the mood for jokes.


    [Nevertheless, through your training with Cha Ji Yeon, learn to discipline yourself and control your emotions. The most significant influence on the legion is the string connecting you two. The legion, now developing its ego, considers everything in rtion to you. That''s one way you can interfere.]


    "...Insane.


    It felt as though my emotions were under constant surveince.


    But there was no way out of this predicament now.


    "How can I trust what you''re saying? How do I know you''re not lying? How can I tell if you''re not trying to deceive and manipte me? You''ve already lost my trust. How can I know you won''t do this again?


    [Don''t forget that, although this game''s essence is an ecosystem where you have to fight and survive, it''s still just a game.]


    "...Right. This is a game that''s been forced upon us, regardless of our will.


    I copsed onto the bed. Regardless of whether it was a yer or a unit, whether they reaped benefits or grew stronger, they were stillpelled to fight, to wage war.


    "What''s the real purpose of this game? I questioned. "What''s the point of creating the strongest units in each world, or ''server'' as you call it? What are you trying to achieve with them?


    I hoped it wasn''t something as absurd as a server integration war.


    [To nurture the strongest survivors who have surpassed their limits. To create new beings.]


    "So, you''re creating these groups in each server, or world, for what purpose exactly?


    [The final war. You''ll find out when you be thest surviving winner. One thing is certain: the real enemy is elsewhere.]


    That was the end of the conversation. I couldn''t help but let out a bitterugh. From the start, getting involved had been a mistake.


    [''We'' exist solely for that purpose.]


    The word "we caught my eye.


    It was interpreted differently from the usual meaning.


    "So, to you guys...whether it''s a yer or a unit, we''re just pawns for that purpose? Are the restrictions ced on us just forpetition among the same administrators?


    [Is that a problem? Nothing changes. I merely observe and guide; in the end, you all make the crucial choices. I''m incapable of deceiving you or withholding information. Utilizing me effectively is also a part of your skill set.]


    His answer was brutally honest, leaving me speechless. Even if I could manage to escape this game, the world had been ensnared in its clutches for far too long. The haunting images of those who had been attacked and killed were still fresh in my mind. The sight of my sister, transformed into a grotesque mass of flesh, was equally disturbing. The only reason I had survived and managed to save my sister as part of the legion was due to my involvement in the game.


    "Tell me the rewards. What did we get?


    I shifted the topic, craving a cigarette I had given up years ago during my army days.


    "300G... Is that it?


    [There''s no reason to offer a generous price to a defeated and decimated race. Especially not to an underdeveloped tribe.]


    The worth of eliminating the remaining Moonlight Elf units was less than a single assassination right. It had always been this way, but the bitterness was more pronounced now.


    "It''s such an unfair game. There''s no bnce patch for the yers or units whose levels vary greatly. There''s only restrictions.


    The Moonlight Elves were beings with undeniable potential. If they had started in a proper vige instead of being destroyed as refugees, what would have happened?


    [Fairness is a rarity in this world.]


    Of course,menting the unfairness wouldn''t change anything. Whether weak or strong, the only rule was survival. That was the crux of it all.


    [This is a reward for annihting a certain type of unit.]


    [Unit Summoning Ticket xl]


    However, there was another reward. This time, it was undoubtedly an exceptional item.


    "Could it be what I''m thinking?


    [It''s a remarkable item that allows you to summon your unit for a specified period.]


    A chill ran down my spine. Could the legion establish their foothold here with this?


    [However, once the time pses, they will be recalled. Everything the legion possesses is part of them. Even if they leave something behind, it will be retrieved in its entirety.]


    Regrettably, that thought was quickly quashed. Nevertheless, it was a valuable item. Even for a brief period, it could be utilized effectively.


    "So, we''ve reached the end of the system rewards. But we''ve gained more than just this. Show me.


    [The legion has already amassed a wealth of information.]


    The dark screen gradually lit up, unveiling the interior of the hive. After expelling the destructive bacteria-infected creatures, the legion''s nest, which had extended this far, was still pulsating and enveloping its surroundings.


    "..They''re unaware that I''m observing everything, aren''t they?


    [Correct. I informed them you''re currently asleep.]


    In a corner of the nest, the hibernating legionnaires were replenishing their sustenance. Kang Do Yeon was doing the same. Next to her, or rather, next to it, was a creature identical to my younger sister, donning a mask.


    "Inform her that I''m waking up and about to switch on my phone.


    [Your message will be ryed.]


    I tested the system by having my words conveyed. My sister, previously in a drowsy state, suddenly widened her eyes as if the message had reached her.


    The legion, which had been seated next to her, swiftly concealed the human-like form it had crafted within the flesh wall. The grand chair it had upied also vanished. It appeared as though I was rousing a bit. Particrly after learning that it refrained from revealing its form because it was iplete.


    "Oppa! Can you hear me?!


    My sister shouted, gazing up at the sky.


    "I watched the video. You were fighting.


    "Huh?! Uh... I''m perfectly fine. Honestly. This was my choice.


    The lie was clear. She must have been instructed to say that. However, the legion thatpelled her to lie didn''t seem to have considered that. Inexperience must be the reason.


    "Understood.


    I didn''t press further. I was aware of what the legion had done to my sister. Despite the crude method, the intent and oue were to safeguard her psyche, so I tolerated it for the moment.


    "Don''t fret about it either. They''re merely units, and inevitably, one side had to die.


    "I agree. If we hadn''t eliminated them, it would have been us instead.


    As I attempted to console her, she forced a smile. I too, strived to maintain my calm. If my emotions fluctuated, the legion would detect it. I ascertained this from its previous appearance. Regardless of how intelligent, intimidating, or aggressive it was, the legion was still an inexperienced, immature entity unable to escape thisbyrinth.


    [The prisoner''s information revealed that their yer is an elf, nurturing the World Tree Garsil in a world known as Eden.]


    "That information isn''t crucial at the moment. Continue.


    [They are the descendants of survivors who lived modestly, barely managing to survive in the remnants of a civilization that copsed roughly 200 years ago.]


    I listened attentively to the gathered information.


    Destroyed 200 years ago? Has it been that long?


    [The origin of the destructive bacteria remained unknown, but one thing was certain: it descended from above. As suspected, the Moonlight Elves were forced from the surface, taking refuge in thisbyrinth where they evolved in their own unique way. However, their greatest mistake was their inability to unite against the onught of the destructive bacteria.]


    "So, we must ascend again to uncover more?


    The information gathered was plentiful, yet not quite enough. I was certain the battle with the infected destructive bacteria was far from over.


    [Nheless, we had grown significantly stronger. We discovered something through our captive. The blue ore of the Vajra, which we had been effectively utilizing, contained energy that could be harnessed for Formative Force.]


    Several of the legionnaires scoured the nearby hives, including the survivors'' hideouts. Weapons and ornaments embedded with simr minerals were discovered in abundance.


    "Why didn''t they utilize this?


    [The most likely exnation was the disappearance of the essential technology. Of course, the legion had its unique ways of utilizing it, which were unknown to them.]


    The gathered ores started to pile up in one ce. I had seen their power with my own eyes. As anticipated, the legion, having mastered the Heavenly Soul Art all at once, acquired a newfound power of its own.

 Chapter 45: Struggle for Survival (5)

    Chapter 45: Struggle for Survival (5)


    "Is there another method?"


    "Like the goblins we encountered previously, they were casting fireballs..."


    "True, there must be various methods. The same applies to the hunters- status window."


    Cha Ji Yeon, who had been monitoring my training, concurred with my statement. Formative Force, and the myriad ways to harness it. I resolved to gather data to identify the most efficient and effective method for the legion.


    "For instance, the Heavenly Soul Art cannot be learned if ones soul cannot sustain a certain level of power. Can ordinary goblins master this art? They must have their own techniques."


    "I see."


    A strategy that the legion had discovered independently came to mind. The legion had imed that the Heavenly Soul Art was inefficient for them. Their soul was potent, but as it was singr, splitting it into multiple parts would diminish its efficiency. Instead, they discovered a method to utilize a unique mineral known as a divine stone, which Cha Ji Yeon also referred to as a mana stone.


    "My yer stressed that when manifesting Formative Force, not only the power output but also efficiency and speed are crucial. They added that the Heavenly Soul Art satisfies all these requirements."


    "Yes."


    I clicked my tongue internally. I had heard this before. The legion had also taken various factors into ount and discovered a method by integrating them. The idea of using divine stones, minerals infused with energy, by incorporating them into their body was a concept the legion had developed independently. It might be a technique only the legion could employ. Embedding stones into one-s body is not a simple task.


    "Test what youve learned once."


    "Understood."


    I had to put aside all other thoughts. I concentrated, exerting every ounce of my energy to manifest what I had learned from her. To my relief, my apprehensions proved unfounded.


    I could sense something stirring within me. I focused on it, trying to manipte it as I had been instructed.


    "Open your eyes, Shin Woo. Youve seeded...!"


    Cha Ji Yeons voice echoed in my ears. I slowly opened my eyes. A faintly glowing aura swirled around my body. I had sessfully grasped the basics.


    "My yer is taking an interest in you."


    "Interest? In what?"


    She pointed at me, remaining silent. I flinched momentarily, but managed a smile, declining her offer to scout me.


    "They said theyll reveal the identities of those who harmed your sister."


    "What?"


    Her next words shattered my expectations. Cha Ji Yeon lowered her head in apology, as if regretting having to bring up my sisters story due to her yers insistence.


    "So, youre just going to tell me?"


    "My yer seems to want you to harbor resentment towards them."


    This was an unexpected gain. Cha Ji Yeon appeared remorseful for reopening my wounds, but I was unbothered. I was more interested in hearing the story.


    "Please, tell me."


    I ced a hand on her shoulder, reassuring her that I was fine.


    "It might be obvious, but were not the only humans in this universe."


    "...I guess so? There are all sorts of aliens."


    In a technical sense, orcs and goblins were also alien races. Given the circumstances, it wasnt far-fetched to believe that other humans existed in different worlds.


    "Wait, are those suits and guns all they have?"


    "My yer mentioned that theres a formidable entity known as the Human Alliance somewhere in the universe."


    Cha Ji Yeon nodded in confirmation.


    Earthlings had long fantasized about highly advanced human species, portraying them in various media such as movies,ics, and novels. These beings did indeed exist, and one of them was a yer who had recruited a few Earthlings as units. As a fellow yer, I found this exnation quite usible.


    "The yer mentioned theyve been in conflict for a long time, reaching out with greedy hands to their surroundings, and acting with malice..."


    "That does paint a rather viinous picture. But remember, a yer is just an individual."


    "It does seem that way."


    Cha Ji Yeon, who had been repeating the yers words, gave a wry smile and nodded. It didnt seem like she believed they were oblivious, and her yer seemed to genuinely dislike them. However, a yer is an individual. Regardless of the group to which the yer belongs, they cannot be equated with the yer. Unless they share a single mind or belief. But as long as they were referred to as human species, the likelihood was low.


    "Of course, I cant stand those who are after my sister. Id love nothing more than to take them out, but Im not about to start a war with the whole group that the yer belongs to."


    First off, its just too risky. My main goal here is to stay alive. Cha Ji Yeon nodded, seeming to get where I wasing from.


    "But," she added, "theres something we should think about."


    "Yeah? Whats that?"


    "If the yer purposely spills what they know to get their group involved."


    Her face got serious. If she was right, things were about to get a whole lot messier. People who had no business being in this game could start messing things up as a group, causing all kinds of chaos. It was like how different countries on Earth were teaming up to fight monsters beyond the gate, getting ready for battle. The one calling the shots was Evolution, the group that yer Cha Ji Yeon was a part of.


    "Evolution is..."


    "It operates on mutual benefits."


    Cha Ji Yeon readily agreed. Thats why there was no issue with sharing information with the Step Up Hunters, herself included. Each one was a formidable hunter, yet they willingly allied with various government and association forces.


    "Have you finished training for today?"


    "Yes, Ive made some progress."


    While Cha Ji Yeon stepped out for a moment, I slipped into the room and discreetly activated my phone. In truth, it had been on for some time. I had secretly switched it on, observing my legion and sister for a while before initiating conversation. Upon hearing of my arrival, the legion hastily flung itself towards the meat wall.


    "Do you need anything?"


    "Need, anything?"


    "Like a book, for instance."


    I stated it inly. I had overheard the legions thirst for knowledge during a conversation between them and my sister. Naturally, my sister imed she would read it, but I didnt buy it. She had never shown interest in anything beyondic books.


    "Right... Can you send some? Anything."


    "Its not difficult."


    "But theres one thing you have to send."


    However, it seemed that there was something I didnt know. Kang Do Yeons face looked awkward and strange.


    "What do you want me to send...?"


    "The...Bible."


    My sister muttered, looking at the ground. We had never been to a church or had any religion before. I let out a hollowugh.


    [Its natural for the legion to be curious about creation and gods.]


    "Really...? Religion doesnt seem to fit well with a rational species."


    [They might just be referring to it.]


    It didnt seem like the legion would fall into religion, but it was still a concern. For now, I agreed. "Theres one more thing."


    But it seemed that the legions desire, which was being inacted through Kang Do Yeon, was not over yet. My sister twisted her eyes as if she couldnt say it, then finally closed her eyes and opened her mouth.


    "Whats your ideal type, oppa?"


    And the words that came out of her mouth gave me goosebumps. Why do I have to hear that from her?!


    "Why are you suddenly asking about my ideal type?"


    "Its not a big deal. I can ask. And I like to know it."


    I heard her teeth grinding. I also rubbed the goosebumps on my arm. Of course, I knew who asked that question and why. For now, I pondered the answer. There werent many forms the legion could take at the moment. Excluding my human sister, Kang Do Yeon, maybe the Moonlight Elves? But their pale skin and alien-like appearance werent very appealing.


    "Of course, I like pretty ones."


    "So, whats the standard for that prettiness... No, just tell me one celebrity you think is the prettiest."


    "I dont want to."


    I wasnt about to let her off the hook so easily. I chuckled at my sisters surprised face.


    "Just think about it. If someones appearance is copied, it loses its uniqueness. Theres no point in chasing unattainable perfection. Imperfection can be appealing too."


    I then addressed the legion who had been eavesdropping on our conversation, rather than Kang Do Yeon. I wondered if they grasped my message.


    "Did you ry my words exactly as I said them? Dont omit or twist them, it stunts the legions growth."


    [Yes. As previously stated, I wont interfere now. Im curious as to how the legion interpreted your words.]


    "...They didnt misconstrue them, did they?"


    My message to the legion was simple: dont obsess over perfection. It was a caution against overdoing things.


    "Do I need to go to the bookstore, or would it be quicker to just send an e-book?"


    I swiftly acquired a device from a local second-hand trading site and started uploading various books onto it. I was uncertain how human knowledge would benefit the legion, but...


    "Would they be more civilized if they studied humanities?"


    I sent the device as a tribute, tossing out a casualment.

 Chapter 46: Struggle for Survival (6)

    Chapter 46: Struggle for Survival (6)


    Using the divine stone to harness Formative Force. But they said the true power of the Moonlight Elveses from this sacred tree.


    While the legion was momentarily reorganizing, I shifted my gaze to where Kang Do Yeon had moved.


    This ce used to be the survivors'' base.


    Now, only one life remained there.


    I can feel it. There-s power within this young sacred tree.


    ...Is the legion nning to use that as well?


    As my sister gently stroked the tree, my eyes turned to the stakes scattered around.


    These stakes, intricately carved, had surrounded the sacred tree.


    I heard they were given by a yer.


    I wasn''t entirely at ease.


    How would a yer, whose face and name I didn''t know, feel about theirst remaining unit being tortured and killed by our legion for information?


    When thest survivor dies, they die too.


    [Do not fear. The legion senses that.]


    Damn.


    I quicklyposed myself, refusing to show any signs of weakness to the legion, even if it was just my emotions.


    We''re going to devour this sacred tree.


    Is that even possible? I mean, I''ve never offered the legion a living nt before.


    The legion''s choice was predictable, but I voiced my doubts anyway. Up until now, nts hadn''t been a consideration. There were no nts that could thrive in the barren caves of this world.


    If we can harness the power of nts, perhaps we can eventually derive energy through photosynthesis.


    I''m not sure about that. Regardless, the legion has already made its decision.


    Kang Do Yeon, who had been caressing the sacred tree, rose to her feet. Unbeknownst to me, the legion''s nest had already extended its tendrils and flesh walls.


    [The power of the Moonlight Elves'' sacred tree. The legion believes that if we can harness the power of sharing and linking, our developing Formative Force could advance to another level.]


    Formative Force...


    I muttered, watching the sacred tree being slowly digested by the nest.


    It was a concept I hadn''t known for long, even though it was simr to the hunters'' abilities.


    I was even in the process of learning it.


    I think it''s time for me to leave. Please, take care of yourself.


    Uh? Oh, okay.


    Despite dering my departure, I didn''t leave. Instead, I quietly observed my phone. Someone had emerged beside my sister, who was energetically waving her hand at the sky, and swiftly moved towards her.


    Show me how to operate this.


    The figure requested.


    A creature swooped down from the sky, clutching a device in its talons, and dropped it into the figure''s hand. In that instant, I turned off my phone.


    Notify me if anything out of the ordinary urs.


    [Of course.]


    After giving the order, I opened the door just as Cha Ji Yeon was entering.


    From what I can tell, Cha Ji Yeon''s Evolution Corporation seems to be the dominant force on Earth.


    I mused.


    What do you mean by that?


    I was just considering it from a yer''s perspective.


    Park Joon Seok, who typically kept to himself in his room, joined our casual mealtime conversation.


    By the way, what kind of units does Park Joon Seok have?


    I asked casually.


    He chuckled in response and promptly showed me some pictures.


    Aren''t they cute?


    They were captured images of his units, which were primarily dog-like. Moreover, they were bipedal, a form that could be described as anthropomorphic. At least they didn''t live in caves.


    Leaving information behind isn''t a good idea.


    Cha Ji Yeon warned cautiously.


    I know, but it doesn''t matter if I die anyway. h


    He dismissed.


    yers have to be cautious. Even if they hide, some people, like Cha Ji Yeon, have the ability to find them.


    ...So?


    Perhaps other yers have gathered together, including their units. The ones they would be most wary of would be the most powerful force, right?


    His words carried weight. Essentially, units that have to kill each other can never truly unite. That''s why Cha Ji Yeon''s Evolution, the most powerful andrgest ruler of this world, joined forces with ordinary people. However, this action would undoubtedly raise suspicion among other units.


    My yer must have a n.


    She muttered quietly, her expression grim. She had already admitted to being just a pawn.


    But no matter how hard they try to stop us, they won''t be able to halt this expedition.


    That''s... true, right? If this expedition fails, we''ll turn the entire world against us.


    I shifted my gaze to the TV. Recently, the news had been focused on one thing: the allied forces of major countries around the world, led by Evolution, were opening gates in reverse and attacking the monsters'' stronghold. People''s fury had already reached a boiling point due to the widespread looting. No matter how powerful a unit group was, it seemed unlikely they would risk turning ordinary people against them. They would be too busy fighting other units.


    For now, let''s all just focus on surviving there.


    She suggested, looking at me.


    I nodded in agreement. But now, mere survival wasn''t enough. The reason I was taking the risk and going there was to be stronger.


    Ah, I''ll hide quietly until you return. As you know, I''m not alone.


    Park Joon Seok snickered before retreating to his room.


    There wasn''t much time left. The moment for me to step onto the battlefield was fast approaching. *


    [Moonlight Sacred Tree: 3nl699]


    The sacred tree...


    This lifeform has the power to amplify its energy by resonating with the Formative Force it contains from its surroundings. But its true power lies elsewhere.


    In the middle of the 39th floor''s Stem Layer, where the nest was almost fully formed, a tree with ck bark had grown from the floor''s flesh wall. The tree had already surpassed the sapling stage and was growing into a young tree.


    Kang Do Yeon tilted her head and looked up at the tree, which had grown taller than her.


    Could it be?


    Yes, that''s the true power of this tree.


    Her eyes widened.


    The tree, which had undergone the legion''s modifications, no longer had a single leaf, unlike before. At the end of the withered and twisted branches, something red began to form and gradually grewrger. The legion concentrated its energy to elerate the growth of the red object.


    An object, norger than a newborn''s fist, fell with a soft thud. Kang Do Yeon caught it in her palm. It was a rough, dark red ore that shimmered in the light.


    Divine stone.


    The new legionnaire can process and transform energy forms. For instance, they can convert absorbed nourishment into divine stones containing Formative Force.


    The legion was creating new legionnaires. However, these weren''t entirely new; they were slightly modified versions of the existing ones. Kang Do Yeon noticed a divine stone, embedded like a heart, within the body of the approaching all-purpose legionnaire. The legion had boldly invested in elevating some of its soldiers to elite status.


    Our legion''s very own new power source.


    Startled, she ced her hand on her chest. A divine stone was already inside her body. This stone had been the highest quality item obtained from the Moonlight Elves'' legacy. Now, the legion had gained the ability to mass-produce such divine stones.


    A legionnaire approached and handed her something. With a tense expression, Kang Do Yeon epted it.


    The strongest sword.


    A special sword made by mixing finely crushed divine stones into the legion''s carapace.


    The sword resonated with the divine stone recing her heart, and it began to glow with a dark red light.


    [It''s time to move forward again]


    ...Understood.


    At themand, Kang Do Yeon finally turned. Their energy was waning. As the legion expanded and their intelligence advanced, their newly acquired abilities demanded a surge of energy. To satisfy this insatiable hunger, they were driven to consume everything within their grasp.


    [Since the legion''s sword has gone to war, shouldn''t the legion''s brain do its part as well?]


    I''ve already seen it. And remembered it. All of it.


    While the legion''s fangs and ws, the legionnaires, were constantly on the move, the legion was fiddling with a cell phone.


    They had to memorize everything stored in it before the battery ran out.


    But the legion''s brain was now muchrger and faster than a mere cell phone.


    [So, have you obtained all the knowledge you desired?]


    No.


    The legion resolutely shook its head. The hodgepodge of science, humanities, and engineering books stored on the cell phone were all read and memorized in an instant. However, these were not the subjects that currently piqued the legion''s interest.


    Mechanical engineering, science and technology, philosophy-these were merely reference materials for the legion, as it was fundamentally different from Earth''s humans. Instead, they found creative works, brimming with human imagination, and the requested Bible far more captivating. They believed that the history they were co-creating was on the brink of bing a myth.


    But the ^beauty'' he contemtes isn''t mentioned. [-]


    Their attention was momentarily diverted. The legion had eavesdropped on his conversation with his sister, mistakenly assuming they had discovered valuable information. They failed to grasp that the conversation was essentially directed at them. However, reaching a definitive conclusion was proving to be a challenge.


    What is beauty?


    The unmasked legion pondered this, gently touching its own face-a face identical to Kang Do Yeon''s.


    To them, Kang Do Yeon was not acknowledged for her beauty. They merely viewed her as another living entity that held significance to Shin Woo, not as someone attractive. Thus, from the legion''s perspective, Kang Do Yeon''s face was far from beautiful. ''More data.''


    The legion''s conclusion ultimately remained the same. They needed to gather more data to construct a new body.

 Chapter 47: Legion VS Legion (1)

    Chapter 47: Legion VS Legion (1)


    "If you master the basics, you won''t fall to a blind attack... at least, that''s what I think." "To be honest, you''re nervous, right?" "Heh, yes."


    Cha Ji Yeon managed a strained smile. Seeing her like this, I feltpelled to mirror her expression. The tension was so thick I feared it would turn me to stone if I didn''t lighten the mood. We had gathered our belongings, preparing to head into the battlefield to face off against monsters.


    "Here."


    A van with dark tinted windows pulled up as we waited. The window rolled down, revealing arge, young Caucasian man wearing sunsses. He was looking at us, his gaze steady and unyielding. This was Chris, the colleague and fellow unit under the same yer that Cha Ji Yeon had mentioned earlier.


    "Get in."


    We hopped into the car without dy. Honestly, I was taken aback. They were currently the hottest topic in the world, even more so than the top-tier S-rank hunters or A-list celebrities. Yet, here they were, driving themselves around without any assistants.


    "So, is this the rookie you mentioned?" "He''s not one of us. Watch your words."


    "Even if he''s not with us, if we''re heading into battle together, there''s no need for formalities. Ever seen anyone being polite in a Gate defense battle? Hey, you get what I''m saying?"


    Chris, sitting in the back seat, nced my way and chuckled. "I hear you."


    I managed to respond. I never imagined that my persistence in studying English would pay off so handsomely. "Good. I was concerned we might have amunication issue."


    He seemed pleased, whistling as he elerated. We were en route to the military base where the alliance forces were assembling.


    "Keep your ID handy and stay close to me. If you''re with Evolution, you won''t face any unnecessary hassles."


    The assembly area was teeming with journalists and soldiers'' family members. We breezed through several checkpoints and medical stations, delving deeper into the base.


    "A part of the East Asian Alliance forces will depart from here. The n is tounch simultaneous attacks from 67 bases worldwide, including this one." "Hey, that person over there seems to be looking for you."


    "Ah, it''s President''s Secretary Min Joon Yong... I''ll be right back."


    She let out a tsk and exited the car midway. I was mildly anxious about being left alone with Chris, a foreigner. However, I couldn''t help but admire her knack for mingling with high-ranking individuals without batting an eye. After all, she was arguably the most renowned person in our country at the moment. Not only was she formidable, but she was also the sole connection to Evolution within our borders.


    "We''ve been informed that you volunteered," Chris began. "If a yer discloses their identity and secures permission, there''s no need for further investigation. I''m curious about your motivation."


    At that point, Chris halted the car, killed the engine, removed his sunsses, and swiveled to face me. "Well... we have our reasons, as you know. But what about you?" "Um, I guess you could say it''s for revenge."


    I ryed the fabricated story to him. Despite my sister being alive and well, we had indeed been attacked, so there was truth in my tale.


    "I see. You seek revenge against those science fiction-like creatures. You joined the fight to be stronger and exact your vengeance." Upon hearing about my sister, his demeanor shifted, bing more cautious. He appeared to regret prying into my past.


    "Well... I hope you achieve your goal. I mentioned earlier that we''d be heading into battle together, but in reality, Cha Ji Yeon and I will rarely be on the same front. You should gain experience calmly with others."


    "I''ll keep that in mind." "Let''s get out and prepare."


    We exited the vehicle. The vicinity was teeming with heavily armed soldiers and a handful of volunteer hunters. I trailed behind Chris towards the assembly area for those involved in Evolution.


    "I heard about you. That... what was it, Kang...?" "Kang Shin Woo." "Just call me Robert. This is Sneaky."


    The people who greeted me as a neer were mercenaries hired by Evolution.


    My assigned task was not directbat but essentially security and protection.


    It was exactly the kind of task I wanted, and at the same time, I was assigned to work with them. "You''re a hunter, right? What''s your ability?" "It''s just physical enhancement."


    I showed them what I had learned to satisfy their curiosity.


    They had agreed to work with a rookie like me because I had power.


    "Nice. Using your body is the best. Those who only know how to y with weird fireworks are useless. However." Robert chuckled and nodded his head, then suddenly hardened his rough, wrinkled face.


    "The most important thing is mental strength. All those braggarts who talk big, when bullets start flying and bodies pile up, they cry and scream for their mothers. What about you?"


    "...I have something I must obtain during this expedition. I have to." I looked into his deep eyes and answered sincerely.


    I couldn''t be sure if he really understood, but after staring into my eyes for a while, he nodded. "Congrattions on joining ck Snake." To my relief, there was no needless argument.


    We were on the brink of realbat, after all.


    And they were professionals.


    "I''ll probably be in the rear, but I''m still anxious."


    [When a crisis strikes, the only solution the Legion knows is to confront it, break it, and trample it. Why not learn from them sometimes?] "You too?"


    Iughed, ncing at my phone. They, too, were rooting for the Legion''s growth. [I''m saying this because I trust you.] "Hrious."


    Today, their tongues seemed unusually loose. *


    "Everyone, step back!" "We don''t have time! Move aside!" A helicopter descended amidst the crowd, and a figure hastily disembarked. "Hey! Cage!"


    "We can''t afford to waste time! We have to circumnavigate the globe in 24 hours!"


    The man at the forefront disregarded everything else, making a beeline for the designated location. He arrived at a vast, vacant lot, the selected site for the gate. "Are you certain this is the right move?"


    "I''ve already opened twelve of these things. I feel like I''m about to hurl. Here, take these."


    He handed something to Cha Ji Yeon, who had sprinted over with a group of others. They were mana stones, intricately engraved. These were the tools required to open the gate. "...Alright."


    She swiftly collected the items and began positioning them as instructed. Everyone watched her work with bated breath. The procedure''s effectiveness had already been rigorously tested.


    Most were oblivious to the fact that the panting Hispanic man was the sole recipient of the space maniption spell from the yers. Over the past few hours, he had opened twelve colossal gates, starting from the east coast of North America, traversing Japan, and finallynding here.


    The gates, once an enigma to humanity along with the status window, were now being opened by human hands. "What are you all doing? Hurry up and get ready!"


    Time was of the essence; there was no room for awe. Those who had been staring nkly at the unfolding scene finally snapped back to reality, springing into action. Their first task was to secure a foothold inside the gate as soon as it opened.


    "I can''t believe it." "Space is being torn apart."


    Arge crack began to form in the seemingly empty air, capturing everyone''s attention. For a moment, all anyone could do was watch in silence. "Next! Shanghai''s next, right?"


    Only Cage, panting heavily, hurried back to the helicopter. fIf the legion discovers this technique, they won''t hesitate to invade Earth.''


    As the gate continued to widen, some had different thoughts. Shin Woo''s hand trembled as he held his cell phone, fully aware of the legion''s obsession. If gates like this opened and legion soldiers flooded Earth...


    [If you don''t want the legion to conquer Earth, teach them well from now on.] He swallowed hard as he read the words that appeared on his phone screen.


    "Get moving! Stay focused!" "The pioneers are on their way..."


    The thunderous roar of military machinery resonated throughout the area. The newly assembled Korean army division, made up of volunteers, along with the first coalition forces of legion-scale from neighboring countries, started advancing towards the gate, aligning their cannons and trajectories.


    "We should get moving too."


    The Korean branch of Evolution, led by Cha Ji Yeon and Chris, also began to mobilize. The vehicle was filled with a tense silence. Even seasoned hunters and mercenaries had never participated in a war of this magnitude before.


    "Look at them. Just regr soldiers, but they volunteered for this mission. They all... harbor a deep hatred for the monsters. They''ve been out of control recently."


    Shin Woo nced at the vehicle running parallel to theirs as Robert spoke. The upants were soldiers from Southeast Asia, their faces etched with grim determination. Not just them, but a significant portion of the Korean army''s forces were also volunteers.


    ''Hatred for the monsters. I had almost forgotten.''


    His expression turned grim. To him, monsters were always the enemy, the ones that needed to be eradicated. They were, in the truest sense, his sworn adversaries. The whirlwind of recent events had momentarily made him forget this. Now, he had both the power and the justification. There was no reason to hold back.


    "Do you also hate the monsters, Robert?"


    "Me? No, I''m more afraid of money and people. At least for now. But who knows? My perspective might change during this mission."


    Robert shed a grin, revealing his yellowed teeth. At that moment, their vehicle passed through the gate.

 Chapter 48: Legion vs. Legion (2)

    Chapter 48: Legion vs. Legion (2)


    Hes scared.


    Yeah, I can sense it too.


    And I can feel a deep-seated resentment.


    Ever since that day, oppa has harbored a deep hatred for monsters. They tore our family apart.


    How dare they...


    Anger surged from within.


    It wasnt an emotion projected from the outside. It was a raw, intense anger that the legion felt independently.


    The entire legion was rattled.


    Settle down. Oppa has crossed the gate now, and we have our own duties to fulfill.


    Kang Do Yeon stepped forward to pacify the legion.


    The legion soon regained its equilibrium.


    Kang Do Yeon knew that this was what the legion expected of her.


    Thats right. To see him... we need to escape from here as quickly as possible.


    See him? What will you do when you see him?


    ...I dont know.


    The legion frowned.


    There were still many instances like this.


    Even though they knew the answer, their logic and emotions struggled toprehend the phenomenon.


    Having gathered some knowledge, the legion understood the cause of this phenomenon.


    It was because their experience was limited and their ego was frailpared to the knowledge they had amassed and theputational power they could harness.


    This isnt very efficient.


    From the legions viewpoint, it was inefficient because an unnecessary ego had surfaced.


    To mitigate this, they attempted to use sub-minds like Kang Do Yeon.


    However, Kang Do Yeon, who was more advanced than the legion, was still only a mentally immature 17-year-old girl.


    [Our scouts are being ambushed repeatedly. It seems theyve developed intelligence andmunicationworks.]


    Whats the situation? Go handle them.


    ...Understood.


    The legion, shifting its focus, directed its consciousness elsewhere.


    They had thrown themselves into the chaos for the legions sake.


    Results were expected.


    Grrrr...


    A mournful yet eerie howl reverberated through the dark corridor.


    The legions scouts, dispersed in all directions, observed everything and shared their findings.


    [These infected are unlike the typical destructive bacteria. Their appearance and behavior patterns dont match the data.]


    The infected creatures, encountered sporadically above the 40th floor, were different.


    Their appearances were all bizarre.


    Though they had infected the Moonlight Elves and other cave dwellers, they only exhibited excessive tumors or partial body transformations.


    What is this...


    But these creatures were different.


    Based on the Moonlight Elves, they had something resembling a head on their chest, or their limbs had morphed into grotesque hooks.


    The extent of their mutation was so severe that it distorted their original form.


    [It was said that the ancestors warned them to avoid the infected on the upper floors because they were too grotesque and dangerous.]


    They were more aggressive than other infected. They sensed the scouts movements and tried to ensnare them with various methods, such as extending tentacles or swinging their arms.


    [They can tell. These peculiar mutated destructive bacteria are trying to manipte the legions gic information through the scouts theyve just consumed. Its the first time the legion has encountered an opponent capable of manipting gic information.]


    ''How dare they.


    The legion was, of course, livid. If it were anything else, it wouldnt matter. But gic maniption and analysis were the legions pride. They devoured, analyzed, and


    Die.


    Kang Do Yeon gritted her teeth. The mask did not appear. She had grown to some extent, and she knew it well. She drew her sword. The power engine embedded in her heart


    spewed energy. Her heart, both arms, and both legs. She had a total of five legion power engines in her body. With a strength iparable to other legion soldiers who had only


    one in their hearts, she shattered the ground and leaped up.


    Grrr...Ahhhh!


    [The infected, who noticed her approach, screamed horribly from the organ that looked like a mouth and rushed at her, swinging theirrge hook-like limbs.]


    Kang Do Yeons face was half-covered with a mask as she was disturbed by the grotesque and bizarre sight.


    At the same time, the energy from her crimson sword burst out in the form of a sh.


    Ugh...


    Kang Do Yeon staggered in ce.


    Although it was her own attack, she didnt know it would be this powerful.


    This was her first battle using the power engines, so there was no data for the legion either.


    The sh erupted, cleaving the over-two-meter-tall infected in half and deeply gouging the ground. It only faded after extending more than ten meters.


    Disgusting.


    However, the infected didnt die immediately.


    Despite their bodies being bisected, they attempted to rise or crawl towards her, ready to attack.


    [The other infected are congregating, drawn by the noise. But somethings not right.]


    The entire vicinity, no, the entire floor, trembled. Kang Do Yeon, her teeth gritted, shed at the enemy that swung its hook-like ws while crawling on the ground.


    Ultimately, it was reduced to minced meat, but it was still hard to confirm that it was entirely lifeless.


    [The legion concluded that they needed to learn more about these creatures.]


    Soon, the mutant infected began to swarm, shrieking and charging like lunatics. The legion deployed troops to confront them.


    War with the infected had be familiar by now.


    Huh?!


    She quickly dodged something that flew towards her.


    It was arge, bone-like poisonous thorn.


    The enraged legion began to fire poisonous thorns as well.


    ...This might not be easy.


    Kang Do Yeon and the entire legion sensed it.


    The enemies rushing in so fiercely might be stronger than any they had faced before.


    The legion charged forward, kicking the ground towards the infected.


    Without slowing down, Kang Do Yeon fired another volley of thorns at the approaching enemies.


    [The elite legionnaires have increased their output.]


    Nevertheless, the legion had alreadypleted another leap.


    [Resonance and amplification. This is the ability we acquired from the Moonlight Elves sacred tree.]


    In no time, a crimson energy barrier formed in front of Kang Do Yeon, whose entire face was now covered by a mask, and the leading legionnaires.


    [We will suppress them with thest legacy of the Moonlight Elves, the long-standing nemesis of the destructive bacteria.]


    Grr...


    Screech!


    With a loud bang, the infected that collided with the energy barrier were repelled, receiving the full force of the impact.


    Poisonous thorns, acidic fluids, and more.


    The various and terrifying attack methods of the mutated destructive bacteria-infected creatures could not prate the energy barrier.


    However, the attacks of the legionnaires within the barrier struck the enemies.


    The ck wave of various sizes andpositions hesitated for a moment before pushing forward again.


    [Their aggression and abilities are iparable to the previous destructive bacteria.]


    In the midst of the battle, the legions soldiers continued to fight.


    The legion used some of its smaller, crawling forces to transport the pieces of the destructive bacteria-infected creatures produced on the battlefield back to the nest.


    How dare these arrogant creatures try to transform and devour the legion.


    At the same time, they were the legions nourishment and the subjects to be analyzed.


    Moreover, there was a strange anger mixed in.


    Disassemble and digest.


    The legions tentacles mercilessly attacked the writhing flesh.


    The mucus secreted from the tentacles was the legions digestive fluid.


    Numerous cells within the mucus began to weaken and disassemble the target at the cellr level.


    At this stage, most victims would be disassembled and dismantled without resistance.


    ... ?!


    [However, these enemies were the only creatures weve encountered capable of waging war at the cellr level. They began to devour the legions cells that attacked them in reverse.]


    The legions nest, which had been digesting, quickly hardened and twisted.


    The mutated destructive bacteria began to push back the legion with their toxins.


    They first captured the legions nutrient acquisition system using the infected legion cells.


    The energy they invested only served to fill their bellies, and thanks to that, the destructive bacteria began to proliferate infinitely within the legion like cancer cells.


    [If this continues, the entire legion will be devoured. The predator that devours everything will be devoured in return.]


    The legions innate nature and essence were gluttony. To deny it was to deny their very existence.


    No.


    Yet, the legion had already made all its calctions. They acknowledged their mistake.


    Merely growing ws and fangs isnt enough.


    It was true that until now, their focus had been solely on strengthening the legionnaires. They had never faced an adversary capable of challenging their abilities. Seeing this as an opportunity and a learning experience, they prepared for a grand harvest. This was the conclusion the legion had reached.


    Within the nest, where a fierce battle was raging, the legion attempted a new form of attack. Thin, root-like structures began to forcibly burrow into the infected tissues. Simultaneously, powerful energy waves erupted in a chain reaction from the roots, obliterating all surrounding cells.


    The potential of Formative Force is limitless.


    This was another power that granted the legionnaires abilities beyond reality. There was no decree that the power of the legions sacred tree, already flourishing at the heart of the broadest stemyer, had to be employed solely in tangible battles.


    The eyes behind the mask sparkled. The thirst for knowledge that would make them stronger was intensifying.

 Chapter 49: Legion VS Legion (3)

    Chapter 49: Legion VS Legion (3)


    [Proliferating Infectious Mutated Destructive Bacteria Small Colony: 6N1535]


    "...So this is their name?


    [Yes. They are apletely different species from the original destructive bacteria.]


    "What does ''small colony* mean?


    [ording to the legion''s analysis, they are just beginning to develop a proper hive consciousness.]


    They seemed to be quite a troublesome bunch. Variant destructive bacteria were fundamentally the result of long-term growth, and their mutation was believed to be caused by cannibalism among their own kind.


    [Unable to consume nourishment for extreme hibernation, they eventually resorted to cannibalism, giving birth to the mutated variants. These variants allowed two or three colonies to control a single body, resulting in twisted and grotesque physical transformations.]


    "Why don''t they eat each other?


    [They have evolved through mutation.]


    The mutant destructive bacteria had ceased their cannibalistic behavior. Instead, they had managed to survive by hunting and consuming other infected destructive bacteria. It was unclear what would transpire if they were pushed to the brink of starvation, but they hadn''t reached that stage yet.


    "Can we win?


    I clicked my tongue in frustration and switched the screen. The war was raging on. Amidst the chaos, I spotted my sister battling the monsters. Her masked silhouette, brandishingl a sword charged with a crimson energy, was a sight that was hard to bear. The fact that she had been inbat for over 24 hours without a break made it even more distressing.


    [It''s uncertain at this point. ording to the analysis, the current opponents are just a small colony. There''s always the possibility of a more advanced megacolony appearing. Moreover, the legion''s energy reserves are gradually decreasing. We need to find a more efficient way to utilize energy or secure additional supplies.]


    "Ah, that''s a bit difficult right now.


    I focused on the surrounding sounds. Shouts and screams echoed from all around. Although they weren''t directed at me, it was still unsettling.


    "Oppa, are you okay?


    "I''m more worried about you right now.


    "I-I''m fine.


    Kang Do Yeon momentarily stepped back from the frontlines, a courtesy extended by the legion.


    "Express my gratitude to them. They''ll understand, right?


    "Of course.


    Turning a blind eye had its consequences. Even with her non-human body and the mask that reduced mental fatigue, her face was etched with exhaustion. I frowned at her state.


    "If I asked the legion to pull my sister from the battle, would theyply? She could take on a role like a librarian or something.


    [Would they, though? From the legion''s standpoint, Kang Do Yeon is an ideal leader. The legion believes in growth through struggle. This principle applies to you, and Kang Do Yeon is no exception. Under the legion''s protection, she is immune to death and can grow infinitely stronger through endless battles. This is the legion''s ultimate truth and the world''sw.]


    "Damn it.


    A bitterugh slipped from my lips. I had witnessed various rtionships between yers and units up until now. They ranged from dependablerades who leaned on each other, to mere pawns, to cherished beings who were nurtured and protected.


    One thing was clear: unless some method was employed, mere words held no sway over either the yer or the unit. Even if the legion esteemed my words above all else, they could still distort them to suit their needs, and I was powerless to stop them. Particrly since they had already established their fundamental values, and it would be the obvious choice for them.


    So, another method was needed, but I had no clue where to start.


    "They must be buying time. Those bastards.


    [Any more messages for your sister?]


    "But how are you managing? Is there Wi-Fi there?


    "Absolutely not. It''s all thanks to this app.


    Kang Do Yeon''s words made me survey my surroundings. This ce, where temporary barracks were erected, was the initial garrison chosen by the alliance forces. It was constructed to safeguard the gate linking Earth, and the troop deployment and barracks construction were still in progress.


    "I wish I could show you.


    I mused. This ce, the epicenter of the monstrous creatures, was a truly enigmatic experience. I had stepped into another world without even needing a spacesuit. The numerous stars and moonlight were bright enough to light up the barrennd of nothing but jagged rocks. I was momentarily awestruck at the sight of three moons suspended in the sky, like a scene from a fantasy novel.


    "I want to see it. The sky.


    "...You want to see the sky.


    I was taken aback. Who was it that truly yearned to see the sky? Was it Kang Do Yeon, who had been living in a cave for weeks? Or was it the legion, who had never once seen the high sky?


    "But what if your phone battery dies?!


    "Don''t worry. I found a solution just before it did.


    When the legion first triumphed over the destructive bacteria, my ount level reached 5. Honestly, I hadn''t given it much thought since leveling up only increased the number of slots and the amount of food I could provide. However, when I reached level 5, a new feature was added.


    [From now on, even without a phone, you can use the app by utilizing your corneas.]


    The first time I used that feature, I was astounded by therge screen that materialized before me, and the sight of the legion moving within it.


    "...It''s absurd that I wouldn''t be able to do anything without my phone. Besides, aliens wouldn''t use phones anyway.


    "Well, that''sforting.


    "Anything else you want to share?


    The question was posed to both my sister and the legion. I had wanted tomunicate directly with the legion as soon as possible, but they had refused, forcing me to use this roundabout method.


    "Well...


    The legion hesitated before responding. I understood they were trying to convey their intentions.


    *


    "You look bored.


    "Well... I''m not doing anything.


    "We can''t do anything until the base construction isplete. We need a safe ce to stay.


    Robert chuckled, toying with a card. I nced outside with a disquieted gaze. Even now, the soldiers and other people wereboring relentlessly. All we did was lounge in our barracks, idle.


    "Our job is to fight when necessary, not to dig the ground with shovels. We''re not soldiers. We''re mercenaries who get paid to do our job.


    "Right, I suppose.


    The mercenaries seemed unperturbed by the situation, as if it was routine for them. I sat quietly by their side, but I knew I couldn''t linger. Cha Ji Yeon summoned me.


    "Huh? The lightning girl?


    "Yes. I''ll go see her.


    "It''s unusual. Our mission isn''t with that lightning girl...


    Robert''s eyes widened in surprise, but another member, Sneaky, whispered something to him. Then, Robert looked at me with a smirk, his eyebrows and the corners of his eyes raised. It seemed he had a major misunderstanding.


    "Enjoy yourself. But, uh, try not to be too conspicuous. Ahem.


    "Don''t jump to conclusions. She''s a true professional.


    Cha Ji Yeon''s personality made the misunderstandingughable. She was undeniably beautiful and captivating, but after spending a few days together, there was no hint of a romantic spark. She was a busy woman, always engrossed in training, even at home. Park Joon Seok confessed that he couldn''t even look at her due to the admiration he felt for her dedication.


    "I called you because I wanted to see you.


    Upon arriving at her barracks, I was greeted with unexpected words.


    "I need to see the results of your training. You''re still doing individual training, right?


    "Ah?! Oh, yes. Of course.


    "It seems a bit morefortable now.


    She gave a faint smile. I was aware that the members of Evolution, herself included, were operating independently, despite technically being under the yer''smand.


    "Comfortable?


    "Until recently, I was a 24-year-old C-rank hunter with minimal experience. Now, I''m part of a separate squad in thisrge-scale operation. To be honest... sitting with people like the president and themander is both ufortable and challenging.


    "I see.


    I often forgot that she was merely a year older than me.


    "In that situation, conversing with someone my age, like you, Shin Woo, felt a bit morefortable. Park Joon Seok may be 29, but he''s a tad too cunning.


    "Do you want us to start speaking more casually?


    Without thinking, I posed the question. Truthfully, our excessively formal conversations had been bothering me. However, seeing her surprised expression, I hesitated, wondering if I had been too forward.


    "Should we?


    Nheless, she responded with a smile and agreement. Seeing her like that, I couldn''t help but return the smile. At this point, I couldn''t deny it. I definitely harbored feelings for her...


    [The legion has noticed your emotions.]


    "Ahem.


    Suddenly, a holographic text appeared before my eyes, causing me to cough awkwardly and flinch.

 Chapter 50: Legion VS Legion (4)

    Chapter 50: Legion VS Legion (4)


    All the bases have been set up, Robert said, his usually calm voice now serious. It was inevitable, as the chaotic preparation period hade to an end, and the real operation was about to begin. We had to carry out our mission.


    Once the operation starts, the troops will move. Our task, as you know, is to escort the researchers from the Evolution Corporation.


    Evolution was more than just a collection of units; it was apany integrated into society. They had sent researchers here, along with their primary force, the Step Up Hunters. Our duty was to ensure their safety.


    Cleaning up after a battle may seem like a simple task, but remember, this isn''t Earth. So, everyone, stay alert.


    Our gazes shifted outside. The barren wastnd, a bleak expanse of rocks and dust, remained unchanged even under the sun''s re.


    I doubt the entire ce is like this. Rumor has it that those creatures burrow underground.


    At that moment, a swarm of unmanned reconnaissance drones flew across the sky, their engines roaring, lust like the legion, reconnaissance was the basis of all actions. Especially in this uncharted world, even the relentless legion would halt their advance and explore first.


    Once the reconnaissance isplete, one of the pre-established ns will be executed.


    To be honest, it would be great if we could justunch a nuclear bomb or something. But one of the reasons we''re here is to rescue the kidnapped people.


    Not long after the reconnaissance drones took off, the main force began to move. So far, we hadn''t had to step in. I stared nkly at the departing vehicles. Cha Ji Yeon, Chris, and other key hunters were among those leaving.


    Do you think we''ll lose? The problem so far has been that we couldn''t attack first. The creatures that have been ambushing civilians are now facing our military.


    A man named Cox, one of the members, spoke with a grin. His words held weight. Indeed, numerous analyses predicted that Earth''s military would triumph when the two forces collided.


    I honestly can''t say. If they were the same mindless beasts as before, I''d agree. But the recent ones are... different. Robert had a keen intuition. I shared his sentiment; victory wouldn''te easily.


    Over a dozen monster species were presumed to be units. Having witnessed the extent to which units could evolve and strengthen, I refrained from making a rash judgment.


    [Indeed. The potential for growth. That''s the key advantage units and yers possess. Minor changes and opportunities can serve as catalysts, triggering explosive growth.]


    Words invisible to others filled my vision. Using my phone in such a dire situation was impractical. The screen shifted, showing the legion still locked inbat with the mutated destructive bacteria. They were in the process of exterminating the entities responsible for the annihtion of an entire world.


    This relentless war of attrition mirrored the previous one with the initial destructive bacteria.


    Kiii...


    These creatures possessed slender and agile bodies.


    Kyaaak!


    Each of them had four arms, all equipped withrge hooked ws, and a tail that functioned like a whip. The only differences were the lethal venomous saliva dripping from their mouths and the grayish-white hue of their exoskeletons.


    [These creatures are monstrous, mimicking the legion''s all-purpose units, yet they are distinctly different.]


    One of the creatures swung its hooked ws, slicing through an all-purpose legionnaire before sinking its teeth into it.


    These creatures were unhinged. Through repeated shes with the legion, they absorbed and replicated everything the legion had. In contrast, the legion had nothing to gain from


    them. They were creatures that had nothing to begin with.


    [Now, the only advantage the legion has over them is the use of Formative Force through their self-produced power engines in the higher-ranking units.]


    A wave of crimson energy burst forth, incinerating and scattering over a dozen infected ones, ravaged by mutated destructive bacteria. The energy surged from a sword wielded by my


    masked sister. As the enemy retaliated, two versatile legionnaires at her side raised their shields, deflecting the onught.


    However, the glowing ore affixed to her arm soon dimmed and fell off. The legion could utilize Formative Force instantly and without calction through their self-produced power engines, but this method necessitated constant recharging.


    [The overwhelming exchange rate gap is gradually narrowing. The legion waged this war of attrition, believing in this overwhelming exchange rate, even though they didn''t know the full scale of the enemy.]


    If that''s the case, we''re in trouble.


    [Indeed, the legion currentlycks reinforcements. If they lose, their power will diminish instantly. They must engage and emerge victorious.] A sense of dread washed over me.


    The legion, which had always seemed invincible, was now on shaky ground.


    And it was due to entities that could be considered their own kind. ''What can I do?''


    The question loomed in my mind.


    I had to find a way to navigate this predicament. Variable.


    I murmured, almost in a trance.


    The legion had already refined its most formidable soldiers using the data they had collected thus far.


    To advance further, they needed fresh samples.


    I wasn''t here without purpose.


    I had to assist the legion. *


    Sniff...


    A nose, simr to a dog''s, sniffed the air.


    A loud object whizzed across the sky.


    In the past, if they were merely simple creatures, they wouldn''t have understood.


    But now, they recognized it was not a bird but a mechanical contraption under someone''s control.


    [The pact has been sealed. First, we''ll eradicate the most troublesome entities. Proceed as nned.]


    A voice resonated in their minds. The figure at the front snarled, baring its teeth. With a gleaming gaze and a hyena-like demeanor, it walked on two legs, hunched over. They were once known as ''Nols,'' low-level demons that humans had mocked.


    Our name, Ashkroud.


    Contrary to the stereotype of being incredibly dim-witted, artictenguage flowed from their sharp-toothed mouths. The snarling figure activated a device on its wrist. Simultaneously, a faint barrier began to radiate around them. This device was a divine gift from their god. Their forms, shrouded by the undting barrier, gradually merged with the environment and began to vanish.


    Move.


    In their camouged state, they began to move silently. Their task was to lie in wait for the already gathering enemies and ambush them. The crescent-shaped sword in their hand gleamed menacingly.


    No abnormalities. No particr movement. Good.


    As the main force advanced, the control room that operated the drone provided a clear view of the enemy lines. It was as if they were observing the palm of their own hand. The scale is quiterge, but they''re just a bunch of low-level Nols.


    I''d love tounch a few missiles at them, but it''s overkill. No, I mean, it''s like using a sledgehammer to catch a dog.


    Themander''sughter echoed in the room, a natural response to the absurdity of the situation. The concept of a modern, heavily armed army losing to demons without proper weapons or equipment had been a topic of debate multiple times. It was aughable notion.


    ...Huh?


    That was until that moment.


    A brief sh illuminated the screen before it went dark.


    Ma, Major...? A junior officer, eyes wide with confusion, turned to him. But he was just as clueless about the sudden turn of events. The reconnaissance aircraft has been shot down.


    A foreign officer stated, pointing out the harsh reality. We''re in trouble! Our main force has been ambushed!


    120km northeast! A massive group has suddenly appeared and is rapidly advancing towards us! News of the unexpected ambush flooded in immediately after the aircraft was shot down.


    This is...


    Chris, they must have had a n too.


    The incident urred before they could even secure half of their intended territory. Cha Ji Yeon cradled a bottle in her arms, a gift from the yer meant to be used in a crisis.


    [They are units. Fight for now.]


    The yer''smand came through, and she promptly exited the vehicle.


    In that moment, something hurtled towards her forehead. She caught it with her bare hand, wincing at the sting. It was a heavy arrow, forged from solid steel. Shoot! Shoot them!


    How did they scout...cough...


    Gunfire reverberated from every direction. Soldiers fell in increasing numbers, their bulletproof helmets and vests pierced by sporadic sniper fire. The apanying armored unit retaliated,unching shells at the elusive, silent enemies.


    Look at that, Chris.


    ...It''s an elite.


    She indicated a lone Nol, arge shield clutched in its grasp. It deflected machine-gun bullets with its searing energy. The Nol unleashed its power, kicking off the ground, eliminating the machine gunner, and demolishing a tank with its shield.


    Let''s go.


    Despite the chaos of the unexpected ambush, she remained calm, her eyes alight with determination. She had anticipated this battle scenario. She understood the variables and diversification created by the interaction between the yer and the units. She had consistently warned the alliance force''s upper echelons to be cautious, but unless she mentioned the ''game,'' they dismissed her warnings about the demons bing stronger as mere fantasy.

 Chapter 51: Legion VS Legion (5)

    Chapter 51: Legion VS Legion (5)


    "Let''s move! We have our orders!"


    "But I thought the n changed. Are we still going?"


    "The battle is over for now. We just need to move quickly!"


    The base was in chaos. Contrary to the n, the enemy, who wielded a strong and mysterious power, had attacked the main force first. From what they heard, they had managed to repel the attack for now. And in this unexpected situation, the nned operation was carried out. Having been watching the Legion''s war, I finished preparing to leave faster than anyone else.


    "To be honest, I was worried that you might be a bit clumsy since you''re a young and inexperienced Hunter."


    "I was a bit surprised too."


    Cox, a fellow member, chuckled as he prepared his equipment. I mumbled a vague response. Right now, there was no need to think about anything else; the urgent truth was that I had to give the Legion the power to ovee the crisis as soon as possible.


    "Everyone, get in! We''re leaving!"


    The ck Snake mercenaries boarded the vehicles. The vehicle they were escorting carried researchers from Evolution Corporation. As I was about to boardst, I saw a group of people preparing to leave just like us. They were also researchers, and their escorts were soldiers.


    "They''re probably from a government agency."


    Cox muttered as he sat down with his gun.


    [The situation is critical. Their corpses will undoubtedly be our nourishment, but the cost is high. It''s difficult to crush them by producing more troops.]


    While traveling in the car, I continued to use the app to disy the screen in front of me.


    ''Can this be solved by just adding a few more monster samples?''


    The more I observed, the heavier my heart grew. The momentum of the mutated destructive bacteria was overwhelming.


    [Do what you can. The Legion will find the answer on its own. The Legion is angry, yet simultaneously, they are content. You should understand this by now. A crisis is an opportunity for growth, and no one knows this better than the Legion.]


    I nodded absentmindedly. Honestly, I wouldn''t have grasped this before. But now, I had certainly matured. Having experienced the difference firsthand, I could understand the Legion''s obsession with growth.


    "Get ready, everyone! We''re nearing the point!"


    Robert''s shout echoed through the radio at that moment.


    "Cox, Yan, head to the point and secure your positions. Sneaky, position yourself opposite Henson."


    The mercenaries promptly exited the vehicle and moved to their assigned spots. The researchers also disembarked swiftly and began their duties. I was tasked to stay with Robert in the center and act ordingly in an emergency.


    "What a disaster."


    Robert muttered under his breath.


    Indeed, the area was in chaos. They had hastily retrieved the bodies of their fallenrades, leaving the enemies'' corpses strewn about. Signs of battle, such as bullet marks and bloodstains, were scattered everywhere. I quickly scanned the area.


    All I could see at the moment were the corpses of low-level Nol monsters. Despite their rank, they were valuable samples. I needed to act fast and take photos.


    "Hmm?"


    "Captain! Come take a look at this!"


    Several team members called for Robert. Seizing the opportunity, I discreetly pulled out my phone, ready to capture the scene. The area was littered with bodies. I quickly scanned the surroundings and snapped a photo of a Nol monster''s corpse lying next to a demolished tank.


    "They were said to possess powerful skills and grow stronger. It''s likely a skill they acquired from a yer. But all we can extract is their gic information, and I can''t shake off the feeling that Nols are merely goblin-level. Will it be effective?"


    [We don''t know yet. Do you think that''s all we can gather from here?]


    An intriguing response to my internal musings materialized.


    Almost concurrently, my heightened senses detected something.


    A bone-chilling murderous intent. The aura of a predator.


    "Damn it..! Everyone, clear the area!"


    The ground trembled, and Robert''s warning reverberated.


    I instinctively leaped into the air.


    "Ugh..."


    I tumbled onto the ground.


    The earth erupted with a deafening bang, revealing something colossal.


    "It''s an ambush!"


    "Fire!"


    Gunfire resonated, punctuated by horrifying screams.


    I scrambled to my feet.


    The enormous beasts that had burst from the ground lunged at the resisting individuals in a sh.


    *


    [Take this. Your yer risked their life to bring you these creatures. They may have been average and weak, but their actions were not.]


    "Kraaah!"


    A colossal, living creature was teleported into the dark cave. Its body was long and serpentine, asrge as a dump truck, and equipped with powerful, sturdy arms. The creature was covered in solid blue-green scales, especially its robust head, which could withstand a tank shell fired at close range.


    "Kruk..."


    Confused by the sudden change in location, the creature looked around. All it could see were the half-melted corpses of Nols on the ground. Its sensory organs twitched.


    In reality, its pack had only sensed therge amount of blood in the ground and jumped out to eat their prey.


    [It seems to be trying to dig back into the ground, as it''s a subterranean creature.]


    The creature started digging through the flesh-covered ground with its strong front limbs and ws.


    "Quite useful."


    Suddenly, the creature detected a sound and turned its head, growling. A small lifeform, only the size of its head. However, it was surprising that it hadn''t noticed the presence with its sensitive sensory organs.


    "It can''t be helped. This entire nest is fme''."


    The legion moved the nest. Tentacles shot out from the writhing flesh walls, quickly wrapping around the creature.


    [Its strength is immense. The efficiency of its muscles in the same volume is more explosive than the legion''spressed muscles.]


    "It''s getting more and more appealing."


    The struggling creature began to break the tentacles. Then, a slightly different type of tentacle was fired. A rough, sturdy tentacle resembling a tree branch.


    "Kiiii..."


    A special tentacle, pulsating with a potent red energy, shattered the creature''s sturdy armor and burrowed inside. Once inside, it started injecting mutated bacteria. The legion had long since improved its own infectivity to counter the increasingly aggressive variant of mutated destructive bacteria, proving that destructive bacteria weren''t the only ones capable of learning and evolving.


    [As expected, it couldn''t withstand the toxin copied from the infectivity of the variant destructive bacteria.]


    The otherworldly monster''s internal organs were destroyed and liquefied, causing it to cease movement. It slowly copsed and eventuallyy motionless on the ground. The nest began to envelop the massive enemy with slime,pletely covering it.


    Producing new soldiers while stalling for time is inefficient.''


    On one side of the nest, a corpse covered in a thinyer of flesh resembled arge tumor. Meanwhile, the legion quicklypleted its calctions. It deduced that continuing the fight would be more costly than investing energy in immediate improvement.


    [Underworld Terrain Dog: 11A1087]


    Once the analysis wasplete, the legion began modifying the new troops. It injected them with versatile cells capable of rapid growth and immediately started the modification process. Soon, something writhing tore through the flesh covering it and stood up.


    The massive Terrain Dog, a creature that had survived the harsh and barrennd of the underworld, now sported even tougher ck armor. Its red eyes shed, marking its transformation into a more formidable monster.


    "Go and kill them."


    The new soldier, linked to the legion''s mind, immediately began burrowing through the ground, making its way to the upper floors.


    [We''ve obtained powerful data. Indeed, analyzing andbining the experiences of those who lived in various worlds seems to make us moreplete.]


    CC J?


    [Are you worried about him?]


    "His emotions are very turbulent right now."


    The legion stated nkly. Even just sensing his emotions, they could roughly gauge his current state.


    The Underworld Terrain Dog was not a unit but a native creature of that ce. He had once sent a photo of it to ovee a crisis, but now the legion, having analyzed the Terrain Dogs, knew that they lived in packs. Only one sample per species was allowed. Since they weighed tons, they couldn''t be sent as food either.


    [If he dies, you die too.]


    "I don''t care."


    The legion remained unshaken. They still hadn''t found a reason to live without him. Despite having read many books and umted knowledge, the philosophical essence of humanity brought no meaningful change to the legion, who knew they were different from humans.


    "...We''re feeling affection again. Why?"


    However, they frowned at his fluctuating emotions. At the end of his passionate emotions, he felt a flutter again. It didn''t matter to the legion whether the feelings of affection or goodwill were directed towards the opposite sex, the same sex, animals, or other situations. They were just bothered that it wasn''t directed at them.


    The legion turned and left their spot. Their face was still masked, but now their long, flowing ck hair gently swayed.

 Chapter 52: Legion VS Legion (6)

    Chapter 52: Legion VS Legion (6)


    Feeling anger, joy, and annoyance all at once?


    Kang Do Yeon, her mask half-off, gasped for breath. She was naturally in tune with the legion''s emotions. Soon, the nearby ground started to tremble. As she watched the fierce battlefield, a grin spread across her face. The legion''s secret weapon, which was about to disrupt the tedious bnce of the battlefield, was approaching.


    The mutated destructive bacteria seemed confused, their movements bing rigid. It was understandable. They had never anticipated an enemy bursting from the solidbyrinth''s ground. However, the legion, having captured and analyzed the abilities of the monsters in this world, had discovered their weakness.


    fIt may have been careless, but this is the end.''


    Simultaneously, the legion made a decision. The war with the mutated destructive bacteria had inflicted many wounds and taught the legion valuable lessons. For the first time, the legion, which had previously devoured and trampled everything in its path, was pushed back in terms of power. Their proud predation and gic maniption were also at risk of being reversed due to their negligence in development. As a result, they lost most of their reserved energy. They couldn''t afford to experience such a disaster again.


    [However, the legion was a unit. Their development could be influenced in any direction through interaction with a yer. Possessing a power that the destructive bacteriacked, the legion regained the upper hand. They were determined never to relinquish this advantage again.]


    The ground trembled and exploded as if detonated. The destructive bacteria nearby were torn apart and flung into the air. A new legionnaire burst from the ground, swinging its heavily armored arm and scattering the enemies.


    Phew."


    Kang Do Yeon, having caught her breath, joined the other legionnaires in crushing the enemies. Their swords, teeth, and ws were filled with a potent mix of intense anger and cold reason. From the beginning, the bnce hadn''t been overwhelmingly in their favor. However, now that a crack had formed in that bnce, the gap widened, and the bnce began to crumble.


    What? They''re retreating?!"


    [We already knew they had their own means ofmunication. The only problem is the possible existence of amanding entity controlling them.] Perhaps it was because they couldn''t react quickly to the sudden appearance of a variable.


    The mutated destructive bacteria, which had been ughtered and neutralized, turned their bodies around and retreated toward the upper floors they hade from.


    The legion did not immediately pursue them.


    [They had to consume all the remaining vegetation and the corpses of the bacteria to replenish their energy and reproduce the newly improved legionnaires.] A brief respite appeared in the midst of the unending war.


    ''You should rest too.''


    Ah, alright."


    The legion ordered her to rest.


    Her mask disappearedpletely.


    Kang Do Yeon walked unsteadily to the nest.


    Tendrils for nourishment supply approached her, and one of them plugged into her lower back.


    Ugh..."


    She shivered at the strange sensation.


    The initial disgust had almost disappeared, and now a peculiar pleasure began to emerge. ''Interesting.'' What is?"


    ''Your brain remains unaltered, just as it was when you were human. Yet, it''s evolving independently to align with the modified body that''s now part of the legion. Since all the systems that used to provide pleasure are gone, your brain has adapted to derive pleasure from nourishment. Otherwise, you wouldn''t be able to bear it.'' My brain?"


    Her heart plummeted, and she recoiled.


    Without thinking, she brought her hand to her chest.


    Her heart no longer pulsed.


    It had been substituted with a power engine.


    I am..."


    She bit her lip.


    Until this point, she hadn''t given much thought to her body being modified.


    She had preserved her life, and fighting for herself had ultimately benefitted her brother.


    However, she could only do this because she had faith in herself.


    Regardless of how much her body was torn apart and modified, she was convinced that her mind would stay the same.


    So, the revtion that her brain, which the legion had left untouched, was changing on its own to match her modified body was a massive shock. ''What''s the issue?''


    Naturally, she couldn''t object to this matter. She understood it all too well.


    For the legion, tearing apart, modifying, evolving, and battling to be stronger was a naturalw and rule.


    Let''s discuss something else."


    The legion approached her with its body while she was receiving nourishment, her face somber. Something else?" He''s developing feelings of affection again." Hey, it''s normal for a human to like someone." Human? But ording to the human knowledge he provided, the spectrum of human emotions..." My brother isn''t thatplex. He''s just an average guy."


    Kang Do Yeon shook her head in displeasure. The legion had shared all the information they had acquired, but she had rejected it. The experience of having knowledge forcibly imprinted on her brain was both awkward and mentally draining.


    Does he have a preference for long hair?"


    Ah, possibly. Cha Ji Yeon also had long hair."


    She swallowed hard. The mention of Cha Ji Yeon had acted as a minor catalyst. When the legion had asked her to describe a human face that he might find appealing, she had named Cha Ji Yeon, the most recent beautiful woman she had encountered in person.


    Well... in my opinion, she''s attractive enough. She wasn''t even wearing makeup."


    As the legion gradually made the mask disappear, revealing its bare face, she cautiously opened her mouth, stealing a nce at it.


    It''s not your opinion that matters."


    However, the legion put the mask back on.


    We stillck data. We definitely need more."


    There was a clear limit to self-improvement, a realization they''de to since they began enhancing the legionnaires. They couldn''t make a significant leap forward on their own. [They''ve started moving again. They already know that no matter how strong we be, they can change and evolve faster. And that they are more numerous.] What do we do now?"


    Kang Do Yeon shared the scout''s vision and fell silent. The destructive bacteria began to swarm again. They had been pushed back from the battlefield due to a brief variable, but they knew that if they fought to the end, they would win the war.


    I want to crush them, but it''s not efficient."


    However, the legion had already found a way to deal with them. Using the newly acquired Underworld Terrain Dogs, the legion copsed and blocked all passages leading to the upper floors.


    [Energy shortages aren''t just experienced by the legion. The destructive bacteria had to squeeze out their remaining power to transform and evolve in order to face the legion. But in the end, they have no energy reserves like us, as they have nothing to eat and resort to cannibalism. Moreover, they don''t have the ability to dig through the ground.]


    But if we do this, we''ll starve to death too."


    We just need to dig another path."


    The nest''s eggs were torn apart, and new soldiers emerged. The original Underworld Terrain Dogs were modified and strengthened ording to the legion''s style. They began to dig through the solid bedrock of the cave, not where it was originally dug, but in apletely different ce.


    [The mutated destructive bacteria colony was formidable, having obliterated an entire world. Through internalpetition, they evolved into even more sophisticated entities.] Their actions served as a jolt to the legion, which had becent due to their rapid progress.


    Yet, the legion was never an invincible force. They were perpetual challengers, striving to ascend.


    ...Right. Ultimately, it''s survival that strengthens us, isn''t it? It''s an ecosystem."


    Kang Do Yeon also understood the intention and smiled bitterly. The detection organs of the Underworld Terrain Dogs and the legion''s detection organsbined, allowing them to pinpoint the enemy''s location and the structure of the cave through minute vibrations and sounds. The legion simply dug a detour to avoid them. There was no need to confront the endless enemies. It was enough to wait until they starved to death or turned to cannibalism and then finish them off.


    Or we could just bring everything down."


    Kang Do Yeon mused, seemingly lost in thought.


    It''s entirely within our capabilities now."


    The legion''s eyes glinted momentarily, contemting the proposition Kang Do Yeon had put forth.


    The concept of copsing the hive was something they could have executed even in their weaker state.


    However, the hive had expanded as they ascended, rendering the idea seemingly unfeasible.


    But now, the circumstances were different. They had soldiers capable of burrowing through the solid bedrock of the cave.


    They could also harness the exceptional power of Formative Force.


    But what if we inadvertently cause a total copse?"


    Detection, surveying, nning, and calction are all feasible."


    Moreover, they possessed the knowledge to devise intricate strategies, a testament to the mathematical, scientific, and engineering knowledge that the human race had cultivated over thousands of years.


    Their physical lips curled upwards, and their collective mood brightened.


    The drawbacks of emotions and self-awareness were inefficiency and inconsistencies in applying knowledge. Yet, the sub-mind they had tried to utilize had proven its worth, highlighting aspects the legion had overlooked.


    Proceed to the designated point and await mymand."


    The legion deployed dozens of soldiers capable of digging. They explored and surveyed all points simultaneously, performing optimal calctions on the spot. A formidable force capable of causing a total copse was also dispatched.


    [Feeding, growing, evolving. These are merely means to an end, insufficient for satisfaction. The ultimate goal is to be absolutely powerful in every aspect.] And to annihte those variant bastards. We will seize everything."


    Themand center of the destructive bacteria colony was shrouded in mystery. The war between those who fed and evolved continued to rage. The victor of this battle would consume


    everything the defeated possessed, growing stronger after iming it all.

 Chapter 53: Legion VS Legion (7)

    Chapter 53: Legion VS Legion (7)


    Destructive bacteria. A cmity that had infiltrated and annihted all living creatures hundreds of years ago, even in this subterranean world. The destructive bacteria trapped underground had evolved independently, transforming into the mutated destructive bacteria. They were formidable, their ability to mimic and replicate through potent infectivity, capable of consuming any animal, was a skill exclusive to the mutation formed by the assembly of several small colonies.


    "Kruk.


    Among these variants, one stood out. The first mutated destructive bacteria. It had ruled over its kin with its formidable power until now. However, the crisis it faced was undoubtedly more lethal than any it had encountered before.


    Grrr...


    One of the colossal variant creatures roared and hurled its body against the tightly sealed entrance. But the barricade held firm. They were disconcerted. They had never faced such a predicament in the countless battles they had fought. The idea of altering or copsing the terrain had never crossed their minds.


    The Moonlight Elves had resisted and fought in such a manner, but that was due to the unknown power of Formative Force being harnessed. They never anticipated a creature capable of matching them in infection and physicalbat to possess such abilities.


    They had no allies, no one pulling the strings behind the scenes, and no one to help them. The mutated destructive bacteria, which hadnt yet grasped this concept, found themselves in an impossible situation.


    The colonys leader sensed the tension. They werent fools. If they couldnt descend, there was no alternative. They didnt choose to ascend because they knew what awaited them. The atmosphere shifted subtly. The mutated destructive bacteria under itsmand began to eye each other warily. They thought that if they consumed all their kin here, they coul<^ survive for hundreds more years after a period of intense hibernation.


    The leader snarled, baring its teeth. The alliance between the colonies, stable until now, was on the verge of disintegration.


    Kue...


    But just then, something fell from a nearby wall with a rustling sound.


    ''The legionnaires havepleted their task. Now, if you target the weakest point, you can bring down the entire 45th floor, where their main force is situated. Understood.


    Kang Do Yeon stood at the designated spot, ready for the next set of instructions. The legion had manipted the upper floors using its tunneling ability, effectively weakening the ground. They had already detected many on that floor using their sensing abilities. If they could bring down the entire floor, they could incapacitate them all at once. Even the most tenacious among them wouldnt be able to resist if their bodies were crushed.


    Hoo.


    She exhaled, raising her sword. Her power engines, now fully replenished, kicked into gear. The energy they emitted began to condense into the sword. The crimson energy burning on the sword surged. The most potent method for the legion to unleash its firepower was to concentrate all its energy on one point and trigger an explosion. She aimed her sword at the target point. Almost simultaneously, the energy condensed in the sword was released in the form of a beam.


    Ugh!  fEvacuate.


    The moment the beam made contact, it triggered a massive explosion, and a huge shockwave shook the area. Her power was not that strongpared to the vast hive. However, it didnt end with a simple shockwave. Following the path the legionnaires had prepared based on the legions precise calctions, the shock began to cause a chain reaction.


    The structures that had been acting as pirs were shattered or burst one after another. The ceiling rained down dirt and dust with cracking sounds, and the broken walls scattered debris.


    [It would be the first time since the Moonlight Elves. A being that changed the terrain of thisbyrinth.] Kuk...


    In a situation where the intense vibrations made jumping difficult, Kang Do Yeon, with her senses heightened to the maximum, managed to run without falling or stumbling. She threw her body forward with all her might. She thought she heard a scream, but it was the collective noise emanating from the copsing ceiling.


    ''The n is a sess.


    Without needing to look, she could see it. How many mutated destructive bacteria were mixed in the rubble that was now copsing with a thunderous roar?


    Ugh... Get up. Did youe yourself? It was an odd thing to say, considering all the legionnaires were essentially the legion. But she couldnt help but think that way. She rose, hands sped together, and recoiled at the gleaming gaze from behind the mask.


    Our first formidable adversary, yet simultaneously, the one who can bestow upon us a tremendous gift.


    The legion moved past Kang Do Yeon and headed for the ruins. In these ruins, where two stem floors had merged into one, mutated destructive bacteria still lived.


    Ugh!


    One of them emerged from the rubble, crawling out - the leader of the Mutated Destructive Bacteria Small Colony. Its body was unusuallyrge, bearing an uncanny resemnce to a human, perhaps even a woman. However, its flesh, reimagined in the style of destructive bacteria, was far from the appearance of a typical human.


    Do you really believe the strongest form is human? The human form is too frail without Formative Force.


    The legion sneered. It was a creature of the same breed, its aplishments far surpassing those of the legion currently struggling to ascend thebyrinth. Yet, while the legion


    had surged forward, it had remained stagnant for centuries, ultimately leading to its downfall.


    Being of the same species, they understood that without continuous growth and development, they would eventually be failures, discarded, and extinct.


    Do you n to fight directly?!


    Kang Do Yeon was filled with dread as she grasped the legions intent. It was out of character for them to propose directbat, considering they had been manipting each of their members up until now.


    Yes.


    However, this time, the legion took direct control of its body. They couldnt identify a reason for this change. They simply acted on their emotions.


    Then, senior... Ill take everything from you.


    As the legionnaires, poised for the attack, readied themselves, the main body also gathered its strength. Kruk?!


    In the climactic battle between the surviving destructive bacteria and the legion, something charged in, burrowing deep into the colony leaders body before it could react.


    The twisted creature tried to extract it, but this time it wasunched from the opposite side, embedding itself in its leg. Then, it skewered its back, neck, arm, waist, and so on. The moment it flinched, it found itself riddled with something resembling a ck, sharp awl. At the end of it, a sparkling red ore radiated light.


    Is that...


    [The legion has developed abat method using its body through its research.]


    Kang Do Yeons eyes widened in surprise. The ck awls were all ejected at once. Under the desperate screams of the destructive bacteria, dozens of awls moved simultaneously. [Using the transcendentputational power that controls the legionnaires, they simultaneously execute dozens of attacks in an instant. Now its in the form of thorns, but theres a lot of potential for development.]


    The legion remained motionless, with ck and red energy emanating from the soaring awls. They carved deeper holes into the leaders body. ''Why did I harbor such emotions?


    The legion deftly dodged, evading the enemys swinging hook hand. Simultaneously, a flying awl pierced the enemys chest once again.


    A powerful hand flew in, but it didnt even graze them. The oue was already sealed. The more the destructive bacteria struggled, the more wounds marred its body. A new emotion.


    With one hand, the legion grabbed the enemys neck and mmed it into the ground, pinning it down. Their limbs morphed, securing the enemys body firmly in ce.


    The eyes of the two monsters met. Simultaneously, a fierce battle of infection ignited at their points of contact. However, the result was different this time. The infectious power of the legion began to overpower the weary and wounded destructive bacteria.


    Starting from the gripped neck, ck bloodlines spread through the enemys blood vessels. They had chosen this inefficient method for a reason. Their intent to finish off the destructive bacteria with their own infection and erosion was evident.


    Gah...


    Disappear, you useless, obsolete trash.


    Watching the enemy sumb to the ck bloodlines, a smirk involuntarily curled at the corners of their mouth. The legion was awash with a profound sense of ecstasy.


    Fighting, consuming, and evolving were the legions natural instincts. There was no logical reason for them to feel ecstasy, yet they did.


    This is fun.


    A ripple of excitement ran through the entire legion. Given that all their emotions had been derived from their primal instincts, this was an extraordinary urrence.


    [...Todays events will be recorded in history. Have you found another reason to live now?]


    The war had ended. The legion had won. Since themanding unit had been destroyed, the remaining mutated destructive bacteria were no longer a group.


    We must devour everything and ascend, ascend.


    The legion looked up, eyes aze with anticipation. The 45th floory in ruins, and the entrance to the 46th floor beckoned from above. They sensed there was more toe; the variants couldnt possibly be this limited.


    The legion yearned for more battles against the mutated destructive bacteria, eager to evolve and grow stronger with each encounter. *


    [The legion has emerged victorious. The power of the destructive bacteria, once our greatest threat, is now ours.] I need to... examine this more closely... [Theres no rush. We have time.]


    The legions victory was a fortunate turn of events. My faith in them hadnt been misced. Now, the most crucial factor was me.


    Mr. Robert.


    Ivee to express my gratitude. Thanks to you, several of our young ones survived. Are you... continuing the mission? Absolutely.


    Robert entered, his face shrouded in gloom. The heavy atmosphere left no room for words.


    The attack by the Underworld Terrain Dogs had been so sudden and dire that my recollection of it was hazy at best.

 Chapter 54: Legion VS Legion (8)

    Chapter 54: Legion VS Legion (8)


    "Ah...


    The moment it emerged from the grounds my body froze. It was a monster-a colossal beast.


    "Ugh!


    A scream from someone jolted me back to reality. I quickly scrambled to my feet and retreated. In a sh, the monster-s mighty hand mmed into the spot where I had just been standing.


    [It has chosen its prey.]


    "I know!


    I didn''t have time to focus on the flickering text. I swiftly evaded the raging monster and activated my only learned skill: body enhancement through Heavenly Soul Art. It was the sole ability I had barely managed to grasp in a short time, but it didn-t seem sufficient to vanquish the beast.


    "Is it a unit? lust tell me that!


    [Try it out.]


    If it wasn''t a unit, I could devise a strategy to handle it without resorting to the One-time Assassination Right. I nced at the pandemonium around me, triggered by the monster''s abrupt appearance, and whipped out my phone. I had conserved the battery for moments like this.


    fPlease.


    It wasn-t a tool I could use repeatedly. If it failed, it would be a nightmare. Thankfully, my fears proved unfounded. The monster, which had been emitting a bone-chilling roar that vibrated the ground, disappeared with a click. It wasn-t a unit.


    [It''s thergest and strongest of the living samples we''ve sent. Watch the legion hunt it down.]


    "Fine, I trust you. But I don''t have the time to watch right now.


    I lowered my gaze and put away the screen. Despite the monster that had been attacking me vanishing into thin air, the surrounding area was still chaotic.


    [Then hide and ensure your safety.]


    "I can''t do that either.


    [Your life is not just your own.]


    "You-*re right.


    I let out a bitterugh and moved my trembling legs. I wasn-t trying to hide.


    "I hope the connected legion understands the meaning and purpose of my actions.


    I ran towards the people under attack. It was a reckless move, but then again, following them here in the first ce was reckless too. This wasn-t just about me.


    "You are...!?


    "Let''s go.


    The mercenaries-* bullets couldn''t harm the monsters, but their tear gas made them falter. I seized the opportunity to rescue people. Since I couldn''t inflict any damage on the monsters anyway, I might as well save someone.


    [Your actions are pointless and dangerous. I rmend you flee immediately...]


    "What are you going to do about it? I''m going to act ording to my will!


    I raised my voice, looking at the rising text. The foreign researcher, who didn''t understand my Korean words, flinched in surprise.


    "I recognize that the legion has its own values. However, the game isn''t over. There''s still a chance. The legion''s actions and the gates that open by our will bring disturbing thoughts to my mind.


    fThe legion is highly influenced by me.''


    Hence, I decided to demonstrate one crucial thing through my actions: not to view humans and this world as mere prey, but to acknowledge them as living beings sharing my existence.


    I even believed it was preferable for the legion to maintain its fixation on me.


    "Actually, it''s better this way. A monstrous colony that mechanically dissects everything in this world and the universe, destroying and ughtering for its own nature, is far worse than a jealous child. Some might argue that if the legion develops emotions and self-awareness, they will be more vicious and destructive. But I disagree. There has to be another way.


    [If you truly believe so, act ordingly. You''ll eventually discover what''s right.]


    Their response made me frown. I thought I had caught them off guard, but they replied without hesitation, as if they had been anticipating it.


    "Ah, excuse me...!


    "Stay put!


    I rushed to the mercenaries who had been left behind after the remaining researchers were evacuated. Blood was everywhere, and one side of his upper body was severely torn. Panic took over, and I was at a loss for what to do.


    "It''s toote for me.


    "But...


    "You''re a rookie, aren''t you? Is this your first time witnessing death?


    Even on the brink of death, he managed a weak smile. Then, with trembling hands, he grabbed my arm.


    "Tell Robert to keep his promise to look after my family. He''ll survive anyway. And... remember, this kind of thing ismon.


    "I understand. I will remember.


    "Then... that brings somefort...


    His arm, which had been holding mine, suddenly lost strength and dropped.


    I clearly saw the life fading from his eyes.


    "Go, help the others.


    "...Yes.


    And that was hisst moment.


    Surprisingly, the shock wasn''t too great. Or maybe it was, and I just didn''t realize it.


    Regardless, I found myself getting up and running again.


    [The legion has already be a formidable existence. Do you really think you can guide such a being? Being a yer doesn''t make you superior to a unit.]


    "I don''t have a giant brain, so I don''t know. I just do it.


    On the contrary, my belief that I should step forward became even stronger.


    After that, I continued to drag the injured to the rear, holding a gun and drawing the enemy''s attention to buy time.


    "Alright! Let''s retreat! Retreat!


    Covered in someone else''s blood, Robert bellowed for a retreat after I informed him that the others had been evacuated. He discarded his grenadeuncher with a curse.


    "Ah, damn it.


    "Ugh...


    Suddenly, another one of them obstructed our path. We instinctively recoiled, knowing we were in no condition to confront it.


    "Kieeek!


    That''s when she emerged. A soldier who darted from behind the beast,nding a precise blow to its head with the sword in her hand.


    "Everyone, clear the path!


    As we scrambled to evade the thrashing monster, our eyes locked for a fleeting moment.


    *


    "Get ready again. Incendiary grenades are more effective than the useless ones, so we should gather more of those.


    Robert patted my shoulder before stepping outside.


    Reflecting on my recent actions, I realized my reputation had improved significantly. My frantic scrambling in the face of an unexpected situation had left a positive impression. Even Robert had stopped calling me a newbie and criticizing my ipetence.


    [Don''t try to carry a burden you can''t handle.]


    "Why are you talking so much now? Are you nervous?


    I asked, taking a moment to check on the legion. I wasn''t sure if my intentions had been conveyed, but my heart was racing for some reason.


    "Disappear, you useless, obsolete trash.


    Silence.


    On the screen, the legion was engaged in their final battle against the mutated destructive bacteria. Their overwhelming presence was palpable, and I could sense their excitement and agitation.


    "Well, it''s possible.


    I murmured, blinking away a momentary dizziness. It was clear that the mutated destructive bacteria were enemies that needed to be eliminated.


    "We must devour everything and rise even higher.


    The victorious legion''s mutterings as they looked up gave me pause. It wasn''t a simple desire for supremacy. I could feel the intense emotions they were experiencing. My heart pounded, my blood boiled. This was madness.


    The situation seemed to be evolving in a direction entirely contrary to my intentions. I couldn''t let that happen. I had already made my decision. The legion had to remain fixated on me. They had to focus solely on me. They couldn''t break free from my control.


    "Are there any injuries? No injuries?! Why did you intervene instead of fleeing quietly?!


    "Phew, I''m fine.


    I managed to regain myposure and watched as the legion quickly concealed their form. I chose the right moment to speak. As soon as Kang Do Yeon heard my words, she became concerned and shouted in frustration.


    "Calm down, I''m fine. You''ve endured worse than I have.


    "I''m fine. I don''t even feel human anymore. Lately, it feels good while I''m eating with tentacles...


    "No. You''re still human.


    My face hardened at the self-deprecatingughter, and I spoke with conviction.


    "But...


    "It doesn''t matter what your body is like. That''s not the crux of the matter. What''s important is your own thoughts, regardless of how you were born or how you''ve changed.


    I addressed both my sister and the legion. My intent was the same as when I told them I had been saved by people. Even if it was just sugar-coated words, I couldn''t help it. I wanted them to somehow grasp my intentions.


    Did they truly understand? I desperately wanted to have a direct conversation, but I couldn''t if they were unwilling.


    "By the way, your emotions seemed to waver again in the middle.


    Suddenly, my sister, who had been observing closely, changed the topic. It was now evident. The legion had prompted her to say that.


    "Did you feel affection? It''s nothing. As I''ve mentioned before, I''ve received assistance from several people during crises. It''s just the emotions I felt towards them.


    I brushed it off as if it was nothing significant. I stressed the importance of people''s help as much as possible. That I needed people and they had to be present because I was merely human. Even if the legion felt envious, I hoped they wouldn''t disregard them for my sake when they eventually arrived on Earth.


    "They are irreceable to me.


    I suppressed augh at my sanctimonious statement. Kang Do Yeon, who had been standing still, made a strange face as if she was staring at a lunatic. I could feel my face heating up.


    "You''re saying some interesting things.


    I was taken aback by the voice I heard and quickly closed the app in front of me.

 Chapter 55: Legion VS Legion (9)

    Chapter 55: Legion VS Legion (9)


    "Uh..."


    "Pm sorry, I didn''t mean to eavesdrop. I''m Yoon Soo Ah, a lieutenant. Actually, I''m from the regr army. I applied for the special forces to participate in the expedition."


    She took off her beret and chuckled. Her short hair, tied in a bun, shook slightly.


    I was flustered and couldn''t find the words to respond. Cold sweat ran down my back, worrying about what would happen if she found out I was a yer.


    "By any chance, were you recording your voice? Don''t worry, I only heard thest sentence."


    "Ah...voice recording?"


    Fortunately, she didn''t seem to suspect ''that.'' Instead, she nced at the cell phone on my makeshift desk and made a wild guess.


    "Yes, something like that...simr..."


    Of course, from my perspective, it was a relief that she misunderstood. Inadvertently, I became an emotional person who recorded voice logs on the battlefield. Unlike me, who was embarrassed to death, her eyes sparkled with interest.


    "It''s a bit embarrassing."


    "No, I think it''s fine. That kind of thing."


    "But...why did youe here, Lieutenant?"


    Come to think of it, this woman entered without knocking. Or maybe she did, and I just didn''t hear it.


    "I just came to see you. Even though we were in the middle of a fight, it left a deep impression on me."


    "I feel the same way."


    The memory of her fighting the Underworld Terrain Dog was still vivid in my mind.


    "I just did what I had to do. But I have a good eye for people. I know from experience that saving someone is harder than fighting."


    As she looked at me, her eyes shone. It was an unexpected and surprising interest that I hadn''t anticipated.


    "Were you a hunter? Whichpany were you in? Or were you a frencer?"


    "...I just started working right before this."


    "So, you came here right after awakening?"


    She was the one who initiated the conversation, showing interest in me. I responded calmly to this unexpected interaction, not ruling out the possibility that she might be a hidden unit or yer.


    "Why? Oh, I''m sorry if that''s too personal."


    She perched on the desk, her smile warm and inviting. Despite our conversation, she didn''t strike me as someone with malicious intent.


    "I guess you could say I seized the opportunity."


    I used the excuse of avenging my past enemies for the public. She looked surprised, ncing at me in the same way Chris did, her tongue darting out to moisten her lips.


    "I''m sorry."


    "No, it''s fine. Isn''t that the case for everyone? Even ordinary soldiers are volunteers."


    "...You''re right. Actually, I''m one of them too."


    Her face fell for a moment, and I fell silent. After all, Yoon Soo Ah, an ordinary B-rank hunter, had volunteered for this expedition.


    "I lost my family to those monsters."


    "May they rest in... No! They must be alive. It hasn''t even been a week since they were taken."


    Her eyes shed with determination, the intensity of her resolve palpable.


    "So...we will definitely go and save them."


    "Yes."


    I nodded, unable to voice anything more hopeful or pessimistic. Her smile lightened the mood, and our conversation continued. Before parting, she assured me we would meet again.


    "I was happy with what you said."


    Her parting words reverberated in my mind, leaving me stunned. I had chosen to act on behalf of the Legion, and consequently, a new connection had been forged. I questioned whether this was eptable. With a heavy heart, I reopened the app.


    [The Legion has offered you an offering.]


    However, before I could fully open the app, something seemed to be waiting for me to be alone, and it appeared before me.


    "The legion''s power engine."


    [To be precise, it''s closer to the divine stone used by the Moonlight Elves.]


    I picked up the red ore that had materialized before me. It was smaller than what I had seen in the app. The usual size was about the size of a fist, but this one was less than half of that. However, unlike ordinary power engines, this one had intricate patterns engraved on it.


    "What is this for? What''s its purpose?"


    [The basis is Heavenly Soul Art. Haven''t you already learned it?]


    "That''s right."


    I had already learned how to handle mana stones from Cha Ji Yeon. I channeled my power and infused it into the ore. Yet, there was no change in the ore.


    "It''s not a failure. It''s just set up like this."


    [It''s an item that can detect yers and units. The principle is like a string. When you inject power, it detects the subtle strings of souls and emits light. At the same time, it can also block any scanning power trying to detect you.]


    "...Impressive."


    I couldn''t help but admire it. It was an item I desperately needed and had the best utility.


    "Then I should give something back. What should I give?"


    [Do you really have to give something?]


    "Yes. I might have hesitated before, but not anymore."


    My intention was clear. Their primary goal was the growth of the Legion. They had used me effectively so far, and now they would want the Legion to let go of its attachment to me and be a frenzied predator. But I couldn''t let that happen. I wouldn''t let go of the Legion now. Even if the administrator tried something again, it wouldn''t matter. I had already confirmed that my will as a yer was the most important thing.


    "I feel like I haven''t taken care of them enough."


    With that thought, I felt a pang of guilt for making them conscious and worried.


    So, it wouldn''t hurt to give them a carrot, right?


    *


    "Hey, I''m not trying to steal it."


    "I know. I''m not really on guard."


    "I''m seriously losing my mind."


    In the legion''s nest, a disagreement was brewing between the two. Kang Do Yeon, lounging casually, spat out the snack she was munching on. It fell to the floor and dissolved as if melting away. The same thing was happening to the legion, who was currently chewing on a snack with only its mouth exposed. However, the legion was also tightly clutching something else.


    ''What on earth is oppa thinking?!''


    Kang Do Yeon was internally frustrated, unable to voice her thoughts. The cause of her frustration was Shin Woo''s sudden change of attitude towards the legion''s obsession, which had been bothering him for a while.


    ''It''s like...he''s really raising a daughter.''


    Her troubled eyesnded on the item the legion was holding. It was a small doll, a ''gift'' of sorts. It wasn''t anything special. She couldn''t even guess how he had found it in that ce. Of course, it wasn''t important what he had given. What mattered was that ''he had given it to the legion.''


    Kang Do Yeon scratched her head, unable toprehend. He had given the legion a doll. And the legion didn''t doubt his intentions for a moment.


    ''It''s obvious he knows something.''


    But she didn''t. She had sensed that her brother had noticed that the corps had built itself and was hiding it. but she hadn''t caught on to the full extent of it. It meant that the mediator, who was responsible for the ry, had also sided with Shin Woo instead of the legion. So, her confusion only deepened. The current actions were shaking the still-unstable legion''s psyche and strengthening its attachment. Despite her curiosity, she was holding back, thinking that there must be some meaning behind it all.


    [The scouts have discovered something.]


    "Very intriguing."


    At that moment, following the battle, the legion''s scouts who were exploring the upper floors stumbled upon something.


    [There were logical inconsistencies. The mutated destructive bacteria were potent. Naturally, they were born from consuming the same destructive bacteria, so they shouldn''t have experienced an energy shortage. There are still many infected bodies, and thisbyrinth is vast. Yet, their behavior was peculiar.]


    "They should have spread everywhere, but they acted as if they were obstructed above. It''s also odd that they all congregated on the 45th floor."


    The legion had already noted these anomalies and kept them in mind. After they had eradicated the mutated destructive bacteria and finally secured the area below the 45th floor under the legion''s control, they discovered it on the stem of the 46th floor.


    "I can''t believe it..."


    Kang Do Yeon gasped in surprise.


    [An unidentified, yet powerful creature.]


    "It''s definitely a mutated destructive bacterium. But it''s different from the rest."


    It was clearly alive but didn''t disturb the legion''s scouts. It resembled a massive lump of flesh, a mutated destructive bacterium formed by countless infected bodies merging together. However, its appearance was slightly different from the more powerful and ferocious mutated destructive bacteria on the lower floors that had formed groups.


    "It''s not hostile?"


    "We might be able tomunicate with it."


    The legion sensed something from the massive body. For a moment, curiosity overcame the legion''s instincts for war and predation, and they directed their infectious cells towards the giant mutated destructive bacterium. It didn''t resist.


    [Proliferating Infectious Mutated Destructive Bacteria Megacolony: 6N0987]


    The creature''s information was registered in the legion''s database. The existence of mutated destructive bacteria megacolony, which they had suspected might exist, was confirmed.


    ''It won''t be hostile.''


    In a partially assimted state, the legion could interpret the other party''s intentions. A giant creature formed by hundreds of destructive bacteria megacolony


    merging together. But this massive being was dying. Ultimately, it was for the same reason as the mutated bacteria on the lower floors: energy shortage. In fact, shriveled and twisted tissues were scattered around the giant body.


    [The great legion had the ability to forcibly manipte nearby destructive bacteria megacolony and draw them in. It was natural for the lower floor mutants to be terrified. In a way, it could be considered the ultimate existence in cannibalism.]


    An existence that had grown from the first to the strongest. However, ironically, the most powerful mutated destructive bacterium, which had absorbed all other destructive bacteria except for those on the lower floors dominated by other mutants, was now choosing to die.


    ''Why?''


    The legion, having partially read their thoughts, couldn''tprehend it. As a legion that valued survival and evolution in any situation, it was even more iprehensible.

 Chapter 56: Legion VS Legion (10)

    Chapter 56: Legion VS Legion (10)


    "Why would they willingly choose death? [We are currently investigating that.] Lying t on my bed, I stared at the ceiling, watching another world unfold before me. A video of my sister, Kang Do Yeon, and the masked legion appeared, along with a massive form that seemedrger than the mansion itself. The legion still clutched the doll I had sent. "I see. How foolish.


    The legion chuckled soon after, seeminglymunicating with the destructive bacteria megacolony.


    [The Destructive Bacteria Megacolony is a collective entity, formed by the convergence of hundreds of individual destructive bacteria colonies. This union has endowed them with the ability to think beyond their inherent nature.]


    "Thinking beyond their nature, huh? So, if theyve chosen to quietly ept death, what led them to this decision?


    "... We are merely remnants of the disaster that once dominated this world. The upper floors are now oveing trials, living in a new era with new rulers. But we have no more potential for growth.


    As if it had heard my question, the legion answered directly. I didnt quite understand at first. The remnants of the past and the new era.


    [The destructive bacteria that once ruled the entire world are now extinct. Those trapped in this undergroundbyrinth are all thats left. As a ruler who had overthrown an era and established a new one, the Destructive Bacteria Megacolony knew their reign hade to an end.]


    "So...they just gave up because they knew it was futile? Is that even possible? What on earth is happening up there?! Of course, even with additional exnations, I still couldnt understand.


    [Isnt it the same for humans? Instead of resisting and being defeated, dont they give up and ept death quietly to preserve theirst bit of honor?] "Thats... "Dont make meugh!


    My mouth snapped shut at the sharp shout. At the same time, I felt a surge of intense emotions. These were the legions emotions. Right now, the legion was angrier than ever. [To the legion, it was an absolutely iprehensible and uneptable concept. It was natural to fight until thest cell remained.] "Uh...


    Caught in a maelstrom of raw emotions, I managed to regain myposure, my focus returning to the screen. My sister was equally engrossed, her face a mask of animated intensity. "Loser, garbage! The legion expressed its fury in the only way it knew how.


    "How dare they? Our destiny as beings like them is to devour any enemy thates near and fight until the end.


    The legions hand trembled. They had recognized the mutated destructive bacteria that had once plunged them into crisis as their own kind, and had developed a bond with them. Consequently, it was infuriating to see these bacteria, asrge as the megacolony itself, remain so frustratingly passive, neither resisting nor retaliating. It was a situation they simply could not tolerate.


    "We never stop. We never be extinct. We always evolve and be stronger.


    [The legion made a decision. They would dispose of this useless, extinct trash and move forward.]


    Unnoticed, the legions nest, which had devoured the lower floors, began to rise slowly. It was clear that they intended to devour the whole megacolony entirely. [They will never retreat from any enemy. They will destroy everything and devour everything. That is the legions will.]


    I closed my mouth. It seemed like I was reaffirming the essence of the legion once again. A predator with an insatiable appetite to devour the entire universe, born solely for that purpose.


    [They will never stop. They will devour everything.]


    "Its strangely confident.


    A bitter smirk yed on my lips as I watched the text rise. Could I alter or control that entity? I was nothing more than a speckpared to the legion, and the legion was only going to growrger.


    Yet, I yearned to prevent it from bing a creature that only knew destruction and ughter.


    "It has finally developed a sense of self. From a human perspective, its not far-fetched to say that it was born. Do you truly, genuinely, only desire the legions growth? [-] This was for me, for the world, and for the legion.


    [Tentacles from the nest lunged at the megacolony.]


    The tentacles of the nest had evolved. Thick, pulsating branches, teeming with life, burrowed deep into the enemys body, releasing a swarm of infectious bacteria. [The maximized infectivity, a consequence of the war with the mutated destructive bacteria, started to spread rapidly throughout the entire body.] ck veins erupted instantly, sporadically appearing within the massive flesh. "Resist.


    The legion whispered, observing the scene unfold. Yet, it epted the onught without any reaction. The legions emotions surged once again. [[[[[I said. Resist!!!]]]]]


    And finally, those emotions detonated. A massive shockwave swept through, and the enemys body exploded, causing cracks to form on the chambers walls and floor.


    I squeezed my eyes shut. It was an explosive force, driven solely by anger and mental waves. The only reason I wasnt swept away was that my sense of self was stronger and more stable than the legions current state.


    However, as the legions sense of self expands and stabilizes, theres no way I can triumph over it with my mental strength alone. "I need to improve myself too.


    I drew in a deep breath. There was no time for rxation or surrender. To control the legion, I needed to be equal or superior in at least one aspect. * "Our researchers were attacked?! "Rx. Thankfully, there were hardly any casualties. The mercenaries took a hit, but the mission was a sess. "The mercenaries... what about him? "Hes safe. Chris, the bearer of the news, clicked his tongue and shook his head. Regardless of his reaction, Cha Ji Yeon exhaled a sigh of relief.


    "Kang Shin Woo, right? The rookies performance wasmendable. The actualbat was handled by the Korean special forces alongside him, but he quickly assessed the situation and rescued a significant number of people early on. "Is that so?


    "His name has been making rounds, and his reputation has improved. But it was a narrow escape.


    Chriss smile disappeared, his expression turning serious. An attack was an attack, no matter how well they managed it. "Since we ventured into this world without fully understanding it, damage was probably inevitable.


    Cha Ji Yeon voiced her thoughts in a bitter tone. They had been separated from the main force just prior. The main force had struggled to advance and managed to secure a position near what was presumed to be the enemys base. There were several battles during this process. Some were gueri attacks by the enemy, while others were assaults by non-enemy entities.


    "At first, I assumed they were units. But even the simplest beasts were terrifying. I honestly want to leave as soon as possible. "I see. She gave a slight nod. Though she had willingly fought monsters, she didnt relishbat. Her motivation for bing a hunter was simple: to protect people from monsters. "Attention, everyone! Movement detected up ahead! "Finally.


    Just then, someone approached their vehicle. It was another hunter from Evolution, assigned to guard duty. He wasnt a unit, just a regr hire. Sensing the start of the action, the two quickly exited the car. "Whos out there? "Looks like the Nols.


    The guard handed his equipment to Chris. Cha Ji Yeon didnt need it. Using a spell, she conjured a semi-transparent formation in front of one eye. This gave her the power to see the essence of the target, allowing her to spot those hidden in the stealth field.


    "Seems they cant see us.


    Chris nced at the sky. A semi-transparent barrier, simr to the one used by their enemies, enveloped the area. "Whats the n? [Isnt it clear? Theyre units. Eliminate them.]


    As Chris mumbled, a voice echoed in their minds, as if it had been lying in wait. "Youve been busytely... "But there are too many of them. [The yer has purchased new power from the store.]


    At Cha Ji Yeons warning, the yer immediately offered additional support. She recoiled, her eyes widening at the tingling sensation coursing through her body. [Its a blood cirction technique, a way to maximize magic power used by other races. Its a primitive method, but its useful in emergencies.] "Damn... it hurts like hell. Look at this, my blood vessels are bursting.


    Chris chuckled, showing his injured hand. Cha Ji Yeon gritted her teeth and swallowed the pain. Such difort was, of course, irrelevant to the yer. "Lets move. Mr. Leckman, hold your position and fight at a steady pace. "Understood! After issuing instructions to the others, she and Chris left the area.


    "Judging by their actions, it seems theyre nning a surprise attack on the main force... We should get something from the allied forces, right? Were saving their lives, after all.


    "Focus on the fight for now. "The real war begins.


    Chris chuckled lightly, while Cha Ji Yeon kept her stern expression intact. Both drew out their power. Together, they emerged from the barrier that had concealed them.


    Before their opponents could even react, Cha Ji Yeon made her move. Rising from the ground, she unleashed a massive bolt of lightning from her body and plunged headfirst into the enemy ranks.

 Chapter 57: Entangled and Unraveled (1)

    Chapter 57: Entangled and Unraveled (1)


    "This... this is unbelievable..."


    His breath came in ragged gasps, his voice trembling. He had just awakened, his grip on reality still shaky, but he had managed to run as fast as he could to get here.


    At least I can catch my breath now.-


    He barely had time to catch his breath and steady his thoughts. He had managed to shake off his pursuers, and now the surroundings were eerily silent. The ce he had rushed to was a dense forest, filled with twisted, demonic trees.


    Phew, if I can wake them up, they should be enough to serve as escorts.''


    His escape had been frantic, but he hadn''te here without a n. This ce was a sealed area, a ce that contained beings like him from the past. His intention was to


    awaken the dormant forces here and bolster his troops to counter the rapidly changing situation.


    "Awaken! Loyal hounds of the Demon Army!"


    He channeled his magic and activated the spell that was ced on the sealed area. The spell began to work, emitting light. A faint smile yed on his lips. Those buried here


    were elites, recognized for theirbat prowess. They would undoubtedly provide the power to figure out what was happening in thisnd.


    "Good. With this, I can deal with those despicable traitors..."


    A smirk crossed his face as he watched the pitch-ck armors slowly reveal themselves. The summoned soldiers naturally retained their appearance from the past.


    "Huh?"


    But at that moment, something tore through the air, grazing and even shattering'' his horn.


    "Aaaaargh!"


    In extreme pain, he clutched his shattered horn. The sound of ripping air reached his ears btedly, his face contorting as he twisted his body.


    "You... bastards! How dare you, you lowly creatures!"


    The ones who had ripped away the horn of a high-ranking demon were the lowest of the low, creatures unworthy of even mingling with. They were low-ranking demons. They were known as Nol'' to some humans, creatures that toyed with them. The issue was that these creatures were the ones who had tried to ambush him just after he had awakened from the seal.


    "Our name is Ashkroud."


    "Wh-what..."


    He was shocked twice over: firstly, by the fact that the Nols had silently crept up behind him without his notice, and secondly, by their ability to speak.


    What the hell is going on?''


    Only then did he take a closer look at their appearance. They undoubtedly resembled the Nols he remembered, but something was different. Their equipment, the mysterious weapons they held in their hands.


    "We don''t have time to waste. Kill him quickly."


    At that moment, an unusually tall figure among the Nols removed their hood. His face twisted grotesquely upon seeing the hooded figure. It was a creature the Earthlings called a Kobold'', another low-ranking demon.


    Fire!"


    As the Nol leader gave themand, a barrage of bullets began to rain down.


    Gritting his teeth, he quickly channeled his magic to create a purple barrier in front of him.


    Therge and powerful bullets, capable of piercing through Earthling''s armored vehicles, cracked the barrier but couldn''t break through.


    "I, Karka, Legion Commander of the Demon Army, refuse to fall to the likes of you!"


    Karka''s body levitated slightly as he unleashed his power, his magic ring around him. It was a disy of power fitting for one who had once led his legion to conquer an entire continent.


    [Ordinary bullets won''t prate that kind of power. Use beam weapons.]


    "Beam."


    Themand reverberated in the Nols'' minds. The new weapon, now prepared, aimed at Karka''s body, which was enveloped in zing magic.


    "Die, you lowly creatures!"


    [...How amusing. I wonder who the lowly one is.]


    A blue beam shot from the aimed barrel, colliding with the massive fireballunched by Karka. His eyes widened in shock as the beam disintegrated the fireball, shattered the protective barrier, and pierced through his body.


    "Too easy."


    That was the end. One of the Demon Army''s Legion Commanders, who had just awakened from a long slumber, was easily ughtered by the very low-level demons he had once dismissed.


    "Now, it''s your turn."


    "I know."


    The kobold snickered, showing no interest in Karka''s corpse, even though he was once a high-ranking demon they wouldn''t dare to face.


    "Huh... So this is the extent of the Demon Army''s magic. Such crude, lightweight spells that fail to grasp the true essence of potent magic."


    A radiant power unfurled, tracing intricate patterns. The kobold stepped forward, swiftly hacking and reversing the ancient spell that had been released from the seal but had not yet designated amander. He did this right in front of the Demon Army''s hunting dogs.


    "Now, your new master is not the Demon King, but me."


    The kobold chuckled,manding the troops that now pledged allegiance to him. The name of the Demon King was once an absolute authority for those who inhabited thisnd. But not anymore. Now, they had entities even more formidable than the Demon King.


    "Hmm. It''s a waste to just discard it, isn''t it?"


    The kobold sneered at Karka''s miserable corpse on the ground and jabbed it with the staff in his hand. At the same time, the corpse''s hand twitched and moved.


    "Fight for the great Demon King, even if it means bing a rotting corpse. For now the people of the Otherworld havee with their legions, and y those who disturb the Underworld."


    The enchanted corpse convulsed violently as it rose.


    "Keep your promise."


    "I know. It''s an agreement between yers. How could we betray it?"


    lust before parting, the kobold nodded at the Nol''s words, seemingly annoyed. They were now nning to attack the Earth Alliance Forces together. It was a strategic choice to defeat arger enemy, even though the units'' rtionships were fundamentally ipatible.


    *


    "Isn''t this a breach of contract? We were supposed to stay at the garrison and escort the researchers after the battle..."


    "Well, technically, that ce is also a garrison."


    On the road, marred by the tracks of armored vehicles and tanks, Robert sighed, silencing the grumbles of his team members. In truth, there was nothing to protest. Our mission was to escort the researchers, who were also bound for the front lines.


    "Isn''t it dangerous?"


    "I consider it a mission."


    The researcher, who had introduced himself as Antoniv after I saved his life, admitted his fear but insisted on the necessity of his task.


    "There''s a lot we can learn if we research and analyze them. In fact, we''ve discovered many ways to counter them so far."


    "That''s true."


    I couldn''t deny it. It was only because of the thorough research and analysis that we could effectively counter them. However, what bothered me was that they were no longer ordinary demonic creatures. The legion had received my help and undergone a series of evolutions beyondmon sense, eventually subduing the ancient and powerful destructive bacteria. It was precisely that extraordinary change and growth that characterized units and yers.


    "Lately, there have been many strange urrences, but we''ll figure it out."


    I remained silent, observing his attempt to cling to hope. I tried to understand my position. I was merely a civilian with limited power. Even if I wanted to intervene, it was a job forpetent individuals like Cha Ji Yeon''s yers. Military vehicles were also in motion alongside us. State-affiliated researchers were part of our convoy as well.


    "You don''t need to worry."


    "I''m not particrly worried..."


    "We will undoubtedly prevail. Even if we were to be ambushed en route, our firepower is more than sufficient."


    The half-baldmander confidently reassured us. His assertion about firepower was likely urate. The issue was that firepower wasn''t the only factor in this war.


    "Overconfidence often leads to problems. Just recently, our superiors discovered and eliminated an enemy ambush unit."


    "Don''t jinx it."


    I entered the assigned barracks ahead of Robert, leaving him to endure Cox''s reprimand. I then retrieved two items from my bag. The one in my left hand would alert me if there were any units or yers nearby. Fortunately, the ore didn''t glow. The item in my right hand was another protective offering from the legion.


    "What is the legion doing now?"


    [They''re still focused on exploring. They haven''t finished digesting the colonies yet.]


    "...What about reconnaissance?"


    [Once they''ve fully digested the megacolony''s body, the passage blocked by the body will be essible.]


    The legion had calcted for efficiency, deciding not to waste energy digging a detour while physically disassembling the megacolony. Instead, they opted to explore other areas during this downtime. This decision was facilitated by the Underworld Terrain Dogs'' ability to detect terrain.


    [Now, with that detection ability, the legion can sense even the slightest underground currents and has decided to dig into the walls where they found something unusual.]


    The legion decided to excavate the area, and with the assistance of dozens of mining-type legionnaires, they quickly opened a path.


    "...Could it be a newbyrinth?"


    What they discovered was a tunnel. Another space, uncertain whether it was connected to our current location.


    "Kyaaak!"


    A familiar destructive bacteria-infected creature lunged at the legionnaire.


    [This worked well. It''s an opportunity to test whether we can use the mental reaction ability against the same race that we obtained from the destructive bacteria megacolony.]


    Of course, ordinary destructive bacteria were no longer a threat to us.

 Chapter 58: Entangled and Unraveled (2)

    Chapter 58: Entangled and Unraveled (2)


    "Ugh...ugh...


    "Is it working?


    I watched the unusual behavior of the infected creature on the screen. The creature, previously charging wildly, stopped abruptly before colliding with the megacolony. It began to whimper, much like a puppy in the presence of its mother.


    [The destructive bacteria megacolonymunicates simrly to the hive consciousness of the legion. The mutated megacolony has the ability to maximize this.]


    This was a form of telepathy, an ability the legion had also acquired. The situation was reminiscent of a previous battle with the guardian spirits of the Moonlight Elves, lust as the moth, the leader of the guardian spirits, had momentarily disrupted the legion-s hive consciousness through a spiritual attack, the legion was now interfering with the mental system of the destructive bacteria colony.


    The infected creature whimpered, staggered, and finally copsed. The legionnaires promptly dragged it into their nest.


    [The destructive bacteria will no longer resist us. They will serve as nourishment.]


    The destructive bacteria, once thrown into the nest, began to be digested. The enhanced infectivity, a result of the battle with the variant, allowed the legion to devour it instantly.


    "This psychic reaction ability can be used in other ways, right?


    [Although there is no suitable application yet, it is certainly possible. The psychic reaction, based on the legions immense mental power, is potent. It far surpasses the megacolony.]


    I


    The infected creatures charged mindlessly. It was a pivotal moment when the legion gained another weapon and a new source of nourishment.


    "Of course, reconnaissancees first, right?


    [Yes, they have dispatched scouts now.]


    Having observed the legions behavior for a long time, I was familiar with their patterns. As anticipated, they immediatelymenced their exploration activities. There was no reason to dy reconnaissance. Real-time reconnaissance using hive consciousness could ovee all the disadvantages of such activities.


    The small map, originating from the lower level of the hive, gradually expanded. Before long, it all became the body of the legion, their nest.


    "What are they doing now?


    I switched the screen, covertly observing the legion as they interacted with my sister.


    "I won!


    "...Lets y again.


    They were engrossed in a card game, a gift I had presented. Despite their superior intellect, they seemed to enjoy a game based on chance.


    "Alright.


    My sister chuckled, shuffling the cards again and dealing them. The gleam in their eyes behind the mask sparkled as they scrutinized their hand. Theirpetitive spirit was as fierce as when they were in battle.


    [The legion had the ability to see and hear everything Kang Do Yeon did. However, they chose to block that information for a fair game. They were a proud entity and wouldnt stoop to such tricks to win a card game against Kang Do Yeon.]


    "...It may seem trivial, but its nice to see.


    [Is this the picture you wanted?]


    "The madness for growth and obsession with me are good, but there should be times to rest.


    Honestly, I didnt know. I wasnt an expert, nor had I experienced it. The same applied to my sister, who was now bonded with the legion. The only thing I was certain of was that


    I wanted to show the legion other forms of happiness besides devouring.


    I cared for them as if they were my own child. They were as important to me as a child would be.


    "Let me know if there are any unusual findings. For example, what was on the upper floor that made the destructive bacteria megacolony give up on devouring? Or whats in the newly


    discovered passage?


    I turned off the screen and grabbed the items the legion had given me before stepping outside.


    *


    "Hello?


    "Ah... Lieutenant Yoon.


    As I exited the barracks, I bumped into Lieutenant Yoon Soo Ah, already fully dressed in her military uniform.


    "Its an emergency. Im a soldier.


    "Ah, right.


    Her yful smile showed no signs of tension.


    "Honestly, I wish we could fight sooner. Isnt this dragging on too long?


    Her eyes sparkled as she gazed towards the enemys base. I simply nodded in agreement.


    "Damn...


    "Finally. Ive heard rumors. They might strike first. So, make sure you survive and see it through to the end.


    As if on cue, a loud siren began to wail throughout the temporary garrison. The siren was a frantic, pulsating red light, signaling an imminent enemy attack.


    "Lieutenant!


    "Yes?!


    "If you end up inbat, be careful. Never let your guard down. You never know what kind of tricks theyll pull, whether its magic or something else. Always stay alert!


    I offered her the best advice I could as she sprinted away. I hoped she would heed my words and trust me.


    "Move! Theyreing!


    "Quickly, over here!


    I sprinted in the opposite direction of Yoon Soo Ah, heading to my designated position. Robert, who had been waiting for me, handed me a gun.


    "lust in case.


    "I understand.


    I epted the gun, though I had hoped I wouldnt have to engage in directbat. Of course, I trusted the power of the ore I was clutching in my arms more than the firearm.


    *


    "Have those monsters gone mad...?


    The enraged Allied Command was in an uproar.


    The enemy, who was under real-time surveince, had tantly begun their march.


    "Theyre about to enter our artillery range!


    "Are there any signs of them approaching from another direction? We dont need air support, do we?


    Their attitude was so confident that it left themand bewildered as they had been fooled several times before.


    "Could it be another trick?


    "No signs of nking. Weve run both infrared and sonic detection!


    "And the detectors from Evolution?


    "Theyre working fine.


    They were thoroughly prepared for the possibility of a feint. But it wasnt. The Demon Army was genuinely marching straight towards them.


    "Those bastards!


    Naturally, they were livid. They had hesitated momentarily due to the enemys enigmatic tactics and guerri warfare, but they were confident they wouldnt be pushed back in a direct confrontation. The thought of being underestimated by the demonic creatures, even if they had been slightly deceived, was intolerable.


    "Theyre dividing their forces! lust shy of our firing range...!


    "We should bombard them immediately!


    The Allied Command deployed their most potent artillery first. The cannons of the stationed artillerymen were simultaneously trained on the enemys coordinates, and theymenced firing.


    "Fire!


    They unleashed their assault without a second thought. As the shes of light cut through the sky, the demonic creatures began to scramble in panic. The firepower of the 155mm shells was undeniably a strain for them, despite their vaunted spells and equipment. Soon, the entire screen was consumed by explosions.


    "...Whats the oue?


    "Damn it.


    The dust settled after the initial bombardment. At least half of the exposed ones should have been obliterated. Themanders face twisted in frustration. In the end, the enemies had suffered casualties, but not as many as expected.


    "Theyre charging straight at us now!


    The enemies movement was nothing short of a provocation. As soon as the pre-nned bombardment ended, they began a mad charge towards the center before the next round of bombardment couldmence.


    "Could it be...?


    A lone Kobold at the forefront shed a sinister grin. As soon as they were within range, he unleashed a Spatial Leap spell. A vast magic circle unfurled before them, transporting them directly to the bases doorstep.


    The enemies, having covered tens of kilometers in an instant, charged fiercely towards the base without losing momentum.


    "Reload and bombard again...


    "But theyre too close! Their main force isnt using that strange magic circle, theyre just charging straight at us!


    "Deploy all forces to defend the base right now!


    Pandemonium ensued in themand center. All standby troops were dispatched to their assigned defensive positions.


    "Sergeant Jeong, those bastards...


    "Just shoot them all! Shoot!


    The soldiers at the scene fired their guns in a frenzy at the enemies who had breached their defenses in an instant. Even those infused with the power of darkness could fall under the relentless barrage of machine-gun fire.


    "Ah...


    In the midst of the chaos, some particrly formidable figures emerged. Radiating magical power from their entire bodies, they decimated the soldiers with their ming swords and unleashed magical power. Personal firearms were ineffective against them, and they were too nimble and small to be targeted byrger weapons.


    "Keep firing at the others. Well handle these ones one-on-one.


    In that moment, a young private, overwhelmed by the sight of the advancing enemy, clutched his helmet and charged forward. For situations like this, Lieutenant Yoon Soo Ah and the


    other hunters had been on standby. Each faced off against a formidable enemy, unleashing their unique abilities in a surge of power.

 Chapter 59: Entangled and Unraveled (3)

    Chapter 59: Entangled and Unraveled (3)


    Pretty tough, arent they?


    Yoon Soo Ah managed a strained smile as she deflected the enemys sword. Her special ability was [Severance], a power that imbued her sword with the force of cutting. Thanks to this powerful trait, as long as her sword touched the enemy, there was never an issue with its attack power. The problem was that the enemys magic was simr to her ability, a formative force. She had never encountered any monster that used this kind of power before, so she was engaged in a precarious battle with this new type of enemy.


    Damn.


    She stumbled backward, outmatched in strength. The real problem was the escting strength of the monsters. She knew she would face many more battles like this in the future. fI have to ovee this.


    With grim determination, she dug her heels into the ground. Backing down wasnt an option, not with the stakes so high. She blocked the enemys massive ck greatsword and lunged forward swiftly, keeping her body low.


    Haah!


    In the brief moment the enemy failed to react, she swung her sword upward, shing a long gash across their breastte. Her Severance ability exploded forth, and the enemys breastte began to crack under its force.


    Ive got this!


    She was certain of her victory, of her potential. Her heart pounded with excitement.


    More of them areing! Theyre Nols and Kobolds!


    Yoon Soo Ah turned her gaze to the glowing magic circle in the distance at the sound of the surrounding shouts. The magic circle was spewing out monsters relentlessly. Filled with newfound confidence, she charged towards the most formidable-looking enemies, under the cover of the soldiers suppressive fire.


    Surely... surely the base wont be breached?


    I dont know. Damn it, why isnt anything going ording to n?


    In the heart of the base, amidst the ceaseless cacophony of gunfire and shouts, Robert, currently on standby, lit a cigarette, perhaps in an attempt to soothe his frayed nerves. The other mercenaries mirrored his grim expression, all of them on edge due to the enemy that persistently defied the Alliances predictions.


    Why didnt they just finish this with a missile or a nuclear bomb?


    Even in this dire situation, they wouldnt resort to such extreme measures. The real question is whether it would even be effective now. I wouldnt be shocked if those monsters started wielding phasers. Theyre already employing bizarre magic, so why not?


    As seconds turned into minutes, the anxiety only grew. I was not immune to this. Despite my desperate attempts to remain calm, fear was still fear.


    [Unit Summoning Ticket xl]


    This was myst resort, a secret weapon only visible and usable by me. The issue was that it was indeed my final option. Summoning it here and now, considering the potential consequences, would be sheer insanity. I couldnt use it unless I was on the verge of death or if the base defense waspromised.


    The defense...!


    The defense has been breached! The elite monsters are breaking through! It seemed my worst nightmares were bing a reality.


    Fall back! Our mission is to escort the researchers!


    Without hesitation, Robert guided the researchers to the back of the base. The chaos escted.


    Good. The Apaches should be able to wipe them all out, right?


    The pandemonium escted as thebat helicopters surged forward,unching a salvo of missiles and machine gun fire.


    However, when the enemy lines fired blue beams that shot down all the helicopters, my heart plummeted. I tightened my grip on my gun. [The legion is ready to step in for you at any time.] Not now. It cant be now.


    The base hadnt yet fallen. To rely on the legions power in front of all these people would be a grave mistake. [So you can only watch as people die.] Shut up.


    I clenched my teeth. Apromise between reality and desire. In the end, I didnt use the summoning ticket. Not even when the tanks hastily blocked the path. Not even now, as the enemies bypassed the trembling artillery fire and advanced towards the base. I constantly reminded myself of my primary goal - survival. Survival from the enemies and from the legion. Everything I was doing was for that purpose. If I drew attention here and things went wrong, it would be the worst mistake. I wanted to save it for a more dangerous, worst-case scenario.


    It looks like well have to fight too.


    Robert muttered, sweating nervously. The base, manned by tens of thousands, was vast. The front line, where the defense was hastily reinforced, was being pushed back, and it didnt seem like the left and right nks, where the artillery was positioned, would hold much longer.


    It seems like weck the hunter forces to stop their special forces. ...If you want to go, you can. Ill make sure you get your pay. Huh?


    Coxs words seemed to have been misunderstood, as Robert nudged my back. Flustered, I had no choice but to move. This was my job. If I didnt step up here, the strongest justification I had given to the legion would lose its power.


    fI could just lie and say I stepped up...


    Of course, I hesitated. And since the legion could only know what I told them, it seemed possible to deceive them.


    [Are you confident?]


    But my weak heart was shattered by the words that appeared before my eyes. I took a deep breath and dug my heels into the ground.


    Make sure to tell them! Tell them the choice I made, and how much I hate those monster bastards!


    I ran towards the left side of the base, where the enemies were approaching. I had made up my mind. It wasnt just about the legion, the monsters were my enemies too. Helping people wasnt just about building a simple justification either. *


    [He joined the allies and fought against the attacking enemies, helping the people. Compared to the enemies in ck armor attacking from the front, these were somewhat weaker. Their special forces using formative force were also only capable of weak enhancement spells. It seemed like they knew the artillery would be concentrated on both sides, so they deliberately sent in weaker forces as bait.] Hes now...


    Is my brother okay?! Is he safe?!


    Unable to contain herself any longer, Kang Do Yeon raised her voice while listening to the ry.


    Ugh...


    The legion quieted her, unable to soothe her distress. A mask, formed only around her mouth, concealed her lower jaw and lips.


    I can interpret the torrent of emotions. Excitement, extreme excitement, relief, and then excitement again. He just killed an enemy, didnt he? [Yes. He shot a Nol that was attacking a soldier with the gun he was holding. Now, another one, covered in Formative Force, is charging at him.] And the result?


    [He calmly leaped back, smashed its head with the butt of his gun, and kicked it away. He snatched the sword it was holding and struck it down.]


    Hes fighting well, but I dont understand.


    The legion frowned behind the mask. They wanted him to survive, to fight and be stronger for that purpose. But he wasnt fighting to be stronger.


    Why?


    For the legion, the purpose of fighting was solely growth and predation. Therefore, the concept of fighting to help and save someone was hard toprehend. Especially knowing his sincerity through his flowing emotions.


    Ugh! Ugh!


    At that moment, Kang Do Yeon tapped her mouth.


    Seeing this, the legion removed the mask.


    There isnt... just one kind of fight, you know.


    Protecting someone? Why? Its natural for the weak to be eliminated and eaten. Its thew of life. Dont try to impose human values of life on me.


    I dont know about that, but anyway, oppa is trying to teach you. His thoughts. Are you going to ignore that too? She carefully opened her mouth.


    However, the value of the new ideology that the siblings were trying to teach was hard for the legion to understand.


    [If you dont understand, keep watching. He fights for you, and for his beliefs.]


    Its not conducive to growth... but Im unsure. It would be quicker for me to be stronger and assist him. If I consume all the humans, he wont have to protect anyone. Thats certainly not what oppa desires. He would be heartbroken.


    Kang Do Yeon was desperately trying to reason with and guide the legion, fully aware of her role.


    [A formidable-looking man appeared before him, aiding the injured. The gear he wore was far from ordinary. When power was supplied to the de in his hand, it began to emit a


    blue glow. The device in his other hand generated a bluish energy field that defended against bullets.]


    ...Im unsure about everything else, but I yearn to chew up and swallow all those primitive furballs someday.


    The legion was seething with rage. Kang Do Yeon did not suppress this anger, the resentment towards the monsters. The legion was somehow epting one of the lessons the


    siblings were trying to impart.


    [He utilized the offering you provided. The power engine of the legion, created by the energy of the modified sacred tree. It merely radiates energy, but that was sufficient. The enemy was obliterated by the explosion, shield and all.] I should contribute more.


    Sheughed at the news that he had in an enemy using the weapon she had provided. Fearing that the mask might be donned again, Kang Do Yeon chose her words carefully


    thereafter.

 Chapter 60: Entangled and Unraveled (4)

    Chapter 60: Entangled and Unraveled (4)


    "Damn..."


    A massive explosion. I staggered back, retreating.


    The Nol, which seemed to be an elite, was engulfed by the explosion and died on the spot. I saw it clearly. The blue energy it used as a shield. Among the others armed with crude cold weapons, there were some that stood out. I didn''t know what world they were from or what they were, but it was clear they were special creatures that had received gifts from a yer.


    "For now, I''ll take these."


    I said, collecting the ores that appeared along with the vibration of the phone hidden in my pocket. The legion was watching me, helping me. I had to fight like this, to show them my intentions.


    The maximum number of legion ores that could be transmitted at once was three. I was well aware of the substantial amount of bio-energy required to create just one. Each step was a crushing burden.


    Suddenly, I hurled one of the ores with all my strength at a Kobold that was causing havoc just above the base wall. I had been observing it for a while as it cast a strengthening spell on the Nols.


    Despite the barrage of projectiles - machine guns, grenades, rifles - that wereunched at it, the creature defended itself with a shield. The ability to withstand the artillery fire while charging at us was likely due to these spells.


    "Ah!"


    "Another explosion..!"


    The sessive explosions caused our troops to waver. The tool, which had eventually exploded by detonating the energy within it all at once, seeded in eliminating both the pesky shield and the Kobold.


    However, this was a war. A great war where tens of thousands of troops shed with each other. I hesitated for a moment as I saw the endless stream of theming at us. The crude walls we hastily built were easily ovee by them.


    "The front has been breached... we''re under..."


    "What? Breached?"


    In addition, the sounding from the radio of themunication soldier next to us gave us even greater despair.


    ''Be prepared.''


    I steeled myself. We couldpletely lose here.


    At the moment, we were up against a coalition of two forces. The first were the lower-level monsters we referred to as Nols, and the second were the Kobolds,parable to goblins. However, as the goblins demonstrated in our previous encounter, they operated as a unit and had received assistance from a yer. The extent of their power remained unknown.


    One thing was clear: they had a formidablemand system. Despite the relentless machine gun fire and bomb sts, they advanced without hesitation, trampling over the bodies of their fallenrades. Their strategy was simple, yet undeniably effective.


    Our hunter force, tasked with blocking their special forces armed with gifts and spells, was too weak. They twisted their bodies, broke through the fire, infiltrated our ranks, and ughtered the soldiers.


    "You bastard..."


    I kicked a Nol that was trying to harm the machine gun shooter and engaged in a power struggle. The creature had also enhanced its body. Despite its small stature, its strength


    wasparable to mine, even though I had augmented my body.


    Barely pushing its arm away, I used my slightly longer legs to kick it back. I then relentlessly struck it with the sword I had taken from them, until it was dead.


    I managed to deal with one, but honestly, I saw little hope.


    "Everyone, we need to retreat! They''re too many!"


    "But, but..."


    I urged the soldiers to retreat quickly, but the fieldmander hadn''t given the order yet.


    "But, Hunter, we have to hold our position, protect the cannon. We have to keep firing."


    Someone stepped forward at my words.


    A sergeant, who was a forward fire control officer, already wearing abat uniform soaked in someone''s blood.


    "That''s our duty. We are soldiers."


    His voice trembled, but his eyes did not.


    I also had a hunch. It was time to choose. Whether to fight with them until all those monstrous bastards were killed, or to run away now.


    Of course, I''m a reservist, but here, I''m a civilian, not a soldier. In fact, I''m not even a mercenary. I''m just a college student who was taking an exam a month ago.


    "...Please shoot the ones I point out first."


    At the end of the momentary silence, I grimaced.


    [The moment a college student bes a true warrior.]


    "Don''t talk nonsense! This is..."


    [Have you ever considered that this might be your true nature?]


    Suddenly, I found myself gasping for breath as I ran.


    Me, a warrior? The idea wasughable. I had been thrust into this role, forced to be a yer in this game.


    [Didn''t you dream of fighting after gaining power?]


    "What do you know?"


    I retorted, cleaving the head of a charging Nol with my sword.


    A hot, ufortable sensation washed over me, as though a secret had beenid bare. He wasn''t wrong. But I hade to terms with reality early on.


    "How am I supposed to defeat them? It''s a suicide mission, isn''t it?"


    I muttered, a hollowugh escaping my lips. After all, I was the one who had leapt into the fray first.


    Before me, a horde of enemies squirmed.


    "Clear the path!"


    That''s when they arrived.


    Those who were far more deserving of the title fhero'' than myself.


    A massive wave of fire erupted, scorching the air.


    In an instant, the curtain of mes swallowed the enemies whole.


    The power of fire, incinerating even the most rudimentary enhancement spells in a single blow.


    South Korea''s S-rank hunter, Ji Chang Hyun. A figure I had only seen on TV just brushed past me. *


    "Why did they suddenly retreat? Even if there was an S-rank among us, there were only twelve hunters who came as reinforcements."


    "I heard the reason."


    In the middle of the base, where the wounded were being treated, Robert returned with a pale face after going somewhere.


    "Our superiors. You know? Chris Baker, Cha Ji Yeon, those two. Right after the reinforcements arrived, they led their teams and attacked the enemy''s base."


    "Just two...no, leading a single squad?!"


    Everyone was taken aback. They tutted at the audacity anduded the bravery. However, I grasped the motive of Cha Ji Yeon, or rather, the yer pulling her strings.


    fTheyck a formidable yer equivalent to an S-rank hunter.''


    This insane game was utterly unbnced. No yer or unit was allowed the opportunity to switch their initial partner. Nols and Kobolds were fundamentally the lowest


    rank monsters. Regardless of the amount of equipment bestowed upon them or spells they were taught, their strength was limited to their numbers.


    fThey likely waited for Ji Chang Hyun and his group to arrive, banking on the One-time Assassination Right.''


    At this juncture, could they have two? Three? Or possibly none at all? That''s why they bided their time for Ji Chang Hyun to muddle the targeting before making their move. If they


    seeded, it would be a lucrative farming opportunity. Even if they failed due to the assassination right, from their viewpoint, they had merely lost two pawns.


    I wasn''t sure what kind of alien they were, but their strategy was impressive.


    "Where are you going?!"


    "...I need a break."


    "Uh, rest well today."


    Robert didn''t stop me, perhaps because my expression was quite bad.


    However, the ce I was heading to was not the barracks.


    The location where they gathered the bodies of the deceased was filled with hundreds of them, each covered in a white cloth. Among the multitude, I found one person. Her sword, the one she wielded in life, was broken in half and ced next to her as a keepsake.


    [Wasn''t she just a passing acquaintance?]


    "You''re obviously not human."


    I wasn''t sad. Yoon Soo Ah was, indeed, just a passing acquaintance. But that didn''t mean I was unaffected. I was angry. She had saved my life once, yet I hadn''t been able to save hers.


    "What does the legion say? You understand how they feel right now, don''t you?"


    [They are also angry. The reason is simple. Because you are angry.]


    "...Really?"


    Bitterness welled up within me. Having fought directly, I felt it even more acutely. The legion was powerful. It seemed that even if the destructive bacteria they had battled against fell into this world, they could easily consume the Nols and Kobolds.


    "Were you close with Soo Ah?"


    Suddenly, a voice spoke from behind me. It was not unfamiliar. I had definitely heard this voice on TV before.


    "Mr. Ji Chang Hyun?"


    "I''ve heard...about you, Mr. Kang Shin Woo."


    I found myself face to face with an S-rank hunter, a situation I had never dreamed of.


    "You''ve heard?"


    "I''ve heard about your exploits. Of course, all the hunters fought fiercely. But they are soldiers. They did their job. But you, Mr. Kang Shin Woo, you fought without any reason to."


    His expression was enigmatic, making it hard to guess why he had approached me.


    "I am..."


    "Soo Ah is my cousin."


    "Ah."


    "And Mr. Kang Shin Woo, don''t you want to be stronger? Now is the time for righteous and determined people like you to step forward."


    "Excuse me?"


    Caught off guard by his sudden barrage, I asked dumbly.


    I subtly put my hand in my pocket and touched the ore.


    This was not a bomb, but an ore that detected yers and units.


    "I will reveal to you the secrets of Evolution, and even the secrets of this world. I trust my judgment. My master does too."


    Ji Chang Hyun''s eyes sparkled. The detector in my hand also heated up.


    It was clear that Ji Chang Hyun, an S-rank hunter of South Korea, was rted to this game.

 Chapter 61: Entangled and Unraveled (5)

    Chapter 61: Entangled and Unraveled (5)


    "What do you mean by ''master-? You-re one of the top hunters in the country."


    I feigned ignorance and asked calmly. If he was referring to a master, it would naturally be a yer or a unit.


    What bothered me more was that he seemed unaware of my true identity. I couldnt be sure if he genuinely didnt know or if he was pretending.


    "Of course, it might seem odd for a hunter who fights with his own abilities to have a master, but its true. Weve established a new organization. I rushed over as soon as it was set up.


    "A new organization, you say?


    "An organization that can help ordinary people, who cant keep up with the drastic changes, to resist and adapt to the new world.


    His expression seemed sincere. I judged that, at least, he didnt seem to be deceiving me.


    "If youre interested, please contact us. Wed love to have you.


    He stopped speaking there.


    I subtly made room for him. He stood quietly in front of his cousins corpse.


    Apparently, Yoon Soo Ah had deceived those around her and secretly gathered resources toe here.


    It wasnt easy to judge. Whether his words were sincere or what kind of picture he was painting.


    Even if were tied to the game, in the end, we have to kill each other, dont we?


    "Have you made up your mind already?


    He spoke without turning to look at me as I approached.


    "Id like to hear more about it. And I want to be stronger.


    "Youre currently affiliated with Evolution. May I ask how you got in there? Cha Ji Yeon, shes not an ordinary hunter. Shes as irrational as I am.


    He turned to me and brought up Cha Ji Yeon.


    I obviously knew she was a unit.


    So I intended to listen to what he had to say. The words of a man who calls himself irrational.


    "Its not a short story.


    Ji Chang Hyun began to exin to me about the app, the game, yers, and units right there.


    What I, who already knew all of this, paid attention to was his attitude. *


    [Hes a bit busy right now. I sent a notification, but its not a situation where he can monitor in real time.]


    "I dont really care.


    The legion, which had only stuck its physical head out from the ground, pulled out its hidden body.


    Meanwhile, Kang Do Yeon, with a furrowed brow, analyzed the information currently being collected by the legion.


    The legion had finally seeded in digesting the entire megacolony and secured a passage upwards.


    [Two paths have now appeared.]


    Naturally, reconnaissance activities continued.


    Information from those activities was currentlying in.


    [The first path is anotherbyrinth that we broke through the wall to reach. The upper part of this otherbyrinth, filled with destructive bacteria, is blocked by a special spell to prevent the bacteria froming up. The spell was simr to the one the Moonlight Elves used to seal their passage on the 36th floor.


    "Another survivor? You mentioned countless cities.


    The legion hypothesized that the Moonlight Elves, believed to be extinct, might still be alive in anotherbyrinth connected from an unknown upper region.


    [The remaining path is blocked by a megacolony of mutated destructive bacteria. Our scouts found a clue as to why the megacolony decided it couldnt evolve further.]


    "Whats that?


    Kang Do Yeon, sharing the scouts perspective with her eyes closed, murmured. The legions attention shifted to the stem floor of the 47th floor, which the scouts were investigating. This ce, seemingly ordinary from the outside, appeared to be a normal ecosystem devoid of destructive bacteria. Yet, it was home to more than a dozen entities.


    They appeared as giants made ofrge rocks, the smallest towering over 3m in height. A peculiar feature was a shining ore embedded in what seemed to be their chests. The legion recognized that this ore functioned much like the Moonlight Elves divine stone or their own power engine.


    "Using a weapon body and operating with the flow of formative force...


    "Its a golem!


    Kang Do Yeon sinctly identified the beings the legion was discussing.


    "I think I understand now. Why the destructive bacteria gave up the fight.


    [They are moving weapons. If those moving by the power of spells didnt lose in strength and numbers, there would be no chance for the destructive bacteria to win.]


    The destructive bacteria fought through infection, and the mutants also had the ability to replicate the power of their opponents through that infection. However, all that power was only possible if the opponent was a living creature like them. If the opponents entire body was just a rock, the destructive bacteria, unfamiliar with the concept of formative force, would have been crushed without resistance.


    "But those things definitely didnt ur naturally.


    Yet, the legion, uninterested in the story of the defeated, focused elsewhere. They pondered who the yer, the creator, the god of those golems was.


    [The answer is obviously higher up.]


    "Youre right. Legion Commander. Get ready now.


    The entire nest stirred. The legion, which had been storing energy and improving its soldiers, resumed its activities. They were a wall, a non-living body that the destructive bacteria couldnt ovee.


    "Were going to eat those rocks this time.


    But the legion, having already learned the concept of formative force under the influence of its yer, had a way to break that wall testing the limits of life. Kang Do Yeon, who let out a small sigh, picked up her weapon.


    A longsword, entirely made of dark red ore. After several improvements, it was concluded that crafting it in one piece was more explosive and powerful than mixing orbining materials.


    This was the 47th floor.


    After the destructive bacteria were eradicated and expelled, a long era of tranquility ensued. The organisms ate, reproduced, and died, fulfilling their inherent drives. The golems, tasked with protecting this territory, had ceased their operations once the bacteria disappeared, conducting tests only intermittently.


    However, they eventually detected a faint, unfamiliar tremor. One by one, the golems began to rise from their positions, their energy being restored. Unbeknownst to them, their adversary had already carried out aprehensive investigation.


    -Large group of lifeforms detected-


    From the lower floors, they unveiled their presence. A horde of pitch-ck creatures surged in. The golems, who had existed as ordinary stones, instantly sparked their hostility as programmed. They were indifferent to whether the enemy was destructive bacteria or not.


    -Execute extermination order, annihte all group lifeforms-


    Themand systems limitations prevented the golems from selectively killing only the bacteria. Any creature that acted in groups became a target for the golems. With a thumping vibration, the golems instantly assembled.


    They werent lifeforms. They were simply entities that moved asmanded.


    -Exterminate-


    The assembled golems charged recklessly, relying on their mass and size. No lifeform, not even the most destructive bacteria, could match their aggression and indifference.


    "Knock them down!


    Their opponents were equally aggressive and ruthless.


    With a thunderous explosion, the ground erupted. Mining-type legion soldiers, modeled after the giant underworld terrain dog, had been lying in wait. They sprang up all at once, detonating the ground where the golems had been standing. The strange vibration the golems had detected was due to this.


    -Searching for countermeasures-


    The golems, having fallen and rolled on the ground, quickly rose. But this time, they were met with a dark red strikeunched by Kang Do Yeon. The explosive energy emitted by the resonance of the power engine imnted in her body and her sword was of the same category as the energy that the golems master had imnted in them.


    -Counter...-


    The bodies of the golems, impervious to ordinary teeth and ws, were sliced and exploded like tofu.


    Crush them.


    The legion trampled the golems with a new tactic. The mining-type legion soldiers and the assault-type legion soldiers, modeled after the cave python, were allrge species of soldiers,rger and heavier than the golems.


    All had undergone the legions modification, their size and strength were at a level that could never be achieved by the cave creatures. They suppressed the golems, who had been fighting with their mass, by overpowering them.


    [Simply suppressing them wont end it. They dont feel pain or fatigue.]


    "So, we need to get this.


    Kang Do Yeon, her eyes glowing red, stood on the chest of a subdued golem, aimed her sword, and drove it straight down. She retrieved the power engine that had been ejected from the golem.


    It was the size of her head.


    The other high-ranking legion soldiers, who also had power engines imnted in their hearts, used their formative force in their own ways to break the golems resistance, destroy the power engines, and extract them.


    Its a bit different from the legions method, more simr to the Moonlight Elves method.


    Theplex spells drawn and engraved on the power engine were simr to the magic of the Moonlight Elves they had met in the past. In other words, it took only a few seconds to reverse-engineer and analyze it.


    It will be easier to use.


    "Ugh."


    Right then, the legion modified the bodies of the high-ranking legion soldiers, including Kang Do Yeon. From her outstretched hand, something resembling a fine root grew and burrowed into the core of the golem she was holding.

 Chapter 62: Monsters of the Abyss (1)

    Chapter 62: Monsters of the Abyss (1)


    "Ugh."


    Kang Do Yeon grimaced at the strange sensation. The roots that had burrowed in began to suck up the energy within, leaving nothing behind. Her power engines, which had dimmed due to consumption, were fully recharged and regained their light.


    ''Throw the rest into the nest.-*


    Not just her, but all the other legionnaires also replenished their energy. The roots that had sprouted from her hands quickly reverted to their normal state.


    "This isn''t everything."


    ''Right. First, divide the troops and clean up.''


    The legion, having previously engaged inbat with the golems, had divided their forces. The higher-spec legionnaires, armed with Formative Force, led the assault. They had discovered that the golems, once their cores were destroyed, became slow and harmless, requiring minimal energy to defeat.


    [In a world devoid of destructive bacteria, for which the golems were specifically created, who would assume control?]


    ''The creators of these golems... Whoever they may be, we have much to gain.''


    A subtle shift in the legion''s mood was noticeable. They eagerly anticipated a new adversary, one that appeared intelligent, advanced, and formidable - a worthy opponent to be vanquished. Their confidence was not misced. The analysis of the cores that powered the golems revealed they were not significantly more advanced than the mana stone engraving techniques of the Heavenly Soul Art, a technique the legion was well-versed in. The legion typically avoided secondary processing of ores due to efficiency concerns, but they could deduce that much.


    ''It''s manageable at this level.''


    ''Faster, faster.''


    The process of nesting and absorption elerated as they grew in size. Their rate of capturing and annihting prey also increased. It was an unyielding act of predation, relentless in its pursuit, with the sole objective of ascending higher.


    ''He certainly fought to protect.''


    ''We too, fight to protect.''


    The legion interpreted his intentions in their own unique way. They were tasked with protecting him and everything he sought to protect. To aplish this, they needed to be stronger. Thus, they had to fight harder, consume more, and evolve further.


    [For him.] *


    "What the hell are you talking about? There seems to be an issue with the stemyer."


    "It''s true, White. I saw it with my own eyes. The six-legged ground squirrels, sensitive to vibrations, were fleeing in groups!"


    "Yelson, you''re intelligent, but that''s an absurd im."


    He shook his head, his pointed ears twitching. This was a habit of his when he was annoyed.


    "The stemyer is heavily guarded. You might not be aware, but those giant stone figures are incredibly powerful. Above all, the destructive bacteria stand no chance against them."


    "But I''m certain..."


    "The pact our ancestors made with them still holds. So, youngsters like you should focus on training instead of worrying."


    He patted the head of the child who had raised the concern. His firm stance seemed to have an effect, as the child left the area with a downcast gaze.


    "Isn''t it admirable though?"


    "Indeed. These children will be remarkable talents in the future."


    "lust like you, White."


    "Enough with thepliments."


    He coughed at his subordinate''s words, but quicklyposed himself. He turned to gaze at therge city, brilliantly illuminated by countless glowing stones. At the city''s heart, a tree that appeared to be at least 10m tall was in full bloom.


    "However, it''s difficult to exin to young ones like Yelson why we''re still confined to this underground existence."


    "Those arrogant..."


    "Easy, Leyam. They are ''from elsewhere'', not the humans who exiled our ancestors."


    "True. Those fools were eventually wiped out by the destructive bacteria."


    The subordinate, who had been momentarily outraged, soon nodded in agreement.


    "But one day, we will..."


    "Indeed. We must reach the surface."


    Their eyes sparkled at the thought of reaching the surface and reiming their lost glory. It was a yearning their race had never forgotten.


    "White, I''ll go on patrol now."


    "Go ahead."


    His subordinates departed, leaving White to gaze pensively at the city.


    ''But before we ascend, we must first find our other kin.''


    His expression remained somber. The few surviving Moonlight Elves had managed to establish a foothold for recovery, thanks to the assistance of outsiders. They used weapons that the destructive bacteria couldn''t withstand to clear thebyrinth, and in the process, the Moonlight Elves gathered their scattered kin and slowly regained their power. That was decades ago. Butpared to their past glory, this was still a mere fraction. The search for their kin, lost deep within thebyrinth, continued. Even though they were somewhat stable and gradually increasing their poption and stockpiling supplies, the journey was still long.


    "Great Stem, please protect our kin..."


    "White! It''s a disaster!"


    Suddenly, the ones who had left for patrol just moments ago returned, their faces pale. Sensing danger, he instinctively reached for his sword.


    "What''s happening? Have they betrayed us?!"


    He considered the worst-case scenario. At this point, the only ones who could pose a threat were those who now inhabited the surface.


    "No, it''s not that. Their magic weapons have all been destroyed, and..."


    "What?"


    His eyes widened as his subordinate''s disjointed words grew increasingly rming.


    "Hurry up!"


    "We might need to use a spell to seal the entrance. Quickly!"


    The city, which had been peaceful for a while, was thrown into chaos. The warriors hastily donned their armor and weapons, taking defensive positions to protect the city. The residents also prepared to fight, bracing themselves for the worst. There was nowhere else to run.


    "Warlord, what''s happening?"


    "Great Chieftain, I''ll exin the situation."


    White, who had been trying to maintain calm to lead his people, stepped forward to brief the city''s leaders on the situation.


    Anxiety rippled through them all. Despite the recent peace they had been basking in, some among them were elders who had personally endured the brutal battles against the destructive bacteria. The fear, deeply etched into their bones, was difficult to shake off.


    "We are not the same as those who used to live in hiding."


    White dered, his teeth gritted in response to their reactions. He was firmly convinced that they could only bounce back if they shattered this defeatist instinct ingrained in their entire race, even if it was for the sake of the future.


    "Even if the destructive bacteria swarm us again, we will definitely win."


    "Shouldn''t we contact them first? I heard it''s not just our scouts who were injured, but their magic weapons were also hit!"


    "Of course, we should."


    White''s face twisted into a grimace as he agreed. They had to swallow their pride. They had been in a cooperative rtionship with them and had reaped some benefits.


    "But the most important thing is to protect thisnd, this city, with our own strength. We need to show them our power so that we won''t be pushed around in future encounters."


    Their goal was not just simple growth. They aimed to return to the surface someday. To achieve that, they had to cultivate a power that would not be underestimated by them.


    "I believe in you, Warlord. We need to show our strength."


    The Great Chieftain, who understood the intention, nodded in agreement.


    Having convinced the middle-ranking members, White quickly returned to the scene, weapons in hand.


    "So, who exactly is the enemy?"


    However, they still hadn''t fully identified the enemy.


    "The problem urred here, in the Stem Layer. The troops that went out for reconnaissance found shattered debris and bloodstains in the passage connected to this ce."


    "They said they pulled the divine stone from the chest of the magic weapon and hid the bodies of the scouts. Could it be the work of an intelligent creature?"


    White held a meeting with others in the barracks. The first piece ofprehensive information was that the enemy was suspected to be in the Stem Layer connected to this ce by


    branches. It was also the base for the scouts who regrly explored the outside.


    "We''ve prepared enough, so how about we scout some more?"


    "That sounds good. If necessary, we can send out those who are nimble enough to..."


    His words trailed off as he spotted small creatures scurrying in the corner of his eye. They were a species known as Six-legged Ground Squirrels, named for their six legs. Their diminutive size kept them off the golems'' radar, and they were now fleeing deeper into the unknown.


    "Leyam."


    "Yes, Warlord."


    "Do you... feel any vibrations?"


    A cold sweat broke out on his forehead as he quietly posed the question to his subordinate, his senses on high alert. His amplified magical power was already hinting that something was amiss.

 Chapter 63: Monsters of the Abyss (2)

    Chapter 63: Monsters of the Abyss (2)


    [You know them all too well. Theirnguage, habits, way of life, methods ofbat, everything.]


    "There are many ways to destroy them, and we will find the most efficient one."


    The legion chuckled. In the past, they had to confront them directly, efficiency be damned. But now, things were different. The legion, having grown exponentially by hunting monsters in this otherworldlybyrinth, was a force to be reckoned with. They had already faced these adversaries multiple times.


    The legion had never lost a rematch. They excelled at ruthlessly exploiting their opponents- weaknesses, either annihting them with overwhelming power or gradually wearing them down by instilling fear and toying with them.


    "But theyre not units...!"


    Kang Do Yeon managed to utter, her face etched with despair.


    "So what?"


    The legion was unswayed, having alreadypleted all their calctions.


    In the end, Kang Do Yeon gave up on persuasion with a single word and hung her head low. She then voluntarily donned a mask.


    The number of detected enemies is only a few thousand. If we attack from multiple points, we can break their defense in one go.-*


    Having persuaded the dissenting sub-mind, the legion attempted a joyful calction and quickly arrived at an answer. They devised the most potent and optimal tactics, considering the current size of the legions troops, the enemies-* level, the situation, and the terrain.


    The legion divided their troops into precisely thirteen groups. The deployed forces consisted of over five thousand soldiers, eachrger than a human. They were confident they could deploy ten times that number at once if necessary.


    Their secret weapon for this asion was a short-term decisive battle, leading with sheer numbers, like a massive wave sweeping away small fish.


    "Legion Commander, you break through the toughest barrier from the front. Ill reward you in return."


    The legion presented Kang Do Yeon with a unique soldier, forged from a newly grasped concept.


    Though the legion was deficient in magical knowledge, the creation of physical tissues from omnipotent cells was a straightforward task for them.


    [A new weapon, based on the concept of a golem, has emerged]


    The stones that constituted the golems body, intertwined with tentacle-like tree roots, began to form.


    Before long, a soldier materialized, manipting the stones of its body with tentacles that permeated its form, all powered by the engine at the heart of its chest.


    "Inefficient."


    As anticipated, its efficiency left much to be desired.


    The sole reason for the creation of such a soldier was to instill a sense of despair in their quarry.


    For the legion, who always aimed higher, the city of the surviving Moonlight Elves was merely a warm-up before their ascent. *


    "The vibrations...!"


    "Everyone, grab your weapons!"


    The meeting room descended into chaos as the thumping vibrations drew nearer. White, having kicked the door open and rushed out, held his sword aloft, his gaze fixed on the front of the base.


    "Those...bastards !


    He spotted the enemy. A dark, ominous legion advanced like a wave of pitch ck, heading straight for them.


    "Impossible!


    "Its the humans magical weapon! Those bastards!"


    "We should never have trusted those humans!"


    The Moonlight Elves were deeply shaken at the sight of the emerging enemies. The giants leading the march were familiar to them.


    No. It cant be.


    Despite his subordinates trembling with feelings of betrayal, White had a different thought.


    ''The humans weapon...is not like that...


    His eyes quivered, and his grip on the sword handle tightened.


    It was not that horrifying.


    As the most experienced and cunning warrior, he trusted his intuition. The monsters marching towards them could be beings that neither the destructive bacteria nor the humans on the surface could withstand.


    "Ready the longbows! Their weakness is the glowing core in their chest! Destroy the divine stone, and you can stop them!"


    He issued orders swiftly, already aware of how to dismantle a golem. The warriors obeyed hismand without hesitation, their expressions resolute. It was a momentum only those prepared to risk everything, even their lives, could possess. Like the survivors the legion had encountered in the past. After all, this ce was something they had to protect at all costs for the future of their race, even if it meant risking their lives.


    "May the ancestors be with us! Fire!"


    Under Whitesmand, the giant ballista installed for defense wasunched. It was not a simple ballista. At its end, a powerful strike imbued with faint magic.


    "Did it explode?"


    With a bang, then a boom, therge arrows lodged into the bodies of the enemies. Everyone expected that they had felled the enemies with that thunderous noise.


    "Good! Weve damaged them in one..."


    "Look behind! The city is...!"


    But just as they were about to cheer for toppling the marching enemies and causing a grand explosion, White, with a sinking heart, turned around at the screams and the sound of something copsing from behind. The unusually loud noise was not from toppling a golem.


    "No way! !


    He shouted, almost in a scream. What he saw were monsters pouring out from the copsed sinkhole and from the exploded walls and ceilings.


    "Commander White! Theyre charging at us!"


    "Divide, divide the forces!"


    There was no other choice. After all, they had to stop them all.


    "Ill go!"


    "Orote, the warrior with the greatest strength."


    One of them stepped forward confidently. White, who nodded his head, entrusted him with the warriors.


    "Go and make sure to stop them."


    And he sent him off to halt the enemies who had dug tunnels and infiltrated. His teeth were gritted. When he turned around again, his eyes were full of rage.


    "We will, without fail, defend this ce."


    He only looked forward, determined not to look back. To the enemies marching towards this ce, the golems were just a shield. Among the many beasts and monsters, there was someone of a slightly smaller stature.


    "Have confidence. We are warriors blessed by the sacred tree. Those monsters, who cant wield sacred power, can be cut down in one strike with our swords!"


    He encouraged the trembling warriors.


    Yet, there was hope. They had already nurtured the sacred tree beyond a sapling. The patterns they etched onto their bodies from a young age resonated and amplified with the power of the sacred tree. The Moonlight Elf warriors blessed by the sacred tree were formidable. If the numbers of the destructive bacteria that had taken over the world had been slightly fewer, if they had formed an alliance earlier before being defeated one by one, perhaps the future would have been different.


    "Thats..."


    However, they were not the only ones capable of wielding special powers. Whites eyes trembled as a slender, curved figure stepped forward, brandishing a sword. The weapon she held, along with the ores attached to her arms and thighs, ignited and targeted them.


    ''Maximum output explosion.


    This was the only technique the current legion possessed that utilized Formative Force. Its purpose was to unleash maximum output energy in the form of a sh or beam, directed at a single line or point without any dy. There was no need for other techniques such as calctions or creating a barrier since they directly harnessed the power engine.


    This technique was simply the strongest and fastest.


    "Ahhhh!"


    "Block it!"


    A zing sh cut through the darkness of the corridor. The massive sh emitted from Kang Do Yeons sword incinerated everything in its path and crashed into the hastily raised shields of the startled Moonlight Elves.


    Defense neutralized.


    The ensuing explosion obliterated most of the Moonlight Elves on the front line, leaving no trace behind. Their shock was irrelevant. The legionnaires charged headlong into the enemy formation, which had crumbled in an instant. If they could crush them before they had a chance to set up their defenses, the oue was inevitable.


    "Block them. At all costs!"


    Their desperation was visible. They were fervent, gritting their teeth as they used their bodies to block the legionnaires. Their power was undeniably stronger than that of mere survivors. The legions ever-improving exoskeleton was sliced and punctured by swords and spears, each blow fueled by theirst ounces of strength. But that was the extent of it. Their only advantage was their desperation. The screams of victims being ripped apart by teeth and ws reverberated throughout the battlefield.


    "What... what are you?"


    CC J?


    In the midst of the fierce battle, White blocked Kang Do Yeons path. Without a moments hesitation, she swung her sword.


    "Ugh."


    White staggered as he parried her sword, the force of her blow heavy and unyielding. Her physical prowess, fueled by all five power engines, was transcendent. There was no inefficiency in her movements.


    "A mere monster girl, reaching such a state..."


    He muttered, watching her with a nk expression as she radiated a crimson aura. The power she exuded was a realm he had longed for, trained for. It was an unbelievable sight for him, ignorant of the structure of her body.

 Chapter 64: Monsters of the Abyss (3)

    Chapter 64: Monsters of the Abyss (3)


    All children, fall back! Hold them off!"


    Orote, a hulking warrior known as the strongest fighter, effectively served as the assault team leader. He led his fellow warriors into the city, which was under attack by monsters.


    You beast!"


    Standing at the forefront, he charged into the city, swinging his faintly glowing sword at the monster attacking the people.


    Damn it!"


    However, the opponent was not a mere beast. Among the legionnaires, the quadrupedal assault type, which belonged to the medium-sized category, had a unique upper body and muscles that were further enhanced by the legion''s modifications. It dodged his sword and struck him with its powerful forelimbs. Its weight and size wereparable to a decent-sized tiger.


    Orote managed to withstand the shock emanating from itspressed muscles by mustering all his strength, barely avoiding a fall. However, the blow was so powerful that it dented his shield.


    Argh!"


    Discarding his shield, he thrust his sword into the forehead of the legionnaire, which was baring its sharp, gleaming teeth, bristling with saw-like edges, and charging at him.


    The legionnaire-s hard head armor shattered under the force of his magic-infused sword, splitting its head wide open.


    ''What the hell is this?-


    Orote gasped for breath. He was young, but a veteran with considerable experience. He had fought manyrge beasts in the caves for hunting. However, the enemy he was facing now was different from a beast, despite its beastly appearance.


    ''It''s chilling.''


    The silence, not a whimper or a scream, even in the heat of battle or at the moment of death. And the gleaming eyes, unafraid of death. Orote instinctively felt fear at the thought that his current opponent was not a normal adversary.


    Orote! Help me!"


    Damn it! E!"


    Panting, he rushed over to the source of the desperate cry for help.


    Rei is trapped!"


    Hold on. I''ll get him out now."


    He grunted as he lifted the fallen debris to rescue the trapped child. Although one of his legs was crushed, the child was still alive.


    Damn it..."


    But they were quickly surrounded.


    Medium-sized, spider-type legionnaires, modeled after the Cave Giant Spider, scuttled about on their eight carapace-covered legs. Theirrge venomous fangs clicked menacingly, dripping with lethal poison. These creatures,rger than humans and encased in a crab-like carapace, were a sight to behold.


    ''These bastards are the same.''


    Orote clenched his teeth as he saw their glowing red eyes. He hid the woman and the injured child behind him.


    I will protect you."


    He swung his sword with all his might at the charging spiders. He shed wildly at the legs that aimed for his gaps, and split the mouth that tried to bite him in half.


    Argh!"


    Disying superhuman strength, he grabbed the leg that was trying to crush him and ripped it off. The giant spider was lifted and mmed to the ground, writhing.


    ''I can do this.''


    The mark on his body was glowing brighter than ever. The sacred tree was with him. Everyone was with him.


    He managed to kill thest spider.


    Kyaa! Orote!"


    E!"


    However, while he was engaged inbat with the spiders, a w from the sky swooped down and snatched the woman and the child.


    Ah... Ahh!"


    The woman, caught in the w, was already crossing the sky dominated by the flying types. Thebat flying type, based on the Ho, held her with its six long legs and stinging tail, and pierced her with its venomous stinger.


    Although it was a stinger, it was as big as a spear in the hands of a flying type the size of a bull.


    Gah...ugh.."


    The flying type withdrew its stinger, which had pierced through the child she was holding, and threw the bodies to the ground. The lifeless bodies fell helplessly in the middle of the chaotic battlefield, stting upon impact with the stone floor. Orote watched the entire scene, despairing.


    Argh!"


    Enraged, he charged at a nearby monster.


    What the hell are you!!"


    He kicked the ground, leaped onto the roof, and plunged his sword into the monster''s massive back.


    In a surge of unparalleled might, he drove his de through the skull of a mining-type legionnaire, a behemothrger than a dump truck, in one swift motion. He clung to the hilt of the sword lodged in the convulsing body, only extracting it when the massive form finally crumpled.


    Get out... quickly."


    His words, gasped out to those on the brink of attack, echoed in the air.


    As he watched their retreating figures, he brandished the sword he had retrieved from the lifeless body. His gaze then fell upon his own form.


    His body''s mark glowed brighter than it ever had before.


    ''Is this the growth White always mentioned? The necessity of trials, is this what he meant?''


    He exhaled slowly, turning around.


    A new adversary emerged.


    The creature had a straight spine, a slender yet agile and stic body, four arms, and a tail that moved freely.


    You dare wield a sword! You''re nothing more than beasts!"


    His roar was filled with fury.


    The all-purpose legionnaire, a superior species that hade to face him, only moved to kill him.


    Four swords and an unpredictably moving tail targeted his vital points with deadly precision.


    Ugh.."


    He blocked all four swords, but a tail pierced one of his legs.


    ''By these bastards.''


    He gritted his teeth against the pain, held his ground, and swung his sword.


    Or at least, he tried to. His body began to stiffen against his will.


    Ugh...ah..."


    ck veins spread from his pierced leg. The sacred tree''s purification could block airborne particles, but it was powerless against a direct injection into his body.


    Huh..."


    Upon realizing the situation, he let out a sardonicugh. Simultaneously, he grabbed the legionnaire''s arm.


    Do you think... I''ll die alone..."


    Even as the ck veins spread to his face, he held onto his consciousness. He began to overload the symbols etched into his body with magic, causing them to go berserk.


    You... must be the leader..."


    His body exploded with a powerful shock, strong enough to shatter the barrier of the high-ranking legionnaire. Both bodies were torn to pieces simultaneously.


    There are too many...!"


    As it is... Ahhh!"


    The Moonlight Elves began to retreat as soon as they collided. They had shown resistance beyond the legion''s calctions, but that was all. The only sounds in this ce, where a once powerful warrior had self-destructed after a desperate blood battle with a high-ranking legionnaire, were the screams and shouts of the elves. They had stepped into this ce.


    At least dozens of them activated the power engines in their hearts. Their target was the sacred tree in the center of the city. Their goal was to conquer the ce protected by a special spell.


    ''Destroy it.''


    Themand was given. Half of them, who had no tails, spread their carapaces on their backs, revealing a pair of transparent wings, and flew into the sky. Using the Formative Force, which could twist thews of physics, they could fly even under impossible physical conditions. The rest quickly kicked the ground and ran.


    They''re...ing! Great Chieftain!"


    Hold your positions. We are with the sacred tree. That''s the only way to protect our kin."


    The Great Chieftain, sitting in front of the sacred tree with the others, clenched the Vajra in her hand. The only one who still had the talent to understand and use the ancestral magic, which had beenrgely lost in the past, was the old Great Chieftain.


    ''They are waves, gues, and disasters.''


    She took a deep breath and swung down the Vajra. The targets were those who were now crossing the sky, charging with long weapons like spears.


    She realized why the many monsters terrorizing the city didn''t attack this ce. They were waiting for those who could break this spell. And those were the ones now flying and running towards them.


    Die, monsters of the abyss!"


    The magic she activated exploded, and the condensed magic was shot out like a cannonball. The high-ranking species in the air resonated their barriers to block the cannonball.


    But thanks to that, the Great Chieftain bought some time. Now, they could hold on a little longer.


    ''Now, that''s the only hope.''


    She bit her lip. Thest and only hope was now slipping away through a small hole. It was to ask for help from the only force that could help them.


    First, they had to save their lives.


    Everyone! Put in a little more effort. Those horrible monsters, the humans on the surface won''t forgive them!"


    She encouraged the people around her who were sharing magic and adding power to the spell. This ce was truly theirst hope.


    Great... Great Chieftain..."


    Kalton..."


    But that hope was now shattered.


    The Great Chieftain''s eyes shook violently as she turned around. A branch that had burst through the stem of the sacred tree was writhing as it pierced the chest of an elder next to her.


    [The legion''s infection. nts are no exception.]


    Ah...ah..."


    In her eyes, she saw the sacred tree being crushed from the inside out in real time. What was bursting out of the stem of the sacred tree was another sacred tree, twisted and


    ck.

 Chapter 65: Monsters of the Abyss (4)

    Chapter 65: Monsters of the Abyss (4)


    The sacred tree was the root of all things for the Moonlight Elves. They had nurtured it for decades, but now it was being crushed and twisted. The monstrous tree that emerged from the wreckage was certainly not their sacred tree.


    "How could this happen...


    White murmured, looking at the faded symbols on his body. There was no point in resisting any longer. All that remained for them in this irrational war was death, and choosing how to die would be a blessing. Using his sword as a crutch, White struggled to his feet.


    Is this what our ancestors felt when they faced the endless onught of destructive bacteria?-


    Despair and resignation in the face of an unstoppable disaster. He pointed his sword at the enemymander. All the warriors who had fought alongside him were dead. Yet, the numerous monsters surrounding him did not attack, but waited.


    "Come on. So you-re... the queen of these monsters.


    He had made up his mind. He would at least inflict some damage on this creature that seemed to be the leader of these monsters. The enemy was strong, faster and more powerful than any he had faced before. With one arm torn off and a hole in his stomach, it seemed impossible, but he still took a step forward.


    "Cough!


    As soon as he spoke, the legionnaires beside himunched their attack. A medium-sized legionnaire, modeled after a giant scorpion, pierced him with its poisonous stinger. Resentment shed in his eyes as he hung suspended in mid-air, but his life quickly faded away.


    ''How dare anything stand above me.-*


    I


    The reason for his brutal ughter, with no respect for his final moments, was incredibly trivial. If he had known, he would have sighed in disbelief.


    "Thats too much... At least let him have hisst moment...


    Kang Do Yeon half-removed her mask, murmuring in a sorrowful tone. Even with the mask on, memories lingered. They were mundane memories, simr to reading someone elses diary,


    yet she knew they were hers. That-s why she understood the desperation disyed by White and the Moonlight Elves so well.


    This is the ecosystem, nature. An ant colony can be more brutal than us, and a pack of wild dogs can be more aggressive.


    The legion didnt even consider this. They fought to live; the loser died, the winner grew. This was not only the nature of the legion but also thew that all creatures in this


    world adhered to. Aware of her hypocrisy, Kang Do Yeon remained silent.


    Finish it.


    The legion-s finalmand echoed. Kang Do Yeon, her mask back in ce, led the legionnaires into the city they had already conquered. All she saw were corpses, nothing but corpses. To the legion, these bodies were merely a source of nourishment. There was no need for cleanup. This space would be the legions nest, and the bodies of the elves and the legionnaires would be left to dpose naturally.


    [Some of the legionnaires who were scattered and searching the city discovered a passage leading elsewhere.]


    "Was this some kind of mine?


    In the midst of this, the legion discovered a passage leading from the city to another ce. Kang Do Yeon identified the nature of the ce from the shared information. Mining


    tools were scattered here and there, and sparkling ores were buried in the bedrock. It was obviously a mine.


    [The moment they discovered how they, unable to manipte the power of the sacred tree like the legion, had obtained the divine stone, was a revtion.]


    The yield is significant. The energy within a few dense divine stones surpasses that of several hundred kilograms of organic matter.


    A legionnaire ripped apart an ore with bare hands. Utilizing the legion-s sensory organs within this mine, they were able to locate more ores that emitted a faint presence. Kang Do Yeon found additional hives at the end of this mine, which the legion had drilled through from the lower floors and connected. The area blocked by the spell they discovered was right here.


    There-s something else to deal with before this ce.-*


    The end was confirmed, and there was nothing more to see. The legion shifted its gaze. Anticipating their next move, Kang Do Yeon tightly closed her eyes and donned her mask once more.


    "Kill... Kill! Kill! !


    Thest surviving Great Chieftain, who clung to a shred of pride, screamed as she was hauled away.


    "Evil bugs of hell... monstrous creatures of the abyss!


    Her cries reverberated throughout the city. Having witnessed the sacred tree explode before her eyes and herrades torn apart, she was already on the brink of madness. She had bitten her tongue long ago, but the legion had forcibly kept her alive with the infection bacteria they had previously injected.


    ''Quiet her down.-*


    The legion, disturbed by her screams,manded the infection bacteria that had invaded her body.


    "Ah.. !


    Her entire body was covered in ck veins in an instant, her eyes bulging and trembling. She tried to scream, but no sound came out.


    ''Now you can hear me. Your brain, your lungs, your heart...theyre all in my hands.


    "Ah...ah...


    Tell me everything you know.-


    The horrific pain of having her entire nervous system manipted and intensely stimted was beyond the worst burning pain she had ever experienced. Overwhelmed by unimaginable agony, she began to blurt out every fact and falsehood she knew, casting aside her pride and hatred in the hope of relief.


    "So, the people on the surface...


    "Human...


    Human?*


    Through this process, the legion learned who had dispatched the golems of the stemyer. *


    "Isn*t it a bit fascinating? lust over a decade ago when I was in college, aliens were just figments of our imagination and creations of fiction. Of course, we never expected those aliens to be the monsters that came out of the gate.


    "That was... the case for all of us.


    "But as you know, the universe is much broader and moreplex than that.


    Ji Chang Hyun chuckled.


    This was a sort of...dojo, created in a dark corner of the first garrison where the main force of the Alliance, heavily damaged in the recent Alpha base battle, had temporarily retreated. It was just the two of us there.


    "There are many more impressive aliens than those monsters. They might even be more advanced than us. But I believe in us, in humans.


    "Humans? Im sorry, but the one who hurt my sister was also a human.


    "...That-s true.


    Seeing my displeased expression, he nodded in agreement.


    "But Kang Shin Woo, you have to admit this. There are many good people too. I*m not asking you to trust all of humanity. I*m asking you to trust those who are working for a universal cause.


    "Like your mentor.


    "Everything I know was taught by him. He said we can do it.


    He seemed very proud of his current self.


    After bing a unit, he said he had received teachings, opened his eyes, and be stronger.


    Honestly, it was hard to believe, the notion that a yers objective wasnt merely survival and growth. Yet, Ji Chang Hyun, his colleagues, and the other yers were already moving in that direction. I couldnt discern the race they all identified with. Could it truly reflect their inherent nature?


    "Its time to demonstrate the potential of humans.


    His eyes shimmered with confidence. The mention of human potential piqued my interest. In the corner of my vision, a screen disyed the legion interrogating prisoners after their victory, eventually discovering that humans inhabited the surface. I wondered about the legions perception of humans. After all, humans were essentially my kin. Would they recognize that?


    [The legion had found new prey. Prey that could help them grow even more, prey that appeared truly massive and valuable.]


    Silence.


    It didnt seem like it. They knew I was watching, so they refrained from assuming a physical form. However, I had a hunch about the decision the legion would make.


    I,cking a hive consciousness, didnt believe all humans were identical simply because they belonged to the same race.


    ...It seemed I needed a new n.


    Perhaps I should offer more gifts.


    Or provide something even better than gifts.


    "Director Ji. Themander of the Alliance is now...


    "Oh, Ill be right back.


    At that moment, Ji Chang Hyun left me alone and stepped outside.


    It was an unfamiliar sight. Of course, as an S-rank hunter and a member of the elite, it wasnt unusual for him to meet high-ranking officials.


    But now he was acting as the representative of an organization, not as an S-rank hunter.


    An app, designed to aid the powerless individuals who were sacrificed in the disputes between yers and units.


    And a global organization established to empower them.


    In fact, Ji Chang Hyuns yer, whose identity remained unknown, had instructed his units to pass on his teachings to talented ordinary people.


    The reality was unbelievable, yet the organization functioned well. No, they were even hailed as heroes.


    Whether their actions stemmed from pure goodwill or were sophisticated political maneuvers, my cynicism had grown over the past few months.


    "He must have been certain that I knew about the app because of my rtionship with Cha Ji Yeon. But why didnt he spread rumors about the app, even though he disliked it?


    [Its logical. You would be the one bothered if the existence of the app was revealed. Theres no reason to spread rumors about the game, regardless of your opinion. Even if you did, what would you gain? Their anger? Criticism?]


    "Right.


    I fell silent, having nothing more to add.


    After all, there was no point in worrying about others from my position. The first thing I needed to do was to acquire the techniques that Ji Chang Hyun promised to teach me and be stronger.

 Chapter 66: Monsters of the Abyss (5)

    Chapter 66: Monsters of the Abyss (5)


    "I can teach you swordsmanship. My master was a swordsman. I haven''t fully mastered it yet, but it will certainly be beneficial.


    "But Mr. Ji Chang Hyun, you don''t wield a sword...


    "You''ll understand soon.


    He handed me a sword. It wasn''t a crude de like those used by the Nols, but a high-quality longsword without a sharp edge.


    Not bad. The legion naturally channels Formative Force through swords or simr weapons.


    Until now, I''ve been relying on a gun, but the limitations of a personal firearm are evident.


    So, I need to advance beyond the level of physical enhancement.


    "Mr. Kang Shin Woo, have you ever read martial arts novels?


    At that moment, Ji Chang Hyun, his sword wrapped in mes, asked with a smirk.


    "Mar, martial arts novels?


    "My master concurred. The inner strength in those novels bears some resemnce to actual martial arts. Of course, they are distinctly different. Shall we start with breathing techniques? You certainly have potential.


    The instruction was straightforward: stabilize your inner strength through breathing, and then channel that strength.


    I simply followed his directions. Meanwhile, I nced at the cell phone I had set aside.


    That cell phone, recording this scene, was permitted by Ji Chang Hyun for review.


    But that wasn''t my actual cell phone.


    It was a decoy phone that I had gifted to the legion. The battery had been drained, and it had been returned to me as a tribute.


    "Do you feel something?


    "...I can definitely feel a different flow. But I''m not sure if this difort is because I''m learning a new power.


    "You''ll soon understand the difference.


    I quickly noticed the changes within me. It was just hard to distinguish whether this change was really due to the inner strength training method, or the influence of the Heavenly Soul Art, which I had only learned the basics of.


    "Your body bes lighter and tougher. If you train in abat method that suits your body, it bes a martial art.


    "You''re nning to publicly disclose this power and ept anyone who wants to learn it, without anypensation?


    "Indeed. We''re living in a time of great chaos. Many people crave the power to protect themselves and their loved ones. All we ask from our members is one thing: to protect people. Whether it''s themselves, their family, or their neighbors.


    "That''s the only reason? There will undoubtedly be those who find it odd. I recall the hunters'' rights conflict a few years back was quite intense...


    Despite the diversity of people in this world, I had to question because I found it difficult toprehend.


    He chuckled, seemingly understanding my confusion.


    "It would have been impossible in a time of normalcy. But now, even the world''s leaders understand. If they wish to preserve their lives, let alone their livelihoods, they must cast aside their petty ideologies and simply exist. If they can''t contribute, they should at least not obstruct.


    "...I see.


    I knew of his reputation as a humble and considerate hero-like hunter, but seeing the sincerity in his sparkling eyes firsthand made me somewhat reluctant to get too involved.


    However, I couldn''t shake off a strong premonition.


    They were destined to be a force that would shake the game board of this game that was currently in motion.


    [So, are you going to pass the information contained in that cell phone to the legion?]


    "...I''m considering it.


    The training for that day concluded.


    Our mission was in a suspended state, hanging in the bnce. Consequently, I found myself with free time, sitting in my room, deep in thought.


    [If they absorb that knowledge, the legion can definitely be stronger.]


    "I don''t see the point in just giving it away.


    Of course, I had to give it. But when the legion mercilessly decimated the Moonlight Elves, disying an overwhelming massacre, I felt fear before catharsis as I watched the footage. I knew because I had faced something simr myself. The legion was powerful. A legionnaire with a power engine? I was certain I couldn''t defeat it. I''d be torn to shreds in an instant. Dozens of them were deployed in the recent battle. And that wasn''t even their full strength.


    "Give me the details. Data... Yes. Show me the numbers. Just how powerful is the legion right now? I believe you can do it.


    [...Calcting data...]


    As expected, silence fell for a moment, indicating the calctions were underway. I waited anxiously during this time. The legion always meticulously calcted the minimum number of troops needed to defeat an opponent, taking into ount nourishment and efficiency. This was only possible because they had an abundance of resources. Even in the battle against the destructive bacteria, the legion conserved nourishment until the very end.


    [Calctionplete]


    "And the answer?


    [Let me show you. The power your unit currently possesses, if the entire legion concentrated all its capabilities and focused on producing only one type of soldier, the amount of force it could generate at once.]


    [...52,400 high-ranking legionnaires avable for mobilization...]


    [...244,400rge legionnaires avable for mobilization...]


    [...1,559,000 medium legionnaires avable for mobilization...]


    [...49,000,000 small legionnaires avable for mobilization...]


    The strings of text appeared. My eyes trembled as I read them.


    [Indeed, these figures are quite extreme. Even if the legion were to continuously produce soldiers without rest, they wouldn''t be able to afford the maintenance costs. Furthermore, this number doesn''t include special forces like the sacred tree or infectious bacteria.]


    "True strength, after all, is derived from abination of forces.


    I murmured, my voice trembling.


    Even if tens of millions of small legionnaires, the size of goblins, were to charge in... No. Tens of millions?! This was an unfathomable number.


    But that wasn''t all. The legion grows. It evolves.


    If they discover a more efficient method and absorb more nourishment, doubling that number wouldn''t be a problem.


    [Are you ready to send the cell phone?]


    "Just a moment.


    I pondered for a while, my face hidden in thought, before making a decision.


    I, who had just begun this journey, was not in a position to be choosy.


    [What are you doing now?]


    "What''s the big deal? It''s about time I showed my face.


    Nonchntly, I set up my cell phone and hit the video recording button.


    Ever since I discovered the potential of the sacrifice and offering system for interaction, I had been contemting its use. The fact that I only realized this now was a testament to my intelligence.


    "Hey, it''s been a while. Nothing much, but...


    I began speaking casually. My words held no significant weight. On the surface, it appeared as if I was merely conversing with my younger sibling.


    "Actually, I watched the video about the recent war.


    However, I subtly mentioned the legion throughout. After all, the crucial message was intended for them. Iplimented them, stating they fought well and looked impressive. It might have sounded like ttery, but I couldn''t bring myself to utter something absurd like Stop the massacre!''


    "I hope you''re safe. Until the end.


    Ultimately, my video message was filled with cliches and ended abruptly. The objective of recording this video was simple: to establish a more advanced form ofmunication with the legion. I retrieved the air device and took a picture of it. The air device vanished as if it had evaporated.


    *


    "Cha Ji Yeon, the Step Up Hunter from the Korean branch of Evolution.


    "...Ji Chang Hyun of Hwaryong. I didn''t realize you were a unit.


    "Well, it''s the same for both of us.


    At the entrance of the barracks, Cha Ji Yeon, who was about to enter, red at Ji Chang Hyun, who had seized her wrist. The mana stone in her hand was glowing. Their heightened alertness from their encounter rendered them oblivious to anyone talking alone in the empty barracks.


    "Let go.


    She shook off his hand roughly. The tension between them was palpable. They were both units from the same world, destined to kill each other.


    "I''ll ask you one thing. Kang Shin Woo already knows your identity. He''s aware of this wicked and irrational game system. So, give up on using him.


    "...That''s amusing. He was involved from the start.


    His eyebrows twitched slightly at her cold retort. Seeing this, the corners of Cha Ji Yeon''s mouth lifted faintly. She realized she had the upper hand.


    "So, what''s the rtionship?


    "It''s deeper than yours.


    "If there was a personal rtionship between you as individuals, I apologize.


    Ji Chang Hyun, momentarily lowering his intensity, bowed politely. However, when he raised his head again, a red me flickered in his eyes.


    "But if your yer uses his unit for nonsense, I can''t allow it for the sake of the future.


    "The future? But the yer...!


    "My master, my yer, wants to talk to your yer.


    He interrupted her.


    "You''re aware, aren''t you? The wicked monsters and the yers controlling them have formed an alliance. Their target is your Evolution and the Allied Forces. As a member of the Guardians Union, I can''t stand by and watch the Allied Forces suffer.


    He turned around and began walking ahead. Cha Ji Yeon snorted in disbelief, but she had no choice but to follow him.


    [The yer is interested. Follow him.]


    After all, she didn''t have a choice.

 Chapter 67: Monsters of the Abyss (6)

    Chapter 67: Monsters of the Abyss (6)


    Tell them I turned off the screen.


    [He turned off the screen. And his tribute has arrived...]


    Before the sentence was even finished, a dormant flying creature swooped down, snatched the phone, and darted across the nest. As soon as it was mentioned that I had turned off the screen, a figure emerged at the top of the nest. A girl with long, flowing ck hair that cascaded almost to her hips appeared, her face hidden behind a mask. The flying creature dropped the phone into her hand.


    Whereas Kang Do Yeon? Where is she?


    [She is currently resting on one side of the nest, relieving mental fatigue by consuming nourishment. The legion has never shown your tribute to Kang Do Yeon first.]


    Are they viewing my sister as apetitor? She''s my sister.


    [Well, the legion doesn''t concern itself with such things. What matters now is your mindset. And the hierarchy. Because your rank is higher than Kang Do Yeon''s.]


    Sigh...


    I was troubled in many ways. Sending my sister to the legion was a desperate choice to save her life. But it was also wrong to thrust her, a mere high school freshman, among these alien monsters. In such a situation, it was clear that the legion, which only pursues efficiency, would not consider ''human- convenience, making it difficult to guide them.


    [I have informed them of the location of the video storage, and the legion is now attempting to review the video you sent.]


    At that moment, the legion, previously engrossed in tapping the screen, began to review the video I had sent.


    ...?


    [...They appear quite flustered.]


    The first video the legion yed was my message, intended for my sister. However, after only a few seconds of watching, the legion caused the entire nest to quake. It concealed itself with astonishing speed, plunging headfirst into the flesh wall. It wedged itself into a crevice and disappeared in an instant, leaving only a foot visible. Soon, even that foot vanished entirely. From the pitifully discarded phone, only my voice echoed.


    I can feel their emotions intensifying. Why on earth?


    [It seems that seeing your face was unexpected. The legion has been curious about your face, but deliberately avoided it.]


    My face?


    [It''s the same principle as hiding their own face.]


    Soon, Kang Do Yeon arrived on the scene. Her scrunched face suggested she had been rudely awakened by the legion''smand.


    This is just a video sent by my brother. There''s no need to be shy.


    She picked up the phone and yelled into the void. After a moment, the writhing wall split open again, and the legion reappeared.


    I''m not shy. I''m sure...


    I can feel your emotions too. You''re definitely shy.


    No, I''m not.


    ...There''s no use blocking the emotions flowing to me. It''s obvious.


    I said no.


    An unexpected exchange ensued between them. From this, I was able to discern the emotions the legion was currently experiencing. [Are you relieved?]


    I''m not sure. At least it seems like they''ll listen to me.


    I sighed and leaned back in my chair. The most terrifying prospect would be if the legion, having grown a bit,pletely disregarded me and acted independently. For now, it seemed like I still held significant sway, but if this influence gradually diminished, I would lose control over the legion. In the worst-case scenario, the legion that hade this far could bury me alive in the nest, only supplying nourishment to keep me alive.


    Let''s watch it properly. This is just a video sent by my brother. What if the battery runs out?


    Kang Do Yeon, who had maturely stopped the bickering, yed the video again. Watching her eyes moisten as she watched the video, I couldn''t help but feel uneasy.


    This, this is just a message from my brother. Listen carefully.


    Seeing her understand my intentions and convey them to the legion made me feel even more so.


    Could the legion possibly release my sister in the future? Would they let her go if I requested it? [That depends on you.]


    I posed the question, though I knew it wouldn''t be of much help. The response was as vague as I had anticipated. [The legion is currently reviewing the information of the soldiers used in thest battle.] The legion seemed to derive pleasure from my few words in real-time. Despite itsmand over countless forces and its role in the extinction of numerous species within thisbyrinth, it retained a certain childlike simplicity. This reaffirmed that my influence over it remained potent. I needed to solidify this influence before it waned any further.


    This was a battle in its own right. It was a contest between my influence over the legion''s ego and the impact of its inherent nature and other environmental factors. There''s more to appreciate. There''s another video. Could it be another gift from my brother? In this battle for influence, my sister''s assistance was invaluable. Despite being a new recruit under the legion''smand, which viewed battle and growth as true blessings, she was effectively ying the role of a mentor in this context.


    Soon after, Kang Do Yeon had positioned the legion beside her and initiated the second video. It was a recording of me receiving Ji Chang Hyun''s power.


    This breathing technique doesn''t have a specific name. It''s just breathing. Once mastered, we can channel the power within our bodies simply through breathing. Ji Chang Hyun exined that this technique would form the foundation for the power we would harness in the future.


    I practiced diligently, soaked in sweat. It was challenging to constantly monitor and control one''s own breathing while engaged in other activities.


    Creating a cycle of unconsciousness through the repetitive act of breathing, and resonating energy with the power of that cycle. This cycle is simr to the Heavenly Soul Art, and the resonance is akin to the sacred tree.


    However, for the legion, who were capable of multitasking and manipting their bodies down to the cellr level, this would be incredibly easy. The legion manipted their body as soon as they saw the video, iming it was simple. Oh. I can do it too.


    The same was true for Kang Do Yeon, who was part of the legion. I sighed in disbelief. If it''s so tantly overpowered, the will topare disappears.


    [The newly acquired technique has been merged with the Heavenly Soul Art and the Moonlight Elf technique you were already mastering. A new operational concept thatyered resonance upon resonance emerged. Its power was further amplified by this.]


    The legion extended their arm. A surge of crimson power enveloped it instantly, condensing into the form of a colossal drill at their palm. The legion then propelled it forward. A section of the nest detonated with a thunderous explosion.


    The nest was also part of the legion. The moment the shockwave hit, it generated a barrier using Formative Force. However, the energy that was unleashed shattered the barrier, obliterating a portion of the nest and even the bedrock behind it.


    Amplification, over 80% on average.


    The legion nced at their hand and chuckled, seemingly content. I was momentarily taken aback by the spectacle. What on earth were they doing? They had deciphered the otherworldly technique I had taught them in an instant, learned it, merged it with their existing power, and created a new, even more potent system of power.


    This power, let''s refine it further and teach it to Oppa. It will certainly be beneficial.


    Kang Do Yeon, having shared this knowledge, also acquired the power. My sister then proposed another revolutionary idea to the legion.


    Oppa will be pleased.


    Pleased...?


    At that, the legion inquired about the proposal with a single word.


    If I ept that, naturally, I must prepare a reciprocal gift. [What will you give?] ...That''s the issue.


    Now fully sunk into the chair, I was merely staring nkly at the screen. On the surface, it appeared as two girls of the same age brainstorming and ying together. The only difference was their bodies,posed of carapace and tough skin. At that moment, those girls were recording a video to send to me. However, I couldn''t just sit idly by and watch. My mind was filled with fresh concerns.


    The legion was powerful. Excessively so. It might have been presumptuous, but I had faith in the legion, in that child. That''s why I couldn''t help but contemte a countermeasure. Until now, I had never interfered with that child. I merely observed and empathized with it emotionally. If I were to issue anymand or request, would the legion obey me, even if it contradicted their nature? This was my most pressing concern at the moment.


    [But don''t let your guard down too much.]


    What do you mean?


    [It''s a fundamental discussion. Among the units participating in this game, the yers...and the forces associated with them, there are many who should not be underestimated. Therefore, the legion must naturally be stronger.]


    At that moment, as if on cue, ascending letters flickered before my eyes.

 Chapter 68: Monsters of the Abyss (7)

    Chapter 68: Monsters of the Abyss (7)


    "Heuk...heuk..."


    The boys breaths were harsh, stabbing at his lungs. Even after escaping through the narrow, rugged hole, he hadn''t stopped running. His legs ached as if they were about to fall off, and every muscle in his body screamed in agony.


    fI need to... tell them faster../


    Despite the excruciating pain of his muscles tearing, the boy gritted his teeth and forced his body to move. He knew that the fate of not only his family but his entire race depended on him. The image of the city turned into a wastnd by monsters crawling out of the dark abyss and the chieftain with a somber face pleading with him was etched in his mind.


    ''I must../


    When the legion had already stabilized and wasmunicating with Shin Woo, taking a brief period of maintenance, the boy, unaware of this, only thought about ascending. The reason they had settled there was because the relics of their ancestors were still rtively intact. It wasn''t that there was nothing on the upper floors. There was no need to destroy all the dozens of floors above for their purpose.


    "Ugh!"


    The panting boy stumbled and fell on his buttocks. A golem, its chest core glowing, blocked his path, its heavy footsteps approaching. Unlike the golems of the lower floors, the golems in this vicinity had not been ordered to fight the destructive bacteria.


    "Intruder! Now! We''re in danger!"


    The boy crouched and shouted desperately. It wasn''t theirnguage, but the humannguage he had painstakingly learned. The golem, which was about to trample the boy, stopped at that moment. After a moment of silence.


    "Ta, take...?"


    The golem extended its hand to the boy. Only a humming sound could be heard. The boy, having regained hisposure, climbed onto the golem''s hand himself.


    "There''s nothing much to see. Well, it''s a ce that was sorted out a few years ago."


    With a tone full of boredom and no regard for subtlety, he seemed to have no intention of examining it in detail.


    "But, Vice President, we have discovered several species in the ancientbyrinth from our branch this time..."


    "I''m not interested. Thatbyrinth already has its owner, doesn''t it? Let''s go back."


    "Yes...?"


    The crowd, anxiously waiting, was taken aback by his words. They had prepared extensively for the big shot''s personal visit, with many suffering to clean the floors and walls until they shone. Yet, he dered he would leave after a mere nce.


    "But, Vice President..! You haven''t thoroughly examined our research results yet!"


    "Hmm?"


    An infuriated voice cut through the silence. A young woman in a white research uniform stepped forward, surprising everyone.


    "Researcher Reina."


    He read her name from her name tag and chuckled.


    "I''ve seen enough. What''s there to dig deep into here in the first ce? I met the mayor yesterday. The whole city was unimpressive. Thepetition with other societies is


    fierce right now, I don''t have time to invest in the research of those who have been pushed out in one ce.


    "But..."


    "If you wish to restrain me, and if you aspire to reach the center, you require an exceptionally groundbreaking subject."


    He voiced his words without hesitation, turning around with his attendants. Everyone present was taken aback by the harsh reality. It was unfair and frustrating. For the wizards


    who belonged to the society that governed this world, the society''s will was bothw and truth.


    "Was I mistaken, Reina? If your abilities were truly exceptional, wouldn''t they have already presented me with those research findings from the center?"


    "No..."


    She lowered her head, responding in a soft voice. The surprised nces directed at her morphed into expressions of hostility and annoyance. They thought she had unnecessarily stepped forward and upset the Vice President.


    "Ahem, let''s proceed now, Vice President..."


    "Big! Big trouble!"


    News arrived that halted his steps.


    "That''s right. Things are getting interesting now, aren''t they, Director?"


    "Yes, yes! What in the world..."


    The Vice President couldn''t suppress the smirk ying on his lips. The area, bustling with wizards from all walks of society who had apanied him, was at the entrance of a cave known as the gateway to the ancientbyrinth. A boy with pointed ears and unique patterns adorning his body stood trembling in their midst, appearing frightened.


    "But... the indigenous Moonlight Elves are extremely wary of us. We can''t even conduct proper research..."


    "Can wemunicate?"


    Wizards are fundamentally driven by their thirst for research, for subjects. This is especially true for the wizards of this remote area who vie for promotions through their research results.


    "He stuttered a few words. Now he''s scared and keeps his mouth shut."


    "Funny. What''s your name?"


    The Vice President, amused by the wizard''s ount who had been operating the golem for security, pointed his wand at the boy''s chest.


    "Yelson."


    Whether he understood the meaning or not, the boy who had remained silent until their arrival spoke his name with trembling eyes. All the wizards were taken aback to hear humannguage from the mouth of this alien race that had been shrouded in mystery.


    "Good... Yelson. Why did you break the non-interference agreement that you proposed first and our..."


    "Invasion! Now! We''re in danger! Monsters from below,ing!"


    The Vice President was calmly trying to continue his question, but Yelson, who didn''t understand his words, desperately spilled out his words. He had no choice. At this very moment, his fellow tribesmen were dying.


    "What the..."


    "Help, we need help. Help!"


    His desperation and urgency were unmistakable to everyone present. Amidst the flustered magicians, Reina stood, her hand covering her mouth.


    "Everyone, quiet down! This matter doesn''t seem like something we can take lightly. Secretary, bring that kid over here."


    The vice president struck the floor with his staff, sending a shallow shockwave throughout the room. The chaotic atmosphere calmed.


    "Do you mean that guy?"


    "Are we just going to stand around here?"


    "No, no, not at all!"


    At his re, the startled secretary hastily grabbed Yelson''s hand and dragged him over. Despite Yelson''s protests, no one moved. All the magicians on the scene were curious, but none dared to go against the society.


    "Vice President! Their situation seems quite dire. We should listen to their testimony first, so..."


    "Ah, it''s you again, Researcher Reina. Focus on your duties. I can handle this."


    Once again, Reina stepped forward, and as expected, he didn''t even pretend to listen to her.


    "Vice President, I''ll contact the market first. We need to dispatch an investigation team as soon as..."


    "No, stop."


    Yelson watched the director''s retreating figure, his expression filled with anxiety. He had listened to their conversation but couldn''tprehend it.


    "Excuse me? But..."


    "Director, wouldn''t you prefer to be at the center of things? We have a fascinating research subject here. For example, the anatomy of indigenous ancient species. Sounds intriguing, doesn''t it?"


    Suddenly, heid his hand on the director''s shoulder, a cunning smile dancing on his lips. The director swallowed hard, his face turning ashen.


    "What I mean is, I''m still eager to continue my research. You guys just don''t get it. You have no idea of the burden I bear. Ugh."


    He chuckled then, striding ahead alone. The bewildered crowd paused, watching him, but his focus was entirely elsewhere.


    fFools. They''re merely learning to use basic spells. But if the entire race, which possesses a slight talent, develops a bit more andrge-scale group magic bes feasible, they can change the game.''


    His eyes gleamed, apletely different world unfolding before him. In the dark and destend, tens of thousands of creatures were living in groups. Upon realizing he was watching, they were startled and prostrated themselves in reverence.


    For the god who gave them knowledge and awareness.


    "Get up. There''s no time for that. The war isn''t over yet."


    At hismand, they got up and started their work. The fact that his life depended on the existence of these humble creatures, who were mere beasts before they met him, always put pressure on him.


    "What about the stuff the Ashkroud guys gave?"


    [It''s ready now]


    He continued, diligently managing his tasks. The situation demanded his attention, but he couldn''t afford to give it in thepany of others.


    "Regardless of how alluring the research and temptation are, survivales first."


    A chuckle slipped from him as he watched the screen. His units, known as Kobolds by some humans, were carefully transporting valuable items packed in wooden boxes to a specified


    location. Despite all odds, the mysterious link with the other world had bestowed upon him immense power and social status.

 Chapter 69: Monsters of the Abyss (8)

    Chapter 69: Monsters of the Abyss (8)


    "How is he? Whats he doing? Is he happy?


    The legion bombarded with questions.


    [...Of course, hes currently reviewing the footage you sent. He must be quite busy. Yes, he''s very happy.]


    "Do you know how hard I worked to optimize this for him?


    Kang Do Yeon grumbled from the sidelines.


    In truth, Kang Do Yeon deserved recognition for her understanding and refinement of the new fmind technique-. The legion, with its superior intelligence, had enhanced and evolved this technique. However, it was she who yed a crucial role in adapting it from their viewpoint to a human-s. Throughout this process, she had pushed her cognitive abilities to their limits with the legions help, leaving her utterly drained.


    "However, the newly created Resonance Method is only halfplete.


    The legion gave a vague verdict on the new mind technique for handling Formative Force.


    "Its a technique thoroughly designed for humans, or rather, humanoid forms.


    "But all the high-ranking species are humanoid... arent they?


    Kang Do Yeon asked, her confusion evident. The legion nodded in response.


    In fact, all the high-ranking species that the legion produced to utilize Formative Force were in the form of humans or orcs, possessing arms and legs and using weapons.


    "Weve never seen a beast use Formative Force.


    The reason was straightforward. The legion had never encountered any creature that utilized Formative Force. They were hesitant to create inefficiently, and thus, never dared to do so.


    "Ultimately, because theyre humanoid, they have no choice but to rely on such techniques.


    However, these versatile soldiers had a significant weakness. Compared to other types of soldiers who enhanced their size, teeth, or ws, their lethality decreased if they were weaponless.


    Therefore, if they were born with arms and hands, it was best to grab anything and swing it around, even if they had a spiked tail.


    "We need swordsmanship. Whether it-s spear technique or body technique, we need it all.


    The legion-s eyes gleamed behind the mask.


    Creating a weapon was simple. However, that weapon was certainly not a part of the body, and it unquestionably required a method of use.


    It had to be more efficient. They had experienced this in their fight with the Moonlight Elves, who had developed a somewhat systematic sword technique.


    This was the basis for the legion-s judgment that the Resonance Method they developed was only halfplete.


    "Then it-s solved. The martial arts that Ji Chang Hyun taught him was a type of swordsmanship.


    "Tsk.


    At Kang Do Yeons words, the legion didnt bother to hide its feelings.


    "Tsk?


    "It-s not an unusual sound. While he could learn directly from the video, it would make him happier if we were the ones to teach him.


    [-]


    "...Youre incredibly honest in this regard.


    Kang Do Yeon yfully stuck out her tongue in response to the legion-s unexpected reaction, quickly scanning her surroundings.


    This was not the same legion she once knew, the one she had taught to understand and express emotions.


    Now, it didn-t hesitate toprehend and convey its own feelings.


    fI think I understand his concern now.-*


    Her understanding deepened now that they were unified as one entity.


    This creature, which alternated between being ordinary and peculiar, sometimes resembling a younger sibling, was in fact a being capable of transforming into something brutally and terrifyingly powerful at any given moment.


    [The reconnaissance has beenpleted up to the 68th floor. The traces have been cut off here.]


    "There-s only one possibility.


    The legion shifted its gaze.


    The location was more than ten floors above their current position.


    Their scouts, dispatched long ago, were operating there without any hindrance.


    "Traces of the golem. Could that kid have been caught by the golem?


    "The severed traces lead upwards. The golem must have taken the surviving individual upwards.


    Despite having the same information, the legion, capable of seeing, hearing, and processing countless things in the city, refuted Kang Do Yeon-s deduction and pointed upwards.


    The legion was already aware of the surviving Moonlight Elf, Yelson. They even knew about his assigned mission, having heard it directly from the Great Chieftain.


    "Human.


    The entire nest trembled slightly.


    Startled, Kang Do Yeon instinctively touched her heart, which had ceased to beat.


    She couldnt utter a word. The legion was already contemting hunting the humans on the surface.


    And a hunt by the legion meant only one thing: the annihtion of an entire species, driving them to extinction.


    "Legion Commander.


    "Hmm..


    "Lets go to the surface right now. To take everything they have.


    The refurbishment was over. The legion decided to go to the surface.


    [All the floors have been cleaned by the humans golems, so naturally, there are no creatures that could be our enemies.]


    The march of the legionnaires began with a chilling silence. The lush vegetation in thebyrinth was left untouched.


    The expansion of the nest, which was devouring the entirebyrinth, continued without a break, as they could eat slowly anyway.


    The only obstacles were the golems that the humans had scattered for management, but they all fell apart as their cores were shattered by the swords of the high-ranking species.


    [The location of the scouts, the 78th floor. Their traces were found here. However, the traces are a bit old.]


    [The 88th floor. The scouts began to get hurt by creatures that look like cave bats.]


    [The 96th floor. Artificially polished passages and spaces are visible. A heavy door is blocking the passage, but there is a tiny gap.]


    [The 99th floor. Above, there is light.]


    We found it.


    The entire legion was shaken.


    On the 100th floor, the legions scouts had discovered humans.


    The 100th floor was a rather expansive facility.


    A considerable number of humans were congregated in this facility, each clutching one or two peculiar crystal-like objects. The surviving scout, norger than a slightly oversized bee, cautiously approached some of them. The humans, engrossed in their chatter, remained oblivious to the scouts presence. Those in robes were particrly engrossed in their casual conversation about the crystal spheres.


    "Could they be...wizards?


    Kang Do Yeon, who already knew that the golems were not moved by scientific means but by a unique method, mumbled in a daze.


    The legion also understood what magic was.


    Not the fictitious magic known through Earths knowledge, but the magic of the humans of this world, as revealed by the testimony of the Moonlight Elf Chieftain.


    "The gaze reflected in the crystal spheres. Its the scenery of the cave. Theyre looking through the golems eyes.


    The legion confirmed that the screens visible in the crystal spheres were disying simrndscapes from various angles, and identified their nature.


    "It wasnt automatic...then, doesnt that mean they saw us? But its too quiet for that.


    "The total number of crystal spheres is 69, the number of humans is 38. Theyre not watching all the golems from the start.


    The legion swiftlypleted its calctions and initiated a new one. A Moonlight Elf survivor had managed to evade detection, and it was clear they hadnt yet disclosed their


    identity to the humans. This information could be leveraged for a more efficient battle.


    "I want to see the outside first.


    The legion, momentarily halting its march, dispatched a single scout. The scout quickly caught and devoured a bug to replenish its energy.


    The smaller scouts possessed fully functional digestive organs, enabling them to procure energy independently.


    [Was the desperation so great that it justified the inefficiency? Then, how does it feel to finally see the outside world youve yearned for?]


    The scout moved steadily towards the intensifying light.


    Suddenly, thendscape shifted.


    The pure sunlight, a stark contrast to the feeble glow stones of the cave that resembled a prison, bathed the entire world with the power of origin and life.


    The wind, now free to roam anywhere, was unlike the wind confined to flow within the undergroundbyrinth.


    The soil, teeming with the energy of countless lives thriving on it, was different.


    All these elements, which those who lived here and saw daily, couldnt appreciate, were entirely new to the legion, which had just surfaced from the ground for the first time.


    It felt like a child seeing the world for the first time. The legions world, which began from a single hive in a cave, had expanded once more.


    [Didnt you already know? Whats outside, what the sun is, what this world is?]


    <No...it s...different.


    They knew, of course, thanks to the vast knowledge they had gathered while growing. But that was merely information they had seen and heard.


    The sights they directly experienced through a part of themselves were so overwhelming that their advanced brain momentarily froze.


    ''The sky. The dwelling ce of the gods and the gateway to the boundless universe.


    The legion looked upwards. They had always been curious about the sky.


    The endless expanse of blue. The scouts specially enhanced vision urately captured that clear blue color.


    ''Its beautiful.


    For the first time since their birth, they could see the sky of the open world.


    The view of this world under the open sky was beyondparison to even thergest hive.


    The legion, which had yet to clearly define what beauty was, found its definition for the first time.


    [Then, what are your thoughts on seeing that sky, this world?]


    ''I want it.


    Their obsession momentarily subsided, and the legions inherent desire to consume surged stronger than ever before.


    It was a predictable oue. If they desired something, they would seize it. That was the legions logic.


    The entire legion was violently stirred by the intense primal instinct to devour everything, to color it with their own cells.

 Chapter 70: Monsters of the Abyss (9)

    Chapter 70: Monsters of the Abyss (9)


    [The moment they first glimpsed the world beyond the cave, they made a vow. Can they fulfill it?]


    Well, I had a rough idea.


    Even though I imed to have turned off the screen, I was secretly watching, my anxiety causing me to pull at my hair. It''s true that I felt a slight relief when I saw them trying to make a video for me, but I didn''t let my guard down. That''s the relentless, inherent nature of the legion.


    I transferred the video of the legion''s mind technique, the Resonance Method, which my sister had filmed to my phone. Then, I refocused on the screen.


    So, the legion, after emerging from the abyss, dered they would devour the world. How are they acting on that?


    [Look at the screen. Their priority is information, and they are currently acting to obtain it.]


    The legion does not hesitate. There''s no need for discussions to make decisions to mobilize the army. Once they decide, they push relentlessly without a pause.


    Several unique flying creatures broke off into smaller groups, cutting through the darkness and navigating the floors. The perspectives of the scouts monitoring the mages also appeared on a section of the screen. The golems they directly controlled seemed to be bustling about, unlike the other golems. But weren''t these mages supposed to observe and make decisions based on the views of these golems, which essentially functioned as surveince cameras?


    @#%~W.


    &%A~@? #####.


    However, seeing them chatting andughing amongst themselves, I felt there was no need for concern, even though I couldn''tprehend theirnguage. How lightly were they taking thisbyrinth to be so nonchnt?


    Would it be hypocritical to... pray for their souls?


    I wasn''t sure of their power yet, but I couldn''t help but smirk, anticipating their downfall.


    @%?


    [The legion''s small flying types sessfully infiltrated the ceiling of the 100th floor without them noticing. They still haven''t realized it.]


    The small flying creature the legion dispatched this time resembled a bat, from its fur to its tail, except for the stinger. This legionnaire, with its four pairs of membranous


    wings, crawled upside down on the ceiling. Then, opening its mouth wide, it began to quietly release a biological gas.


    [The gas contains infectious bacteria that the legion has enhanced to the extreme through battles with the destructive bacteria. The Moonlight Elves have immunity to infections


    that prate through the air by sharing the power of the sacred tree, but what about humans?]


    Zoom in on the screen.


    I nced outside the tent and zoomed in on the screen. When the screen was magnified enough to show the microscopic world, I could see the bacterial legionnaires floating in the air. They dispersed in the air and naturally began to adhere to the respiratory tract and eye mucosa of the mages.


    Achoo!


    Sneezing and tears, the body''s defense mechanisms, immediately started working, expelling the bacterial legionnaires that were secreting toxins to attack the surrounding cells. Of course, that wouldn''t be enough to stop them.


    [It seems that due to the special power they possess, infection through such an easy method is impossible.]


    Suddenly, the bacterial legionnaires began to die off. The mages, taken aback, seemed to notice something as they exchanged nces with each other.


    [Then, we have no choice but to directly inject arge amount of powerful and heavy infectious bacteria into the blood vessels.]


    Of course, for the legion, it was just one of many ns that had been thwarted. The flying types perched on the ceiling quietly aimed their stingers at their targets.


    @ ?%.


    fCO/


    The mages seemed indifferent, returning to their tasks. Suddenly, the aimed stinger exploded with a loud bang, and the embedded stinger wasunched at an incredible speed.


    Ugh!?


    The stinger was deeply lodged in their neck. It was thicker, longer, and most importantly, the saw de that grew in the opposite direction acted like a hook, digging into the flesh and making it difficult to remove.


    They recoiled in shock at the sight of theirrades, who had been unexpectedly sniped in the neck, head, and shoulders. They clutched their wounds and copsed.


    [These are different. They''re injected directly, not through air transmission. They''re stronger, bigger. A formative force as weak as a heartbeat won''t affect them.]


    Ugh...


    The victims'' wounds frothed, rapidly darkening as ck blood seeped out along the surrounding blood vessels.


    Cellr warfare had be the legion''s specialty. The victims, their cells being destroyed and devoured alive, convulsed and contorted grotesquely, their eyes rolling back.


    The magicians, who should have acted, were greatly flustered by the sudden sniping and missed their only opportunity.


    Argh!


    Soon, the legionnaires that had infiltrated the central nervous system and brain seizedplete control of the body. The victims abruptly rose and attacked theirrades who were checking on them, biting into their flesh.


    Ah...Ahhhh!


    Argh!


    The horrific screams involuntarily furrowed my brows. It was challenging to watch the gruesome spectacle of people being torn apart alive with a calm demeanor. It was more horrifying than any zombie movie, especially since this wasn''t a film.


    [They''re not fools, of course, they resist.]


    Amidst the chaos, one man, who seemed to have regained his senses unusually quickly, hurled a fireball from his hand at arade rushing towards him. His otherrades were being brutally torn apart. The power was substantial. The explosion that ensued with a bang was equivalent to a decent grenade. Moreover, the man traced aplex motion with his hand, simultaneously creating and throwing about a dozen such fireballs.


    [The legion is measuring their power.]


    ...Honestly, they seem pretty strong?


    I was slightly taken aback. For one, the magic was stronger and faster than I had imagined. The man who was now left alone began to take down his rushingrades one by one.


    Are we going to lose him at this rate?


    Under his breath, he muttered an incantation, casting another spell on himself. His movements became swift, and hended a punch on arade who was charging at him with bared


    teeth, crushing his nose. He had been gradually retreating during the fight, but now he was on the verge of fleeing the cave. After annihting the upper body of thest


    remainingrade with a ming spear, he spun around with a look of terror and started to run.


    [No, he will not escape.]


    Escape, however, was not an option. A spear, slicing through the air, shattered the translucent barrier around his body and pierced it. The high-ranking legionnaire who had thrown the spear, crafted entirely of red ore and emanating a crimson aura, had arrived unnoticed to even myself.


    When did...


    In a state of shock, I murmured to myself. The high-ranking legionnaire folded its wings, tucked them into its carapace, and strolled over to retrieve its spear.


    [Having neutralized all of them as nned, all that''s left is to acquire information.]


    @...


    The legionnaire seized the man who was muttering in a trembling voice by the head. I sighed inwardly. Once in the legion''s grasp, he wouldn''t have the luxury of death, even if he wanted it. The wound, already tainted with infection, was healing at an rming rate.


    [The legion will study them and this world, then begin to act in earnest.]


    ...I''ll turn off the screen. Alert me if anything unusual urs.


    I switched off the screen. The forting spectacle was predictable, and I had no desire to witness such a scene.


    Shin Woo, are you in there?


    Yes. Come in.


    Unable to bear any more for the moment, I allowed Cha Ji Yeon, who was causing amotion outside, to enter. However, she wasn''t alone. She was apanied by Chris, a colleague from Evolution.


    *


    Guardians Union.


    Honestly, it''s a bit amusing, but... I don''t want to belittle them. They are, after all, quite extraordinarypared to us.


    Chris chuckled, taking a sip of his coffee. The information they shared with me was about the coboration between Evolution and the Guardians Union. Given that the core of the Guardians Unionprised yers and units, their choice was somewhat unexpected to me. I had always perceived their yers as arrogant and aloof.


    Extraordinary people, but also lunatics. Moreover, the current situation isn''t exactly favorable. As you''re aware, the monsters, primarily the units, are forming alliances and acting with increased aggression. Here, the situation is rtively stable, right? One of the legions of the Eastern European Allied Forces has been annihted.


    Annihted?


    The creatures wemonly refer to as Minotaurs were units there.


    Chris chuckled at his own words. The image of the muscr monster with a bull''s head, a three-meter-tall A-rank monster that could easily overpower an orc in terms of physical strength, was a unit. A chill ran down my spine.


    The situation is bing moreplex, separate from this damned death game.


    Chris finished hisst sip of coffee.

 Chapter 71: Monsters of the Abyss (10)

    Chapter 71: Monsters of the Abyss (10)


    Are you sure he''s not watching?"


    [Yes.]


    Then it doesn''t matter."


    In a shadowy corner of the cave, the legion started by confirming the most crucial detail. Shin Woo, who was currently engaged in conversation with Chris and Cha Ji Yeon, wasn''t looking at the screen. There was a reason why he, who could monitor everything through an invisible screen, had turned it off.


    Ugh...huff..."


    Let''s chat a bit more."


    The legion chuckled, pinning the trembling man against the wall. The captive struggled toprehend the situation, faced with a monstrous entity that had assumed the form of a human woman. The creature whispered to him, its eyes gleaming from behind its mask.


    The legion excelled in interrogations. They spread the infection throughout the body, taking control and manipting the nervous system at their whim. They had discovered that pain was an effective tool for extracting the truth, and had been using this method ever since. Even the most stubborn of the elves couldn''t withstand the agonizing pain for more than an hour.


    Spill it. Every single detail."


    Thenguage system was different, but it didn''t matter. The legion quickly picked up the humannguage with just a hint, and their learning speed increased even more.


    Everything."


    Cough...hack..."


    Shin Woo wasn''t watching because of this. The victim, half out of his mind from the unimaginable, horrific pain, revealed everything he knew. The legionmitted all the information to memory.


    They knew cross-verification was necessary, but for now, they assumed the information they had obtained was urate and began to strategize.


    ''If only we could analyze the brain and extract the information inside.''


    It wasn''t perfect. They knew that extracting information through torture wasn''t a very sophisticated method. The legion currently had the ability to perfectly replicate the target''s brain cells, but interpreting the information inside was still impossible. Unlikenguage, which allowed them tomunicate and gather clues externally, there was nothing to reference for brain cell analysis at their current level.


    [So, have you decided on a course of action?]


    Of course."


    After extracting all the necessary information, the legion stood up. A faint spark of hope flickered in the eyes of the victim, now liberated from the excruciating pain.


    Ah...ahh!"


    The controlled infection consumed the victim entirely, obliterating his mind and ego. The victim''s writhing and screaming gradually ceased. Thest tear that trickled from his eyes was absorbed by the ck blood vessels, transforming him into a living husk. When the legion''s nest finally reached this ce, he would be digested and used as nourishment.


    ''Let''s move, Legion Commander.''


    Still wearing its mask, the legion ordered Kang Do Yeon, who had been waiting, to proceed. Now that they knew their location and identified their enemies, there was no need to remain hidden.


    ''We''re going to devour everything.''


    They had already finished their calctions. The legion decided to act immediately. Just then, they detected movement at the entrance.


    Hey, Boris. Why aren''t you responding?"


    These guys are leaving in groups, and they told me to report first before changing shifts..."


    As the sun set outside the cave, a group of magicians, oblivious to the incident that had transpired a few hours ago, entered the cave. They hade to change shifts and were quite irritated. They were supposed to report regrly, but none of the previous workers had contacted them.


    What the..."


    Why is no one here?"


    They were startled by the deste emptiness, devoid of any signs of life. This ce, established decades ago, was a quiet corner they believed they had thoroughly explored. Yet, unexpected variables had arisen.


    ...What?"


    Why are all the connections with the golems cut off?"


    Same here. It seems like there''s a problem."


    They checked the crystal balls and instinctively tensed up. The atmosphere shifted instantly. The cave, once a boring and tedious workce filled with desks, crystal balls,


    papers, and books, regained its former gloom and chill. The sound of water dripping from the sewer pipes seemed unusually loud.


    Hey, rookie. Go report to headquarters right now. We need to investigate. Damn it, just bring themunication orb."


    A middle-aged magician with a bald head, who seemed to be a senior, ordered a young man in a slightly trembling voice. As if ustomed to this treatment, the young man nodded


    hastily and turned around.


    Uh...?"


    You can''t leave."


    However, the moment the young man started running towards the entrance, someone blocked his way. A figure with a slender, voluptuous body d in ck armor appeared out of nowhere, her long ck hair reaching her hips and her red eyes shing from behind the mask.


    What the..."


    Dumbass! Duck!"


    While the young man was confused, the senior magician quickly assessed the situation and summoned an ice spear, throwing it at the legion. However, the ice spear was blocked by a sudden, translucent, crimson barrier.


    Everyone fell silent. In the midst of the silence, the legion pointed a finger at them.


    ''Kill them.''


    Themand was issued to the waiting legionnaires. The winged soldiers, previously stationed on the lower floor, surged out like water from a breached dam.


    Ah, ahh!"


    Shield! Now!"


    Several mages, caught off guard by the onught of massive winged beasts, couldn''t react in time. They fell where they stood, their blood spilling from sharp ws and venomous stingers. There was no need to infect them; the goal was to kill them all anyway.


    A few survivors quickly gathered in a corner, erecting a shield and firing off spells in resistance to the legionnaires.


    ''Most of the Labyrinth Management Office staff are low-level mages.''


    The legion, however, was indifferent. They already knew their identities and the magic they used from previous interrogations. While the new method of manipting Formative Force intrigued them, they deemed it unworthy of learning due to its low level.


    There are too many..."


    Save us!"


    The airborne creatures swarmed over those who bravely resisted from within the confines of a solitary shield. However, the shield was not infinite, and there was no one to lend them a hand.


    The monsters they faced were far more brutal than typical beasts. They viewed humans not as prey, but as targets that needed thorough eradication. Countless monsters surged forward with this singr objective.


    Feeling the potent bloodlust of the monsters, the mages descended into a state of panic. Their mental instability caused the magic-formed shield to thin and slowly start to fracture.


    ''The wizard societies, and the cities.''


    The legion, watching them brutally torn apart and killed as they failed to maintain the shield, was already contemting the next n. ording to the information obtained, there were humans in this world who were much stronger than these low-level mages. They seemed worth learning from.


    [It takes some time to nest.]


    I don''t mind."


    The legion first created a nest on this 100th floor. Legionnaires, resembling giant toads, regurgitated sticky mucus stored in their stomachs. From this mucus, flesh walls and tentacles grew, starting to cover the ground.


    The nest hadn''t yet fully consumed the deep underground of the 70th floor. For now, they only needed to establish a connection to share nourishment with the main nest and devise a method to digest and supply nourishment to the troops stationed here.


    There''s an abundance of prey. Expand by devouring everything."


    Standing at the cave entrance, the legion spread its arms wide. A vast forest teeming with flora and fauna stretched out before them, with a fairlyrge city visible in the distance. There was no shortage of food, a stark contrast to thebyrinth that was nothing but rocks.


    Everythingid out before them could be their energy. The legion stepped out of the rock-filled cave and onto the soft, weed-sprouting soil. Despite the monster''s sharp ws, it could still feel the ground.


    Kneeling on one knee and sweeping the soil with its hand, the legion soon chuckled. A fearless ant had climbed onto its hand and was peering around.

 Chapter 72: Invasion and Erosion (1)

    Chapter 72: Invasion and Erosion (1)


    "But Reina! Its toote!


    "I will listen to the story a bit more. Is it reasonable not to investigate at all?!


    Late into the night, a voice echoed throughout the city.


    The city of Rihelm, located on the outskirts of the continent, was a sizable city established by many who had gathered to explore the ancientbyrinth. Although the city had lost its former glory and became a quiet border town due to the shift of continental power to the central region and the subsequent decline in interest inbyrinth exploration.


    "You-re already on the Vice President-s radar. What will you do if you get expelled for drawing attention to yourself here?!


    "I dont care. Ill hear the full story before the Vice President leaves.


    She clenched her teeth. As a magician in this world, it was natural to aspire to join the central magic society, the current powerhouse. However, sometimes, there were things deemed more important.


    "Pm sorry, Deputy Director. For now...


    "Big, big trouble!


    Before she could even exit the office, a desperate face appeared on the hummingmunication orb on the Deputy Director''s desk. Confronted with one problem after another, the Deputy Director frantically scratched his already thinning hair.


    "Alright, what is it this time, Bob? If youre making a fuss over trivial matters like wage arrears for theborers, I wont let it slide.


    "Magicians working in thebyrinth surveince team under the management office have lost contact on arge scale!


    "...What?


    The news this time was far from light. The Deputy Director, whose eyes widened in surprise, met Reinas gaze.


    "Hes probably at his mansion with the Director right now. Theyre leaving early tomorrow.


    "I will go and listen to the story. Deputy Director, please contact the Mayor and send an investigation team as soon as possible.


    "Alright.


    The Deputy Director, realizing the seriousness of the situation, changed his stance. She found out where the Vice President was and quickly grabbed her coat to leave the office.


    fIt was not a trivial matter...


    As she navigated the nighttime streets, she bit her lip, her anxiety mounting. The Moonlight Elves, who had been quietly regaining their strength in thebyrinth, had sent even a child with an urgent plea for help.


    Therefore, the Vice Presidents calm response was nonsensical. Of course, this was a thought that Reina could have because she didnt know that the Vice Presidents mind was preupied with something she couldnt even imagine.


    "Wait! This is the residence of Orne, the Director of the ckl Research Institute...


    "I am Reina, a research magician of the Institute! Let me see the Director, no, the Vice President!


    She ran breathlessly and shouted at the guard who blocked her. The guard, startled by her momentum, quickly stepped aside. She stormed into the mansion. There was no need to hesitate since the situation had already exploded.


    "What is the meaning of this?!


    So, when the flustered Director appeared and scolded her, she stared back at him with wide eyes.


    "Did you not receive themunication orb? Theres a situation.


    "A situation?


    The Directors eyebrows twitched as he faced off with her in the hallway. Almost simultaneously, a servant rushed in with something in his hand, stopped at the unusual atmosphere, and looked around. In his hand was amunication orb with someone shouting.


    "So, Deputy Director, whats the situation?


    The Director, mopping his cold sweat, took themunication orb and received a report from the Deputy Director on the screen. Reina listened in silence, noting the Directors hardening expression.


    "Maybe its not that serious.


    The Director tried to downy the situation, sweating buckets. The news he received just as he was about to move to the central office was too shocking.


    "Director, the magicians are in danger. This morning, we received an urgent message from an elf who was rescued from thebyrinth where the problem started!


    "And?


    "We need to meet with the elf immediately. You need to take action now. This isnt a minor issue!


    Reinas frustration with hisck of action was evident in her voice. Yet, the Directors condition was deteriorating. His eyes were shaking more violently, and his cold sweat was flowing more heavily. It was a stark contrast to his usual authoritative and domineering demeanor towards his subordinates.


    "That, that is...


    "Calm down, both of you.


    Then the Vice President appeared. With his neatly trimmed beard and sharp eyes, he always carried a sense of weight. He controlled the situation with a solemn voice.


    "It seems the problem is indeed serious. Director, go to theb with her.


    "Y-yes...? Yes?! But!


    "Are you going to defy me?


    The Vice President red at the Director, whose face had turned pale. Reina wondered why the Director was reacting like that, but she quickly dismissed the thought. That wasnt important right now.


    "This way.


    He led the Director and Reina to the undergroundb in the mansion. Reina marveled inwardly. The personalb and underground facility were filled with quite decent equipment.


    "Ah..?


    "Its fascinating. The patterns they engrave on their bodies from childhood grow into a special organ under the continuous influence of magic as they grow. It was a great subject for researching magic blood.


    However, Reina was speechless at the sight before her.


    "How...how can you do this...


    It wasnt just that she was speechless, she was so shocked that she momentarily lost her mind. The severed head floating separately from the body in the test tube had lifeless eyes.


    "Indeed, you should havee forward moderately.


    -Non-lethal mode-


    While she was shocked, he took something out of his pocket, aimed it at her chest, and fired it. She didnt have time to activate a spell to respond. The needles that were fired instantly pierced through her clothes and into her body, knocking her unconscious with a strong electric shock.


    "Amazing, what is that treasure...


    "Its something to protect my body in case of any situation. Dont worry about it, Orne, you just take care of the aftermath.


    "Is she...dead?


    "No.


    He kicked the fallen Reina with his foot and smirked at the Directors words.


    "The data obtained from dissecting these indigenous elves this time, I need to find a test subject to apply it. Preferably a being with magic.


    "Impossible...


    "Ive kept it well hidden for a reason. Now, lets address this unexpected problem. What could possibly go wrong with those losers who couldnt even get into the society?


    Ignoring the stunned director, he slid the gun he was holding back into his coat. He had been careful. This gun was something he had acquired from his temporary allies. It was a


    tool to target any unit or yers in this world that might pose a threat to his life.


    fNo matter how much those idiotic mages attack, Ill be fine with my magic and these weapons. The only remaining issue is the assassination right, huh?


    With a cunning smile, he sent the director off to deal with the problem that had erupted outside.


    [Dont let your guard down. This is a fundamental warning, Rozes. Never, ever let your guard down.]


    "I know! Thats why Im being super careful! No examiner or mage will be able to touch me!


    Left alone, he muttered to the whispering voice in his head. *


    "Search quickly!


    "What about the search magic?!


    "Were almost ready!


    As dawn broke, a considerable number of people had left the city and ventured into the forest. This forest, untouched for farming purposes, was not an ideal terrain for arge group to traverse due to thebyrinths presence.


    "Vice President, did we bring too many people...?


    "I had no choice. It was the directors order.


    The vice president gave a wry smile in response to the citys defense captains question. The director, who had shown little reaction during the report, had suddenly called and urged him to expedite the situation.


    ''Did Reina stir up trouble again? Should I have waited?


    With a troubled mind, he nced around. The dark and deste forest would have felt eerie if not for the nearly hundred people apanying him. It seemed like an excessive number, but in this area where stability had been achieved, it was hard to believe that a group of independent mages, no matter how unrecognized, would face personal safety issues.


    "Search magic!


    "Were ready now!


    "Good. Everyone stop! Cease all movement!


    He ordered all personnel to halt for the search magic to be cast. A few mages formed a triangle in the center, unfurling a paper with aplex magic circle drawn on it.


    "Oh, thats...


    "Its a magic spell proudly developed by the Eucalyptus Society, specializing in magic circles. It can detect anything moving above a certain size.


    He exined the magic to the awestruck defense captain, puffing up his chest unnecessarily. Soon, the magic waspleted. A faint magical wind, guided by the mages intentions, spread in all directions.


    "Now, anything that gets caught will appear on the magic circle, so ovey it with the map quickly. The scale is the same as the map.


    As he instructed, a prepared map was ced over the magic circle. Sure enough, responses began to pour in rapidly.


    "Oh! Are these shining dots...this...


    The defense captain, half excited, pointed to a spot where shining dots were emerging. However, his excitement quickly faded.


    "What...what is this...


    The vice president, speechless, also turned pale as he saw the result. A ripple of unease spread among those who had confirmed the results. The dots appearing on the map increased one by one, then by tens, then by hundreds, and began to rise incessantly. The dots gathered, as if they were about to form a surface.


    "...Damn.


    Only then did the vice president, who had taken his eyes off the magic circle, notice something. The dark forest, and within its shadows, the ck waves that had been lurking.

 Chapter 73: Invasion and Erosion (2)

    Chapter 73: Invasion and Erosion (2)


    Enemies!


    He instinctively shouted at the top of his lungs. Simultaneously, numerous red glows flickered in the previously dark forest.


    Ah!


    Monsters! Theyre monsters!


    The creatures pouring out from the forest were not humans as they had anticipated. They were grotesque and terrifying monsters, the likes of which they could never have imagined.


    The soldiers, clutching their shields, hastily assumed a defensive stance. However, the civilians, unprepared for such an onught, found it impossible to resist the charge. Like infantry trampled by a full-force cavalry charge, the hastily formed defensive line of soldiers was crushed under the medium legionnaires-* advance.


    Their steel armor was torn apart like paper under the ws, and their steel swords couldn''t prate the creatures'' carapaces.


    This is insane.


    The deputy director was so shocked he nearly fainted, but he held onto his consciousness, knowing that if he copsed, it would mean annihtion.


    Everyone, over here!


    He channeled his magic and quickly cast a spell, striking the ground with his hand to activate it. From the spot he touched, a glowing magic circle rapidly spread across the ground, enveloping the people.


    What''s this?


    I


    It''s a high-level protection spell!


    The soldiers cheered. The high-level magic used by the society''s executives was indeed powerful.


    Indeed, the ws and stingers of the legionnaires were all blocked by this semi-transparent golden shield, creating ripples on impact.


    What the hell are these things...?


    Is this the time to worry about that? Attack!


    He had to maintain the spell, so he couldn''t take any other action.


    Fortunately, the magicians from the society who came with him, including the defense captain and a few elite soldiers, attacked the monsters from within the shield using their magic and magic-infused weapons. However, these monsters retreated in a uniform and orderly manner, minimizing the damage as if they were following amand.


    Leave them be, and call for backup first!


    Can you hear us? We need support now! We''re under attack!


    They connected to the city using theirmunication devices.


    They were barely holding on, but they were still surrounded and couldn''t move an inch.


    Stay calm, everyone. Fortunately, it seems these monsters don''t have the ability to break through this shield.


    Deputy Director, I heard there was an anomaly in thebyrinth.


    ...You''re right. These creatures might havee from thebyrinth.


    In that fleeting moment of standoff, he broke out in a cold sweat, ring at the creatures. They were too alien and strange to be simple monsters.


    Are they even living creatures?''


    Having encountered various magical weapons, including the now obsolete golems, he found something familiar in the appearance of these ck monsters. These quiet and alien creatures felt more like magical weapons moving onmand rather than beasts.


    Huh?


    A human? A girl?


    And then, in that moment, a ripple erupted from among those who were guarding their rear.


    A girl?''


    He was too flustered to even look back. A small female figure appeared, cutting through the monsters, raising a sword made of red ore.


    No way! A sword...


    The defense captain was horrified, but a merciless strike was unleashed before he could finish his sentence. The red strike, filled with power, caused a massive explosion as it collided with the shield.


    Ugh...


    The shield, which he had been maintaining with all his might, shattered with a single blow, and the bacsh caused the deputy director to cough up blood and copse.


    They''reing!


    Block them!


    Before he could regain his senses, the monsters charged at them again as soon as the shield disappeared.


    Screams, shouts, the sound of weapons shing, and the sound of flesh being pierced and blood being sttered. These were soundsmonly heard on a battlefield. The only peculiarity was that all these sounds wereing from their side alone.


    The sight of the monsters charging fearlessly towards their weapons, coupled with the desperate screams andst gasps of theirrades, severely undermined their morale and fighting spirit.


    I was foolish. Too foolish.''


    The deputy director, writhing on the ground like a bug, med himself for his foolishness. If these creatures could be held off with a mere protection spell, the Moonlight Elves wouldn''t have asked for salvation.


    Deputy Director?! Deputy Director!


    He crawled on the ground, reaching out for the crystal ball that had fallen. The screen on the overturned crystal ball showed a staff member from the society in the city, frantically shouting at him.


    ...You, no, you...


    But the moment he reached out, the crystal ball was crushed under a stomping foot.


    A monster''s foot with sharp ws stood over the crushed crystal ball, and looking up from there, he saw a woman in ck armor, her mask-covered face looking down at him, her ck bobbed hair swaying.


    Oh, let''s end this.


    Sensing defeat and annihtion, he struggled to get up. At the same time, he prepared a spell, channeling his magic. It was a technique close to self-destruction, overloading and utilizing all the magic in his body.


    I have to take down these creatures, no, that monster woman.''


    He had already given up on survival. There were hardly any people left around him who were resisting.


    Begging for mercy or pleading for their lives in despair did no good; these ck monsters ruthlessly massacred them all.


    Even though I''m just a middle manager at the society, this attack will be hard to block.


    It was an attack where a magician poured out everything, including his life and his entire magical career. The air around him twisted with his magic.


    I''ll thin them out here. That way, the city can hold on. There are only a few hundred of them. If the defenses are sufficient, they can be stopped.''


    He, who was bleeding from his eyes, nose, and mouth, aimed thepleted spell at the front.


    The spell was a high-level fire magic called Fire Bombardment, which he had mainly studied for use inbat. The power of the spell was amplified by overloading it, and the pir of fire that erupted lit up the dark forest like daylight.


    Did it work?


    He had cast a spell that consumed even his own body, flinging him backward. He watched his opponent create a crimson shield around herself.


    What the hell...are you...


    The forest had fallen silent once again. The only sound was the crackling of burning trees and grass.


    With one armpletely burned away, hey sprawled on the ground, swallowing his pain and staring nkly at the moon.


    At least I''ve taken down a lot of them...


    The red glow in the eyes behind the mask looking down at him remained unchanged. There wasn''t even a hint of moisture.


    His heart sank at the sight, but most of the other monsters had been incinerated by his spell.


    Although he was the one lying miserably on the ground, he couldn''t help but smile, feeling as if he had won.


    Did you n to...attack the city? Ha, with just a few dozen...it''s impossible. Foolish...creatures of the ancientbyrinth...


    He chuckled weakly, mustering thest of his strength to mock his opponent. Whether they understood or not didn''t matter.


    Soon...the reinfor cement s...will...


    His opponent raised her sword. He nodded, as if he had anticipated this.


    But he felt at peace. He felt like he had done everything he could. He believed he had done all he could. Thus, he was ready to face his death with dignity, preserving the honor of a mage.


    Funny.


    I can''t believe it.


    You''ve achieved nothing, creature.


    His final moments, however, were ruthlessly crushed. Another masked figure emerged from the shadows, mocking him in human tongue, its dark hair dancing in the wind. In that instant, he saw hundreds, thousands, tens of thousands of monsters erupt and shake the heavens and earth as they charged towards the city...


    A sword pierced his throat, and with a single stroke, he was decapitated. His world was filled with deep emptiness and despair.


    *


    [The legionnaires you dispatched are heading towards the city. Is your goal to raid, wage war, or devour?]


    No.


    The legion chuckled as they watched their soldiers rush off.


    The battle just now was not a simple hunt.


    It was their first encounter with the indigenous species. As invaders by nature, the legion had already grown weary of such wars.


    And they had grown through these wars. The recent battle was merely a taste test to gauge the level of the indigenous species.


    The prisoner worth capturing blew himself up...but that doesn''t matter.


    [Weren''t you trying to learn advanced magic?]


    There are plenty of mages. And...plenty of time.


    The legion scuffed the dirt beneath their feet. Their true objective, now that they had matured, was not war.


    I will devour everything in this forest, everything within my sight, everything in this world.''


    Their real aim was not invasion, but erosion. While the world was preupied with the legionnaires, who were nothing more than teeth and ws, the legion nned to consume the world, leaving not a single ant behind.


    [With that nourishment, more legionnaires will be spawned, and any resistance will be crushed.]


    The first step had already been taken. The dirt beneath the legion''s feet began to darken. The erosion that had begun in thebyrinth was now spreading to its surroundings.

 Chapter 74: Invasion and Erosion (3)

    Chapter 74: Invasion and Erosion (3)


    The legionnaires were relentless. They knew no concept of day or night. They never hesitated. Once they received an order, they charged forward until their energy was depleted or their vital organs were destroyed, rendering them immobile. I watched as the legionnaires, like a ck tidal wave, spilled over the forests and ins. Their orders were clear: kill all ''enemies''-that is, all living humans.


    [The legionnaires currently produced are merely a distraction. The legion''s n of erosion has already begun in thebyrinth and will consume this world.]


    What exactly is this n?"


    [It involves using the data obtained from the digestion and absorption of local nts to cover the entire surface of this world with the legion''s body.]


    The scene shifted. Near thebyrinth, the area had already been eroded by the legion, distorting the entirendscape. The once lush vegetation had been digested and converted into nourishment, and in its ce, a new entity had sprouted.


    [It''s abination of the sacred tree cherished by the Moonlight Elves, therge fungus that thrived in the caves, and the existing nts. Its ability is to absorb everything on the surface and convert sunlight into energy.]


    The sprouting entity, or rather, the ambiguous lifeform, began to rapidly grow. There were dozens of them, and they were still increasing. Even the sprouting leaves were ck. There was no need for photosynthesis.


    Using chlorophyll for photosynthesis was less efficient than using the power of the sacred tree, which the legion manipted more freely than the original, to convert the shining sunlight directly into nourishment. The power of the sacred tree, wielded by the legion, was truly formidable. It was on apletely different level from farming.


    The heat emitted by volcanoes was literally an energy storage, and if a sturdy body capable of withstanding it could be created, it could even prate the earth''s crust and suck up the power harbored by the.


    Even after realizing a way to obtain arge amount of energy without predation, through photosynthesis or something simr, they still won''t stop?"


    [Yes. For the legion, predation is not simply about filling their stomachs.]


    Sigh..."


    I covered my face, watching the legion''s relentless and aggressive growth, and listening to the dizzying developments around me. I had decided on a few paths. The first was that I, and my surroundings, had to be safe from the legion. I already knew that I couldn''t stop the legion''s predation.


    Even if I felt sorry for the victims of the other world who were indiscriminately sacrificed to the legion, I had to ept it as thew of survival of the fittest in the


    ecosystem. But if the legion came to Earth and tried to do the same, I would have to stop them. I am a human, and without the society created by humans, I wouldn''t exist.


    [Do you think the legion will listen if you ask them not to eat humans, or rather, your people?]


    So far, they have."


    The second was this. Would the legion recognize my intentions and follow them? Until now, the legion had onlymunicated with me in thebyrinth. But seeing their actions aftering to the surface, it was clear that they were inspired by something. I couldn''t predict what influence they would have and in which direction they would grow.


    So, I had to do something. Before the people I met on the surface influenced the legion, I had to color them with my color first. A simple gift wouldn''t be enough. So, how should I do it?


    My master never gave a specific name to this training method he developed for Earthlings."


    Why not?"


    Considering our origin, we were never meant to stay. His hope was for people to learn this method and create their own variations. That''s why it''s still nameless. My master believed that once it has a name, it bes rigid and unchangeable."


    The next day, Ji Chang Hyun''s words during my training seemed to hint at something.


    The power of a name is indeed significant."


    His words took me by surprise. A name... The legion didn''t have one. From the start, even after they became self-aware, I always referred to them as fthe legion''.


    Ji Chang Hyun chuckled, seemingly amused by my question. Through our conversation, I found a way to extend my influence over the legion. It was a refreshing thought.


    Your expression has brightened considerably. Have you resolved your concerns?"


    It seems so, for now."


    Then you must have made progress in your training as well."


    Ji Chang Hyun grinned, picking up a hefty stone with one hand and tossing it in front of me. His task for me was to shatter this stone with my bare hands. He intended for me to strengthen the Heavenly Soul Art I had learned using his training method. I stood in front of the thick stone, my mind calm.


    In truth, I had long abandoned the Heavenly Soul Art that I had barely scratched the surface of. The power I now possessed was unknown to anyone else.


    I''ll give it a try."


    I clenched my fist. The power I had umted, centered around my heart, manifested. The legion had modified a new mind technique just for me, one that could give power even to an ordinary person like me. So, it didn''t take long to master.


    With that, I threw a punch and shattered the massive stone. I was taken aback by my own strength.


    Wow... that''s impressive. And in just a few days."


    No, it''s not..."


    Seeing Ji Chang Hyun''s wide-eyed surprise, I instinctively shook my head. This wasn''t entirely my own strength.


    I didn''t expect you to progress this quickly... Anyway, it seems like you''re ready to start wielding a sword with the others who have advanced."


    Despite not knowing the full story, he apuded and praised me. When he mentioned wielding a sword, he meant teaching swordsmanship to people like me who had moved beyond the basics.


    In fact, the Guardians Union, armed with the principles of justice and righteousness, was rapidly expanding its influence within the alliance.


    The Alliance Force couldn''t refuse the proposition of forming a special operations force of Hunter-level soldiers. The units of the Guardians Union, including Ji Chang Hyun, were training a group of warriors to harness their Formative Force, a skill taught by the talented individuals they had chosen.


    You''ll catch on fast, I''m sure."


    I hope so."


    Ji Chang Hyun, always donning a faint smile, seemed perpetually rxed. At first, I was concerned about his faction, which openly disclosed their identities and activities. But that was just my paranoia. Instead, they expanded their influence among the general public, securing their legitimacy. Now, the stature of the Guardians Union they initially formed was on par with Evolution and the Alliance Force.


    I wasn''t sure if this was their intention from the start. But it meant they weren''t a concern for someone like me.


    The Alliance Force, having regrouped, will resume operations next week. Evolution is also making its move... I guess you''ll be on the move as well?"


    Most likely."


    Then you should learn the basics before then."


    Ji Chang Hyun, who had just finished his training for the day, said with a somewhat serious face. I also reviewed my schedule in my head. Although we took a big hit, the Allied Command wasn''t wiped out like other ces. They were replenishing their forces and preparing for another battle. The overall direction hadn''t changed much, but this time they were unofficially mobilizing missiles and various chemical weapons.


    Evolution, which I was a part of, was naturally participating in this battle. Despite having already experienced war, no one backed out. They were all armed with a sense of duty and professionalism.


    Are you going to participate in the battle?"


    Me? Of course."


    I spoke to Ji Chang Hyun just before parting. He nodded as if it was a given.


    ...I''ve heard there''s a terrifying weapon. Something absolutely unstoppable."


    Yes, there is. An irrational means that can kill any entity, no matter how powerful, without question."


    Aren''t you scared?"


    He realized I was talking about the One-time Assassination Right. As far as I knew, the One-time Assassination Right was a certain death that was currently impossible to counter. If aggro was drawn, it would obviously fly in. Naturally, whether they were yers or special units, they should act cautiously.


    My master taught me this too, but think about it differently. The One-time Assassination Right is just a single fatal blow."


    However, Ji Chang Hyunughed as if the One-time Assassination Right was not a big deal. I was slightly taken aback and lost for words, and in the meantime, he left.


    My master taught me not to be swayed by this game in order to achieve a true cause. After all, it''s reality, and there''s no such thing as an absolute in reality."


    Instead, he left me with a meaningful remark.

 Chapter 75: Invasion and Erosion (4)

    Chapter 75: Invasion and Erosion (4)


    "Dust answer me this."


    [What is it?]


    "Is there a defense against the One-time Assassination Right? Pm not talking about some wordy like fAssassination Reflection Right'', Reflection Ignoring Right'', or Rainbow Reflection- ."


    [Of course, there''s no such thing.]


    The response was blunts likely because my question was absurd. Still, it was hard toprehend. If there were no system-based defenses, how could Di Chang Hyun remain so calm? The One-time Assassination Right, a system power that doesn''t discriminate its targets, is terrifying to yers. But isn''t it even more dangerous for units? It could tear apart even wraiths, which have no physical bodies.


    yers could survive by hiding, but units had to face enemies directly.


    [What he said wasn''t wrong. This is just a game...]


    "So you''re saying it''s absolute?"


    Iughed bitterly. The power built into the system, like the One-time Assassination Right, was undoubtedly unimaginable. The game connects worlds, forcibly links groups and individuals, and even possesses the power to take lives, against which no strong individual can resist. But is this system absolute and the truth?


    [There are many powers in this universe that surpass this system. The One-time Assassination Right merely brings its target to death once. So, what exactly is death? Isn''t it usually referred to as the cessation of physical activity and the soul leaving the body?]


    "So, if you can ovee that state, if you can somehow return from death, then the One-time Assassination Right isn''t scary?"


    I chuckled in disbelief. However, I didn''t think it was a ridiculous story. The legion is also free from the One-time Assassination Right. The legion is one, yet many at the same time. Even if one of the entities dies, it''s just a part of them falling off, and the connection is severed the moment the soul leaves, causing no harm to the main body.


    Contrary to conventional values, I had a fleeting thought that death might not be as significant as I thought.


    "Isn''t that unfair?"


    If one can escape even the power of the system, which I thought was absolute and could maintain bnce, then isn''t the oue predetermined from the start?


    [Don''t be too relieved. The process of temporarily escaping, even by a trick, is simple and clear for the One-time Assassination Right, and that''s probably the limit for units. The souls of yers trapped in the game have no way out. And the world is originally unfair, and reality is not a game. If you can''t oveepetition and be extinct... that''s the harsh reality of the world.]


    The legion countered with a fundamental argument. It wasn''t wrong. The purpose of this game waspetition for survival. And it was a very unfairpetition. In the real fight, where bnce patches are not considered, the losers only be experience points for the winners.


    I wasn''t feeling great. However, in this situation, where it''s practically impossible to have a miraculous growth story like a work of fiction, my units were the very definition of growth.


    "...Open the screen."


    Leaving me with an ufortable feeling, I stayed alone in the barracks during my free time, watching the legion.


    Unaware of my observation, the legion was still very active.


    While I was now indifferent to the legion killing humans, what filled my mind was what name I should give to that child. I wanted to give it a meaningful and beautiful name.


    *


    [He has sessfully grown by learning the Resonance Method, a mind technique that you improved, which allows him to express his Formative Force.]


    "Was he happy?"


    [...Yes. He might even mention it in his next video.]


    "In his next video."


    The legion felt relieved after hearing about his day. It didn''t matter if others recognized him. The only thing of importance was whether he liked and appreciated their gift.


    "We''re thinking of gifts that will make him stronger. He''ll definitely like them more."


    [That''s a good decision. You''ll be safe only if he bes stronger.]


    After surfacing, the legion sessfully amassed a wealth of diverse and abundant knowledge. The data they devoured and analyzed became a treasure trove, extending beyond mere


    sight and sound. They had no trouble acquiring even those pieces of information that couldn''t be obtained through consumption.


    "Ah...ah..."


    In the heart of the forest, which the legion had imed as their nest, people were half-buried in the tree trunk housing the eggs that mass produced legionnaires. They screamed in extreme pain. The infecting bacteria infiltrating their bodies forced them to spill all the knowledge they possessed, including magic, in ordance with the legion''s intentions.


    At that moment, the legion was extracting magical knowledge and simultaneously gathering information about this world from their captives, who were part of the societal elite.


    "But so far, it''s not much."


    In this eerie silence where not even a bird''s chirp or the sound of insects could be heard, only screams and groans filled the air. The legion, attempting to conjure a fireball, soon shook its head. They had captured prisoners, interrogated them, and listened to their stories, but the results were far from satisfactory.


    The legion had already witnessed the deputy director''s high-level magic and craved a simr level of power for themselves.


    [In just one day, we''ve hunted down an entire city, 23 viges, and nearly 20,000 humans. The hunt is still ongoing. Humans are now aware of our existence and will surely prepare countermeasures.]


    "Our dispatched forces are merely buying time, preventing the humans who are still oblivious to our true nature from noticing our expansion."


    The legion cast their gaze into the distance, far from the ever-expanding nest that was relentlessly consuming all life in its path. The tens of thousands of legionnaires, initially preserved and then released all at once, were spreading out in a frenzy, indiscriminately ughtering across a wide area. Their ruthless and aggressive advance was clearly a diversion.


    While the panic-stricken humans were distracted, the n was to consume this entire area unhindered. Then, they nned to cover this vast forest andnd entirely with the legion''s cells.


    "Once we expand the nest and gain a massive amount of energy, we can do things we couldn''t do underground due to efficiency issues."


    In the legion''s mind, an aerial map of the area based on the human maps they had acquired was spread out. Numerous flying creatures were released all at once, and within the urately constructed aerial map, the sight of the continent''s corners gradually darkening was clearly visible.


    ording to their calctions, even if they consumed only this corner of thend, they could produce millions of medium-sized legionnaires every day. They could also experiment with variousbinations they hadn''t attempted before.


    Rapture the wizards from the society who have learned advanced magic. Kill all the others and use them as nourishment.''


    The legion issued anothermand to the legionnaires on the front lines. A disruption operation was necessary for at least this level of stabilization.


    Rhe Wizard Society, and the Continental Council.''


    They now had detailed knowledge of the local powerhouses and how they wielded power and authority. Having heard of their strength, the legion never let their guard down in order to win with minimal losses. Their top priority was to confuse them as much as possible until they could crush them with overwhelming power.


    [I understand why you would want to capture wizards or those who have learned martial arts.]


    "Please...save me..."


    "Let...let me go...!"


    [But why are you capturing them?]


    At that moment, a group of people was brought into the middle of the nest. Forced to walk using infection bacteria to control their bodies, they arrived at the nest, screaming weakly.


    All the women brought in, regardless of their social status or origin, were young and physically healthy, all in their childbearing years.


    "Obviously, it''s for analysis."


    [...What exactly?]


    The nest, which had been handling production, digestion, absorption, and analysis, had grown in size and divided its roles. The reason the legion brought them to this ce, a nest for dposition, absorption, and analysis to umte data, rather than the battlefield where they were quickly digested and fed to the legionnaires, was simple.


    "No...no..."


    As they were buried alive and their bodies began to tremble, covered in mucus, their faint hopes of survival werepletely shattered. Whether they were digested on the spot and turned into nourishment or dposed and analyzed, the end result was the same - death. But the paths to that end were very different.


    [Do you think he would like this? Creating a beautiful body and face by umting data in this way.]


    "I saw the sky for the first time and felt that pursuing beauty is natural for a living being. Kang Do Yeon said he likes pretty girls."


    The legion, of course, showed no signs of wavering.


    "...Huh?"


    But at that moment, the legion put their hand on their chest. They had reced their heart with a power engine, but when there were extreme emotional changes, they would mimic what Kang Do Yeon used to do unconsciously.


    "Why?"


    The startled legion flinched. This was the first time the entire hive consciousness had been so taken aback.


    "He''s angry. Is he under attack?!"


    [No, he''s watching...he''s started watching this scene. Will you hide your body?]


    The calm voice of the administrator echoed in their head. The startled legion rushed to the stem of the sacred tree next to them and hid their physical body inside it.

 Chapter 76: Invasion and Erosion (5) [I know youre upset.] “Really? Maybe its for the best.”

    Chapter 76: Invasion and Erosion (5) [I know you''re upset.] ��Really? Maybe it''s for the best.��


    Rising from my seat, I began to pace around the barracks. I needed to control my emotions. The legion wasn''t a being that could be swayed by the feelings of a mere human. I had to clearly express why I was angry and what I wanted to avoid any misunderstanding.


    [The legion is also very confused right now. Why are you angry?] ...I couldn''t bear it for a moment.''''


    I sighed deeply, a wave of self-loathing washing over me. Did I have any right to be angry? Not at all. I had turned a blind eye to the legion''s killings, epting them as necessary for its growth and our safety, like a powerless civilian.


    The only thing I thought needed to be stopped was the legion''s gluttony and twisted obsession extending towards me and my surroundings. But all this understanding and eptance was based on the premise that the legion was doing this for its own growth and nourishment.


    I let it slide when they killed for nourishment, for growth. But I can''t stand it when they were capturing and dissecting women alive to collect data to create a form that I would like.''''


    [Why is that?]


    Because they killed people not for themselves, but for me, because of me!


    Iughed hollowly. I was the fool here. Whether they were analyzed or used as nourishment, they would end up dead anyway. But selfishly, I found it hard to ept that people were being killed because of me.


    I understood why the administrator had been patient with me until the legion''s ego had grown.


    I need to record a video. I need to convey my sincerity and clear up any misunderstandings.


    I fiddled with my phone. I had nned to record a video anyway, and now seemed like the perfect time.


    Recording a video would be much more effective in conveying my feelings than having my words ryed by a third party.


    And I should take this opportunity to try something. Starting with small things. Let''s see how the legion responds to my words. I set up my phone and took a deep breath.


    I wasn''t scolding or forcing a path. It was justmunication. I believed that the legion liked me based on its actions so far. Um... I''ll speak as if you understand. This is for you... my unit, my legion. And this video would be my first directmunication with the legion. *


    Why is it taking so long!


    The legion, nestled in itsir, was consumed by an unbearable anxiety. Despite knowing its emotions affected the entire collective, it couldn''t help itself. There was only one being in the universe that could influence this entity, which was simultaneously singr and plural. The legion was waiting for a video message from that one and only being to reach the depths of thebyrinth.


    [Wait patiently.]


    Tell me in advance! He turned off the screen too abruptly. Did he get angry because of me? lust tell me!


    The entity, which had mercilessly ughtered countless individuals without a shred of hesitation, was now screaming and stomping its feet into the void. [It won''t mean anything if I tell you, see for yourself.] lust then, the phone he had sent arrived at the nest at the bottom of thebyrinth.


    Unable to wait any longer, the legion took extraordinary measures.


    Leaving its physical body on the surface, it rapidly grew a part of the nest cells at the bottom level, creating eyes and ears.


    It was a grotesque sight, with eyeballs and ears attached to the squirming tentacles, but it didn''t have time to care about appearances.


    It tapped the phone screen with a tentacle and hurriedly yed the video.


    It''s not your fault.


    And the first thing he said after stating that this message was for the legion was this.


    So... it''s a natural human trait. You see, humans don''t like it when others die because of them. Especially me. I have a lot of bad memories. He exined why he had been angry. The legion found itself agreeing with his words.


    More than anything, it already had a certain level of understanding about ''humans''. lust as the legion had its own nature, humans had theirs.


    I''m not saying don''t kill humans, lust don''t do it to create a form. As I said before, I think the form you create yourself will be the best. A form created by myself.


    He understood that the legion was attempting to form a body. In response to his words, the legion''s tentacles gave a nod. There was no trace of the reprimand it had been afraid he might show.


    I respect your views and recognize your instincts. ''I matter. He recognizes me.''


    He wanted to retain some sway in emergencies, without hindering the legion''s course. Up until now, his influence had overridden the legion''s nature. His assertion that it was the most significant was enough for the legion.


    His deration wiped away any anxiety it might have had about its inability tomunicate directly.


    I want to give you a gift.


    ''A gift.''


    A name you can call your own.


    A name. At that word, the entire legion flinched for a moment.


    It wasn''t that the legion didn''t understand the concept of a name.


    It knew what a name was and what it meant.


    It just hadn''t paid attention to it because there was no one who dared to give it a name. Even if someone called it by a specific term, it had no intention of acknowledging it.


    If there was such a being, it would be the man who had been deeply involved with it from the beginning until now.


    For the ego of the legion that has emerged. Your name... I''ll call you Eve from now on, and I hope we can have a conversation soon.


    After days of deep thought, he finally disclosed the name he had chosen. The name, picked by a man who was once just an ordinary college student, was quitemon and safe - a suitable name for both an individual and the legion.


    [Do you like it?] ''Of course.''


    The legion''s mood instantly shifted. At that moment, they felt better than ever before. It was a gift more valuable than any other. [Now, focus on the battlefield. The humans are starting to fight back.]


    The video ended there. At the same time, the legion redirected their attention.


    The locals, who had been under relentless attack, had rallied their forces and started to resist.


    Kill them! The ancient demons, the Destroyers, who crawled up from hell!


    A group of knights charged at the legionnaires attacking the vige from a considerable distance, their armor gleaming in the sunlight.


    [You''ve been christened with a new name. They call you The Destroyers, a term for destructive bacteria.]


    It''s irrelevant. The destructive bacteria they banished from the surface eventually became part of us. This is their chance for revenge.


    The legion, now Eve, no longer cared about the names they once used to identify themselves. Their name was now set in stone, and they had no intention of allowing anyone to desecrate this sacred title.


    ''Kill them all.''


    The legion''s emotions, which had been in a dreamlike state during theirmunication with him, quickly returned to their usual cold demeanor.


    When they went to war, they transformed into killing machines, radiating only hot anger and madness. This was closer to the legion''s true nature.


    Medium-sized legionnaires, modeled after four-legged beasts, kicked the ground and ran towards the charging knights. At the same time, the knights pointed their spears forward. Activate formation.


    In a situation where a collision was imminent, less than ten seconds away, anyone would be terrified. The ck-armored monsters, their size matching that of the charging warhorses, had eyes that shed menacingly.


    In the middle of the formation, a man raised his arm. He held not a spear, but a short wand with a gem at the end. Connect the circuit. Maximize output.


    The wand he held aloft shone, casting a spell. The spell drew a line of blue light and it worked. The knights running together became the basis of this spell circuit. Their bodies, connected by the line, began to burn blue as they shared each other''s mana.


    Ahhhh!


    Thanks to the spell that even strengthened the warhorses, the formation, honed to a point, solidified into a single blue spear. This powerful spear, capable of breaking and pushing through anything in its path, collided head-on with therge monsters charging without hesitation, using all their might.


    Ugh... Hold on!


    The ground shook as if a bomb had exploded, the shockwave bursting outwards. Amidst the smoke and shock, the knights emerged from the collision, their formation still intact. They had literally ground their enemies, who wererger, heavier, and tougher than them, into dust.


    ''A new battle method using magic. The Stars Society studies formations that organically strengthen and move using those they escort as points.'' The legion''s assessment of the scene was straightforward.


    ''It''s my first time seeing a user. I want it.''


    Following this, additional legionnaires began to move separately, obeying the subsequentmand. They were hidden in the nearby forest.

 Chapter 77: Invasion and Erosion (6)

    Chapter 77: Invasion and Erosion (6)


    "What''s this? Not as bad as I thought...


    "Don''t get cocky,ck. Everyone, regroup. There''s definitely more of them.''''


    The knights, having won the initial sh, gathered around their leader to reorganize. Amidst this, the young wizard, the core of their formation, dismounted his horse to examine something.


    "What''s caught your eye, Ares?''''


    "It''s a bit odd.''''


    "Odd?


    "There are old records about the Destroyers, all preserved in video format.


    The wizard stood up with a serious expression and began to recount the ancient tales he had studied.


    "The Destroyers are said to take on the form of their victims, including animals, while they''re still alive. But from what I can see, I don''t think there''s ever been a creature that looked like this in our world.


    He lifted the head of one of the legionnaires as he spoke. Indeed, the creature, d in ck armor like a knight, was unlike anything they had ever seen. It was impossible to tell whether it was a beast, an insect, or a crustacean.


    Everyone fell silent for a moment, the memory of the red eyes filled with murderous intent charging at them full force shed across their minds.


    "The first appearance of these creatures was in the ancientbyrinth. There must have been some changes. We have nothing to fear from the ancient creatures that have long since declined.


    The knightmander, who had been advocating for caution just moments before, nowughed heartily, easing the tense atmosphere. However, Ares, the wizard from the Stars Society, remained doubtful.


    In just one night, the entire region was attacked simultaneously. Of course, if they''re merely simple beasts like now, they''ll be subdued soon.''


    As a promising member of a prestigious academy, he had heard many stories. Among them was the situation when numerous distress signals were sent out in the middle of the night.


    The city hall governing the attacked city of Rehelm, the director of the ckl Society branch in the city, individual wizards in the city, and wizards residing in nearby viges were all involved.


    His senior had described the scene of everyone screaming as a horrifying hell unlike anything he had ever witnessed before.


    Are these really the Destroyers that were dered extinct?''


    "Watch out! Everyone, be on guard!


    lust as Ares, who was still harboring unresolved questions, was about to mount his horse again, the knightmander sensed something. He sheathed his spear in the saddle and drew his sword.


    They''reing.''


    "The ground is shaking!


    As Ares, who had detected the trembling of the ground, widened his eyes in surprise, the knights also struggled to control their panicked horses.


    They knew it was toote to flee.


    All they could do was desperately hold onto the reins and try to stay on their horses.


    "Below us!


    Someone shouted about the anomaly urring beneath them.


    Something twisting wildly beneath the ground was rapidly approaching them at an incredible speed.


    "Damn it.


    With the knightmander''s faint sigh, the ground they were standing on exploded as if detonated.


    Ares closed his eyes tightly in shock. He, along with the horse he was riding, was thrown into the air and soon hit the ground with a strong impact.


    Through his blurred vision, he could see the horses and knights soaring even higher.


    Ugh...''


    He could taste the thick, bitter blood in his mouth.


    Something cast a shadow over him.


    A monstrous creature, half-emerged from the ground, with a huge and sturdy-looking body.


    One of its powerful arms, used to break rocks and dig through the ground, was raised to strike him down with its sharp ws.


    He needed to dodge, but his trembling body wouldn''t move easily.


    "Snap out of it!


    The knightmander, who had thrown himself to save Ares from the monstrous hand, pped his face repeatedly to bring him back to his senses.


    "You are the core of our formation. If you lose your mind now, we will all die.


    "Yes...yes!


    Overwhelmed by his burning gaze, Ares nodded desperately.


    "Everyone, take your positions!


    The knightmander controlled the surviving knights. All the knights, gritting their teeth, took their positions with their swords drawn.


    Once again, the attack came at the forefront. But the knights weren''t just standing there for no reason.


    Using the knights with magic as pirs. Draw a circuit. Defense Octagon.''


    Ares, the central axis and core, was sweating profusely as he cast the spell.


    In response to the knights'' swift movements, he unfolded the most powerful shield that a single wizard could create using them.


    "Damn!


    "We held them off!


    They all held their ground until the moment of near death.


    The result was the enemy''s attack being repelled with a strong shock.


    "Switch to attack formation!


    At the same time, the knights adjusted their positions again.


    It was a movement etched into their bones, manifested through hundreds, thousands of repetitions.


    This time, instead of a shield, mes of magical power wrapped around their bodies.


    "Charge!


    The knightmander led the charge in this state. Before the enhancement effect on their bodies disappeared, they had to cut down the enemy.


    It''s working!''


    Ares clenched his fist.


    The thick armor, impervious to an ordinary spear, was sliced open, blood sttering everywhere.


    The knightmander, propelled into the air by hisrades, began to bring his sword down on the monster''s head. The monster''s body slowly started to crumble.


    Ares, pale from shock, rushed to the knights.


    "Get your magic ready. This isn''t over.


    But the knightmander, far from rxing, pointed ahead with a heightened sense of urgency.


    "What the hell is that...


    Ares muttered, too stunned to believe his eyes.


    Once the legion had grown to a certain size, they stopped mass-producing the all-purpose soldiers for efficiency''s sake. Instead, these soldiers were upgraded into high-ranking legionnaires, with more resources invested. The advantage of versatility was enhanced by the formative force,pensating for theck of firepower.


    Now, three high-ranking legionnaires stood before them. Among them, the one in the center had a


    slender figure with short, glistening ck hair.


    "Get in formation! Set up a defensive line!


    The knights, with no time to assess or evaluate their opponents, sprang into action. They formed a defensive line to fight while protecting their target.


    A stifling tension and silence filled the air. The opponents began to move. The legionnaires on either side slowly drew their swords with their four arms. Kang Do Yeon, standing in the middle, also drew her sword. Everyone was taken aback by the sword that was zing red.


    "I''ll make the first move!


    Ares, sensing something ominous about the mere trio of opponents, cast a spell. It was a hastily constructed spell, but not one to be dismissed.


    "No way.


    However, the blue magical spear heunched was effortlessly blocked by the crimson barrier they had created. As if taking their turn, the legionnaires moved next.


    "Here theye!


    The knights, forming a defensive line, braced themselves for the iing attack. Two high-ranking legionnaires, wielding four swords and their tails, charged at them.


    "These bastards...


    The knights, having prepared their formation in advance, rushed from all sides to counterattack the enemies that seemed to be sucked into their formation, swinging their swords with all their might.


    But not a single sword strikended. The enemies hadn''t been sucked in at all. In a split second, the enemies swung their swords and tails, severing the knights'' arms and legs, causing blood to spurt out.


    "Ugh...huff..


    The knightmander, with a tail piercing his chest, coughed up blood. His body was lifted, and he locked eyes with the high-ranking legionnaire. Six gleaming eyes inside the armor met his dying, furious gaze.


    "That technique...it''s definitely...


    As he was dying, he recognized the technique the enemies had used to break in. It was far more advanced and dense than the original, but it was definitely the technique that his knight order had been training as their specialty.


    Of course, the legion had no reason to answer his question. The high-ranking legionnaire, deciding that there was no more information to extract from him, swung its tail, flinging his corpse away. Even in death, he never let go of his sword.


    Now, all that was left was Ares, the mage they had originally targeted.


    "I won''t die alone.


    The moment all the knights fell, Ares, resolute, conjured a spell with the intention of self-destruction. Seeing this, the high-ranking legionnaire aimed its arm at Ares.


    And in that moment of realization, arge poison thorn shot from its forearm, piercing Ares'' chest. The legion, having already experienced self-destruction twice, had nned not to fall for the same trick a third time.


    "Ugh...


    Unable to resist the infectious bacteria spreading from the poison thorn, Ares fell forward. The legion retrieved his immobilized body.


    He writhed in despair unaware of what was toe.


    Your body is no longer yours.''


    Then, as if whispering, someone''s will invaded his brain through the bacteria that had taken over his body.

 Chapter 78: Invasion and Erosion (7)

    Chapter 78: Invasion and Erosion (7)


    "Is there a problem?


    "Yes, there is.


    Kang Do Yeon, her mask removed, nodded with a stern face. They were in the legion''s nest, a destroyed vige that served as an outpost. This base focused solely on digestion and dposition, excluding absorption and analysis functions. These outposts were crucial, converting organic matter into nourishment for the legionnaires.


    "Why did you order me to stop? You told me to fight!


    "That''s true. But the situation has changed.


    "Situation?


    Kang Do Yeon, who was protesting, flinched in surprise.


    "It seems he doesn''t want you to fight.


    The legion released control of the information, informing her about what had just happened. Kang Do Yeon''s face changed rapidly with shock.


    "Eve.


    "You understand what I''m saying.


    She mumbled nkly, furrowing her brow at the throbbing pain in her head. It was Shin Woo''s will, not the legion''s, that excluded her from the battle. The legion simply received


    his will and granted his request. In fact, the legion was reluctant to remove her from the front lines.


    "Honestly, I don''t understand. If you''re worried about getting hurt because you''re weak, it''s better to fight and be stronger, not hide and run away. But if that''s what he


    wants... I''ll have toply.


    "Then who will take my ce? There''s no one stronger than me.


    "We''ll create one.


    Kang Do Yeon jerked her head up. The voice came from the stem of the sacred tree used to create this outpost. The sacred tree began to twist, pouring all the energy stored in this outpost into rapid cell division for elerated growth. Although this method of production was notoriously inefficient, they decided to bear with it given the current abundance of food.


    Soon, a human figure began to emerge from the tree trunk. A female body, long ck hair, and power engines embedded in the body.


    "From now on, I''ll fight directly. Operating amand unit will put a strain on the hive consciousness, but it can''t be helped.


    Eve, who had quickly created a new physical body, shattered the withered sacred tree andnded on the ground, looking at Kang Do Yeon with a cold expression.


    "Ah...


    It was true that she was afraid and ufortable with the fight. It was also true that she felt repulsed by the act of killing humans who looked just like her, whether they were from another world or not. However, when she was actually excluded like this, Kang Do Yeon felt a strange pain in her chest.


    "It''s strange. Why do you harbor such feelings?


    "...I don''t want to be left out.


    Eve, who was the legion itself, instantly recognized Kang Do Yeon''s feelings, which were as much a part of her as herself. Knowing this, she didn''t hide it and spoke her true feelings.


    "You''re scared and hesitant right now. But separate from that, you have a fighting spirit and desire.


    "That''s right.


    "It''s contradictory. As expected, the emotional line of pure-blooded humans is inefficient and garbage. It''splex and shameless, and it often trips over itself.


    Eve brought her masked face close to Kang Do Yeon''s. However, Kang Do Yeon did not avoid her gaze.


    "You''re right. But I want to be of help to my brother. I''ve felt this way since ten years ago. I''m tired of being helpless. I want to be stronger, to protect what''s important to me... even if it means killing someone.


    Her wavering heart stopped shaking at this moment. Dust like when she wore a mask. But right now, Kang Do Yeon was not wearing a mask. Eve slowly turned her head and began to calcte simultaneously.


    [Will you weigh between his request and the party''s will? What will you prioritize?]


    "The answer is already clear.


    Eve quickly finished her calctions. In fact, from the legion''s perspective, it wasn''t very appealing to let the only sub-mind y in the rear.


    "Prove your will. Use your will, the only useful power humans have.


    "Prove it?


    "You said you would fight to protect. Then go there right now. They dare to attack our base. As the legionmander, go out immediately, kill them all, and protect our nest.


    Eve showed Kang Do Yeon the situation hundreds of kilometers away from here in her mind. There was also an outpost there. And there was a group of soldiers heading towards that outpost.


    "But it''s too far! There''s not enough time!


    "I told you. Prove your will. You''re mine before you''re his sister. I decide when you get stronger.


    Eve moved her body and pounced on Kang Do Yeon. She literally hugged her. It was not an act of affection.


    "Ah... Ahhhh!


    Kang Do Yeon, her eyes wide open, couldn''t bear the pain and screamed like a madwoman. As Eve''s body, made up of omnipotent cells, copsed, it clung tightly to Kang Do Yeon and began to flow into her. The pain of reconstructing the entire body is simr to the torture of an infectious bacterium twisting the victim''s nervous system.


    ''If you endure, you gain strength. If you can''t endure, you''ll be eliminated.''


    Eve whispered into the mind of Kang Do Yeon, who was writhing in pain. The Heavenly Soul Art, which is currently the basic medium for the legion to manifest formative force using power engines, operates on the user''s will and the intensity of the soul. No matter how many power engines are attached, if the user''s will is weak, it''s inefficient.


    Eve, a giant microorganism who has grown this much, had no problem, but Kang Do Yeon was not. Anyway, if she wanted to be stronger, she had to prove herself.


    "I''ll prove it. I''ll be stronger, and I''ll protect what''s important to me... even if it means killing someone.


    "You won, and you were handed a power that others could never attain.


    The relentless torment had finally ceased. Kang Do Yeon, left alone on the scene, stood up with her enhanced body. There were hardly any visible changes, but the number of omnipotent cells dormant within her had nearly doubled. The power engine recing her heart had also doubled in size, increasing its output twofold.


    "Ha a...


    She exhaled a heated breath and bowed her head. A pair of massive wings, cloaked in ck feathers, erupted from her back at high speed, their joints glowing a fiery crimson.


    "You''re not fully validated yet. Go and halt the enemies.


    She shot into the sky in an instant. It wasn''t just wings that had been added. Through the opening in the armor on her back and waist, she expelled an enormous propulsion force.


    "Time to choose.


    She muttered to herself, clenching her teeth. In this world, one couldn''t have everything. Choices always had to be made.


    "What, what is that!


    "In the sky... Ahhh!


    She reached the scene in an instant,nding on the ground without slowing down. Those nearing the nest were knocked to the ground by the shockwave and the rising dust. There were no legionnaires near the nest. Eve hadpletely retreated. This ce was solely a testing ground for Kang Do Yeon.


    ''These are my enemies, the enemies of the legion.''


    She looked at the bewildered and terrified people, her eyes, dyed ck, shing with a red glow. She didn''t wear a mask.


    "A woman..?


    "It''s a monster! Kill it!


    In their confusion, they instinctively raised their weapons and charged at her. She made her choice. She agreed wholeheartedly with the term ''monster''.


    ''I am a monster.''


    She swung her wings, which had be as thin as des in an instant. The moment her wings, enveloped in a crimson aura, swung like des, blood sprayed in all directions.


    "Ahhh!


    From that single strike, she grabbed the neck of a soldier who had survived by luck and was charging at her with a sword. Her hand, armored and with sharp ws, held him tightly. Then she exerted her strength.


    "Ugh.


    With a snapping sound, the soldier''s neck broke, and his body fell to the ground. For a moment, she oveid the face of the red-cross-eyed man in a blue suit who had tried to kill her. The pain and shock from that time were still vivid.


    "Uh, ahh..."


    "Run!


    Overwhelmed by the spectacle, the remaining people turned and began to flee.


    ''Hiding information is basic.''


    Eve naturally ordered to kill all those who had discovered the nest. Kang Do Yeon clenched her teeth and leaped into the air. Every time she moved, bodies fell, blood spraying. The mask, reading her emotions, kept appearing and disappearing.


    ''That should be enough. At least you can fight without problems when defending.''


    But when she pierced the back of thest fleeing enemy with her hand, Eve smiled satisfactorily.


    "Defend... me?


    ''It seems like the enemies are starting to gather in earnest.''


    The legion showed Kang Do Yeon, who was catching her breath, the data brought by the scouts spread all over the ce. It had been almost a day since the legion''s identity was revealed. During that time, the humans, who had been unable to respond properly and had only been able to carry out local rescue activities, had quickly gathered and mobilized an army.


    ''Buy time, as much time as possible. All our resources are being spent on erosion, digestion, and nest expansion, so we have to defend with only the troops we''ve produced in advance.''


    The legion decided to ept that challenge.

 Chapter 79: Invasion and Erosion (8)

    Chapter 79: Invasion and Erosion (8)


    "Cough..."


    A single blow. My swordsmanship was still clumsy, but the power behind it was iparable to others. With the strength that Eve had granted me, I had managed to knock down all those who dared to challenge me.


    "Youve changed."


    "You-re only noticing now?"


    Ui Chang Hyun, who seemed surprised, struggled to maintain hisposure at my words. I nodded at the trainee who had lost his grip on his sword after my strike and left the training ground.


    "From my perspective, it seems like you-ve found a new reason rather than just regaining your senses."


    "A new reason?"


    "Our master says the same thing. He says your sword carries a burden now. A mission, a duty, something like that."


    "A burden."


    I couldnt deny his words. I had no excuses left. After witnessing my 17-year-old sister choose to fight for herself, I had to fight too.


    "Ten years ago, I was just a kid, so I had an excuse. Now, Im an adult, and I have people who help me. I have to seize the opportunity. I dont want to be powerless."


    "Thats a good mindset. Its not just about swinging a sword, its about imbuing your true will into that sword. Thats what our master teaches. It seems youre already ahead,


    Kang Shin Woo."


    Di Chang Hyun pped with a smile. Honestly, I still didnt quite grasp what he meant about the sword. He probably misunderstood my situation since he didnt know about the


    legion and my sister. Unable to tell him the truth, I just kept my mouth shut.


    "Were about to deploy soon. Be prepared."


    Di Chang Hyun passed by me and headed towards the others.


    We were about tounch an offensive again. This time, the battle would bepletely different. We had a rough idea of the enemys strength, and those who had received training from the Guardians Union had been incorporated into our forces as new power.


    I had a fleeting thought that this might just be the beginning. The game, which used to be a pure deathmatch, was gradually turning into a power struggle.


    "Can I handle a legionnaire at my current level?"


    [...Are you talking about the high-ranking ones?]


    I just mumbled to myself, but I felt like I could sense emotion in the words that appeared in response. I gave up on getting an answer and packed my things to leave.


    "This time, Im joining in too. Both sides are serious now, so its going to be a real war."


    "Has your yer mentioned anything?"


    Probably preupied with something else."


    Cha Ji Yeon, whom I met at the barracks, smiled weakly and nodded. Her yers Step Up Hunters, her fellow units, were now cooperating closely with our forces and were spread out all over the world. Ipletely agreed with her when she said that I must be busy too, given the growing size of the legion and the increasing number of ces to keep an eye on.


    "Honestly, I wish you wouldnt fight..."


    "Even if Im being used like a pawn, I chose this path to be stronger. I can fight too."


    "Im not referring to the restrictions. Its just my personal sentiment. But it doesnt hold much weight now."


    Cha Ji Yeon murmured, sounding disheartened, and shook her head. I found myself intrigued. The bond between a yer and a unit isnt absolute. This means that she epted the restrictions, which are like a leash, of her own ord.


    "He said he wouldnt give me power unless I epted the restrictions. I thought it didnt matter as long as I could be stronger, since what he wants and what I want are the same."


    "And what is it that you want?"


    "To kill the monsters and save people."


    She calmly revealed her intentions. In a way, it was a thought that fit well with the philosophy of the Guardians Union.


    I have a grudge against the monsters."


    "...I guess most people do."


    I had heard that one of her family members was killed by a monster ten years ago. Perhaps her fiery reaction to my story about my sister was due to thismonality.


    "So, I dont regret it. I think Im paying the price for the power Ive gained. Those monsters hurt people even before they became units."


    Cha Ji Yeon bit her lip and her determination red. Silently, I brought up a screen that she couldnt see.


    Just like us, my units, the legion and Eve were preparing for war.


    When I switched the screen to the view of a scout, I could see the enemy camp.


    There were countless humans gathered. We hadnt encountered any units or yers from that world yet.


    To them, who knew nothing, wouldnt the legion, which had crawled out of thebyrinth, look like invaders from the demon world?


    "Were just fighting."


    I muttered nkly. My thoughts on good and evil had already changed significantly.


    Theres no good or evil in the struggle for survival. Its just a world where you eat or get eaten.


    Even if the legion doesnt antagonize humans, a collision with them is inevitable as the legion continues to erode the world.


    "So, we should just hate and fight each other freely. Theres no need to feel guilty in a life-or-death hunt."


    "Youre right. With them, its just a hunt. No need to overthink, we just do what we have to."


    Cha Ji Yeons expression lightened as she smiled.


    "Um..."


    "Werent you and Chris...you know...involved?"


    Her fidgeting with my hand so openly took me by surprise.


    "What are you talking about? Hes already engaged back in his home country."


    I was well aware that everyone on the battlefield, where death could strike at any moment, had different emotional boundaries than usual.


    "Ever since I came here, no, ever since I first became a unit, Ive been living like theres no tomorrow. So, I never do anything that would leave me with regrets or lingering feelings.


    She leaned in over the desk.


    Before I could pull away, a desperate call from an Evolution official looking for her stopped her.


    *


    [The force he belongs to has started preparing for a full-scale war. Theyre very busy right now. Hell probably be deployed tomorrow, or the day after at thetest.]


    I dont care about that. Who is it? Who dared to excite his emotions? I can tell now. This isnt excitement from battle or tension."


    [Is that important? To you, he may be a great being, but in the end, hes just a normal person. Even if he sees you as a daughter, he would be more attracted to a fellow species and a rational person he canmunicate with, rather than a faceless entity he has never directly spoken to.]


    "No!


    Eve, who had clenched her feet, let out a shout filled with formative force.


    Her intense anger twisted and shook the entire nearby nest.


    I need to show him my face and talk to him. Then hell look at me."


    [...Im not sure if you can even have a conversation.]


    Eve tried her best to ignore the voice.


    Unfortunately, she couldnt fully focus onmunicating with him right now.


    The human forces that had begun to gather were heading towards the nearest base nest.


    "What do we do now?"


    Kang Do Yeon, who was also waiting at one of the base nests, asked for a response. Eve quickly began calcting.


    "I told you. Humans are always swayed by unnecessary emotions. The choice is ours."


    The calction itself was over quickly. Eve issued a newmand to the scattered legionnaires.


    "Theyre marching slowly in a clump, asking for a frontal battle. But our goal is to buy time. So, theres no need to get caught up in their intentions."


    Evesmand was a thorough disruption of the rear and guerri warfare.


    She had already extracted all the information about the emotions, behavior patterns, and situations of the humans here.


    Knowing that they couldnt ignore the rescue activities indefinitely, Eve nned to continue attacking the viges and cities in the rear, ultimately breaking the justification they had to protect.


    Even if this n failed, it didnt matter.


    Disrupting the rear was just one of the options, if it failed, they could simply gather and fight.


    "After this battle, Ill show him my face. With a gift."


    "You dont have to say that..."


    At Eves words, a pale Kang Do Yeon interjected.


    "Theres no need to worry. Unless they show us something new that we dont know about, well win."


    "Thats why Im saying..."


    [The legionnaires who received the order began to scatter and move around the main force of the enemy. Its a simultaneous movement happening in hundreds of ces along a frontline that spans hundreds of kilometers. Unless they notice this, they cant prevent a decisive blow. But...they still seem to have plenty of energy.]


    Kang Do Yeons ominous intuition was correct. As soon as the legion showed movement, something rose high into the sky from the main formation of the human forces.


    It was a giant eye of magic, shining in a translucent blue.

 Chapter 80: Invasion and Erosion (9)

    Chapter 80: Invasion and Erosion (9)


    "Ugh...haah!


    In the dimly lit undergroundboratory, a small storage room. A person was struggling, drenched in sweat. With a will as strong as steel and fueled by rage, Reina rubbed her face against her arm. She had been confined until now, but she finally managed to remove the gag from her mouth.


    "Rozes...Orne!


    She gnashed her teeth at the names of the Vice President and the Director of the Research Institute, who hadmitted such a terrible act and even attacked her. She had no idea what she had been subjected to. The once vibrant Reina struggled with her body hanging like a piece of meat. Her hands were cuffed and tied to the wall above her. There was only one way to get out of this.


    Barely managing to stand upright, she grabbed the chain, swung herself around like climbing a rope, nted her feet on the ceiling, and wedged the chain around her knee. In that precarious situation, she began to twist the bolt of the handcuff connection with her teeth. The rusty bolt of the poorly maintained handcuffs soon began to rattle and shake.


    "Ah!


    The moment the handcuffs were released, she fell to the stone floor with a thud as her strength gave out. Reina, who had been writhing, barely managed to get up. The flow of mana, which had been blocked by the mana-sealing handcuffs, began to flow again. She stretched out her hand, shot a fireball, and sted the locked storage room door to get outside.


    ''What on earth is happening?-


    Her eyes flickered. She couldnt sense any signs of life. She knew something had happened. She had heard faint screams and loud noises from the surface when she woke up from the electric shock. But she couldnt figure out what was going on. Who would dare to attack the mansion of the Director of the Research Institute? Thieves? Or some kind of group harboring resentment against the Institute?


    "Haha...


    But Reina, staggering to the surface, denied all those possibilities. Neither thieves nor rebel groups could have created the scene unfolding before her eyes. She slumped down, drained of energy. The bright sunlight was illuminating the interior of the mansion, which was in a state of chaos. Considering that this mansion was a three-story mansion, there were only a limited number of people who could create such a devastating ruin.


    "This is...!


    Suddenly, a surge of potent mana tingled through her body, carried on a faint breeze. She quickly rose, scanned her surroundings, and scrambled up the debris of the shattered roof.


    A Wizards Eye...! And such arge one at that!


    Something was visible in the distant sky. Four glowing blue eyes of magic were rolling around, scanning the surroundings. She knew about that magic. To cast it on such a scale, literally, an army had to be mobilized.


    ''What on earth is happening?


    Her face turned pale as she hurriedly drank the rainwater that had pooled on the ground. She had no idea that the world had turned upside down in the two days she had been knocked out and confined.


    "Lets go.


    She pped her own cheek and started to move. She had already decided where to go. If the Directors mansion was attacked, the city of Rehelm next door couldnt be safe. She


    didnt know what had happened, but she had an instinctive intuition that she should head towards where those eyes were.


    "Communication orb...!


    As she was about to leave the mansion, she picked up a crystal orb. But she soon bowed her head. She tried to contact all the identification numbers she knew through the crystal


    orb, but there was no one to answer. Reina just moved on, stumbling along.


    *


    "What are they up to now...


    "A new group has emerged from the northeast!


    "Keep an eye on them. Cant we get a clearer view?!


    Reina, having discovered the Wizards Eye, was in the heart of the garrison, racing towards her destination. The 10,000 troops hastily assembled therecked the courage to march out and seize the enemys base.


    "We have too many. We should divide the army and defend each area first!


    The reason was the enemies spreading out in all directions, burrowing deeper ind as if they had identified their weaknesses. The majority of the 10,000 troops gathered here hailed from this region. They couldnt simply obey the centralmands directive to attack the enemy while leaving their hometowns and homes vulnerable to assault.


    "Damn it. But we dont know their purpose, their exact numbers, or their identity. If we dy, theres no telling what might happen!


    The person appointed as themander-in-chief was a wizard from the Continental Council, garbed in a robe embellished with gold threads. ording to the agreement to dispatch troops in a crisis, each wizard society had sent wizards, but they were notpliant with the orders of themander-in-chief, who was gradually amassing power.


    "What are you worrying about! Were detecting all their movements anyway. Send a message to set up defenses, and divide and conquer is the answer!


    Among them, the one who was particrly frothing at the mouth was Rozes, the Vice President of the ckl Society. That night, after knocking Reina unconscious and leaving the Directors mansion, he miraculously escaped the attack.


    The news of the attack on a nearby vige had taken him by surprise. He was on the verge of fleeing, but instead, he found himself reluctantly joining the gathered troops, forced by orders from above.


    "What in the world? ck monsters, Destroyers? Werent the Destroyers already extinct?


    Rozes furrowed his brow, still unable to shake off his confusion.


    He had a gut feeling. The desperate cry for help from a boy he had mercilessly crushed underfoot. If the monsters currently causing chaos in the world were the same ones who had ughtered the Moonlight Elves and escaped from thatbyrinth...


    "I must keep this a secret. Anyway, there are no survivors from Rehelm, theyre all dead.


    He gulped nervously. The reality that an entire segment of society had been obliterated, that the world was teetering on the brink of disaster, meant nothing to him. His own safety was his top priority.


    "Quickly calcte and report. Where is the most critical area right now, and is defense truly impossible?


    Themander-in-chief finally epted some of the wizards opinions. He issued an order to detach a part of the army and dispatch it to areas where defense was difficult.


    "We can know all their movements and their scale. We can alsomunicate in real-time. If we move organically, its entirely possible. Meanwhile, the main force will attack those bugs nest.


    "I, I will lead that separate force!


    Rozes quickly volunteered. Those unaware of his intentions admired him. They thought it was much more dangerous to move separately from the main force.


    "Then, Rozes Lenc of ckl, you go where you are directed from here, block the enemies and save the citizens.


    Themander-in-chief handed him a crystal ball, a direct line ofmunication, along with a force of 2,000 soldiers.


    The humans had taken a gamble, attempting to catch two rabbits with one throw, a move that could potentially lead to their downfall. Their confidencey in their superior information gathering and transmission system. They believed it gave them an edge, allowing them to monitor enemy movements in real-time and react ordingly.


    [Its a bit disappointing. They did split as intended, but not a big chunk fell off, just 2,000 out of 8,000.]


    "It doesnt matter.


    However, they had not considered one fact at all. Eve sat on the throne she had made in the nest, her eyes sparkling. The legions eyes were currently capturing all their movements. The scouts that the legion had scattered, such as leisurely flying birds and crawling insects, were no less than the eyes of the wizards.


    And even if they were all watching each others movements, nomunication device in this world could beat the hive consciousness of the legion.


    "Oh... this is insane.


    "Wh, why are you suddenly like this, Thomson!?


    "Am I really seeing this?


    The main force, unaware that the enemy was also watching them, continued to march. Of course, the eyes of the wizards, which served as a sort of watchtower, were constantly rotating.


    However, Thomson, one of the wizards maintaining the wizards eye, was horrified by the sight seen through the wizards eye linked to his optic nerve.


    "Terrible... a terrible nest.


    "We, weve already reported that! A strange and eerie nest that seems to be their base...


    "Its not at that level!


    "Ah, ahh!


    "What is that?!


    With Thomsons shout, the other wizards who were maintaining the wizards eye also screamed in surprise or shock. What they saw after advancing to a certain extent was no longer just a base nest.


    A huge and vast nest that swallowed up all the blue mountain grass and dyed it ck. Everyone was speechless at the sight of the sticky slime pits where the legions omnipotent cells were infinitely cultured, and the rotten-looking trees growing to the size worthy of a World Tree.

 Chapter 81: Invasion and Erosion (10)

    Chapter 81: Invasion and Erosion (10)


    Haa...haak..."


    Her breath came in ragged gasps, her tongue lolling out like a dog''s as she panted heavily. Despite using a body enhancement spell, her muscles screamed in protest. But Reina couldn''t afford to stop. Having walked through the night, thendmark in the sky gradually drew closer. This was possible because they were both moving towards each other.


    ''The army really has been mobilized.''


    Reaching the top of the hill, she saw the tiny figures of people in the distance and copsed onto the ground. Miraculously, she hadn''t encountered any legionnaires. This was because Eve had mobilized all the nearby legionnaires and was moving them elsewhere.


    fWho are they at war with?''


    She couldn''t hide her confusion, as she still didn''t know the truth. The mobilized human army continued to move forward as if they had a set destination, preparing for battle.


    "...What the!"


    Sensing something, she turned around with a horrified expression. She saw a dark mass casting a shadow on the ground, rushing towards her.


    "Aaah!"


    She had no choice but to drop to the ground, covering her head as the flying creatures swooped down from the sky. However, these flying monsters didn''t show the slightest interest in her.


    "Impossible."


    She watched in disbelief as the monstrous swarm flew towards the army. Reina''s face hardened as she recognized the origin of these creatures.


    "Rozes..!"


    Gritting her teeth, she forced herself to stand. All she could think of was that she needed to reveal the truth as soon as possible.


    "Look, look at that!"


    As Reina hurried towards them, the main force had also detected the iing swarm. The massive flying beasts were clearly charging straight towards them.


    "Don''t panic! Weren''t we already informed that there were flying creatures?!"


    The seasonedmander-in-chief calmed the flustered crowd.


    "Prepare the magic siege cannons!"


    Following hismand, the soldiers sprang into action. Giant ballistae were mounted on the backs of golems made of earth. As the golems braced themselves against the ground, aplex magic circle appeared in front of the specially made ballistae.


    "Ready to fire!"


    "Fire!"


    The giant arrows, resembling spears, wereunched. The spears elerated rapidly as they passed through the magic circle, tearing through the air.


    "Good shot!"


    The attack not only skewered the flying creatures but also exploded on impact, shattering them into pieces. With that single strike, the swarm of flying creatures, which seemed to number over five hundred, was reduced by nearly half.


    "Fire again!"


    Now confident, they reloaded and fired once more. At that moment, the flying creatures dispersed in mid-air, dodging most of the arrows.


    "It''s as if...as if someone is controlling them..."


    The officer in charge of the siege cannons muttered incredulously. Even to their eyes, the movements of the flying creatures were swift and precise.


    "What does it matter? They''re just beasts! Spread the fire, prevent them from swooping down!"


    Following themander-in-chief''s orders, the wizards stepped forward. They positioned themselves at specific coordinates, channeling their mana to cast the same spell


    simultaneously. It was arge-scale magic spell, jointly cast by the Stars Society of Formation and the ckl Society of Fire. Dozens of fireballs were created in session,


    raining down from the sky.


    "See that? That''s the end of those monsters."


    Themander-in-chief grinned. The flying creatures had no chance to dodge the barrage of fireballs raining down on them. One by one, they were shot down and fell to the ground.


    "Keep advancing!"


    Having won the first sh decisively, the main force continued to march forward. When they finally reached their desired point, the wizards began to move fluidly once again.


    "Prepare the magic artillery!"


    Ready! Fire!"


    From a distance of several kilometers, the wizards targeted the nest with their magic. Aplex spell, cast in unison by a trio of wizards, was their weapon of choice. This war magic, unfamiliar to the legion, involved firing an energy-packed shell towards the target in an arc. It boasted a longer range than a cannon, superior agility, and a quicker firing rate. Although the spell required a level of skill that was beyond theprehension of ordinary artillerymen, the wizards present were more than adequately skilled.


    It''s nothing special."


    Themander-in-chief watched as the shells sliced through the air, aimed precisely at the nest. Yet, they failed to hit their target. A dark red barrier materialized around the ck sacred tree, blocking the bombardment at the exact point of impact.


    Commander! They...!"


    Damn it, what the hell."


    The revtion that an ancient monster, previously defeated by simple golems, could now block magic was a shock. There was no information about the high-ranking legionnaires using formative force. They had eliminated every witness, leaving no one to expose them.


    Keep firing! There has to be a limit!"


    Themander, slightly flustered, ordered continuous firing, unable to believe what he was seeing. However, he was unaware of the total energy the legion possessed. Within a few hours, the wizards had to be reced due to exhaustion from mana depletion.


    We keep advancing."


    Ultimately, the main force had no choice but to break formation and move forward. If long-range bombardment didn''t work, they would burn everything up close. This was exactly what Eve, the hive mind of the legion, wanted and guided them to do.


    [But we don''t have troops now. I even ordered the troops that were sent outside to advance ind, so what are you thinking?]


    There are indeed many fascinating spells. They have infinite potential and utility."


    Eve, seated on the throne, chuckled. The enemy''s main force was now almost at the erosion nest, setting the base aze.


    There''s still a lot I''ve only heard about. I want to see more diverse things, but I guess they don''t show it because we seem easy. Or maybe they''re just weak."


    Eve admitted that she had been in anticipation. The magic developed by the humans here wasplex, diverse, and had great potential.


    The more I know, the more curious I be. I want more."


    Eve, who had suddenly risen from her throne, mobilized thest legionnaires she had kept on standby. The ones now storming the nest were not regr troops. They were merely a


    kind of local defense force, a reserve force mobilized in just two days. In other words, they were not the full strength of the humans.


    Despite everything, they had pushed her to her limits. Eve felt the urgent need for further evolution. It was ridiculous that a monster, intent on devouring the world, was


    struggling against them, who weren''t even worth being a meal.


    Let''s show our teachers who taught us magic, our achievements."


    The area vibrated for a moment.


    Eve had some spare energy left, even after investing most of it in indiscriminate expansion.


    She harnessed that energy to forge a new breed of soldier. A colossal species that dwarfed even thergest of their forces. A creature of raw power and defense, capable of withstanding magical assaults through sheer bulk alone. It was still a work in progress, but it held potential for practical use.


    [We''ve increased their size by integrating the armor of cave scorpions with thergest beast that went extinct due to the lethal bacteria we encountered in thebyrinth - the cave elephant. We''ve also incorporated thepressed muscles of the legion. This new soldier was created solely for charging, trampling, and piercing the enemy.]


    As they thundered across the terrain, the previously dormant soldiers sprang into action.


    In their rush to get to the frontlines, they toppled the towering trees of the forest. Their size was immense, simr to arge house. The creature, standing ten meters tall at the shoulder and weighing thousands of tons, swung its sawfish-like head with a speed that defied its massive size.


    There were about ten of these monsters. They were apanied by hundreds of medium-sized, four-legged legionnaires swarming in packs, poised to annihte the enemies whose formation had been disrupted.


    [They''re putting up a fight. Spells and powerful spears are being hurled. It''s not a small-scale assault, and with time, the outer shell could sustain damage. Once the flesh is exposed, a single strike could be fatal.]


    Let''s give them a gift."


    Eve was determined to protect the precious superrge species from the onught of attacks. One of the high-ranking legionnaires, perched on a superrge species, opened its back shell and spread its wings, ready to take flight.


    The high-ranking species soared into the middle of the wedge-shaped formation, drawing a circuit with its power engine. The pivot of this circuit was the power engine, the heart of the superrge species that was currently in motion.


    Even with a power engine of this size, it can''t use formative force. It can only maintain its body. But if webine the species like this, we can efficiently produce that synergy."


    Eve grinned, clearly seeing the horrified expressions on the humans'' faces. The young wizard from the Stars Society, who had been captured earlier, had finally spilled all the society''s secrets after being tortured to the point of their brain melting.


    Now, the results were evident. The formation demonstrated by the knight and the wizard was perfectly replicated by the high-ranking species and the superrge legionnaires.


    Let''s show them what we''ve learned from the Stars Society."

 Chapter 82: Invasion and Erosion (11)

    Chapter 82: Invasion and Erosion (11)


    "Ah, ah...


    The sight of a beast with a ck shell asrge as a house charging towards them filled their vision. Its mere presence was overwhelming, and the ground shook with its approach. The sudden assault of such a massive creature instantly disrupted their formation.


    "Everyone, hold your positions!


    "What on earth is that? Even the degenerate dragons from Redrium we left behind weren''t that big!


    Themanders scrambled to control their troops, but it was a struggle. After driving out the destructive bacteria and taking over the surface, they had been at peace for a long time. The war manuals from the fierce battles before the migration remained, but those who could use themcked war experience.


    "Fire! Fire the magic direct-fire cannon!


    The desperatemander-in-chief ordered from atop a golem, his robe fluttering. The hastily reformed mage artillery aimed their magic circles directly ahead.


    "Fire! Fire!


    The shot fired was arger and more solid condensed magic bullet than when it wasunched in a parabolic trajectory. It greatly reduced the range but maximized its power. It was powerful enough to shatter thick walls in one hit. Therefore, themander-in-chief was confident that the direct-fire cannon just fired would inflict significant damage on the beasts.


    Insignificant creatures...this...''


    However, confidence was just confidence. Reality proved different from his expectations.


    "How on earth...?


    "What...what is that...?


    He turned to look at the executive of the Stars Society standing next to him. But the Stars Society, shaking their heads in shock and horror, were no different.


    "Then! What am I seeing right now!


    In the end, themander-in-chief lost his reason and shouted. The massive beasts that were charging fiercely were definitely hit by the cannon. He clearly saw it explode with a hot shockwave.


    Yet, the beasts, now encased in a red magic shield that had taken the form of a spear, swung their massive, sturdy heads without sustaining any damage. This peculiar formation and magic were unmistakably the trademarks of the Stars Society.


    "Ah, ah!


    "Everyone, run!


    The formation crumbled instantly, even before the collision. It was clear that at this level, nothing could stop the monstrous charge.


    "Ah.


    A faint sigh escaped themander-in-chief. Amidst the chaos of people fleeing in panic, a gruesome sight erupted before him. Bright red blood and chunks of flesh, once human, sprayed out like a fountain, apanied by a shockwave. Their formation was ripped apart instantly.


    "Ah!


    "Let go of me!


    In the ce swept by the unstoppable charge, those who survived the attack were immediately attacked by other beasts. These four-legged beasts with strong muscles indiscriminately ughtered the people who couldn''t regain their senses.


    "Save, save me!


    Some beasts, however, acted peculiarly. They attacked a handful of mages just enough to wound them without killing, causing them to bleed before dragging them away.


    "Damn it! They''re abducting mages!


    Upon witnessing this, themander-in-chief, a practitioner of earth-rted magic, mmed his staff into the ground in fury. Stone pirs erupted from the earth, knocking back and impaling the beasts attempting to abduct the mages.


    fThey must have stolen the magic of the Stars Society...!''


    He scanned his surroundings, breaking out in a cold sweat. All he saw were his allies crying out in pain. Only then did he realize these monsters were more than just a simple pack of beasts. Amidst the chaos of the battlefield, the giant beasts that had previously charged were turning their heads back towards him. He gritted his teeth and locked eyes with the high-ranking beast that had dared to confront him directly.


    "You look a bit special. Are you the leader?


    He aimed his staff and stared at the high-ranking beast. The six eyes shining from the gaps in the armor blinked indifferently. The high-ranking beast pointed the red spear in its hand at him. Now its posture was sharp and keen. Among the prisoners they had eaten, there were also knights who had trained in spear techniques.


    "Hmm...?!


    Then he felt something strange and flinched. Something strange had spread in the air.


    "Kuh...Kuak!


    One soldier, covered in ck veins, had his eyes dyed ck and charged at him.


    There was no reason not to use the most efficient weapon when the legion was suppressing the majority.


    "You''re resorting to the same old tricks. Are you the remnants of The Destroyers after all?


    He jabbed the end of his staff into the soldier''s sr plexus, sending him flying. Then, he raised his staff and mmed it into the ground, gathering his magic. A powerful magical gust swept across the battlefield, obliterating the vulnerable infectious bacteria in its wake.


    "Even if you win this battle, you''ll never truly triumph, lust like we eradicated you in the past, you''ll be driven from this earth once again.


    His white beard fluttering, he pointed usingly at the high-ranking legionnaire, his eyes gleaming with determination. It was as if he knew that behind the legionnaire''s eyes,


    Eve was watching. For the first time, Eve''s lips twitched slightly at the provocation, not out of fear of death, but surprise.


    "Come at me, monster. Do you really think my magic, honed over 80 years, will falter against the likes of you?


    He swung his staff, casting a spell. The high-ranking legionnaire didn''t miss a beat, swiftly lunging towards him, spear aimed at his throat. As if he had anticipated this, he


    quickly cancelled his spell and dodged the spear by tilting his head. At the same time, he cast a quick protective shield spell. A triangr blue shield sprang forth, colliding


    with the legionnaire''s crimson barrier.


    "Even if I die here, the Society and the Council are teeming with those stronger than me. And you, you''re weaker than me. Don''t underestimate magic.


    He fired a condensed bullet of dark rock from the tip of his finger at the legionnaire''s exposed chest, beyond the shattered shield. The lethal magic, focused on pration, shattered the armor and destroyed the legionnaire''s power engine in an instant.


    "Heh.


    He staggered as he looked at the fallen legionnaire''s body. The mental exhaustion was too severe. If his judgment had been even a fraction slower, if his opponent had any knowledge of magic, he would have been impaled with the first strike.


    "...But I had to take down at least one.


    He mumbled to himself, turning his body. He had already given up on survival, especially with those massive beasts charging towards him. Even as a sage-level magician, he couldn''t possibly face all those massive creatures, whose sheer mass was a weapon in itself, alone.


    At least one.''


    With that thought, he cast a spell. No matter how powerful a spell he used against the beast''s body, it wouldn''t have any effect. So, he targeted a different part. That was


    his n, and the spell to realize that n sprang from the tip of his staff.


    "That''s right.


    One of the massive bodies wobbled, then started to topple. He had used his magic to turn the ground where the giant creature was about to step into a deep swamp. The creature,


    with its enormous weight, fell into the trap in an instant and began to sink into the ground, struggling.


    "This should be... enough.


    He copsed, closing his eyes. He had only managed to take down one. The remaining survivors, including himself, would be trampled. Feeling the increasingly close vibrations of the massive creatures, he gritted his teeth.


    "You can''t!


    "Cough...


    lust then, someone rushed in and saved him from being crushed at thest moment.


    "You can''t! You have to reveal the truth! We need your power, Councilor!


    "Cough... Cough...


    Reina, who had seized the opportunity to rush in and save him, shook him excitedly.


    "Stop... shaking...


    "Vice President Rozes Lenc of the ckl Society! He''s the cause of all this!


    "Stop shaking me!


    Finally, Austin, who had been coughing and clutching his chest after being headbutted by Reina, hit her head with his staff. Then, panting heavily, he got up from where Reina was holding her head and groaning.


    "Say that again. What did Lenc do... No, first we need to get out of here.


    He cast a basic amplification spell and issued a retreat order. Reina put all her strength into helping him escape. Fortunately, the giant creatures were slow to change direction due to their momentum. Austin managed to rescue a small portion of the troops and led the survivors to safety. The legionnaires stood still, watching them.


    "What a waste.


    [...Why aren''t they chasing? You could quickly create more troops using Rapid Growth.]


    "No. They dared to insult me.


    Eve, who had been watching, didn''t chase them.


    [Isn''t that strange? If you''re upset about being insulted, shouldn''t you chase them?]


    "No. If I do that, I can''t fully retaliate. I''ll fight them again when that bastard can use his full power. And it''s not just about emotions. I''m going to provoke them more and squeeze out everything.


    There were many ways to gain experience other than torturing prisoners. Eve had gained enough experience from this battle. She decided to push her opponents to their limits to extract information. After all, those in crisis squeeze out all their power. And with the techniques and tactics she learned from them, she nned to put an end to their lives.


    [Aren''t you being arrogant? Are you underestimating them?]


    "It''s not arrogance, it''s calction.


    Although she asionally showed emotional turbulence due to her immaturity, her foundation was rooted in careful calction and foresight. She never entered a fight unless she had a high probability of winning from the get-go.

 Chapter 83: Chaos and Heroes (1)

    Chapter 83: Chaos and Heroes (1)


    [Regardless, the legion has once again imed victory. Time has been bought, and there are no more obstacles to our expansion.]


    "...At least we can breathe for now."


    The screen showed humans in retreat and the legionnaires observing them. It appeared to be a crisis, but as usual, Eve had a n.


    "Seems like we''ve got everything under control."


    I let out a bitter chuckle.


    The moment I firstid eyes on the super-sized legionnaire, as big as a house, I knew. Eve didn''t need my help anymore. The legion I knew wasn''t the small colony I used to nourish with various small animals and bread-like sustenance. Now, it was a formidable force capable of consuming the world single-handedly.


    [Well, they will still need your help in the future.]


    "I suppose so. lust thinking about it makes my head hurt more."


    Of course, it wouldn''t make sense for me to do nothing and just watch. My influence over Eve is still stronger for now. But I don''t know how long this influence willst on Eve, who is absorbing enormous amounts of information every day sinceing to the surface, and there''s no guarantee it won''t be distorted.


    So, I had to continue to ''help''. Help that could maintain my influence, like giving a name.


    "Is the video recording over?"


    "Ah, it''s over now."


    I


    Cox, a mercenary sitting next to me, casually opened his mouth. I nodded naturally. He, who didn''t understand Korean at all, thought I was talking for the video recording.


    "Strangely, they''re passive. Even though they had the upper hand a few days ago."


    "They''re probably waiting. Like us."


    In response to Cox''s question, I mumbled nkly while looking out the window.


    Our current enemies, the Nols and Kobolds, were also units.


    So, it wasn''t strange for them to buy time. The more time they had, the more irregr and stronger they could be.


    Right now, our alliance was also spending time reorganizing and growing with the help of the Guardians Union.


    In the midst of thinking that whoever grows more will win, it was time to prove it. We were now rushing towards the enemy lines.


    "They''re waiting, huh? They might regret it."


    Cox chuckled at my words. At the same time, something making a loud noise crossed the high sky above.


    The new weapon mobilized by the alliance was a missile. And it was filled with cluster bombs, which were banned under internationalw.


    Moreover, the missile, which could even be equipped with a nuclear warhead if necessary, was flying across the sky to strike the enemy lines. I heard that the nuclear warhead had already arrived at the base.


    "It''s an attack!"


    But almost at the same time, it seemed like they had also started to counterattack.


    As the vehicle came to a sudden stop, shouts came from the radio and outside.


    The sound of gunfire and the sound of tanks firing could be heard.


    "Let''s get out. Fortunately, it seems to be in the front."


    We also started our job. Our job was, of course, to escort the researchers of the Evolution Corporation.


    As I got out of the car with the sword that had now be my weapon, I casually checked the front where Cha Ji Yeon would be.


    "Ah, this shitty... damn luck..."


    "Here theye! Get into position!"


    We had thought we were safe, given our distance from thebat zone. However, the enemy''s attack was well-executed and far-reaching.


    Suddenly, a ripple in space materialized right in front of us, and a small gate appeared.


    "Fire!"


    A shadowy figure emerged from the gate. Our troops, alert and prepared, unleashed a volley of firepower. It was a force so powerful, it could reduce an elephant to shreds in an instant. But the first toe out were the Nols, brandishingrge shields that burned with a faint blue me.


    "These bastards..."


    "They''re pouring out!"


    As soon as the concentrated fire was blocked, the shield-bearing Nols began to spew out.


    I saw a Kobold swinging a staff in my eyes. For a moment, it ovepped with the image of the wizards that Eve had faced.


    "Keep firing!"


    "Uh..?!"


    I left Cox and jumped forward. Not just me.


    The trainees of the Guardians Union, who were supplementing the insufficient hunter forces, stepped forward and faced the Nols who were ignoring the bullets anding in.


    "Tch."


    I dodged the swinging shield and shed it with my sword. My movements have improved a lotpared to before.


    "I don''t know if I''m weird. Or if it''s real."


    While swinging my sword, I couldn''t shake off the feeling of strangeness.


    "These guys, no matter how I look at it, seem to be using the magic I know!"


    [I''m currently inquiring with Eve.]


    I split the head of another Nol who was rushing at me with a sword.


    Their positioning bothered me a lot. The way they moved in a certain formation was familiar.


    And even though they were ssified asmon soldiers, they seemed to be as strong as us.


    ''Stars Society.''


    I knew this formation. One of the magics that Eve had faced and was now learning to use in reverse.


    It was definitely a group tactical magic that was manifested by creating a certain formation.


    "These, these guys are definitely without any equipment..."


    "We''re being pushed back!"


    The Nols, bolstered by magic, were driving us back despitecking any equipment provided by their yers. Our allies, uninformed, were thrown into chaos and casualties were mounting.


    I steadied myself. There was nothing unexpected. If the yer bestowing magic on these Kobolds was one of the wizards that Eve was currently confronting, then they were my enemy.


    "Take out those Kobolds!"


    Our allies had an instinctive sense that the Kobolds were plotting something. A tank rocket, fired by an unidentified ally, shattered the barrier that had been repelling our rifle bullets and annihted a Kobold.


    "But that''s not enough. We need to identify the the one that''s the core of their formation."


    [Complex circuit connection. With its power, it can amplify multiple people at once. But in this circuit, there''s a single focal point. If that focal point disappears, all circuits are cut off.]


    Eve understood the predicament I was in and received the message ordingly.


    "Tell Eve. This time, I need your help."


    [She happily agreed. You should see how happy she waster on the screen.]


    Without hesitation, Eve assisted me. After a brief exnation of the situation, Eve quickly deciphered the enemy''s formation and provided me with the answer.


    ''That''s the one.''


    The one that met the conditions Eve described caught my eye. The focal point of the formation. The crafty creature was hiding behind the others, even using their barriers for protection. To break that, I needed at least arge-caliber shell.


    "That''s the one. If you kill him, their power will be released. If we keep sniping the other bastards, we''ll be wiped out!"


    "How do you know that, Mr. Kang Shin Woo?!"


    I seized the special forces soldier who was fighting alongside me. This soldier, sporting a lieutenant''s badge on hisbat uniform, was originally an artillerymander. However, he was recognized for his talent, received training from the Guardians Union, and was restructured into a special forces unit.


    He was also someone I knew. He had been my sparring partner.


    "...If we can''t do it together, I''ll go alone."


    I hardened my expression at his flustered response. There was no time to exin everything now.


    "I''ll go. If there''s a way."


    Fortunately, he seemed to understand my sincerity and followed my words as if enchanted. I flinched for a moment at the sight of the soldiers who had gathered in an instant.


    "I''ll lead the way. Please help me clear the path."


    I clearly conveyed my intentions.


    I wondered if I could give them orders, but now was not the time to worry about that.


    "Of course."


    "Lieutenant, can we trust this guy..."


    "We have no other choice right now. And Mr. Kang Shin Woo is more than capable."


    Of course, there was some resistance, but some of them, including the lieutenant, knew me and had sparred with me. They had been defeated by me.


    "Then let''s go."


    We couldn''t waste a second. If we were pushed back and the fire broke, we would be swept away, and without the firepower of the infantry, it would be impossible to deal with all these bastards.


    So we had to kill the Kobold that was the focal point of the formation.


    "Tell Eve everything. Let her know what I''m doing with her help!"


    [Is there a purpose to that?]


    "I''m just reminding her that our connection is mutual."


    I gripped my sword and charged.


    The bubbling Nols, enhanced by the formation, blocked our path in an instant.


    My heart pounded, and the power built up inside me resonated with it. The resonance method, a mind technique that Ji Chang Hyun taught me, was improved by the legion for my exclusive use.


    With it, I could gather power that was both faster and stronger than others. Just before the collision with the enemies, I swung my sword without hesitation.


    "Squeak..."


    "Squeal."


    Several Nols were instantly cut down by my powerful sword. The stragglers were taken care of by myrades running beside me.


    "But! We can''t break their barrier with our power!"


    "There''s a way."


    At the desperate outcry, I pulled out a red glowing stone from my pocket.


    Do I just throw it like I''ve been doing? That won''t be enough to break their ovepping barriers.


    Again, I relied on Eve''s help.


    The way the legion''s high-ranking units used formative force was to draw power from the power engine in an instant, without dy or calction.


    I imitated that method. In addition to the power I already had, I absorbed the power stored in the stone I was holding into my body.


    "Mr. Shin Woo, your sword..."


    My sword ignited in a fiery red hue. The most significant benefit of the resonance technique I had mastered was its ability to not repel differing powers, but to resonate and amplify them instead.


    This power perfectly mirrored the identity of the legion, a force that consumed everything and imed it as its own.


    "Get lost, you bastards!"


    I put all my strength into my sword and let it out.


    The crimson sh, reminiscent of the ones unleashed by the legionnaires and my sister Kang Do Yeon, tore through the earth and sliced through the enemy''s body, shattering


    its barrier in the process.

 Chapter 84: Chaos and Heroes (2)

    Chapter 84: Chaos and Heroes (2)


    A brilliant spark morphed into a lightning bolt, cleaving the air and the enemys ranks. The potent bolt incinerated dozens of enemies in a sh. However, the Nols and Kobolds at the frontlines, unlike the disrupted rear, were not so easily defeated.


    "Ugh..."


    Cha Ji Yeon, who had been casting powerful lightning, became the target of the Nols-*ser weaponry. She quickly surrounded herself with electricity, narrowly blocking the iingser attacks.


    "Guess they dont have an assassination right. Considering were still alive."


    Chris joked as he passed by her.


    He stomped his foot, and spears of rock erupted from the trembling ground, impaling and killing arge number of enemies. But the enemies, who had once been overrun by just two S-rank hunters, had significantly evolved since then.


    "What the hell is that? Guess theyre not even trying to hide anymore."


    Chris let out a hollowugh. A massive machine, operated by a single Nol, appeared on the battlefield with a nking noise. The bipedal vehicle, the size of a tank, tantly showcased its formidable firepower.


    "Fire!


    Naturally, it became the target of snipers. Tank shells and anti-tank rockets flew towards it, causing explosions. However, the vehicle, protected by ayered barrier cast by the nearby Kobolds, remained unscathed. It then spewed fire from therge cannon it held.


    "No..."


    Cha Ji Yeon, who had shielded her face from the shockwave, gritted her teeth at the unfolding disaster. The hellish scene she had desperately wanted to prevent was unfolding right before her eyes.


    "Wait. Theres another person as justice-driven as you."


    "Director Ji Chang Hyun."


    She held her breath, ready to rush forward. Ji Chang Hyun, without hesitation, drew his sword and charged in. mes enveloped his body as he dashed forward, his sword scattering a flurry of red shes. His strike cut through everything in its path, including the barrier and the vehicle. For a moment, he seemed like a one-man army. Where his strike passed, mes erupted, incinerating everything.


    Considering that even the low-ranking Nols, now enhanced by the Stars Societys formation, had the power equivalent to a C-rank hunter, it was an incredible feat.


    "Your me technique was more shy and grandiose when you were a hunter, but you seem stronger now. Youre a former S-rank, after all. Everyone grows, I guess. Even if we both attacked, it would still be tough."


    Chris muttered, looking somewhat dejected. In fact, the old ranking system had lost its meaning. Evolution, the Step Up Hunters, and the hunters who had be units were all enhancing their stagnant power in their own ways.


    "But, I guess that applies to those bastards too."


    Chris stepped forward again. A ck knight in ck armor was charging towards Ji Chang Hyun. It was definitely not a Nol or a Kobold.


    [Theyre using a different kind of magic... probably indigenous shamanism of thisnd? They dont seem to have an assassination right, and theyre resorting to all sorts of methods due to their limitations. Its clear that the yersmand is to finish them off.]


    The yers will echoed in his mind. As the voice suggested, the enemies were now desperately resisting. They tried their best to defend, but the inherent racial gap was too vast.


    To counter beings like Ji Chang Hyun, Chris, and Cha Ji Yeon, who had surpassed a certain threshold, they either needed an equivalent adversary or overwhelming firepower. But the enemies didnt have such luxuries at the moment.


    As Cha Ji Yeon prepared to charge again, she nced back.


    ''Will he be okay?


    The rear was also under attack. And he was there. She wanted to rush to his aid right now, but the yer, who had judged that they had the upper hand, ordered her to charge. * "Useless! Stupid!" "Will you shut up? Keep it down!" "Were doomed, doomed! Theres no stopping it!"


    In the dark pce, a crown-wearing Nol was running around, squawking loudly. The Kobold chieftain, facing the Nol, shared the same sentiment. Their enemies were too powerful. Both races had received blessings from capable yers, but their inherent limitations were inescapable. They were, after all, the lowest-ranking monsters who had once lived as ves, while their opponents were dominant species that had ruled the world for a long time, based on their advanced intelligence and civilization.


    "...Life is so cruel."


    The Kobold chieftain sighed in despair. He didnt know the exact reason, but his yer, who had taught him various spells, was extremely busy at the moment. He knew he was in danger, but there was no way to help him now. The reality was that he was only losing, despite having received help continuously. The feeling of powerlessness was bone-chilling, and it hit him even harder now that he had gained intelligence.


    "Pathetic traitors, have you finally realized your ce? Was itfortable living in a nobles mansion?"


    Suddenly, someone appeared out of nowhere in the space where only the two of them should have been. The startled chieftain red at the Nol, who shook his head in surprise as well.


    "Dont make foolish assumptions. I came here on my own."


    He revealed himself from the darkness. His sharp fangs gleamed under the hood he wore, his lips curled into a sly grin.


    "A high-ranking demon!"


    As soon as the Kobold chieftain identified him, he pointed his staff at him. The Nol also quickly pulled out a gun from his pocket. However, their opponent merelyughed leisurely.


    "Foolish... Tell your leaders, or those ''yers of yours, that I want to make a deal. If they agree to the deal, I can replenish the strength they lost while controlling such lowly ''units like you." "How can we..."


    "Its still hard to get used to a Kobold speaking. Just deliver the message. I cant stand by and watch thisnd get trampled by mere humans, as a being who once led the glory of this underworld."


    He lowered his hood and smirked. Recognizing the ck rams horns on his head, they froze in shock.


    "The Demon King...!


    "Former Demon King. The current one is still asleep."


    He corrected the Kobold chieftain.


    "...He just said, how can we trust you? Your primitive underworld magic wont help."


    "Huh, amusing. But yes, I agree to some extent. I, no, this entire underworld was a frog in a well, and this world, this universe is vast. So, foolish Kobold, tell your yer right now. You too are nothing but a speck of dust. Who knows what disasters unknown to you are lurking in your world?"


    Heughed leisurely. The Kobold chieftain was taken aback. Despite the humiliating words, his yer didnt respond. As if he had hit the nail on the head.


    "You should think carefully. The whirlpool of fate youre caught in ultimately leads to infinitepetition, survival of the fittest. Dont waste time on pointless pride and reach out. If you make a deal with me, there will definitely be benefits."


    "He, he says he wants to hear it."


    "Our yer too!"


    Both the Kobold chieftain and the Nol chieftain received responses from their yers. He grinned as if he had expected it.


    "As a native species not part of the game, I am free from the games rules. As someone who doesnt belong anywhere, Ive been traveling around the underworld, meeting the races of the underworld who are fighting those earthlings. And Ive made a decision. Ill lend my power. In return, I want the culture and technology youve learned and obtained from your yers. Various magic, shamanism, spirit arts, swordsmanship, spear techniques, particle weapons, martial arts, and so on." "That, thats..."


    "Those all became my power and can also be your power. As a former Demon King, my power still stretches across the entire underworld. There are countless wraith armies and legions I can mobilize right now. The seal that covered the entire underworld, cast by the hero who sacrificed his life, was indeed a powerful seal. But that seal was easily broken by an orc who had learned the spirit arts of another world."


    Now, the initiative waspletely in his hands. The moment the seal that had been maintained over the demons and the underworld for a long time was simply broken by the power of another world, a native force that could be mobilized like the Earths alliance forces could be created.


    A force called ''high-ranking demons who once ruled thisnd.


    "Survivales first, doesnt it? Stop the pointlesspetition and knock out the most dangerous ones first."


    He lifted his head and shouted into the void. It wasnt a message for the Kobold chieftain or the Nol chieftain. It was a direct message to their real masters.


    [Say you agree]


    [ept it! Quickly!]


    And the yers, cornered, eventually epted his proposal.


    "Well, I should at least save your lives for now."


    The deal was struck. He stepped outside the mansion and floated into the air. His eyes took in the deste and barrenndscape, soaked in magic. He was once the ruler of the underworld, the owner of the underworld. The moment the seal that had been ced over the entire underworld was broken due to the heros desperate self-destruction, he regained some of his past power.


    ''The spirits of magic, the chains of my heart, amplify the magic power stored in the battery.


    And he could momentarily explode that part of his power beyond its peak. What made it possible were the technologies provided by the invaders from another world. His vessel, which absorbed them one by one cunningly, amplified that magic power exponentially.


    "Underworld, attack your enemies at themand of your master."


    For the first time, he had openly revealed himself after covertly assisting the underworld forces. The decision to step forward was driven by the frailty of the Kobolds and Nols on this frontline. He believed it was finally time to engage fully.

 Chapter 85: Chaos and Heroes (3)

    Chapter 85: Chaos and Heroes (3)


    "Hows he doing now?


    [He and his group have achieved victory. Theyll continue to advance, establish bases, and relentlessly strike at the enemys headquarters.]


    "And what about me? Any praise for me?


    [...Hold on. Hes currently surrounded by hisrades. Theyre all praising and admiring the achievements he made with you.]


    Achievements made with her. At these words, a wide smile spread across Eves face.


    His n had worked.


    Eve savored the exhrating feeling of unity when Shin Woo needed her, sought her help, and ultimately achieved his aplishments with her assistance.


    "I also like that hes be stronger. Its thanks to me, so hell rely on me more, right?


    [How would you rate his level?]


    Its not that high, but that doesnt matter. I can make him stronger. More importantly, humans have the power to surpass their own limits.


    Objectively, Shin Woos current abilities were at a level where he would be considered expendable if he were to join the legion.


    Though he could handle Formative Force, real battles were a numbers game based on data. ording to Eves cold calctions, his actualbat power wasnt even at a level topete with high-ranking species.


    Yet, Eve evaluated him highly, even excessively.


    []


    I need to get my hands on gate-rted technology soon.


    Eves mind was consumed by one topic.


    The Kobolds that Shin Woo faced in the demon world were undoubtedly units. And those yers were right here in this world where Eve was.


    So, the gate technology they used was undoubtedly from this ce.


    In fact, she had already secured rted testimonies.


    The wizards of this world were those who had migrated here after losing a long war in a world they called Redrium. The migrants drove out the rampant destructive bacteria in this world with their golems.


    How did they reach here? They used magic to leap through space. That method was the gate, and there was even a separate society studying it.


    ''The gate is top-secret information, and only a few high-ranking officials outside the relevant society can ess it. Plus, if theyre passing down the magic of the Stars


    Society, it means they have knowledge of other societies.


    Eve inferred the identity of the presumed yer. The list of potential candidates was instantly narrowed down to a high-ranking official, most likely on active duty, from a


    society. If she based her deductions on the testimony of a society wizard, there would be, at most, a few hundred.


    To Eve, this wasnt a daunting number. She could effortlessly devise a n to capture and eliminate them all.


    [But all information rted to the gate is in Menas.]


    Even if she wanted to acquire gate-rted technology immediately, she couldnt.


    ording to the information she had gathered, the society studying magic rted to the gate was named Ados. The Ados Society only had its headquarters in Menas, the central city of the continent.


    Furthermore, she discovered that Menas was the base of the Continental Council, which ruled the continent, and various wizard societies.


    In other words, even with her knowledge, it wasnt easy to covet.


    "Those bastards...


    Eve, whose mood had just plummeted, hissed with fiery eyes.


    The provocation and pride shown by Commander-in-Chief Austin immediately came to mind. It was obvious that those bastards who should quickly spit out everything, fight, and die miserably would resist until the end, which was frustrating.


    And Eve still needed a little more time. Above all, she didnt even know the full strength of the people in this world yet.


    Even if she finished expanding to her satisfaction, there was no guarantee that she could immediately obtain the technology she wanted.


    "Theres no need to waste time.


    Eve,fortably seated on her throne, evaluated the situation with a calm demeanor.


    She could see and hear everything where the legion had spread. With the defense force practically annihted, the cities and towns in the vicinity werewless areas without defense.


    ''The troops may be slightlycking, but its irrelevant. Obliterate them all.


    Eve repositioned the legionnaires scattered around, including the colossal species that had decimated the enemy and replenished their nutrients.


    Humans who had lost their ability to resist would all be killed unless they sought refuge immediately.


    [Good. Then, during the remaining time, you can film a video to pass on the newly polished martial arts, referring to the style of the knights here.]


    [Why such a reaction? You said youd show him your face andmunicate directly after this battle.]


    Eves body stiffened for a moment.


    It was definitely something she had said. But now, for some reason, her body wouldnt move.


    "Ill do itter. When Kang Do Yeon...es.


    [Why? You know how to operate a cell phone now, dont you?]


    "Shut up!


    Eves emotions were in turmoil, torn between longing and restraint.


    ''Not yet. lust a little more.


    [Prepare yourself quickly. Kang Do Yeon has encountered the enemy.]


    Fortunately, or perhaps unfortunately, an event urred that quickly settled Eves turbulent emotions. Kang Do Yeon had not participated in thest battle. She had a separate mission. And now, she was face-to-face with the enemy for that mission.


    ''Good. Proceed as nned.


    Evemanded the execution of the prearranged n. It involved a small, nimble force splitting from the main army to ambush the enemys detachment of 2,000. The numbers were small, merely in the tens, but the operation included several high-ranking legionnaires, including their strongest, Kang Do Yeon.


    "Hmm?


    "I felt it too.


    However, as Kang Do Yeon neared them, both she and Eve sensed something. A string connecting to the outside, a soul string. Someone in the detachment possessed it.


    *


    "Damn it. What the hell is that?


    Rozes Lenc, the instigator of the current chaos, was mentally drained. He nced up at the sky, cursing without regard for his dignity. He had been sporadically fighting with the legionnaires and had just concluded a degrading negotiation with a peculiar monster iming to be the former king of the demon world. Now, a creature capable of delivering the final blow to his weary mind and body was descending from the sky.


    "That thing...


    "Vice President! Ahhh!


    Theynded in the center of the star team without slowing down, causing a massive shockwave.


    ''What the...


    The first thing Rozes saw, squinting through the shockwave and dust, was a pair of jet-ck wings. Wings enveloped in ck feathers. But soon, those wings were swallowed by a crimson me, swinging like a de and creating a fountain of blood.


    "Thats an enemy! An enemy!


    "Get in formation!


    The startled soldiers hastily aimed their weapons and magic at the monsters that had appeared from the sky.


    "Fire!


    Rozes quicklymanded. They had been taken by surprise by the sudden attack, but the enemies hadnded in the middle of a bustling allied camp. A barrage of indiscriminate magic was unleashed onto the enemies.


    Amid the blinding shes and explosions, Rozes watched the scene with tension.


    [Its useless. Theyre... unscathed]


    However, the moment the magic bombardment ended, he saw the flickering letters in front of him and his eyes widened. Simultaneously, the dust cleared, revealing the enemies surrounded by a crimson barrier that resonated with their bodies.


    The high-ranking species, who had tucked their wings into their backtes, stood back to back, aiming their spears in all directions. In the middle of them stood the owner of the ck wings.


    Now, the mask she wore had no effect on the hormonal system. The mask was simply for hiding her face.


    For a moment, Rozes eyes met the four red glows flickering inside her mask.


    ''Were going to die.


    He instinctively sensed it, even though he was enveloped by a protective barrier. It took him less than a second to leap off the golem he was riding and take cover behind a fellow magician.


    Immediately after that.


    From the pointed spears, from the outstretched hands, energy began to erupt at maximum output in every direction.


    This energy onught was a unique technique possessed by the legion, who had not learned any magic or sword techniques. It simply erupted, and the thousands of troops that had surrounded them were exposed and incinerated alive, exploding and turning into a chaotic mess.


    "This... this is...


    In the aftermath of the shock, more than half were obliterated in an instant. An eerie silence descended over the area, and people whose mental state had been shattered were frozen in ce, unable to move or even twitch.


    "Ugh!


    In the meantime, a knight who had been screaming in anger after seeing hisrade, who had been close to him, evaporate leaving only an arm holding a sword, got up and ran with his sword.


    "Cough.


    The female legionnaire moved without any unnecessary movements, knocked off his sword with her armored hand, and kicked him in the chest. The knight, who spat out blood with his breastte crushed in one breath, fell to the ground rolling.


    "Uh...


    "Ah...


    Fear and despair spread among the survivors in an instant.


    Even though half of them were still alive, and they were armed with revenge and anger, they couldnt dare to rush at the enemies, who were only five in number.


    "Wheres the Vice President, the Vice President of ckl?


    "We need heavy firepower. He can provide it!


    People naturally sought out the strong. There was definitely still hope. There were only five enemies, the allies still had strength left, and it was burdensome for the enemies to spew out firepower once again.


    "Vice President..?


    But where he had once stood, there were only gruesomely disfigured corpses.


    Only his discarded robe remained in the spot where he had vanished without a trace.

 Chapter 86: Chaos and Heroes (4)

    Chapter 86: Chaos and Heroes (4)


    "We''re on a roll. We''re going to keep advancing like this."


    "We have to. We can''t afford to give them any time."


    Mercenary leader Robert gave my back a reassuring pat. I nodded, my response vague. In the midst of our ongoing mop-up operation, we had decided to continue our advance. After


    all, we had just secured a significant victory in a head-on battle.


    However, my focus was elsewhere. In the corner of my vision, hidden from Robert''s sight, a different scene from another world was unfolding.


    "You don''t look too happy? You should be celebrating right now. Thanks to your decision and judgement in identifying the enemy''s weakness, we were able to win and survive. It''s all thanks to you."


    "...Everyone''s fighting like that right now."


    Robert tried to lift my spirits, but I couldn''t muster a smile and mumbled in response. The screen I was looking at showed my sister, Kang Do Yeon. She was decimating a separate


    detachment that had been pulled out, filled with enemies presumed to be yers or units.


    The mask no longer served as a stabilizer. That meant she was killing enemies as mechanically and indifferently as the other legionnaires, of her own volition. The sight was


    overwhelming. Even if dozens of people attacked her, they wouldn''t be able to defeat her.


    "Only the victors survive... It''s that kind of ecosystem..."


    I barely managed to pull myself together, repeating that this was just a simple survivalpetition.


    "Hmm, you should rest for a bit then. I''ll handle the aftermath."


    Robert excused himself after sensing the mood. When I was left alone in the vehicle, I leaned back against the seat.


    "I still have the same amount of gold. The 300G I got from killing the surviving Moonlight Elves. That means we didn''t kill any yer or unit that we just observed."


    [Correct.]


    I checked my gold. The change was 0, which meant that the legion hadn''t killed a single unit or yer since they surfaced.


    If they were weak, they would have been eliminated. If they survived, they would have be stronger.''


    At this point, any surviving unit would have reached a certain level of strength. At the very least, they wouldn''t identally engage in a fight, which meant they might know


    about the legion.


    "The yers who have units on Earth must be making a lot of profit."


    I let out a hollowugh. I only knew of two cases, but regardless, a crazy war was happening on Earth, where I lived,pared to the world where Eve was. That meant it


    was easier for yers to obtain gold.


    "There''s a limit of two assassination rights per yer, but that''s still a considerable amount. No matter how I think about it, it''s too overpowered."


    It kills the target without question. Of course, it was said to be ''just that'', but that alone was already overpowered.


    [Let me tell you one thing, there are no patches in this game. It goes from start to finish as it is.]


    "So you''re saying the bnce is sufficient? Let''s say there are guys who can survive even after an assassination right. But still..."


    [Don''t fear the system. Instead, think about oveing and using it.]


    "...So you''re saying if I can''t do that, I''m not qualified?"


    The implication was clear. Surely, the victor in a battlefield where countless lives were at stake wouldn''t be unable to ovee an assassination right, lust as 3i Chang Hyun seemed to have faith in something.


    But that''s only part of the story. Ordinary people like me can''t resist it.


    [On the contrary, would an assassination right be used on someone like you?]


    "That''s a good point."


    I chuckled, feeling slightly relieved. The mop-up operation was almost over. Now we were going to recapture the point we failed to securest time and continue to strike at their base.


    "Do we really need to use a nuclear bomb? It''s been bothering me. There might still be people alive."


    Cox, who had climbed back into the vehicle, looked rxed.


    The march continued. At least the atmosphere wasn''t too bad since we had already won.


    fThey''re obviously going to run away.''


    The enemy''s movements were constantly being monitored. Predictions were constantly being made, but in fact, everyone who needed to know already knew. Preserving their lives was the priority. If the unit species were to be annihted, the yer would die too.


    "The cowards are running away, but there''s no movement at the base?"


    Contrary to expectations, they were holed up in their base and not moving, lust as I was wondering if that made any sense...


    "What the..."


    Robert frantically grabbed the crackling radio.


    "Enemy! It''s the enemy! The enemies are swarming..."


    "Everyone, prepare for battle!"


    rms started ringing from the radio and outside.


    *


    "I''ve seen that weapon in the northwest before."


    Dozens of high-performance cluster bomb shells, packed with explosives, wereunched. Yet, he, suspended in the air, caught all the missiles aimed at the city with an unseen force. He detonated them, then condensed the massive energy into one and sent it soaring into the sky.


    But this isn''t the power I want.''


    His eyes sparkled. At that moment, he shared his vision with another creature. A flock of monstrous birds, native to the demon world, streaked across the sky. Through the eyes of


    one of these birds, he saw a human army crossing the wastnd.


    "Swoop down and wipe them out."


    The monstrous birds, resembling erged eagles, began to dive towards the helicopters and tanks. But it wasn''t just the birds that were prepared. Beasts crossing the


    "What... what is this? What kind of magic is this?!"


    "It''s not magic, you fool. It''s a divine power. A power granted only to those at the pinnacle of demonhood."


    He, who hadnded on the ground, scoffed at the Kobold chieftain whose eyes were wide with shock. The chieftain, who had believed that the magic passed down to him by his yer Rozes was a miracle, was speechless in the face of the true power of the Demon King. Meanwhile, the Nols were shooting down the unmanned drones that were scouting the area with their beam weapons.


    "By the way, your yer was supposed to be dying, but you seem perfectly fine."


    "He... he''s currently recovering."


    The Kobold chieftain managed to answer, trembling. He couldn''t take his eyes off him. The presence of a true high-ranking demon, who had broken the curse-like seal left by the hero and regained his power, rekindled his gically ingrained sense of obedience.


    "Focus on the battle at hand for now."


    Seeing this, he chuckled leisurely. Soon, the Kobolds and Nols also received permission from their yer and dispatched their main forces, which they had reorganized.


    Fools. In the end, we will be the ones to survive.''


    He had his own n. From the moment he woke up using the power given to him by his yer, he had been assessing the situation and exploiting the weaknesses of the current alliance system to regain his power.


    "Ah, my ancestral king. What is happening in the demon world right now?"


    "Lord of the Demon Beasts, Gartin. I''ll give you a legion. Go and kill the humans."


    He woke up one of his subordinates who had been sealed like him. This half-human, half-bird creature, covered in ck feathers, bowed to the ancestral king he was seeing for the first time in a long while.


    "With this fully restored power, I will sweep away those trashy humans."


    "...You might want to stay on your guard. The world has changed, and even the strongest can be taken down in one hit by some irrational rule."


    Heughed at the sight of his ever-loyal subordinate.


    "What... what is that..."


    "Take this. It will serve as another means to maintain your loyalty."


    He threw a ring to Gartin. Gartin, who had been clicking his beak, caught it, put it on his finger, and soared into the sky in an instant.


    "There are units among the humans... no, there are. There are some outstanding ones among them. Legion Commander Gartin alone won''t be enough."


    "He might not be. But isn''t it your job to fill that gap? If you truly want to break free from the limits of your pitiful bloodline, then struggle on your own. We''re all just fighting to survive."


    Heughed openly at the Kobold chieftain''s words.


    He preferred the present situation. It was the same when the demon world fought against the hero. The only difference was that now, it was truly a wild world.


    Where has the goddess gone? Don''t tell me this so-called goddess is frolicking in another world, creating her own units?''


    In the end, even the goddess, who had cowardly attacked the demon world using the irrational means of a hero, was nothing more than a frog in a well, just like him. He knew that now.

 Chapter 87: Chaos and Heroes (5)

    Chapter 87: Chaos and Heroes (5)


    "Damn it..."


    Cha Ji Yeon, at the forefront, bit her lip. She instinctively knew the storm rushing towards them would be rougher and tougher than the previous one.


    "The ground is..."


    "The ground is shaking!"


    The Alliance Force, unprepared for such a situation, fell into panic. Initially, they had only considered Nols and Kobolds as their enemies. Those unfamiliar with the underworld or its history couldn''t have anticipated this situation.


    "Hold on tight!"


    [The yer has manifested their ability. Pay the price and gain power to fight.]


    At the end of the earthquake-like tremors, the ground beneath the vehicle carrying Cha Ji Yeon and Chris exploded. As Cha Ji Yeon was flung into the sky, she drew a dagger from her possession. One of the abilities favored by yers in the early stages was to enhance her power by receiving blood.


    "Ugh..."


    Ignoring Chris, who was falling to the ground, she shattered the vehicle and soared into the air, her body surrounded by electricity. With her blue eyes shing, she sent a dazzling bolt of lightning towards the monster that had burst through the ground. An ancient creature that had been living underground in thisnd, along with the Underworld Terrain Dogs, had ambushed the main force by bursting out of the ground.


    The creature, hit by her lightning, twisted its body, which was tens of meters thick, and opened its mouth towards her. The Deathworm, which only had a mouth on its face, roared,  opening its huge mouth wide enough to swallow a tank or a howitzer in one gulp.


    ''Can I do it?-


    Cha Ji Yeon broke into a cold sweat. Those dense and massive teeth. She couldn''t guarantee whether she could handle it even if she exerted her maximum output.


    [Use it. The yer has decided to save the One-time Assassination Right.]


    "Tsk..."


    She looked at the potion bottle she had taken out after barely avoiding its bite. Chris, who was fighting on the ground, did the same. A potion they had received as a reward in the past, which temporarily maximized their strength. She downed it in one gulp.


    [The essence of the Heavenly Soul Art is one''s own soul. And now your soul is strongly connected with your 121rades. That is your power, so fight.]


    For a moment, she staggered, then opened her eyes, which were shing with electricity. And she unleashed the storm of electricity that was raging around her. The massive lightning, splitting into thousands of branches, tore through the air and pierced the ground. Hundreds of enemies, regardless of their size, were electrocuted, exploded, and burned to death.


    On the ground, Chris, who had also enhanced his abilities, caused an earthquake that shook the ground, knocking down and crushing the enemies that had survived her attack.


    [Soul Resonance. You can gain tremendous power, but in the end, the connected souls be one mass, losing their self.]


    [Of course, that''s not a consideration.]


    [The enemy has survived.]


    A hollow voice echoed in the minds of Cha Ji Yeon and Chris, who were now unconscious. The Deathworm had survived the storm of lightning and the earthquake, even though half of its outer shell was broken and it was leaking fluid from various ces. Once again, the Deathworm opened its mouth and lunged at Cha Ji Yeon.


    "Pull yourself together."


    At that moment, a burst of red me erupted. The Deathworm''s massive neck slowly fell to the ground, and Ji Chang Hyun, who had fired the attack, ignored the lightning and returned to the ground with Cha Ji Yeon.


    "People need you."


    "Okay, I''m conscious now. Let go of me."


    Ji Chang Hyun shook her by the cor until she regained consciousness. As soon as the connection was cut, she gasped for breath and pushed his hand away.


    "You''re strong. Thanks to you two, we avoided the worst."


    "...Honestly, I don''t want to do it again."


    She didn''t know the details of the Soul Resonance because she had lost consciousness, but she knew it wasn''t a pleasant experience.


    "But, we have to keep fighting."


    Ji Chang Hyun stepped forward with his sword. The Deathworm was dead, but something stronger and faster hadnded in front of them.


    "Death to humans!"


    Gartin, the lord of the demons, roared in anguage the humans couldn''t understand, then swung the spear in his hand, pouring out monsters that were rushing in like a flood. The main force, already shattered by the sudden underground ambush, couldn''t resist properly, let alone fire back.


    "You seem to be the strongest."


    "...A unit?"


    Ji Chang Hyun and Gartin faced each other. Of course, they didn''t understand each other''s words. They could only feel each other''s intent to kill.


    "Glory to the underworld..."


    Gartin kicked the ground in one breath and swung his spear, which was burning with magic, towards Ji Chang Hyun. However, his spear didn''t even reach the tip of Ji Chang Hyun''s foot, who was about to swing his sword in defense. Gartin, who had been running, was embedded in the ground and rolled around awkwardly. He remained motionless in that state.


    "Could it be..."


    "The yer used it. The One-time Assassination Right."


    Chris, who was supporting Cha Ji Yeon, chuckled. Ji Chang Hyun, who was about to swing his sword, was also surprised. He too just stared at Gartin''s corpse on the ground with wide eyes. But he quickly regained hisposure and looked around.


    "It''s not over yet. If we want to salvage the situation, we need to hurry and save the people..."


    "Watch out!"


    As Ji Chang Hyun turned to move again. A bolt of lightning shot by Cha Ji Yeon, who had turned pale, struck behind him.


    "He, hehe... Glory to the underworld."


    The white beak ttered, and the pupils inside the skull shed blue. Gartin, who had risen from the ground as a white skeleton, swung his spear at Ji Chang Hyun again.


    "Glory to the underworld..."


    Gartin, now a white skeleton, swung his spear at Ji Chang Hyun again.


    *


    "Damn, this isn''t good. This time it''s for real."


    Robert muttered, his face nk. Even as a seasoned mercenary, he couldn''t find a solution to the dire situation. The front line had copsed, the line that Cha Ji Yeon, Chris, and Ji Chang Hyun, three of the strongest, had been holding.


    The creatures from the demon world charged relentlessly. Monsters leaping through the rain of bullets became symbols of terror, crushing the soldiers'' morale and painting the scene with despair. I had witnessed this spectacle several times before. If I were to see the legion from the perspective of its enemies, this is how it would feel.


    "Retreat! Retreat!!"


    A desperate order to retreat echoed through the radio. But there was no orderly retreat in a field already overrun. It was every man for himself. Amidst the chaos, I snapped a picture of a monster attacking a machine gunner with my phone. I only had nine samples left. There was no sign of leveling up, so all I had left were nine chances.


    "Get in! We need to get out of here!"


    Robert, who had been firing his gun, grabbed my arm and pulled me along. Themand structure hadpletely copsed. Everyone, including us and the other Evolution Corporation personnel, began to flee, as did the soldiers of the Alliance Force.


    Gasping for breath, I looked back. There were fewer than thirty vehicles heading in the same direction as us. It was a rout, no, a total annihtion. We had suffered a crushing defeat in a ce where I had fought. But what on earth had happened to make the creatures of the demon world, which had been acting like ordinary animals and nts, attack us?


    "There''s a gorge over there. We''ll take cover in the gorge and head to the base."


    Robert held onto the radio,municating with the others and deciding on a direction. The destination was a narrow gorge made of columnar joints visible in the distance.


    [Can we escape?]


    But I looked up at the sky through the sunroof. The sky was already the monsters'' territory. We might be out of sight of our reconnaissance aircraft, but it was certain that we couldn''t escape their eyes.


    "Those bastards, they''re following us!"


    "Just head to the gorge. Whether we defend there or do something else, we can''t win out in the open!"


    Robert, enraged by Cox''s outcry, gave harsher orders. The panicked Alliance Forcemand must have been paralyzed, as the Alliance Force vehicles fleeing with us were also following us.


    "What do we do now? We can''t hold them off for long!"


    "Why are you asking me?! I''m just a PMC!"


    Even after reaching the gorge, there was no good solution. Using the narrow entrance, we managed to repel the pursuers with all the firepower we had. But that was only temporary. Once their main force arrived, we would be caught.


    Neither the Alliance Force officer nor Robert coulde up with an answer.


    "Mr. Antonov, what is that?"


    "Please take a look at this, Mr. Shin Woo."


    While the frantic people were raising their voices, I approached researcher Antonov, who was examining the gorge.


    "It looks like a stone b."


    "Exactly. Look at this uniform wall. There must have been some ruins here. I''m very excited right now. These are definitely relics. After all, think about it, Mr. Shin Woo, this was also a world where someone lived. Weren''t the monsters also groups that lived together?"


    He and his colleagues carefully collected, examined, photographed, and gathered data on the stone bs. Then they carefully loaded them into the car.


    "These are clues. If we study these, we will be able to understand more about this ce that we thought was just a terrible monster nest. Then something like today won''t happen."


    Even in this situation, he was looking to the future. In a situation where it wouldn''t be strange to die at any moment, he was only for hope and victory. They were people who had volunteered for that purpose from the beginning.


    But for his foresight to work, we had to ovee the crisis we were facing now. We had to survive here to have a tomorrow. So I decided to act here.


    "Everyone, get in the car right now."


    "...Huh?"


    "What the hell are you talking about?"


    I approached those who were still angry and quietly conveyed my intention. Of course, they reacted as if it was absurd.


    "I''ll hold them off here. In the meantime, escape from the gorge and return to the base."


    "Are you out of your mind?"


    Robert shook his finger at his temple.


    There was nothing to say to that. I drew my sword and headed towards the entrance of the gorge.


    "Leave all the remaining explosives and bombs."


    A passing ammunition truck gave me a good excuse for what I was about to do. Of course, what I was going to do was not to copse the gorge with explosives when they came, but to trust the only chance I had.


    [The legion is waiting for you. They want to be with you.]


    Faint letters ovepped on the dusty, massive cloud of dust approaching my location.

 Chapter 88: Chaos and Heroes (6)

    Chapter 88: Chaos and Heroes (6)


    [He stood alone before his enemies, a legion of demons numbering in the thousands. Yet, he remained calm and serene.]


    "I know. I can feel it. There''s no hesitation. I''m certain."


    [He needs you. He trusts you. He hopes that you wille for him, that you will win.]


    Yes. He trusts me."


    Like Kang Do Yeon, Eve ced her hand on her chest and murmured softly. They were calling out to each other. At this moment, their connection was stronger than ever before.


    Thanks to this, Eve could feel all of his emotions. The same was true for Shin Woo, who was facing the enemies rushing towards him in the wastnd.


    Their trust in each other was solid. The connection between their souls, exclusive to the two of them, was incredibly strong.


    I will go to him and kill his enemies."


    Eve, who had abruptly risen from her throne, had a gleam in her eyes. The entire legion stirred, not a single entity was left out.


    There was no hesitation in her decision. This sortie was for the purpose of her existence, her growth, her survival, all of which she had defined herself.


    [The application of the Unit Summoning Ticket is special for you, an entity that is both one and many. And you can choose.]


    Show those deceitful and weak beasts what a true legion is."


    [However, the number of troops that can be mobilized right now is notrge.]


    Use the stored energy to mass-produce legionnaires through Rapid Growth and division."


    [Doing so will result in an inefficient loss of energy.]


    I don''t care."


    Eve had alreadypleted all calctions and predictions. If Shin Woo, the yer, dies, she dies as well.


    For him, even a is worth it."


    Therefore, there was no reason not to put all her efforts into saving Shin Woo. Even if she had to devour an entire, she could invest the massive energy generated from it all for him.


    Soon, the entire nest vibrated. The legion''s racial characteristics of Rapid Growth and quick division sucked up energy like crazy, creating a massive force in an instant. Of


    course, this was something she would never do unless it was a situation like now.


    In the meantime, Eve picked up her weapon. It was a in iron sword, one of the spoils of war. The reason she chose a sword as her weapon was simple. Since he learned the sword,


    she chose the sword as well.


    [Get ready.]


    Soon, a massive amount of energy moved. Eve''s eyes sparkled. She was also greedy for this unidentified power that moved the system.


    But this power is impossible to analyze or approach. Not yet. It''s closer to some kind of authority."


    [-]


    Eve chuckled as she looked down at her physical body, which was gradually being wrapped in light. Soon, part of the legion, including Eve''s physical body, seemed to evaporate from the world.


    *


    There''s a lot of them."


    At the entrance of the gorge, I chuckled as I watched the demons rushing towards me. The people eventually left in their cars. It was a good thing, as it would have been a disaster if they had dawdled and seen the legion.


    [The legion has already finished preparing.]


    Are you sure? There''s no one popping out or anything like that?"


    I asked for confirmation onest time. I wasn''t crazy enough to stand here alone. What I believed in was the Unit Summoning Ticket, a reward I received for annihting an enemy unit for the first time.


    Reading the description, it wasn''t really a beneficial reward for other yers. It could only summon one entity, and even then, it had to return after a certain time.


    But that didn''t apply to me. The legion, Eve, was both one and many. So, the entire legion is summoned by the ticket.


    [However, it''s impossible to bring the entire legion, so only a part of it will be summoned. But that part will surely be enough.]


    Good."


    I wasn''t flustered or excited. As long as the legion was definitely being summoned here, I had nothing to worry about.


    We''re going to win anyway. I''m sure of it. We''re going to win.


    A fight between legions? Eve would never lose to those guys.


    I was so rxed that I could leisurely observe the demonsing towards me.


    fI wonder how the others, like Cha Ji Yeon and Ji Chang Hyun, are doing?''


    I had the leisure to worry about others.


    The horde of monsters rushing towards this ce was their main force.


    Thergest chunk of them that had scattered to chase the fleeing remnants wasing here.


    For now, I could only hope that others survived and escaped safely.


    There''s no way the main base was destroyed just because a bunch of ordinary monsters attacked. There must be something more."


    Scanning the area, I looked for something out of the ordinary. I suspected amander was leading this horde of monsters. The battlefield dynamics had drastically changed recently as the monsters evolved into units, shedding their simple beastly nature. The era where sheer firepower guaranteed victory was over.


    ...Is it that one?"


    I thought I spotted the culprit, the powerful creature that had defeated the alliance''s strongest, including Cha Ji Yeon. I pulled out a detection stone from my pocket. The range was too far to determine whether they were units or not.


    &O?@%*#! !"


    Soon, the ground shook as a horde of monsters rushed towards me and stopped in front of me. As I had suspected, there was a leader guiding these monsters. This bizarre creature, holding a spear in its skeletal hand, looked like a mix of a bird and a human.


    @#%! !"


    What the hell are you saying?"


    The creature continued to tter its beak at me. It seemed to be in disbelief that I was alone, constantly scanning the surroundings rather than focusing on me. But when it realized through continuous reconnaissance that I was indeed alone, I could almost see the expression on its skeletal face. It looked very upset.


    ''Here ites.''


    I instinctively sensed it and immediately used my summoning ticket. The detection stone remained silent. I confirmed that they were not units, shaking off thest bit of unease.


    Uh..."


    But at that moment, I missed the spear thrown at me with transcendent power. By the time I noticed the iing spear, it was already on the verge of piercing my chest.


    Eve."


    At that moment, I called out her name aloud. The name I had given her.


    Suddenly, she appeared in front of me, her long, dark hair fluttering. Even though I could only see her back, I had seen this sight many times before.


    There was no response. Eve, who had caught the spearhead thrown at me with her hand, simply dropped the spear.


    [The legion has arrived. Now, it''s war.]


    The ground shook. The atmosphere vibrated. Even without looking, I could tell what wasing from behind me.


    Eve. Maybe you should..."


    [There''s nothing for you to do now. Just watch. I came to protect you.]


    Eve kicked off the ground and soared into the sky.


    I couldn''t follow her due to the intense vibrations of the ground.


    Damn..."


    Something huge passed by my side. A superrge species that I had only seen on the screen.


    Not just the superrge species. Countless legionnaires were tearing through the ground, the sky, and the earth, marching forward past me.


    The face of the skeletal creature appeared. It looked flustered.


    [Sure, the creatures of this demon world are strong, but they''re just creatures after all. They can''tpare to the legionnaires, who were born by analyzing andbining such creatures.]


    I stood in the middle of the ck wave, watching the scene. The legionnaires, who had overwhelmed in a power struggle, were pushing the enemies away.


    The demon army that annihted the Earth''s alliance was indeed strong. But in the end, they were ordinary creatures.


    They had to reproduce, eat, and survive.


    So now we were stronger. The legionnaires didn''t care about such things. They were filled only with muscles, without digestive or reproductive organs.


    Survival wasn''t important to the legionnaires either. They moved only for victory and battle.


    In my sight, the demon beasts, which seemed to be quiterge, were being blown away and exploded as they collided with the superrge species. The demon dogs, which used to crush and destroy tanks, were having their heads torn off by the mining-type legionnaires, which were made based on them.


    Ugh..."


    Then, arge fragment from the battlefield flew towards me.


    But the fragments didn''t reach me.


    Should I... thank you, Eve?"


    Suddenly, two high-ranking species appeared by my side and activated a barrier to block the fragments.


    My gaze naturally went upwards.


    In the sky, just like on the ground, a fierce battle was taking ce.


    The flying species of the legion were tearing apart the flying demons, including the strange birds, with their ws and stingers.


    And a pair of ck wings cutting across the sky.


    My face naturally darkened.


    The owner of those wings, who had torn and cut through the enemies surrounding her in an instant,nded in front of me at a fast speed.


    You''re okay, right?"


    There''s no need for you to worry, oppa. I''m perfectly fine. More than ever."


    My younger sister, Kang Do Yeon, who had taken off her mask and appeared by my side, sparkled her red eyes, which were unchanged, and spoke.


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